Exercises

Seated calf raise machine

Raise the heels with bent knees to emphasize the soleus under a guided resistance.

Seated calf raise with lower-thigh pad, bent knees, supported forefeet and raised heels.

Machine · Thigh pad · Foot block

Source: Life Fitness · Seated Calf Raise

Step by step

  1. Adjust the thigh pad just above the knees and place the forefeet securely on the foot block.
  2. Sit upright, choose a light load and release the catch while holding the handles.
  3. Lift both heels with control, keeping the knees bent and the forefeet planted.
  4. Lower slowly within a comfortable range; secure the lever before leaving the seat.

Common mistakes

  • Placing the pad directly on the kneecaps.
  • Bouncing or letting the feet slip from the block.

Anatomy and technique: the references below. Region boundaries and movement diagrams are schematic. Exercise images are AI-generated illustrations.