Smith Calf Raise (version 2)

The Smith Calf Raise targets the calf muscles, enhancing strength and stability.

  1. Position yourself under the Smith machine bar, resting it on your shoulders.
  2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes pointing forward or slightly outward.
  3. Lift your heels off the ground, rising onto the balls of your feet.
  4. Lower your heels back down to the starting position.

How to perform the Smith Calf Raise (version 2)

  1. Set up. Set up in a stable, balanced starting position appropriate for the Smith Calf Raise (version 2) using your smith machine.
  2. Brace and execute. Brace your core, control the descent, and move through a full pain-free range of motion while emphasizing your calves.
  3. Reset. Reverse the movement under control and reset between repetitions, keeping your form crisp on every rep.

Coaching cues

  • Move with intent — every rep should feel deliberate, not rushed.
  • Drive force through your calves rather than momentum.
  • Keep your breathing steady: exhale on the hard part, inhale on the reset.

Common mistakes

  • Using too much weight and losing positional control.
  • Cutting the range of motion short and missing the target muscle.
  • Letting your spine round or hyperextend instead of staying neutral.

Detailed cues, common mistakes, and demonstration video are available in the Fitly app.

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