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Slant Board Calf Stretch

BeginnerstretchTier T1

Passive calf stretch using an inclined slant board. Allows sustained stretch without effort.

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

No equipment? Try: Book against wall, Wedge, Rolled towel under toes

Dosage

2

Sets

60 sec

Reps / Time

30 sec

Rest

60 sec straight knee + 60 sec bent knee

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Place slant board against wall or sturdy surface
  • Stand on board with heels at bottom
  • Face uphill (toes higher than heels)
  1. No image for this step. Follow the written instruction.

    Step 1 of 4

    Stand with feet hip-width on board

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

    Step 2 of 4

    Keep knees straight to stretch gastrocnemius

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

    Step 3 of 4

    Hold position and let gravity stretch

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

    Step 4 of 4

    Bend knees slightly to target soleus

Breathing

  • Breathe deeply and relax

Form Cues

  • Relax into the stretch
  • Don't force - gravity does the work
  • Straight knee = upper calf
  • Bent knee = lower calf

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Leaning forward too much
  • Not relaxing
  • Board too steep to start
  • Forgetting bent knee variation

Safety Information

Good for sustained stretch. Avoid if Achilles tendinopathy is flaring.

Progressions

Steeper angle, single leg, longer holds

Regressions

Lower angle board, shorter holds