Standing Calf Raise (Cable)
A calf isolation exercise using cable resistance. Provides constant tension throughout the movement for improved calf development and ankle strength.
Instructions
- Stand facing a cable machine with the handle at chest height in both hands.
- Position your feet hip to shoulder-width apart with toes pointing forward.
- Keep a slight bend in your knees and maintain an upright posture.
- Rise up onto the balls of your feet, lifting your heels as high as possible.
- Pause at the top and feel the contraction in your calves.
- Slowly lower your heels back toward the ground with control.
- Stop just short of touching the ground to maintain constant tension.
Tips
- Perform this movement with a full range of motion for optimal calf engagement.
- Keep your upper body stationary and resist the urge to lean forward.
- The constant cable tension is excellent for muscle growth and endurance.
- Light to moderate weight works best to allow for controlled, high-repetition sets.
- This exercise can be performed with one leg at a time for advanced training.
Recommended starting values
Sensible novice starting points for each goal, for a lifter aged 25–40. Scale down for smaller frames or older lifters. Treat the first set of any session as a discovery set.
| Goal | Sets | Reps | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Male | Female | |||
| Gain strength | 3 | 15 reps | 22.5 kg | 15 kg |
| Build muscle | 3 | 18 reps | 20 kg | 15 kg |
| Build endurance | 3 | 25 reps | 15 kg | 10 kg |
Alternatives
Exercises that target the same muscles with the same force and mechanic.
beginner strength
Calf Raise
Learn more about calf raise beginner strength
Calf Raise (Sled)
Learn more about calf raise (sled) beginner strength
Calf Raise (Trap Bar)
Learn more about calf raise (trap bar) beginner strength
intermediate strength
Calf Raise Single-Leg
Learn more about calf raise single-leg beginner strength
intermediate strength
Calf Raise Single-Leg (Dumbbell)
Learn more about calf raise single-leg (dumbbell) intermediate strength
Calf Raise Single-Leg (Machine)
Learn more about calf raise single-leg (machine) beginner strength
Donkey Calf Raise
Learn more about donkey calf raise beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
Seated Calf Raise (Dumbbell)
Learn more about seated calf raise (dumbbell) beginner strength
beginner strength
Stability Ball Calf Raise
Learn more about stability ball calf raise beginner strength
beginner strength
beginner strength
intermediate strength
beginner strength
beginner strength