Appears in642 Workouts*

Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise

Improve calf strength & stability! This alternating bent-knee exercise uses a chair for balance, perfect for beginners.

The Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise mainly works the calves / shins, with help from the glutes & hips and quads. You'll need: chair.

Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise demo video 2
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Required Equipment

Chair
Chair

Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise Muscles Worked

Primary

Upper Calf (gastrocnemius); Lower Calf (soleus)

Secondary

Glutes (gluteus maximus); Quads (quadriceps femoris)

How to do the Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise

Standing Bent Knee Alternating Calf Raise with a Chair

  1. Starting Position:

    • Stand next to a chair or countertop, keeping it within arm’s reach for balance.

    • Position your feet shoulder-width apart, ensuring a stable stance.

  2. Grip:

    • Place your hands lightly on the back of the chair or countertop.

    • This will help you maintain balance throughout the exercise.

  3. Knee Bend:

    • While keeping your core engaged, slightly bend both knees.

    • Ensure your feet remain flat on the ground.

  4. Raising the Heel:

    • Lift your right heel off the ground, allowing your weight to shift to your left foot.

    • Focus on contracting your calf muscles as you raise your heel.

  5. Lowering:

    • Slowly lower your right heel back to the ground.

    • Ensure control and stability as you return to the starting position.

  6. Alternating:

    • After lowering your right heel, immediately lift your left heel off the ground.

    • Continue alternating between your right and left heels, engaging your calf muscles with each lift.

  7. Repetitions:

    • Perform 10-15 repetitions on each leg, maintaining a steady pace.

    • Focus on controlled movements rather than rushing through the exercise.

  8. Cool Down:

    • After completing your repetitions, gently stretch your calf muscles to prevent stiffness.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start with one set of 10-15 repetitions and gradually increase as you gain strength.

  • Ensure your knees do not extend beyond your toes to protect your joints.

  • Take your time to master the technique before increasing the speed or number of repetitions.

Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise FAQs

What muscles does the Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise work?

The Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise mainly works the calves / shins, with help from the glutes & hips and quads. The main muscles are the gastrocnemius and soleus.

What equipment do you need for the Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise?

Chair.

What workout day should the Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise go on?

It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.

What are some Alternating Chair Standing Bent-Knee Calf Raise variations and alternatives?

Similar exercises include the Barbell Standing Deficit Bent-Knee Calf Raise, Calf Raise from Chair Supported Deficit, Calf Raise with Arm Internal & External Rotation and Alternating Chair Against-Wall Elevated-Heel Sit.

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