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Suspension Trainer Calf Raise

Beginner
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A supported isolation exercise using a suspension trainer to target the gastrocnemius and soleus. It builds calf strength and ankle stability while using the straps for balance to achieve a greater range of motion.

About Exercise

Equipment

Suspension Trainer

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Calves

Secondary Muscles

Abs

Popularity Score

6

Goals

Strength
Hypertrophy
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training
Calisthenics

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Calves

10/10

Gastrocnemius, Soleus

Abs

4/10

Transverse Abdominis

Programming

Typical Rep Range

12-25 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-60 seconds

How to Perform

Anchor the suspension trainer overhead. Stand facing the anchor point holding the handles at chest height, leaning back slightly with arms extended and feet hip-width apart.

  1. Keep your legs straight and core braced.
  2. Lower your heels toward the floor to feel a deep stretch in the calves.
  3. Drive through the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as possible.
  4. Squeeze the calves hard at the top position.
  5. Lower slowly back to the starting position under control.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Full stretch at bottom
  • Squeeze at top
  • Keep knees straight
  • Control the descent
  • Core tight

Breathing

Inhale as you lower your heels into the stretch; exhale as you press up onto your toes.

Tempo

2-1-1

Range of Motion

Lower heels until a deep stretch is felt; rise until fully plantarflexed on the balls of the feet.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Ensure anchor point is secure
  • Avoid if experiencing acute Achilles pain
  • Maintain non-slip footing

Spotting

No spotter needed; self-supported exercise.

Common Mistakes

  • Bouncing out of bottom
  • Bending knees excessively
  • Using arms to pull up
  • Shortening range of motion

When to Avoid

  • Achilles tendon strain
  • Severe ankle instability
  • Recent lower leg injury

Flexibility Needed

  • Adequate ankle dorsiflexion
  • Basic shoulder flexion for grip

Build Up First

  • Familiarity with TRX stance
  • Core engagement basics

Also known as

TRX Calf Raise, Suspension Strap Calf Raise, Assisted Calf Raise, Bodyweight Calf Raise, Standing Calf Raise Supported

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