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Exercise guide
Barbell Calf Raise
A standing calf raise loaded with a barbell across the upper back, using a raised platform for a deeper heel stretch.
What this exercise works
- Muscles
- gastrocnemius · soleus
- Goals
- hypertrophy
- Equipment
- Barbell
- Category
- Strength
- Difficulty
- intermediate
Demonstration
Step 1
Step 2
How to perform the movement
- Place a barbell across your upper back as in a squat.
- Stand with the balls of your feet on a raised platform.
- Push up onto your toes as high as possible.
- Pause and squeeze your calves at the top.
- Lower your heels below the platform and repeat.
Technique cues and common mistakes
- Avoid bouncing out of the bottom stretch position.
- Keep your knees straight but not locked throughout the set.
- Move slowly to stay balanced under the bar.