Straight leg calf raise
An isolation exercise that strengthens the calf muscles, improving ankle stability, balance, and lower limb endurance
Every individual has different fitness levels and physical ability so it is important to ensure you do the correct volume for you. An idea of a way to set up could be 3 sets of 10 reps.
Why am I doing this exercise?
- Improves ankle stability
- Strengthens the gastrocnemius
- Improves balance
How am I doing this?
- Stand on a slightly raised surface with your arms holding onto a stable surface for support
- One leg should be have the ball of your foot on the raised surface, whilst the other should be in front of you with knees bent
- Slowly raise your leg and hold at the top of the positions for up to 3 seconds
- Slowly lower your leg down to the start position
Tips to improve this exercise:
- To make harder, add handheld weights on side doing the calf raise (Don't have these? Cans or water bottles will work as well!)
- Rise and lower your self down slowly
- Stand tall and keep your posture neutral
Mistakes to avoid:
- Maintain control throughout
- Don't bend the knees as this will target the soleus muscle instead
