Barbell calf raises

The standing calf raise exercise strengthens the muscles in your calves, improves ankle strength and stability, helps with injury prevention, improves athletic performance, aids with balance, and — of course — can build bigger calves over time.

The standing calf raise targets the calf muscle, specifically the gastrocnemius . Movements that are done with a bent knee (flexion) target the solues (which attaches below the knee joint).

Standing calf raises are probably the most common calf exercise and can be one of the most ineffective , too. Performing calf raises from the floor prevents your muscle from moving through its full range of motion, Chan says.