Exercise Comparison
Barbell Seated Calf Raise vs Foot-SMR
Side-by-Side
Muscle Analysis
Shared
Instructions
Barbell Seated Calf Raise
Place a block about 12 inches in front of a flat bench.
Sit on the bench and place the ball of your feet on the block.
Have someone place a barbell over your upper thighs about 3 inches above your knees and hold it there. This will be your starting position.
Raise up on your toes as high as possible as you squeeze the calves and as you breathe out.
After a second contraction, slowly go back to the starting position. Tip: To get maximum benefit stretch your calves as far as you can.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Foot-SMR
This exercise stretches the fascia of the muscles in the feet. Start off seated with your shoes removed. Using a foot roller or a similar object, such as a small section of pvc pipe, place your foot against the roller across the arch of your foot. This will be your starting position.
Press down firmly, rolling across the arch of your foot. Hold for 10-30 seconds, and then switch feet.
Verdict
Both exercises target the calves. Barbell Seated Calf Raise is a beginner exercise using barbell, while Foot-SMR is intermediate and uses other. Choose Barbell Seated Calf Raise if you're looking for a more accessible option, or Foot-SMR for a greater challenge.