Bodyweight Calf Raises
Strengthen your calves anytime, anywhere! No equipment needed for this simple yet effective exercise.
The Bodyweight Calf Raises mainly works the calves / shins. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Bodyweight Calf Raises Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Calf (gastrocnemius); Lower Calf (soleus)
Bodyweight Calf Raises Variations and Alternatives
How to do the Bodyweight Calf Raises
Stand up straight with your feet at about shoulder-width apart. If you want to increase the range of motion, stand with the balls of your feet on a raised surface with your heels hanging off.
Keep your core engaged and your hands on your hips or by your sides for balance.
Slowly raise your heels off the ground by pressing through the balls of your feet and contracting your calf muscles.
Rise as high as possible, coming onto your tiptoes, and hold for a second at the top of the contraction.
Slowly lower your heels back down to the ground, returning to the starting position.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions and sets.
Make sure to control the movement and avoid using momentum. You can do this exercise holding onto a wall or a sturdy object for balance if needed.
---
Bodyweight Calf Raises FAQs
What muscles does the Bodyweight Calf Raises work?
The Bodyweight Calf Raises mainly works the calves / shins. The main muscles are the gastrocnemius and soleus.
What equipment do you need for the Bodyweight Calf Raises?
None. The Bodyweight Calf Raises is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Bodyweight Calf Raises go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
What are some Bodyweight Calf Raises variations and alternatives?
Similar exercises include the Ankle Plantar Flexion, Barbell Floor Calf Raise, Barbell Standing Calf Raise and Barbell Standing Calf Leg Raise.
Training calculators
Work out the numbers behind your training before your next session.