Calves are regarded as
one of the hardest part of body to develop and strengthen. Even at the
professional bodybuilding level, shaped calves are seldom seen on
stage. The primary function of the calf muscles is the flexiblity of
the feet.
During training sessions or workouts, special attention is given to
calves exercises. There are two types of exercises under weight
training programs: standing calf raise and seated calf raise.
Standing calf raise:
It is an isolation exercise used mainly for the calves. Performed by
flexing the feet to lift the body, this lower body weight training
exercise primarliy emphasises the gastrocnemius muscle and recruits the
soleus muscle. One can use weight according to choice but if it is used
then it rests upon the shoulders or is held in the hands. Body weight,
dumbbells, barbell and standing calf raise machine are some of the used
equipment.
Seated calf raise:
Done in a much similar manner like standing calf rasie, the only
differences are the seated posture and lifting of the weight held on
the knees by feet. Seated calf raise is also an isolation exercise and
particularly emphasises the soleus muscle. This weight
training exercise can also be done on a leg press machine. Equipment
used is barbell or seated calf raise machine.
Tags:
Calves, Lower Body Weight Training Exercise, Weight Training Exercise,
Bodybuilding, Weight Training Programs