Written by Kiel DiGiovanni | Co-founder
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
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Small calf muscles can be the bane of some people's existence due to genetics or lack of calf training. One piece of home gym equipment that can help build big powerful calves is a calf machine.
We’ve compiled a list of the 7 best calf raise machines after reviewing dozens so you can make an informed decision.
Read this post for our top picks which cover the seated calf raise machine, standing calf raise machine and even a tibia dorsi machine!
7 BEST CALF MACHINES
- Overall Best: Body Solid GSCR349
- Budget Pick: Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine
- Premium Pick: Powertec Squat/Calf Machine
- Seated Calf Machine On Amazon: Xmark Seated Calf Raise Machine
- Standing Calf Machine: Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack
- Standing Calf Machine On Amazon: TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack
- Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Tibia Flexion Machine
SFS Pick
Body Solid
SFS Budget Pick
Titan Fitness
SFS Premium Pick
Powertec
1. Overall Best Calf Machine: Body Solid Seated Calf Raise Machine
If you want a no-frills, affordable, high-quality seated calf raise machine, this is your best bet. Body Solid has a reputation for making high-quality fitness equipment. We think the GSCR349 seated calf machine is the best overall for calf training. The seated calf raise machine uses a cantilever-type design, is relatively light, and is designed with a larger than normal range of motion for maximum tension when performing seated calf raises.
The cantilever design is practical and enables a 3:1 weight loading, meaning 60 pounds loaded is equivalent to 180 pounds of tension.
The frame is sturdy as it is comprised of 2x3" heavy-duty steel and the knee pads are made from 3" thick DuraFirm, making it a comfortable experience.
The only primary issue is the weight posts – they support standard size (1”) plates and not the more common Olympic plates. However, you can purchase an Olympic weight adapter for under $20 that are readily available on the product description page.
Overall the Body Solid GSCR349 seated calf raise machine is one of the best available as the sealed ball bearings provide a smooth friction-free movement combined with the unique platform that reduced the stress compression on the balls of the feet. The design of this seated calf machine allows for maximum range of motion and can help you transform your chicken legs into tree trunks.
Last but not least Body Solid's seated calf raise machine comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lifetime warranty
- 3:1 weight ratio increases true resistance
Cons
- Olympic weight adapter required
GSCR349 - Designed to increase calf muscle interaction and speed the rate of development. 3:1 Weight Ratio, so 60 pounds means 180 pounds of resistance...
2. Best Budget Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine
Titan Fitness seated calf raise machine is a close second and more affordable alternative to the Body Solid machine above. Titan’s machine comes standard with Olympic weight sleeves, round thigh pads, and an adjustable length weight post.
This seated calf raise machine comes with a price tag that won't break the bank yet has a maximum weight capacity of 550 pounds! This alone makes the Titan Fitness seated calf machine one of the best seated calf machines on the market.
With its solid base and adjustable thigh pads users of all sizes can get work their calf muscles until they're on fire.
Ultimately the Titan Fitness seated calf raise machine is a great item at a budget-friendly price and should be nearly everything you need.
Pros
- Budget-minded price
- Dual Olympic plate weight sleeves
Cons
- Weight sleeves may be slightly thin and require heavier clamps
Comes with four adjustable height thigh pad settings to accommodate different sized athletes. Plus dual Olympic weight post sleeves that can hold 550lb...
3. Best Premium Calf Machine: Powertec Squat/Calf Machine
If you’re looking for a top-shelf calf raise machine and your budget is generous, the Powertec standing calf/squat combo machine is what you need. Powertec is another superior manufacturer of fitness equipment and offers a stellar lifetime warranty. This standing calf raise machine is enough to finish all or most leg days in a single spot.
As the title implies this is more than a simple calf raise machine as you can go through a full range of motion on both squat and calf raises. With this piece of gym equipment, you get an easy-to-access bar at the top that users can engage/disengage to start or stop the exercise.
The wide foot plate allows users to perform both squats and standing calf raises comfortably while the fixed safety stop towards the bottom gives an added layer of security as you perform your leg workout.
As far as calf raise machines go, this one from Powertec is one of the best options on the market.
Pros
- Squat/standing calf raise combo is has superb design and engineering
- Olympic size weight sleeves
- 500 lb maximum weight capacity
Cons
- Pay attention to bolt hole alignment
Take your glute and leg training to the next level. An easy to access bar at the top allows the user to start and stop the exercises with a simple push or pull motion with loads up to 500 lb....
4. Best Seated Calf Machine On Amazon: XMark Seated Calf Raise Machine
This Xmark seated calf machine is one of the top-rated machines for calves we reviewed. It comes standard with Olympic-sized weight sleeves and 3” Duracraft vinyl cushion padding. Both the knee support and weight bar length are adjustable by quite a bit, making this a relatively customizable piece of equipment given its small footprint.
The frame of this seated calf raise machine is built from 2x3" 11 gauge heavy-duty steel and is covered by a powder coat finish. Plus it sits on skid resistance feet to avoid marking up the floor.
When doing seated calf raises the knee pads swivel with the movement providing ultimate comfort. The XMark seated calf raise features dual Olympic sleeves to hold up to five 45 lb weight plates on each side!
