Heel Raise vs Calf Raise?

[Spirit Unleashed]

What is the difference between a standing heel raise and calf raise?

[Ironboy]

They are essentially the same.

The names are used interchangeably.


It's unclear if you are qualifying only the heel raises as "standing". If so, the distinction you are making is whether you start in a flat standing position or the more traditional edge of a step with deficit (dorsiflexed) start position.

The regular edge of a step or box variation provides full range of motion in both directions, flexion and extension, whereas the standing flat only uses extension.

Unless you have an issue with dorsiflexed ankle postion, I don't see the point of starting from flat. But it depends on your goals.

[Spirit Unleashed]

thanks IB

[La]

I also think with calf raises you go higher on the ball of your foot, so you are engaging more of the calf muscle. I could be wrong. Maybe MINITEE or IronColl could clarify.

[MichaelMc]

For some reason in lifting circles it was always standing calf raises and seated heel raises.

This was back in prehistoric times when I powerlifted, so it may not have made it to current parlance.