Leg Press Machine · Calves
Leg Press Calf Press is the leg press machine exercise for the calves in the GymStreak library: a compound movement, all beginner level. The guide below links to step-by-step instructions and form tips.
Written by the GymStreak coaching teamUpdated
01
The calf has two main muscles. The gastrocnemius is the visible, two-headed muscle that crosses the knee, so it works hardest when the leg is straight. The soleus lies underneath and does not cross the knee, so it takes over more of the work when the knee is bent, as in seated calf raises. Both point the foot (plantarflexion).
02
On the leg press, set the safety catches, keep your lower back on the pad through the whole rep and don't snap your knees straight at the top. The leg press lets you load your legs heavily while your back is supported, making it a popular alternative or addition to squats. It also doubles as a calf-raise station.
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Include one straight-knee and one bent-knee raise. At home, single-leg standing calf raises on a step with a dumbbell are an effective option.
BeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Free GymStreak calculators that go with calves training.
Guides from the GymStreak blog on this topic.
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