Standing Calf Raise: How-to, Tips & More

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

Muscles worked

Calves muscle

Calves

Primary

How to do the Standing Calf Raise

  1. Stand on the machine with the balls of your feet on the edge and shoulders under the pads.
  2. Lower your heels as far as you can.
  3. Rise up onto your toes as high as you can.
  4. Pause at the top, then lower slowly.

Standing Calf Raise tips

  • Pause at the bottom too. Bouncing takes the work away.

Sets and reps

Most lifters do well with 10 to 20 reps per set, and 10 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

Standing calf raise machine

Type

Isolation

Standing Calf Raise alternatives

More calves exercises

Frequently asked questions

What muscles does the Standing Calf Raise work?

The Standing Calf Raise mainly works your calves.

How many sets and reps should I do?

A good starting point is 10 to 20 reps per set, and many lifters get the best results between 10 to 20 reps. Use a weight that leaves one or two reps in reserve.

Is the Standing Calf Raise good for beginners?

Yes. The Standing 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 Standing Calf Raise?

You need standing calf raise machine.

Standing Calf Raise demonstration

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