Standing Machine Calf Raises

Technique

Setup

Step onto the platform with the balls of your feet on the edge and your shoulders under the pads. Stand tall to lift the weight, knees straight but not locked, and let your heels sink below the step.

Movement

Rise onto your toes as high as you can and squeeze your calves at the top. Lower slowly into a full stretch with your heels below the platform.

Form Tip

Keep your knees straight but soft for the whole set. Bending them to help the weight up turns the raise into a squat and takes the load off your calves.

Increase Difficulty

Pause for 2 seconds at the top and bottom, or slow the lowering phase to 3 seconds.

Decrease Difficulty

Use a lighter stack and a shorter range at the bottom.