Smith Seated Calf Raise
The Smith Seated Calf Raise targets the calf muscles, specifically the gastrocnemius and soleus. This exercise is performed using a Smith machine for stability.
- Adjust the Smith machine bar to a comfortable height.
- Position yourself on the bench with your feet on the platform, heels hanging off.
- Push through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
- Lower your heels back down below the platform level for a full stretch.
How to perform the Smith Seated Calf Raise
- Set up. Set up in a stable, balanced starting position appropriate for the Smith Seated Calf Raise using your smith machine.
- Brace and execute. Brace your core, control the descent, and move through a full pain-free range of motion while emphasizing your calves.
- 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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