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Calf Raise to Toe Spread

IntermediateStrengthTier T2
Calf Raise to Toe Spread

Rising onto toes (calf raise) then actively spreading toes at the top. Combines calf strength with toe muscle activation.

Targets: Foot & Toes
Muscles: Foot Intrinsics, Toe Flexors

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

none

Home Options

  • bodyweight
  • wall

Dosage

3

Sets

10

Reps / Time

45 sec

Rest

3 sec hold at top with spread

Tempo

Step-by-Step Guide

Set up

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart
  • Wall nearby for balance if needed
  • Barefoot is essential
  1. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 1 of 6: Rise up onto the balls of your feet (calf raise)

    Step 1 of 6

    Rise up onto the balls of your feet (calf raise)

  2. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 2 of 6: At the top of the raise, actively spread your toes

    Step 2 of 6

    At the top of the raise, actively spread your toes

  3. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 3 of 6: Hold the spread while maintaining the calf raise

    Step 3 of 6

    Hold the spread while maintaining the calf raise

  4. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 4 of 6: Hold for 3 seconds

    Step 4 of 6

    Hold for 3 seconds

  5. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 5 of 6: Lower slowly while keeping toes spread

    Step 5 of 6

    Lower slowly while keeping toes spread

  6. Calf Raise to Toe Spread - Step 6 of 6: Relax at the bottom and repeat

    Step 6 of 6

    Relax at the bottom and repeat

Breathing

  • Exhale as you rise
  • Hold breath briefly for spread
  • Inhale as you lower

Form Cues

  • The toe spread happens at the top
  • It's challenging - don't give up
  • Feel both calves and toe muscles working
  • Stay high during the spread

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Spreading before rising
  • Dropping height when spreading
  • Not actually spreading toes
  • Rushing

Safety Information

Advanced coordination exercise. Very safe if balance is stable.

Progressions

Single-leg version

Regressions

Master each component separately first