Seated barbell calf raises

For those with no seated calf machine, the barbell seated calf raise can be a way of supplying resistance to the solues during execution of the calf raise movement. Performing the calf raise with a bend in the knee places the solues in a mechanical advantageous position, allowing the smaller calf muscle to not be over powered by the larger gastrocnemius muscle.

The solues is said to have a high population of slow twitch fibres, and therefore may be best stimulated with higher repetition ranges.

Performing seated barbell calf raises

• Load barbell with correct weight. Put on safety collars.
• Place a steady raised platform in front of a bench.
• Sit on the bench, with upper thighs not supported, and barbell on your lap.
• Position balls of feet on edge of platform, with arches and heel of feet overhanging.
• Knees should be bent at 90°, in a sitting position.
• Place barbell closer to knees, hands grasping the bar for greater stability.
• Placing a towel under the barbell may be more comfortable.
• Raise heels of feet by extending ankles. Extend fully onto tip toes.
• Once peak contraction is reached, slowly descend by bending ankles, until calves are stretched.
• Repeat for desired amount of repetitions.

Seatedcalf raises courtesy of Fitness Uncovered - Bodybuilding & Fitness

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