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Standing Barbell Calf Raise

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Muscles worked

High load
Calves · Gastrocnemius
Low load
Core and Quads

Primary muscles

Secondary muscles

How to do it

Set a barbell in a squat rack and place it across your upper back, not your neck. Stand with feet hip-width apart and knees nearly straight. Raise your heels as high as you can without bouncing, then lower them under control. Re-rack the bar before stepping away.

Form cues

  • Keep your knees nearly straight.
  • Rise through the balls of your feet.
  • Lower your heels slowly.

Safety

Talk to a professional before this exercise if you have any of the following:

NeckShoulderWristUpper backLower backHipKneeAnkle

This is general exercise reference, not medical advice. Stop and consult a qualified professional if an exercise causes pain, and never work through joint pain.