Single Leg Calf Raise
The Single Leg Calf Raise primarily works the Gastrocnemius (Medial), with secondary activation of the Soleus and stabilizer support from the External Obliques, Gluteus Medius, Gluteus Minimus, Quadratus Lumborum. It is a bodyweight isolation exercise at intermediate difficulty.
The Single Leg Calf Raise is an intermediate isolation exercise requiring no equipment, following a isolation movement pattern. It primarily targets the Gastrocnemius (Medial), with secondary engagement of the Soleus. As a unilateral push, each side is trained independently for balanced development.
A bodyweight isolation push exercise targeting the Gastrocnemius (Medial).
| Equipment | Bodyweight |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Type | Isolation |
| Movement | Isolation |
| Force | Push |
| Laterality | Unilateral |
| Primary | Gastrocnemius (Medial) |
| Secondary | Soleus |
Muscles Worked
The Gastrocnemius (Medial) is the primary mover, taking on the bulk of the workload throughout the full range of motion. The Soleus assists as a secondary mover, contributing to force production without bearing the primary load. The External Obliques, Gluteus Medius, Gluteus Minimus, and 1 other muscles act as stabilizers, maintaining joint position and postural alignment throughout the movement.
Primary Muscles
- Primary Muscle Gastrocnemius (Medial) (calves)
Secondary Muscles
Stabilizer Muscles
- Stabilizer Muscle External Obliques (core)
- Stabilizer Muscle Gluteus Medius (glutes)
- Stabilizer Muscle Gluteus Minimus (glutes)
- Stabilizer Muscle Quadratus Lumborum (core)
How to Perform
Preparation
- Position toes and balls of feet on calf block or elevation with heels and arches extending off.
- Place hand or hands on support for balance.
- Lift one leg to rear by bending knee.
Execution
- Raise heel by extending ankle as high as possible.
- Lower heel by bending ankle until calf is stretched.
- Repeat.
- Continue with opposite leg.
Comments
- Keep knee straight throughout exercise or bend knee slightly only during stretch.
- Quadriceps serve as synergist muscle if knee is bent slightly during stretch.
- SeeCalf Exercise Analyses.
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Use a full range of motion — partial reps reduce stimulus on the target muscle.
- Slow down the eccentric (lowering) phase for greater time under tension.
- If you need to swing or cheat, the weight is too heavy — reduce and focus on form.
Programming Suggestions
Adapt your sets and reps to your training goal.
| Strength | 3–4 sets × 6–8 reps at 75–85% 1RM with 90–120 seconds rest. |
|---|---|
| Hypertrophy | 3–4 sets × 10–15 reps at 60–75% 1RM with 60–90 seconds rest. |
| Endurance | 2–3 sets × 15–25 reps at 40–60% 1RM with 30–45 seconds rest. |
Alternative Exercises
These exercises target the same primary muscles (Gastrocnemius (Medial)) and can be substituted based on your equipment or variation preferences.
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