Seated Calf Raise: How-to, Tips & More

The Seated Calf Raise is a beginner isolation exercise for your calves. You do it with seated calf raise machine. It is a good fit when your goal is muscle growth.

Muscles worked

Calves muscle

Calves

Primary

How to do the Seated Calf Raise

  1. Sit with the pad on your lower thighs and the balls of your feet on the platform.
  2. Lower your heels as far as you can.
  3. Rise up as high as you can.
  4. Pause, then lower slowly.

Seated Calf Raise tips

  • Seated raises work the lower calf muscle.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 12 to 20 reps per set, and 12 to 20 reps is where this exercise tends to work best. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve on every set, and add weight once you can complete all your sets at the top of the range. It also works well in a superset with an exercise for the opposite muscles. You can finish with a drop set when you want extra volume.

Equipment

Seated calf raise machine

Type

Isolation

Seated Calf Raise alternatives

More calves exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Seated Calf Raise work?

The Seated Calf Raise mainly works your calves.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 12 to 20 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 12 to 20 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Seated Calf Raise good for beginners?

Yes. The Seated Calf Raise is considered beginner and is a good choice if you are new to training. Start light and focus on form.

What equipment do I need for the Seated Calf Raise?

You need seated calf raise machine.

Seated Calf Raise demonstration

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