Leg Press Calf Raise
Machine-based isolation exercise on a leg press targeting gastrocnemius and soleus for calf strength and hypertrophy; enables heavy loads with spinal support.
About Exercise
Equipment
Leg Press Machine
Difficulty
2/5 • Beginner
Primary Muscle Groups
Calves
Popularity Score
7
Goals
Training Style
Setup Requirements
Requires Rack
No
Requires Bench
No
Requires Spotter
No
Space Needed
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Muscle Breakdown
View Muscle MapCalves
10/10Gastrocnemius, Soleus
Programming
Typical Rep Range
10-20 reps
Rest Between Sets
60-90 seconds
How to Perform
Sit in the leg press machine with back against the pad. Place balls of feet on lower edge of footplate, heels hanging off, knees slightly bent.
- Release safety handles to engage weight.
- Lower heels slowly below platform level for full stretch.
- Push through balls of feet to raise heels as high as possible.
- Squeeze calves at top for 1 second.
- Lower heels controlled to starting position.
- Repeat for reps, keeping knees soft.
Coaching Tips
Form Cues
- Knees soft, no lockout.
- Push through forefoot.
- Full heel drop.
- Core braced.
- Controlled tempo.
Breathing
Inhale as you lower heels; exhale as you push up and squeeze.
Tempo
3-1-1
Range of Motion
Heels drop below footplate level until calves stretch fully; rise until ankles fully plantarflexed with straight toes.
Safety
Safety Notes
- Avoid excessive weight causing form breakdown.
- Do not bounce heels.
- Engage machine safeties when adjusting.
- Stop if Achilles pain occurs.
- Maintain neutral spine.
Spotting
Not required; machine safeties provide protection.
Common Mistakes
- Locking knees out.
- Bouncing at bottom.
- Incomplete range.
- Slipping feet.
- Arching back.
When to Avoid
- Achilles tendonitis
- Severe ankle instability
- Recent calf strain
Flexibility Needed
- Adequate ankle dorsiflexion for full stretch
Build Up First
- Familiarity with leg press machine
- Basic lower body stability
Also known as
45 Degree Leg Press Calf Raise, Seated Leg Press Calf Raise, Machine Calf Press
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