Exercise
Seated Calf Stretch
Also known as: seated band calf stretch, sitting calf stretch, towel calf stretch
Seated Calf Stretch is an exercise for the calves. Main target: medial gastrocnemius and lateral gastrocnemius. Also works: soleus, biceps femoris and lower back. No equipment needed — just your bodyweight.
Muscles worked
How to do it
- Sit up straight on an exercise mat.
- Bend one knee and put that foot on the floor to stabilize the torso.
- Straighten your other leg and flex your ankle.
- Using a band, towel, or your hand if you can reach, pull the toes toward you. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, then switch sides.
Similar exercises
Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Calf Stretch Hands Against Wall
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Ankle Circles
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Calf Stretch Elbows Against Wall
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Knee Circles
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Single-Leg Calf Raise
Bodyweight
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Alternatives with other equipment
Calves-SMR
Foam roll
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Standing Calf Raises
Machine
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Rope Jumping
Other
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Standing Dumbbell Calf Raise
Dumbbell
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Calf Raises - With Bands
Bands
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
Rocking Standing Calf Raise
Barbell
Medial gastrocnemiusLateral gastrocnemius
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