Exercise library · Calves

How to Do Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch

Step-by-step instructions, muscles worked and workouts that use the standing gastrocnemius calf stretch.

How to do it

1. Place your right heel on a step with your knee extended and lean forward to grab your right toe with your right hand. Your left knee should be slightly bent and your back should be straight.
2. Support your weight on your left leg and place your left hand on your left thigh.
3. Pull your right toes toward your knee until you feel a stretch in your calf.

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).

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Gear for this exercise

Exercise matGrip and comfort for floor work, core and stretching.See it on Amazon →Doorway pull-up barThe cheapest way to train your back and biceps at home.See it on Amazon →

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