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TRX Single-Leg Calf Raise

Intermediate
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TRX-assisted unilateral calf raise targeting the gastrocnemius and soleus to build calf strength, ankle stability, and balance; ideal for addressing leg imbalances and endurance.

About Exercise

Equipment

Others

Difficulty

2/5 • Intermediate

Primary Muscle Groups

Calves

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Endurance
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

3/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

12-20 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Adjust TRX handles to chest height and face the anchor. Grasp handles with overhand grip, lean back slightly for tension, and lift one foot off the ground while balancing on the ball of the other foot.

  1. Push through the ball of your working foot to rise onto your toes, lifting your heel high.
  2. Squeeze your calf at the top and hold briefly.
  3. Slowly lower your heel to the starting position, feeling a stretch.
  4. Keep your core engaged and body aligned throughout.
  5. Switch legs after completing reps on one side.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Drive through big toe
  • Keep knees soft
  • Core tight
  • Avoid bouncing

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your heel, exhale as you rise onto your toes while bracing your core.

Tempo

2-1-2

Range of Motion

Lower heel until slight stretch below parallel with forefoot, rise until fully plantarflexed with knee softly extended.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Avoid if acute Achilles or ankle injury
  • Start with partial range if mobility limited
  • Ensure stable TRX anchor
  • Engage core to prevent arching back

Spotting

No spotting required; use wall for additional balance if needed for beginners.

Common Mistakes

  • Using momentum instead of control
  • Locking knees
  • Leaning excessively on TRX
  • Incomplete range lowering

When to Avoid

  • Acute ankle sprain
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Severe balance issues

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion for stability

Build Up First

  • Basic balance control
  • Familiarity with TRX grip

Also known as

TRX One-Leg Calf Raise, Suspension Trainer Single Leg Calf Raise, TRX Unilateral Calf Raise

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