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Eccentric Calf Lower
Rise on two legs, lower on one, over 4–5 seconds. The standard loading protocol for building resilient Achilles tendons.
BeginnerStep3 × 8–12/side

SoleusStep
Eccentric Calf Lower
Demo · DHolt Strength
How to do the Eccentric Calf Lower
- 1Up with two, down with one
- 24–5 second lowering
- 3Full heel drop below the step
- 4Stop if there is sharp pain
Benefits of the Eccentric Calf Lower
- Builds strength and size in the soleus through a full, controlled range of motion
- Also trains gastrocnemius, achilles as supporting movers
- Simple equipment, high return — easy to program anywhere
- Low skill demand — safe to learn early and useful for high-rep volume
Sources
Educational information only — not medical advice. Exercise technique, sets and reps are general guidance and may need adjusting for your experience, equipment and health history. Talk to a qualified clinician before starting or changing a training program if you have an injury or medical condition.
- 1Behm et al. (2016) — Acute effects of stretching on range of motion and performanceApplied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism
- 2Schoenfeld, Ogborn & Krieger (2017) — Dose-response of resistance training volume on hypertrophyJournal of Sports Sciences
- 3ACSM position stand (2009) — Progression models in resistance training for healthy adultsMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
- 4Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd editionU.S. Department of Health and Human Services





