Exercise Comparison
Anterior Tibialis-SMR vs Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Only in Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch
Instructions
Anterior Tibialis-SMR
Begin seated on the ground with your legs bent and your feet on the floor.
Using a Muscle Roller or a rolling pin, apply pressure to the muscles on the outside of your shins. Work from just below the knee to above the ankle, pausing at points of tension for 10-30 seconds. Repeat on the other leg.
Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch
Place your right heel on a step with your knee extended and lean forward to grab your right toe with your right hand. Your left knee should be slightly bent and your back should be straight.
Support your weight on your left leg and place your left hand on your left thigh.
Pull your right toes toward your knee until you feel a stretch in your calf.
Verdict
Both exercises target the calves. Anterior Tibialis-SMR is a intermediate exercise using other, while Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch is beginner and uses none. Choose Standing Gastrocnemius Calf Stretch if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Anterior Tibialis-SMR for a greater challenge.