Single Leg Standing Calf Raise (Barbell)

How to do it

1. Stand upright holding a barbell across your upper back, as you would for a squat. Ensure your balance is stable.
2. Place the ball of one foot on a raised surface, such as a step or a weight plate, leaving your heel hanging off the edge. The other foot should be lifted off the floor or resting lightly on the standing leg's ankle.
3. Lower your heel as far as possible towards the floor, feeling a stretch in your calf. This is your starting position.
4. Exhale and slowly raise yourself up by pushing through the ball of your foot, contracting your calf muscle. Go as high as possible on your toes.
5. Hold the peak contraction for a moment.
6. Inhale and slowly lower your heel back down to the starting position, controlling the movement to feel the stretch again.
7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions, then switch legs and perform the exercise with the other leg.

More calf exercises

Standing Barbell Calf Raise

Calf Extension (Machine)

Calf Press