Calf Raise (Leg Press)
The Leg Press Calf Raise is a machine-based isolation exercise that targets the calves by extending the ankles against resistance while seated or reclined. It safely allows for heavy loading to build lower leg size and strength without placing compressive stress on the spine.
Calves are notoriously stubborn and require precise progressive overload; the AI analyzes your previous set performance to determine if you're truly pushing near failure or just stopping when the muscle burns. By integrating step count and cardio data from HealthKit, the app adjusts volume to prevent overtraining your lower legs, which are already active during daily movement. If ankle pain is detected in your history, the system can suggest tempo modifications to maintain training effect while minimizing joint stress.
Form Cues
- Place the balls of your feet on the bottom edge of the sled
- Keep a slight bend in your knees throughout the movement to protect the joint
- Lower your heels until you feel a deep stretch in your calves
- Press through your toes to extend your ankles as far as possible
- Pause at the top for a distinct one-second contraction
- Don't lock your knees out completely
- Don't bounce the weight at the bottom of the movement
- Don't cut the range of motion short
- Don't let your heels rotate inward or outward excessively
- Don't rush the lowering phase
Common Mistakes
- Bouncing out of the bottom position
- Locking the knees during the press
- Performing partial repetitions
- Using excessive momentum
- Placing feet too high on the platform
Muscles Worked
This exercise primarily targets the gastrocnemius, the large diamond-shaped muscle of the calf, because the legs remain relatively straight during the movement. It also engages the underlying soleus muscle and strengthens the ankle joint, contributing to better stability and lower leg aesthetics.
Primary
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