seated calf raises

Seated calf raises are an isolation exercise that primarily target the soleus muscle of the calf. To perform the exercise, sit on a calf raise machine with your feet on the platform and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle. Use your calf muscles to raise your heels as high as possible, pause at the top for a second, and then lower your heels back down. Repeat for the desired number of reps. This exercise can also be performed with dumbbells on your knees, or by using a step and a weight in one hand. Seated calf raises are a great exercise to specifically target the soleus muscle, which is often neglected in other calf exercises like standing calf raises. The soleus is a smaller, flatter muscle located underneath the larger, more visible gastrocnemius muscle. Strengthening the soleus can help improve ankle stability, balance, and overall athletic performance. Additionally, since the exercise is performed in a seated position, it can be a good option for those with back or balance issues who may have difficulty performing other calf exercises standing up.