Skip to main content
Back

Single-Leg Calf Raises

IntermediateStrengthTier T2

Rise up onto toes on one leg. Key milestone exercise - 20+ controlled reps indicates readiness for running/jumping activities.

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

  • wall

Dosage

4

Sets

12

Reps / Time

90 sec

Rest

2 sec up / 1 sec hold / 3 sec down

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand on one leg
  • Other foot lifted slightly off floor
  • Fingertips on wall for balance only
  1. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 1 of 4

    Rise up onto ball of foot as high as possible

  2. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 2 of 4

    Hold briefly at top (1-2 sec)

  3. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 3 of 4

    Lower heel slowly back to floor

  4. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 4 of 4

    Maintain control throughout

Breathing

  • Exhale as you rise
  • Inhale as you lower

Form Cues

  • Push through big toe
  • Rise as high as you can
  • Slow, controlled lowering is key
  • Use support for balance only, not strength

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using support for strength (not just balance)
  • Not rising high enough
  • Dropping heel quickly
  • Compensating with hip

Safety Information

Key milestone: 20+ reps indicates readiness for running. Avoid if acute Achilles issues.

Progressions

Add weight (dumbbell/backpack), do on step for full range, 3-5 sec eccentric

Eccentric Calf LowersIntermediate
Calf Raise on Step (Full Range)Intermediate

Regressions

Use more support, smaller range, double leg assist

Double-Leg Calf RaisesBeginner