Calves exercise

Machine Donkey Calf Raise

Heel raise to strengthen the calves with a controlled range of motion. The machine guides the movement and gives you stable support.

How to do the Machine Donkey Calf Raise

4 steps, in the order you do them.

Lean forward with your hips under the pad and your forearms on the supports.
Place the balls of your feet on the edge of the platform, with your knees almost straight.
Raise your heels as high as you can, pushing the pad up with your hips, without bending your knees.
Lower your heels until you feel the stretch in your calves, then rise again without bouncing.

What goes wrong most often when you do the Machine Donkey Calf Raise, and how to fix it.

You stand too upright and the load slides toward your back.
Lean your torso forward with your hips flexed and your forearms on the support, the pad resting on your pelvis.
You arch your lower back as you raise your heels.
Brace your abs and keep your back still. The height comes from the ankle, not the hips.
You stop halfway and don't rise all the way onto your toes.
Rise onto the balls of your feet and hold for a second at the top before lowering.