Smith Machine Calf Raise

Trains the Gastrocnemius.

Equipment
A machine and a box
Mechanic
Isolation
Force
Push
Level
Beginner
Smith Machine Calf Raise: the muscles it trains, from behind. Primary — Gastrocnemius.
The muscles this trains, from behind. Deeper red is primary.

How to do it

  1. Set a block or a step under the bar of a Smith machine.
  2. Set the bar height so you can get under it with the balls of your feet on the block and your heels hanging off.
  3. Rest the bar across your upper back as for a squat and unrack it.
  4. Stand tall with your knees straight, and keep them straight for the whole set.
  5. Let your heels drop below the block until you feel a stretch through the calves.
  6. Push up onto your toes as high as you can, pause at the top, then lower under control to a full stretch.

Common mistakes

Muscles worked

Primary