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Exercise guide

Barbell Seated Calf Raise

How to do the Barbell Seated Calf Raise with correct form, the muscles it works, and where it fits a training plan you actually stick to.

IsolationBarbellBeginnerPush
Primary muscles

Calves

Secondary

,

Equipment

Barbell

Step by step

How to do the Barbell Seated Calf Raise

  1. 1

    Place a block about 12 inches in front of a flat bench.

  2. 2

    Sit on the bench and place the ball of your feet on the block.

  3. 3

    Have someone place a barbell over your upper thighs about 3 inches above your knees and hold it there. This will be your starting position.

  4. 4

    Raise up on your toes as high as possible as you squeeze the calves and as you breathe out.

  5. 5

    After a second contraction, slowly go back to the starting position. Tip: To get maximum benefit stretch your calves as far as you can.

  6. 6

    Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.

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Related

More calves exercises

FAQ

Barbell Seated Calf Raise: common questions

What muscles does the Barbell Seated Calf Raise work?

The Barbell Seated Calf Raise primarily works the Calves.

Is the Barbell Seated Calf Raise suitable for beginners?

Yes. The Barbell Seated Calf Raise is a beginner-level exercise, so it's a solid choice if you're new to training. Start light and focus on the movement pattern before adding load.

What equipment do I need for the Barbell Seated Calf Raise?

To do the Barbell Seated Calf Raise you'll need a barbell.

Is the Barbell Seated Calf Raise a compound or isolation exercise?

The Barbell Seated Calf Raise is an isolation exercise, it targets the calves through a single joint, which makes it useful for focused, targeted work.

How do I do the Barbell Seated Calf Raise with correct form?

Place a block about 12 inches in front of a flat bench. Follow the full step-by-step above for the complete movement.

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