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Smith Machine Calf Raise

Learn how to do smith machine calf raise with a clear setup, controlled movement, and a technique you can repeat.

All legsMachine5 technique steps

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Smith Machine Calf Raise: matching illustrations comparing the setup and movement positions
01Set your position02Make the movement

How to do smith machine calf raise

  1. Place a block or weight plate below the bar on the Smith machine. Set the bar to a position that best matches your height. Once the correct height is chosen and the bar is loaded, step onto the plates with the balls of your feet and place the bar on the back of your shoulders.
  2. Take the bar with both hands facing forward. Rotate the bar to unrack it. This will be your starting position.
  3. Raise your heels as high as possible by pushing off of the balls of your feet, flexing your calf at the top of the contraction. Your knees should remain extended. Hold the contracted position for a second before you start to go back down.
  4. Return slowly to the starting position as you breathe in while lowering your heels.
  5. Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Smith Machine Calf Raise exercise illustration

Smith Machine Calf Raise: muscles worked

Primary focus: calf muscles.

CalvesAll legs
Better reps before more weight.

Start with a version you can control. Record the same setup and range each time. Add reps or a small load increase when you can repeat the movement without changing the technique.

Plan your next set

Frequently asked questions

How do you do smith machine calf raise?

Place a block or weight plate below the bar on the Smith machine. Set the bar to a position that best matches your height. Once the correct height is chosen and the bar is loaded, step onto the plates with the balls of your feet and place the bar on the back of your shoulders. Take the bar with both hands facing forward. Rotate the bar to unrack it. This will be your starting position. Raise your heels as high as possible by pushing off of the balls of your feet, flexing your calf at the top of the contraction. Your knees should remain extended. Hold the contracted position for a second before you start to go back down.

What muscles does smith machine calf raise work?

Smith Machine Calf Raise primarily trains the calf muscles. The exact demand depends on your setup, range, and chosen load.

What is the best technique for smith machine calf raise?

Use stable support so balance does not decide the set. Raise and lower through the same controlled ankle range. Avoid bouncing out of the bottom or shortening each rep as the load increases.

What can I do instead of smith machine calf raise?

Related options include Leg Press Calf Raise, Seated Calf Raise, Smith Machine Reverse Calf Raises. These can have different equipment, range, and movement demands. Open the guides below to compare the setups before choosing a replacement.

Compare related movement setups

Browse the directory pages containing smith machine calf raise and the related movements above to compare equipment and technique choices.

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