Atlas
Standing Dumbbell Calf Raise: starting position Standing Dumbbell Calf Raise: end position

Plantar Flexion · Calves (gastrocnemius & soleus)

Standing Dumbbell Calf Raise

A plantar flexion exercise that works the calves (gastrocnemius & soleus). Intermediate level, using dumbbells.

IntermediateDumbbellsGymHome

Muscles worked

Calves.

Setup and loading

Dumbbells at your sides.

How to do the standing dumbbell calf raise step by step

  1. Stand holding dumbbells with the balls of your feet on a board.
  2. Rise onto your toes.
  3. Lower until your heels brush the floor.

Form cues

  • Torso upright
  • Pause at the top

Common mistakes

  • Swaying
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Sets and reps for your goal

Hypertrophy

3 x 10-15 · rest 60 s

3-4 sets of 6-12 reps (up to 15-20 on isolation exercises) at 65-80% of your max. Rest 1 to 2 minutes.

Get close to failure (0-3 reps in reserve) and control the lowering for 2-3 seconds. Accumulate 10-20 sets per muscle per week.

A guide for healthy adults. Adjust the load to your level and see a professional if you have an injury.

Check your form

Film yourself from the side or ask someone to watch, then tick what you get right.

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Sports it suits

Gear for this exercise

  • Adjustable dumbbellsSave space and replace a whole dumbbell rack at home.

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Variations and similar exercises

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