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Exercise Guide
How to do dumbbell seated calf raise
Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.
The dumbbell seated calf raise specifically targets the soleus muscle, which lies underneath the larger gastrocnemius. By sitting and placing dumbbells on your knees, you emphasize this deep muscle of the lower leg. This exercise is crucial for building calf thickness and improving ankle stability, which is beneficial for both aesthetic goals and preventing injuries during various sports or physical activities.
Stats
DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Beginner
EQUIPMENT
Dumbbell, Bench
TARGET MUSCLES
Calves
Instructions for Proper Form
Setup:
- Position: Sit on the edge of a flat bench. Place a block or weight plate on the floor in front of you.
- Foot Placement: Place the balls of your feet on the block, with your heels on the floor.
- Weight: Rest a dumbbell on each of your thighs, close to your knees. Hold them in place with your hands.
The Movement:
- Raise: Press through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
- Squeeze: Squeeze your calf muscles (soleus) at the top of the movement and hold for a moment.
- Lower: Slowly lower your heels back towards the floor, getting a good stretch at the bottom.
Tips:
- This is a great alternative if you don't have access to a seated calf raise machine.
- The bent-knee position targets the soleus muscle, which lies underneath the gastrocnemius.
- To increase the challenge, perform the exercise one leg at a time.
Common mistakes: Bouncing the weight, not reaching a full peak contraction, and using the hands to help lift the thighs.
Alternatives
Barbell
barbell standing calf raise
Calves
None
calf raise
Calves
Bench
donkey calf raise
Calves
Bench
barbell seated calf raises
Calves
Seated Calf Raise Machine
machine seated calf raise
Calves
None
standing calf raise
Calves
Dumbbell
dumbbell standing calf raise
Calves
Dumbbell
dumbbell seated calf raise
Calves
Barbell
barbell standing calf raise on riser
Calves
None
one leg floor calf raise
Calves
Standing Calf Raise Machine
machine standing calf raise
Calves
Smith Machine
smith-machine reverse calf raise
Calves