How to do a barbell standing calf raise

Setup:

1. Elevated Platform: Find a stable, elevated platform like a step or weight plate.
2. Foot Position: Stand on the platform with the balls of your feet on the edge, heels hanging off.
3. Barbell Placement: Rest a barbell comfortably across your upper back, as you would for a back squat.
4. Stabilize: Hold onto a rack or support for balance if needed.

The Lift:

1. Initiate: Brace your core, and keeping your legs straight, raise your heels by pushing through the balls of your feet.
2. Squeeze at the Top: Contract your calves hard at the top of the movement, getting as high onto your toes as possible.
3. Controlled Descent: Slowly lower your heels back down, stretching your calves fully at the bottom.
4. Reset: Breathe and prepare for the next repetition.

Tips:

• Range of Motion: Focus on a full range of motion – from maximum heel stretch at the bottom to a full contraction at the top.
• Foot Position: Experiment with toe angles (slightly in or out) to see which variation best targets your calves.
• Tempo: Play with slowing down the movement to increase tension in the calves.