Single-Leg Calf Raise

Muscles worked

Main muscles
- Gastrocnemius (Lateral)
- Gastrocnemius (Medial)
Also working
- Peroneus Longus
- Soleus
- Tibialis Posterior
What it is
Standing on one foot on a step, you lower the heel below the step and then rise as high as you can on the toes. Working one leg at a time loads the calf well without a machine. Hold onto something for balance and add a dumbbell when it gets easy.
One side at a time: log each side, and match the reps of your weaker side.
Technique tips
- Stand on the ball of one foot on a step
- Lower the heel for a full stretch
- Rise as high as you can
- Pause at the top before lowering
How to track your progress
Log reps, and add the extra load if you wear a belt or a vest. Straddly counts your bodyweight in the estimated max, so added weight and extra reps both show up as progress, and new records are flagged during the session.