The Anatomy of the Calf Muscles - Gastrocnemius and Soleus

Anatomy of the Calf Muscles
***Home* *-> Advanced Training*** -> Muscular Anatomy -> Calf Anatomy

The Anatomy of the Muscles of the Calves

Anatomy Chart courtesy of FCIT

The Gastrocnemius is the calf muscle that is visible from the outside of the body. It attaches to the heel with the Achilles Tendon and originates behind the knee on the femur, crossing two joints.

The Gastrocnemius has two heads: the medial and the lateral. When fully developed, these two heads appear to form a diamond shape.

The Soleus is not visible when looking at the body from the outside as it lies underneath the Gastrocnemius on the rear of the lower leg.

The Soleus is most active when doing calf exercises where the knee is bent, such as seated calf raises.

Functions

The function of the Gastrocnemius is to elevate the heel (known as plantar flexion).

The function is the Soleus is exactly the same as the Gastrocnemius: to raise the heel. The only difference is that it works in a different position: with the knee bent.

Exercises

Exercises that work the Gastrocnemius and Soleus include:

Standing calf raises - (Gastrocnemius)

Seated calf raises - (Soleus)

Donkey calf raises - (Gastrocnemius)

Here is a list of unique exercises and articles for the calves that have been published in our monthly
training newsletter "BetterU News" and on our membership site Powerful Training Secrets
Free Trial area (these links will open in new windows).

Overhead Calf Raises

Seated calf raises on the lying leg curl machine

Secret Training Tip #444 - Full-Range Calf Raises

5 Groundbreaking Calf Training Tips

Your Keys To Rock-Solid Ankle Stability, Explosive Sports Performance and Incredible Balance!

Anatomy of the Calf Muscles Home -> Advanced Training -> Muscular Anatomy -> Calf Anatomy

Anatomy of the Calf Muscles
***Home* *-> Advanced Training*** -> Muscular Anatomy -> Calf Anatomy