Exercise library · Calves

How to Do Dumbbell Seated One-Leg Calf Raise

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the dumbbell seated one-leg calf raise.

How to do it

1. Place a block on the floor about 12 inches from a flat bench.
2. Sit on a flat bench and place a dumbbell on your upper left thigh about 3 inches above your knee.
3. Now place the ball of your left foot on the block. This will be your starting position.
4. Raise your toes up as high as possible as you exhale and you contract your calf muscle. Hold the contraction for a second.
5. Slowly return to the starting position, stretching as far down as possible.
6. Repeat for your prescribed number of repetitions and then repeat with the right leg.

Form tips

• Start light and own the movement before adding weight.
• Control the lowering phase — don't drop into it.
• Keep breathing; exhale on the hardest part.
• Stop if you feel sharp pain (different from muscle burn).

Workouts with this exercise

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Gear for this exercise

Adjustable dumbbellsA full home gym in one small space.See it on Amazon →Adjustable workout benchUnlocks presses, rows and step-ups at home.See it on Amazon →

Exercise photos and instructions: free-exercise-db (public domain). Animation made from the real start and end photos.