Exercises to Strengthen Calf Muscles
The calf muscles are what allow us to stand on tippy-toe to reach the top shelves in the pantry, to jump rope and to climb stairs and hills.
Using free weights and also specific sports can strengthen the calf muscles.
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Identification
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The calf muscles include two large muscles: the outer gastrocnemius muscle and the inner soleus muscle. Both are easily visible and appear to be two "petals" that overlap.
Function
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Calf raises can be done on an exercise machine in the gym. Standing on the machine, select a very low weight. Stand on the platform and come up on the tip toes and lower the heels to work the calves.
The same exercise can be done standing on a curb or a stair step. -
Types
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Perform another exercise that is done with a Thera-Band stretchy band. Tie it around your legs and sit in a chair with your legs extended out in front of you.
Keeping your legs apart hips-width distance, flex and point the feet. This will strengthen the calf muscles as well as the anterior tibialis, the dominant muscles on the front of the shin, for stability.
Significance
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Having calf strength provides stability for the ankles, too. If you wear high-heeled shoes, you place the calf muscles in an artificially short length, weakening them.
Misconceptions
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Women will not become bulky from using resistance weight training to strengthen calf muscles or any other muscle groups. Men have much more testosterone to enable them to build larger muscles.
Benefits
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Strengthening the calf muscles helps give you a strong gait for walking and running. Strong calf muscles contribute to stabilizing the knees and providing power for jumps in basketball and for running to chase after young children.
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