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Best Calves Workouts With Weight Machines To Build Muscle Mass

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About

This workout utilizes specialized weight machines designed to target specific movements and support stability throughout each exercise.

The primary objective is to emphasize hypertrophy through programmed exercises, focusing on muscle growth and size development.

Specific attention is given to the calf muscles, responsible for plantar flexion and located between the ankle and knee, often isolated through calf raises.

Participants follow a routine involving lower weights combined with higher repetitions to effectively build muscle mass over time.

Remember to cater your workout intensity to your individual capabilities or consult with a fitness expert for tailored modifications.

The 4 Best Calves Exercises with Weight Machines to Build Muscle Mass

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Ranked based on Fitbod's internal data set of the most effective exercises. Learn More

  • 1. Seated Machine Calf Press

    Seated Machine Calf Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    1,278,080
    Calves Strength
    95 mScore
    Calves
    Photo of Calf Raise Machine
    Calf Raise Machine

    The Seated Machine Calf Press is an exercise that targets the calf muscles using a machine for stability. It helps build muscle strength in your calves effectively and safely.

    How to do it

    1. Sit upright in the calf press machine with the pad on your thighs above your knees.
    2. Put your forefoot on the lower bar and let your heels drop down.
    3. Hold onto the support handles for balance.
    4. Push through your forefoot to lift your heels as high as possible.
    5. Lower your heels back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    90lbs
    2
    8reps
    90lbs
    3
    8reps
    90lbs
    Full Video & Instructions

  • 2. Standing Machine Calf Press

    Standing Machine Calf Press demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    527,786
    Calves Strength
    88 mScore
    Calves
    Photo of Calf Raise Machine
    Calf Raise Machine

    The Standing Machine Calf Press helps strengthen and build the calf muscles using a machine for better control. It focuses specifically on the calves, making it great for muscle development.

    How to do it

    1. Stand up straight in the calf raise machine with the pads on your shoulders and your toes on the platform.
    2. Let your heels hang off the edge and lower them slightly towards the floor.
    3. Engage your core, then push through your toes to lift your heels up as high as possible.
    4. Slowly lower your heels back to the starting position.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    90lbs
    2
    8reps
    90lbs
    3
    8reps
    90lbs
    Full Video & Instructions

  • 3. Smith Machine Calf Raise

    Smith Machine Calf Raise demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    410,876
    Calves Strength
    91 mScore
    Calves
    Photo of Smith Machine
    Smith Machine

    The Smith Machine Calf Raise is a strength exercise that targets the calves using a Smith Machine. It allows you to lift more weight than just your bodyweight by providing stability and support during the movement.

    How to do it

    1. Set the Smith Machine bar just below shoulder height.
    2. Position yourself in a quarter squat under the bar, resting it below your neck.
    3. Lift the bar off the hook and stand up straight.
    4. Stand with feet hip-width apart and slightly angled out.
    5. Raise your heels off the ground by extending your ankles.
    6. Make sure to keep your hips aligned under your shoulders as you fully extend your ankles before lowering back down.
    Sets, Reps, Weight
    1
    8reps
    100lbs
    2
    8reps
    100lbs
    3
    8reps
    100lbs
    Full Video & Instructions

  • 4. Smith Machine Reverse Calf Raises

    Smith Machine Reverse Calf Raises demonstration video — proper form for this exercise.
    SETS LOGGED
    26,522
    Calves Strength
    79 mScore
    Calves
    Photo of Smith Machine
    Smith Machine

    The Smith Machine Reverse Calf Raise targets your calf muscles and helps improve strength and muscle growth. By standing on a raised surface, you can move your ankles through a larger range of motion.

    How to do it

    1. Set the Smith machine bar just below shoulder height.
    2. Stand on a platform with heels hanging off the edge.
    3. Rest the bar on the back of your neck and stand upright.
    4. Lift your toes towards your shins by flexing your ankles.
    5. Keep your hips aligned under your shoulders and return to the starting position.
    Full Video & Instructions

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