Seated calf raise
Machine
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
Bending the knee slackens the gastrocnemius, leaving the soleus to do most of the work.
Form cues
- Knees under the pad at 90 degrees
- Full range at the ankle
- Slow lowering
Machine
Bending the knee slackens the gastrocnemius, leaving the soleus to do most of the work.
| Muscle | Role | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Soleus | Primary | Plantarflexes the ankle |
| Gastrocnemius | Secondary | Plantarflexes the ankle and flexes the knee |
Primary muscles are the prime movers; secondary muscles assist or stabilise. The balance shifts with grip, stance, range of motion and technique.