Calf Press Machines

Often found as a dual machine with a leg press, a Calf Press Machine allows you to train your calves using a leg press-style movement. This means you combine resistance with targeted activation which is ideal for building strength and size. Calf press machines are a great addition to any strength training, so if you have the room in your gym compare the latest models on GymEquipment.co.uk.

Calf Raise

The calf press allows the user to isolate the calves, targeting them with a good amount of added weight. It also allows the individual to form a mind-muscle connection.

Two muscles make up the calf: the gastrocnemius muscle and the soleus muscle. The calves are involved in a number of day-to-day movements including both walking and running as well as flexing the feet. Strengthening the calves is important to prevent a long list of injuries including sprained ankles, plantar fasciitis, shin splints and stress fractures.

There a wide range of ways the calves can be targeted in order to strengthen them. This ranges from the simple calf raise requiring little equipment to using a leg press machine to isolate the calves.

How to perform a calf press on a leg press machine

Lie on the machine and position the balls of your feet on the platform
Your heels should not be in contact with the platform
Controlling the movement, let your ankles flex, but keep your legs straight and your heels in the same position
Push through the balls of your feet, hold, and relax
Repeat for as many reps as you want

Tips for this method include keeping the movement slow and controlled, positioning your feet correctly as detailed above and using a lighter weight to achieve more reps.