Leg Press Calf Raise
A calf isolation exercise performed on a leg press machine, emphasizing the gastrocnemius and soleus. Used to build strength and hypertrophy in the lower legs through a high degree of resistance and stretch.
About Exercise
Equipment
Leg Press Machine
Difficulty
2/5 • Beginner
Primary Muscle Groups
Calves
Accessory Muscles
Quads
Popularity Score
8
Goals
Training Style
Setup Requirements
Requires Rack
No
Requires Bench
No
Requires Spotter
No
Space Needed
Large
Noise Level
Moderate
Muscle Breakdown
View Muscle MapCalves
10/10Gastrocnemius, Soleus
Quads
2/10Programming
Typical Rep Range
10-20 reps
Rest Between Sets
60-120 seconds
How to Perform
Sit in the leg press machine with only the balls of your feet and toes on the bottom edge of the sled platform. Unlock the safety catches while maintaining a slight bend in your knees.
- Push the platform away by powerfully pointing your toes (plantarflexion).
- Squeeze the calves hard at the peak of the contraction, holding briefly.
- Slowly lower the platform by flexing your ankles, allowing your heels to drop deep.
- Feel a strong stretch in the calves before initiating the next repetition.
Coaching Tips
Form Cues
- Deep stretch down
- Point the toes high
- Control the negative
- Knees stay soft
Breathing
Inhale as you lower the weight and feel the stretch; exhale forcefully as you press the platform away.
Tempo
3-1-1
Range of Motion
Move through the maximal range of motion, achieving maximal plantarflexion at the top and full ankle dorsiflexion stretch at the bottom.
Safety
Safety Notes
- Do not lock out your knees at any point during the movement.
- Use caution when loading and unloading weight plates.
- Ensure safety stops are correctly set before unlocking the sled.
Spotting
Not recommended. The sled mechanism is self-spotting via adjustable safety pins and stops.
Common Mistakes
- Bouncing out of the bottom stretch.
- Locking the knees at the top.
- Using momentum instead of controlled calf power.
When to Avoid
- Acute Achilles tendon pain or strain.
- Severe ankle instability.
Flexibility Needed
- Adequate ankle dorsiflexion.
Also known as
Horizontal Calf Press, Calf Press, Sled Calf Raise, Leg Press Toe Press
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