http://travelstrong.net/calf-muscles/How To Build Calf MusclesSlow twitch fibres respond best to a high training volume and frequency. This means that you need to do a lot of reps, very often, to get your calves to grow.
Lifting a substantial load, such as your entire bodyweight, regularly for a high number of reps provides ample stimulation for the calves. That’s right – no machines or weights are necessary.Since you’re not using heavy weights, this training can be performed daily, and it’s the frequency that encourages your body to adapt quickly.
When you train calves doesn’t matter, as long as you do it often. One option is to start each workout with calves, or do a set of calves between every set of every exercise you do at each workout.
The Training PlanCalf-raises are a great exercise, and by using the sneaky bit of anatomical knowledge from above, it’s possible to apply a number of progressions to the calf-raise that will keep you busy for a long time.
The idea isn’t to rush through the progressions. Rather, you should milk each stage for all it’s worth.
Double leg calf raises off the floor (with a slight bend in the knee)
Double leg calf raises off the floor (straight legs)
Single leg calf raises off the floor (with a slight bend in the knee)
Single leg calf raises off the floor (straight leg)
Double leg calf raises off a step (with a slight bend in the knee)
Double leg calf raises off a step (straight legs)
Single leg calf raises off a step (with a slight bend in the knee)
Single leg calf raises off a step (straight leg)
Start with 4 sets of 20 reps, and don’t move on until you can perform 4 sets of at least 50 reps.
A Few Notes of FormStand with your feet shoulder width apart.
You should be barefoot.
You will find the straight leg variations significantly more difficult than bent leg. Going through both variations ensures you are stimulating the gastrocnemius and the soleus.
Control the movement – don’t just bounce up and down.
At the bottom of the movement, be sure to get a good stretch and hold the position for 2-3 seconds.
Aim to get all the way up on your big toe at the top while flexing your calves hard. Pause again for another 2-3 seconds.
The Bottom LineThere’s no doubt that genetics play a huge role in calf development.
The Austrian Oak himself was desperately ashamed of his calves, and went as far as cutting off all of his trousers off at the knee so he had to suffer the embarrassment of having his calves exposed wherever he went.
But even if you did pick the wrong parents you don’t have to give up on your calves altogether. By combining a little science with a smart training plan, you might find yourself proud to wear shorts again.