Well-defined calf muscles give off a pronounced "V" shape on the back of the lower legs. More specifically, this look takes place in the gastrocnemius, which has a lateral and medial head. The other portion of the calf is the soleus, which sits in front of the gastroc. An isometric exercise involves no range of motion at a joint. Although isometric calf raises are basic, you still need to pay attention to specific details for best results.
Function of the Calves
The calves function to plantar flex the foot. This takes place when you point your toes downward and raise your heels in the air. You need to focus on plantar flexion with isometric calf raises.
Form
A basic calf raise is performed by placing your feet about hip-width apart, rising up high onto your tiptoes and lowering yourself back down. An exercise that involves a lengthening and shortening of a muscle like this is called isotonic. To do an isometric exercise, simply rise up onto your tiptoes and hold the position. The goal is to hold it long enough to feel fatigue set in. If you are new to exercise, this might only take five to 10 seconds. The goal is to progressively hold your contractions longer as you get into better shape.
Tips With Calf Raises
Holding the high position of a calf raise only strengthens the calves at this particular point. The goal is to do raises with your heels elevated at different heights. This will ensure that you maximize your muscle recruitment. For example, perform them with your heels completely elevated, three-quarters elevated, half elevated and one-quarter elevated. Take a rest break in between each hold, then start from the top again.
Added Resistance
Adding resistance to the exercise will cause you to work your calves harder and it will promote more progress. The easiest way to increase your resistance is by holding a weighted barbell across your upper back or holding dumbbells at your sides. You also have the option of doing each side independently. This will automatically cause more resistance, even without weights. You might need to place one hand on a wall or table for balance when doing single-leg calf raises.
Note About Soleus
When you do calf raises from a standing position, a brunt of the emphasis goes to the gastroc. To shift the focus to the soleus, you need to bend your knees. Your best bet is to sit in a chair and lift your heels off the floor. Being that you do not have much resistance, hold a set of dumbbells vertically on your thighs. You also have the option of using a seated calf-raise machine. Simply push up against the padded support and hold in several positions.
