Wide Calf Raise
The Wide Calf Raise mainly works the calves / shins, with help from the core. No equipment needed: it uses just your bodyweight.
Wide Calf Raise Muscles Worked
Primary
Upper Calf (gastrocnemius)
Secondary
Lower Calf (soleus); Abdominals (rectus abdominis)
How to do the Wide Calf Raise
Setup
Stand with your feet wider than shoulder-width apart.
Point your toes slightly outward to emphasize the inner calf muscles (the medial head of the gastrocnemius).
Keep your core braced and your chest lifted to maintain good posture.
Movement
Slowly lift your heels off the ground by pushing through the balls of your feet.
Reach the highest point possible, squeezing your calf muscles at the top of the movement.
Hold this contraction for a brief second.
Gently lower your heels back down to the starting position with control, ensuring you do not just drop them down.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Wide Calf Raise FAQs
What muscles does the Wide Calf Raise work?
The Wide Calf Raise mainly works the calves / shins, with help from the core. The main muscles are the gastrocnemius.
What equipment do you need for the Wide Calf Raise?
None. The Wide Calf Raise is a bodyweight exercise, so you can do it anywhere.
What workout day should the Wide Calf Raise go on?
It belongs on leg day in a push/pull/legs routine.
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