Seated Calf Raise

A machine calf exercise targeting the soleus with secondary gastrocnemius involvement. Useful for building lower-leg size and a stronger push-off.

Also known as: seated calf raise machine, seated calf raise on machine, machine seated calf raise, seated calf machine, calf raise seated machine

Beginner Isolation Seated calf raise machine
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How to do the Seated Calf Raise

  1. Sit on the machine, securing your thighs under the pads and placing your feet on the platform.
  2. Position your feet so your heels can lower freely, focusing on the ball of your foot.
  3. Slowly lower your heels until you reach a deep calf stretch at the bottom.
  4. Drive through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
Full technique — 6 steps
  1. Sit in the machine with thighs secured under the pads and feet on the platform.
  2. Place the balls of your feet on the edge so your heels can drop freely.
  3. Release the safety handles and start with your heels raised under the load.
  4. Lower your heels until you reach a deep calf stretch at the bottom.
  5. Drive through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
  6. Finish on your toes before lowering into the next rep.

Common mistakes

  • Using short partial reps
  • Bouncing out of the bottom
  • Letting knees lift the pads
  • Feet placed too deep on platform

Form cues

  • Use the footplate edge
  • Drop heels fully
  • Rise onto big toe
  • Keep knees bent

Substitutes & similar

Standing Calf Raise ▶
Standing Calf Raise Barbell Beginner
Leg Press Calf Raise ▶
Leg Press Calf Raise Leg press Beginner
Smith Machine Calf Raise ▶
Smith Machine Calf Raise Smith machine Beginner
Donkey Calf Raise ▶
Donkey Calf Raise Flat bench Intermediate
Dumbbell Single Leg Calf Raise ▶
Dumbbell Single Leg Calf Raise Dumbbells Beginner
Resistance Band Calf Raise ▶
Resistance Band Calf Raise Resistance bands Beginner