Calf raise standing on a machine

Raise the heels by pressing through the forefoot and aim for a clear calf contraction. Lower slowly into a comfortable ankle dorsiflexion. Prioritize control over speed. Maintain useful tension through the range and deliberately reset the starting position before the next repetition.

Do not turn the final repetitions into fast or partial movements. Aim to load calves and feet and ankles without sacrificing position; at intermediate level, progress control first and then add load, repetitions or complexity. Set the seat, backrest and machine axis before loading it; poor setup changes the path and often creates compensations.