Hack Squat Calf Raises
Description
The hack squat version is executed in a similar fashion to the other standing calf raises. The legs should be as straight as possible while placing knee comfort at a high priority. Also, as explained in the calf training article, the training parameters are slightly different when dealing with rest intervals and recovery time.
Execution
- Position yourself either with your back or stomach against the hack squat padding - whichever is more compatible with the particular machine in your facility.
- Place the balls of your feet on the platform, extend at the knees push the weight up to starting position.
- Inhale and dorsiflex at the ankle (toes towards the shin) until a stretch is felt within the calf muscle.
- Exhale and plantar-flex the ankle to move up to a position that has you elevated on the balls of your feet. Briefly hold the contraction felt in the calf muscle.
- Repeat until the desired number of repetitions are completed.


