Overview
The calf muscles are mainly the gastrocnemius and soleus. They join through the Achilles tendon to point the foot down for push-off. Gastrocnemius crosses both the knee and ankle; soleus works only at the ankle and is especially important for repeated standing and steady running.
Key Role
- Push the body forward during walking and running
- Absorb and return force during hopping and jumping
- Help control the ankle and maintain balance
Build This Muscle
- Calf raise — the main standing calf-strength pattern
- Seated calf raise — a soleus-biased variation
- Single-leg balance — adds foot-and-ankle control
Watch Out For
New one-sided calf swelling, warmth, redness or unexplained tenderness needs urgent medical assessment. A pop at the back of the ankle with sudden push-off weakness also needs prompt assessment.
Related Guides
This information is for education only and is not a medical diagnosis.