Stair Calf Raise

Technique

Stand on a step with just the balls of your feet on the edge, heels hanging off. Lower your heels down below the step level to feel a stretch in your calves. Push through the balls of your feet to rise up as high as possible, squeezing your calves. Lower back down under control to repeat.

Steps

1. Stand on a step with just the balls of your feet on the edge, heels hanging off
2. Lower your heels down below the step level to feel a stretch in your calves
3. Push through the balls of your feet to rise up as high as possible
4. Squeeze your calves hard at the top
5. Lower back down under control to repeat

Common mistakes

• Bouncing at the bottom instead of feeling a controlled stretch
• Not rising high enough at the top to fully contract the calves
• Bending the knees to assist the movement instead of keeping legs straight

Variations

• Single-leg calf raise on the stairs for more load per leg
• Weighted calf raise on stairs holding a rail or dumbbells
• Paused calf raise holding 1-2 seconds at the top

FAQ