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TRX Calf Raise

Beginner
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TRX Calf Raise is a supported isolation exercise targeting the gastrocnemius and soleus to build calf strength, ankle stability, and balance; suitable for beginners with enhanced range of motion via suspension straps.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Calves

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training
Calisthenics

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Calves

10/10

Gastrocnemius, Soleus

Abs

4/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

12-25 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor the TRX Suspension Trainer securely overhead. Stand facing the anchor, feet hip-width apart, grasp handles with overhand grip, and lean forward slightly to create strap tension with body in a straight line from head to heels.

  1. Engage core and maintain straight body line.
  2. Rise onto balls of feet by pushing through toes, lifting heels high.
  3. Squeeze calves at top and pause briefly.
  4. Lower heels slowly with control for deep stretch.
  5. Keep tension in straps throughout.
  6. Repeat for reps without momentum.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Body straight line
  • Push through toes
  • Squeeze calves top
  • Control descent
  • Core tight
  • Straps taut

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your heels; exhale as you rise onto your toes. Brace core throughout.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Lower heels until slightly below toe level for stretch; rise until fully on balls of feet with ankles fully plantarflexed.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute Achilles tendonitis
  • Use partial ROM with ankle pain
  • Maintain even handle pressure
  • Stop if joint discomfort
  • Secure anchor point firmly
  • Consult pro with balance issues

Spotting

No spotter needed; use stable anchor and focus on controlled movement.

Common Mistakes

  • Bouncing on toes
  • Slack in straps
  • Arching back
  • Partial range
  • Uneven foot pressure
  • Piking hips

When to Avoid

  • Achilles tendon strain
  • Severe ankle instability
  • Recent lower leg injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Basic shoulder flexion for grip

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with TRX stance
  • Core engagement basics

Also known as

Suspension Trainer Calf Raise, TRX Standing Calf Raise, TRX Assisted Calf Raise

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