Description:
Standing Single Leg Calf Raises are a bodyweight exercise that focuses on strengthening the calf muscles individually. By performing this exercise with your toes on a 2-4″ block or slant board, you can effectively target and develop your calf muscles, one leg at a time.
Benefits:
- Strengthens the calf muscles for improved lower leg function.
- Enhances calf muscle definition and balance.
- Helps correct muscle imbalances between the calves.
- Improves ankle stability.
Profile:
Equipment: | 2-4″ Block or Slant Board |
Type: | Bodyweight |
Tempo: | 2-0-2-0 |
Level: | Beginner to Advanced |
Muscles:
Muscles Worked
- Gastrocnemius (Calf) of the working leg.
Variation
- Soleus (Calf) – Engaged throughout the exercise.
Classification:
Type: | Isolation |
Mechanics: | Bodyweight |
Force: | Push |
Instructions:
- Step 1: Stand with the balls of one foot on a 2-4″ block or slant board.
- Step 2: Keep your supporting foot off the ground, hovering slightly behind your working leg.
- Step 3: Maintain a straight back and engage your core muscles for balance.
- Step 4: Place your hands on a stable surface or hold onto a support for balance.
- Step 5: Slowly push through the ball of your working foot to raise your heel as high as possible.
- Step 6: Contract your calf muscle at the top of the movement.
- Step 7: Lower your heel back down below the block’s level to stretch the calf muscle fully.
- Repeat the movement for the desired repetitions on one leg, then switch to the other leg.
Common Mistakes:
- Using excessive force or momentum instead of controlled movements.
- Not maintaining proper balance and using support when necessary.
- Not achieving a full range of motion by not raising the heel high enough or not lowering it low enough.
Perform this exercise with a focus on control and balance, ensuring that you engage the calf muscle fully with each repetition.
Variations:
- Standing Calf Raises
- Seated Calf Raises
- Smith Machine Donkey Calf Raise
- Smith Machine Standing Calf Raise
- Dumbbell Standing Calf Raises
Links to each variation will be provided as they are added to the website.
Safety Tips:
- Perform this exercise on a stable and non-slip surface.
- Start with a small range of motion to prevent overstretching or straining the calf muscle.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort, stop the exercise immediately and consult with a trainer.
Additional Information:
Standing Single Leg Calf Raises with your toes on a 2-4″ block or slant board are an effective way to isolate and develop your calf muscles. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced fitness enthusiast, this exercise can help you achieve strong and well-defined calf muscles, improve balance, and correct muscle imbalances between your calves.