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All calves exercisesCalves · Gym

Standing Calf Raise

Straight-leg raise for the outer, diamond-shape gastroc.

BeginnerCalf raise machine4 × 10–15
Standing Calf Raise demonstration thumbnail — How to Do Calf Raises Properly
GastrocnemiusCalf raise machine

Standing Calf Raise

Demo · Iron Paradise

Verified Standing Calf Raise demonstration by Iron Paradise. Click to play.

How to do the Standing Calf Raise

  1. 1Full stretch at bottom
  2. 2Pause at top 1–2s
  3. 3Full ROM every rep

Benefits of the Standing Calf Raise

  • Builds strength and size in the gastrocnemius through a full, controlled range of motion
  • A fixed, stable path so you can safely push close to technical failure
  • Loads predictably week to week, which makes progressive overload simple to track

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.

  1. 1Behm et al. (2016) — Acute effects of stretching on range of motion and performanceApplied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism
  2. 2Schoenfeld, Ogborn & Krieger (2017) — Dose-response of resistance training volume on hypertrophyJournal of Sports Sciences
  3. 3ACSM position stand (2009) — Progression models in resistance training for healthy adultsMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise
  4. 4Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd editionU.S. Department of Health and Human Services