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Exercise Guide

How to do machine seated calf raise

Master the setup, range of motion, and tempo for safer, more effective reps.

The machine seated calf raise is a targeted exercise for the soleus muscle, located beneath the larger gastrocnemius. Because the knees are bent, the gastrocnemius is less active, allowing the soleus to take on the majority of the load. This exercise is essential for building lower leg thickness and width, providing a complete look to the calves and improving ankle stability.

Stats

DIFFICULTY
Untrained to Beginner
EQUIPMENT
Seated Calf Raise Machine
TARGET MUSCLES
Calves

Instructions for Proper Form

Setup:

  1. Position: Sit on the machine and place the balls of your feet on the platform, with your heels hanging off.
  2. Pad Placement: Adjust the knee pad so it sits snugly on top of your lower thighs.
  3. Release: Lift the weight slightly by pushing through the balls of your feet, and release the safety lever.

The Movement:

  1. Lower: Slowly lower your heels as far as you can to get a deep stretch in your calf muscles (soleus).
  2. Raise: Exhale and press through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
  3. Squeeze: Squeeze your calves at the top of the movement and hold for a second.
  4. Repeat: Slowly lower back down and repeat.

Tips:

  • The seated calf raise primarily targets the soleus muscle, which is underneath the larger gastrocnemius.
  • Pause at both the top and bottom of the movement to maximize muscle engagement.
  • Avoid bouncing the weight.

Common mistakes: Bouncing the weight at the bottom, not reaching full extension, and using the hands to push the knees.

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