What type of movement is performed in a seated calf raise?

In a seated calf raise, the primary movement that is performed is ankle plantar flexion. This occurs when the foot is pointed downward, away from the body, which engages the calf muscles, specifically the gastrocnemius and soleus. These muscles contract to lift the heel while the toes remain on the ground, resulting in the plantar flexion of the ankle joint.

During this exercise, the seated position stabilizes the body, allowing for targeted strength development in the calves without the involvement of other major muscle groups that might be engaged in standing variations. Therefore, recognizing seated calf raises as a movement focused on ankle plantar flexion is essential for understanding how this exercise effectively builds strength in the lower leg.