PURPOSE OF EXERCISE: To develop the
calves.
EXECUTION: (1) Using one of the various
types of Leg Press machines (I prefer the
Vertical Leg Press for Calf Raises),
position yourself as if to do a Leg Press,
but push against the foot pads only with
your toes, leaving your heels
unsupported. Straighten your legs and
press the weight up until your knees are
almost locked out. With your knees just
slightly bent, keep your heels pressed
upward but let your toes come back
toward you, feeling the fullest possible
stretch in the calf muscles. (2) When you
can’t stretch any farther, press the weight
upward with your toes as far as you
possibly can to fully contract your calf
muscles. You can’t cheat at all when you
do Calf Raises on a machine. Lying with
your back braced against the pad, you
can totally isolate the calves to give
them a really intense workout. Make
sure the safety bars are in place in case
your toes slip.
