Calf Stretch | Illustrated Exercise Guide

Primary muscles: Calves
Secondary muscles: Hamstrings, ankles
Equipment: No equipment

CALF STRETCH INSTRUCTIONS

1. Stand holding onto a wall with your arms extended and your toes pointing forward.
2. Extend your right leg back, keeping your right foot flat on the floor.
3. Lean forward and slowly bend your left knee until you feel the stretch in your back calf.
4. Hold the stretch and repeat on the left leg.

PROPER FORM AND BREATHING PATTERN

Keep both feet facing forward and push the rear heel down into the floor. Keep your back knee straight and drop your hips down and forward. As you exhale, ease further into the stretch without forcing it.

EXERCISE BENEFITS

The calf muscle is actually a group of muscles that sit on the back of the lower leg. These muscles are responsible for pulling the heel up, allowing for forward movement, and for stabilizing your ankles and feet. Stretching your calves can really help reduce strains and improve flexibility and stability.

INTENSITY AND DURATION

Stretch your calves for 20 to 30 seconds and lean into the stretch gradually. Do this stretch after a run, a lower body workout or any sports that work your lower body.

CALORIES BURNED

To calculate the number of calories burned doing the calf stretch, enter your weight and the duration of the exercise:

RELATED STATIC STRETCHES

Try these other static stretches to help your body relax and reduce stress and tension in your muscles:
Open arm chest stretch
Triceps stretch
Wrist stretch
Glute stretch