Exercise library
Single-Leg Calf Raise
The single-leg calf raise trains each calf on its own, exposing and fixing strength imbalances using just your bodyweight.
BodyweightCalvesBeginner
- Equipment
- Bodyweight
- Focus
- Calves
- Level
- Beginner
- Suggested sets
- 3 sets of 10–15 reps per leg.
- Muscles worked
- Calves
How to do it
- 1Stand on one foot near a wall or rack and hold on lightly for balance.
- 2Place the ball of your foot on the floor or a small step with the heel free.
- 3Keep your standing knee straight and your core braced.
- 4Press up onto the ball of your foot as high as you can and squeeze the calf.
- 5Lower your heel under control to a full stretch, then repeat before switching legs.
Tips & tricks
- Use the support only for balance, not to pull yourself up.
- Stand on a step for a deeper stretch at the bottom.
- Match the reps on both legs to even out imbalances.
Common mistakes
- Pulling on the support to assist the raise.
- Bending the standing knee to cheat upward.
- Rushing the reps instead of controlling the stretch.
