Skip to main content
Back

Double-Leg Calf Raises

BeginnerStrengthTier T1
Double-Leg Calf Raises

Rise up onto toes using both legs. Foundational calf strengthening exercise before progressing to single leg.

Targets: Ankle
Muscles: Gastrocnemius, Soleus

Stop if

Choose an easier exercise if pain reaches 6 out of 10 or becomes sharp. Stop and rest if pain reaches 8 out of 10.

This is the general ClapMove rule. This exercise has no extra stop rule of its own.

  • Pain 6 out of 10 or more: choose an easier exercise.
  • Pain 8 out of 10 or more: stop and rest.

Equipment needed

  • Works at home
  • Works at the gym

Home Options

  • table or counter
  • wall

Dosage

3

Sets

15

Reps / Time

60 sec

Rest

2 sec up / 1 sec hold / 2 sec down

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart
  • Hands lightly on wall or counter for balance
  • Weight evenly distributed
  1. Double-Leg Calf Raises - Step 1 of 4: Rise up onto the balls of both feet

    Step 1 of 4

    Rise up onto the balls of both feet

  2. Double-Leg Calf Raises - Step 2 of 4: Lift heels as high as possible

    Step 2 of 4

    Lift heels as high as possible

  3. Double-Leg Calf Raises - Step 3 of 4: Hold at top for 1-2 seconds

    Step 3 of 4

    Hold at top for 1-2 seconds

  4. Double-Leg Calf Raises - Step 4 of 4: Lower heels slowly back to floor

    Step 4 of 4

    Lower heels slowly back to floor

Breathing

  • Exhale as you rise
  • Inhale as you lower

Form Cues

  • Push through big toe and second toe
  • Go as high as you can
  • Control the lowering - don't drop
  • Keep knees straight (for gastrocnemius focus)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not rising high enough
  • Dropping heels quickly
  • Leaning on support too much
  • Knees bending

Safety Information

Avoid if acute Achilles rupture. Use support if balance is concern.

Progressions

Add 2-3 sec pause at top, slow eccentric, progress to single leg

Single-Leg Calf RaisesIntermediate

Regressions

Smaller rise, more support, fewer reps