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Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated

Seated with the bar over the knees, press through the toes to isolate the soleus.

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See your setup in four steps

Demo video from YouTube, played in its own player.

Muscles worked
Calves
Equipment
Smith machine
Movement
Legs

Sets and reps

  • For strength: 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps, resting 2 to 3 minutes between sets.
  • For muscle: 3 to 4 sets of 6 to 12 reps (up to 15 on smaller lifts), resting 1 to 2 minutes, ending each set 1 to 3 reps short of failure (RPE 7 to 9).
  • Add a rep or a small amount of weight once every set reaches the top of the range at the same effort.

General ranges, not medical advice. Stop if anything hurts.

Variations

The same movement with other equipment or a different angle.

Alternatives

Other exercises for the calves, for when the smith machine is taken or you want a change.

Questions

What muscles does the Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated work?
The Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated mainly works the calves.
What equipment do you need for the Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated?
A smith machine.
How many sets and reps of the Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated?
For strength: 3 to 5 sets of 3 to 6 reps, resting 2 to 3 minutes between sets. For muscle: 3 to 4 sets of 6 to 12 reps (up to 15 on smaller lifts), resting 1 to 2 minutes, ending each set 1 to 3 reps short of failure (RPE 7 to 9). Add a rep or a small amount of weight once every set reaches the top of the range at the same effort.
What can I do instead of the Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated?
Ankle Dorsiflexion Mobilization, Donkey Calf Raise, Foam Roll Calves and Leg Press Calf Raise work the same main muscle.

Program it for your clients

Coaches add the Smith Machine Calf Raise Seated to any workout in CoachVana, set the sets, reps, load and rest, and clients see this demo as they train.

Get started

See your setup in four steps

Your first 3 clients are free. 0% commission on everything you sell.