How to Do Bodyweight Calf Raises

Bodyweight Calf Raises is a calves exercise using bodyweight, listed as beginner in the A90 Training Club catalogue.

Primary muscle

Calves

Equipment

Bodyweight

Difficulty

Beginner

01 / Move with control

How to perform

How to do Bodyweight Calf Raises

  1. 01Stand with the balls of the feet on the edge of a raised step or flat floor with feet hip-width apart.
  2. 02Rise onto the toes by contracting the calves and lifting the heels as high as possible.
  3. 03Exhale during the ascent and hold the peak contraction for one second.
  4. 04Lower the heels below the level of the step to create a deep stretch in the Achilles tendon.
  5. 05Maintain straight knees to ensure the gastrocnemius remains the primary mover.

Same guidance shown inside the A90 app

02 / Anatomy

Muscles worked by Bodyweight Calf Raises

Primary Stabiliser Inactive

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Primary movers

  • Calves Pushes off the ground through the ankle.

Stabilisers

  • Core Stabilises the spine and transfers force.
  • Lower back Stabilises the spine during lifts and bends.
  • Forearms Grips and stabilises the wrist under load.

03 / A90 Coach

A90 Coach tip

If the ankles roll outward at the peak, press down specifically through the base of the big toe.

Same coaching engine used inside the A90 app

05 / FAQ

Bodyweight Calf Raises questions

What muscles does Bodyweight Calf Raises work?

Bodyweight Calf Raises is catalogued as a calves exercise in A90 Training Club, with the calves as its primary muscle group.

How do you do Bodyweight Calf Raises correctly?

Stand with the balls of the feet on the edge of a raised step or flat floor with feet hip-width apart. Rise onto the toes by contracting the calves and lifting the heels as high as possible. Exhale during the ascent and hold the peak contraction for one second. Lower the heels below the level of the step to create a deep stretch in the Achilles tendon. Maintain straight knees to ensure the gastrocnemius remains the primary mover.

What is the A90 coach tip for Bodyweight Calf Raises?

If the ankles roll outward at the peak, press down specifically through the base of the big toe.

Is Bodyweight Calf Raises suitable for beginners?

Bodyweight Calf Raises is rated beginner in the A90 Training Club catalogue.

Do you need equipment for Bodyweight Calf Raises?

No. Bodyweight Calf Raises is listed as a bodyweight movement in the A90 catalogue, so you can train it with no kit.

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