Calf Press

The Calf Press targets the calves by performing ankle extension against resistance on a leg press machine.

Category
Strength
Difficulty
Intermediate
Movement
Isolation
Bodyweight
No
How to

How to do the Calf Press

  1. 01

    Sit in the leg press machine and place the balls of your feet on the lower edge of the platform.

  2. 02

    Keep your legs nearly straight with a slight bend in the knees.

  3. 03

    Press the platform upward to lift your heels as high as possible.

  4. 04

    Pause briefly at the top and squeeze your calves.

  5. 05

    Slowly lower your heels to achieve a full stretch.

  6. 06

    Repeat with controlled movement.

Performance tips

Cues that matter

  • Move only at the ankles, not the knees
  • Use a full range of motion
  • Control the lowering phase to maximize tension
Muscles

Muscles worked

Equipment

What you need

Common questions

Frequently asked

What muscles does the Calf Press work?

The Calf Press primarily targets the Calves. Supporting muscles include Soleus.

Is the Calf Press a compound or isolation exercise?

The Calf Press is an isolation exercise, meaning it focuses on a single muscle group through one joint movement.

What equipment do I need for the Calf Press?

You need the following equipment: Leg Press.

What difficulty level is the Calf Press?

The Calf Press is rated as intermediate difficulty. Some training experience is helpful for performing this exercise safely.

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