If you want stronger calves, grab yourself the Xmark seated calf raise machine and perform all the calf raises you can handle.
Pros
- Thick 3” padding is super comfortable and durable
- Olympic size weight sleeves
Cons
- Small footprint may be too small for larger bodies
Designed with height-adjustable swiveling thigh pads which rotate with you as you perform calf raises. Pop-pins allow for easy adjustment of the thigh pads and the length...
5. Best Standing Calf Machine: Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack
Body Solid consistently tops our lists of best fitness equipment, and the SLS500 squat/calf rack is another example of why that is.
This isn't just a standing calf raise machine, it doubles as a full hack squat machine. It’s made of commercial-quality engineering and parts and has a lifetime warranty. While the price is a bit steep for simple home use, it will last forever, and having a squat rack to go with your calf raise machine helps justify the cost.
Other features that users appreciate are the Olympic-size weight sleeves, additional weight storage horns, durable thick padded shoulder pads and ample footplate.
If you have the space and the budget, and you really value leg day, this is the calf raise machine for you.
Pros
- Top shelf engineering makes for super durable construction
- High weight capacity
- Weight storage horns
Cons
- Expensive
Build mass and strength in the thighs, glutes, calves and lower back with this Club quality machine. A rounded calf block also provides extra range of motion making the SLS500 an ideal...
6. Best Standing Calf Machine On Amazon: TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack
The TDS standing calf raise machine/squat combination uses the same leverage-style lifting system as the others on this list. This is a solid calf raise machine made with 3”x3” square tubular, 11-gauge heavy-duty steel.
The construction quality of the TDS standing calf machine is top shelf for heavy calf raises with a maximum weight capacity of 1000 lb. This calf raise machine has 4" thick back and shoulder pads plus a heavy duty diamond plated foot plate. Users of all sizes can get their calf training done as it can accommodate people up to 6'6".
This is one of the best calf raise machines on Amazon, with it offering a number of functions from hack squats, single-leg squats, shoulder shrugs, and both single and double calf raises.
One important point to mention is that it can be used with both standard and Olympic weight plates.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Affordable
Cons
- You need an adapter to support Olympic weight plates
Heavy duty deluxe padding, 3" X 3" x 11 gauge tube construction with 1" solid steel pins. You can load Up to 1000 lb....
7. Best Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Tibia Flexion Machine
Titan Fitness makes this list again with their tibia dorsiflexion calf machine. Technically this works the front of the leg (anterior tibialis) and the eccentric motion of the rear calf muscles. This is a great little tool to use to supplement your full calf and leg workouts and is a perfect piece of equipment for individuals with limited mobility or in need of smaller tools for rehabilitation.
Users noted this machine worked well and was well made. The fact that it supports Olympic-size weights is appealing as that’s the weight most people have on hand.
This machine is suitable for use with either one or both feet, is well made, and is sure to be an excellent addition to home gyms.
Pros
- Supports Olympic plates
- Heavy-duty construction
Cons
- Limited weight capacity
Take back your leg workout by ensuring your routine is comprehensive – the Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine will target your tibialis and turn up the heat on your feet.....
This marks the end of our list of top home-based calf exercise machines. As you can see, there’s a surprising amount of variety in terms of design and cost. The calves are an important (and often neglected or poorly trained) muscle group. Any one of these machines is sure to help you achieve your goals on leg day and shouldn’t take up too much space.
Below we have some pro tips on what to look for in a home-based calf machine.
7 Top Calf Machines Side By Side Comparison
We put together a chart of the 7 best calf machines to highlight the similarities and differences to help you find the perfect one for your home gym.
|
Product Name |
Price ($-$$$$) |
Size (dimensions) |
Warranty |
Weight Capacity |
Features |
Average |
|
$$ |
47” (L) 23” (W) 39“(H)
|
Lifetime |
360 lb |
Lever style fulcrum 3:1 weight ratio 3" thick DuraFirm™ padding |
35 reviews ☆☆☆☆.4 |
|
|
$ |
48” (L) 23.5” (W) 39.5“(H) |
1 year |
550 lb |
Dual Olympic weight sleeves Four adjustable thigh pad settings |
33 reviews ☆☆☆☆ |
|
|
$$$$ |
55” (L) 58” (W) 61.6“(H)
|
Lifetime |
500 lb |
Olympic weight sleeves Calf/squat combo Fixed safety stops |
7 reviews ☆☆☆☆.8
|
|
|
$ |
47.5” (L) 30.5” (W) 38.75“(H) |
Frame: Lifetime Parts: 1 year |
500 lb |
Dual Olympic weight sleeves Thick 3" sweat/tear resistant Duracraft pads |
339 reviews ☆☆☆☆.6 |
|
|
$$$$ |
74” (L) 61” (W) 67“(H)
|
Lifetime Full Commercial |
500 lb |
Dual squat-calf raise machine Extra weight storage horns |
2 reviews ☆☆☆☆ |
|
|
$ |
54” (L) 48” (W) 60“(H) |
Lifetime |
1000 lb |
Heavy Duty Deluxe Padding 3" X 3" x 11 gauge tubing |
71 reviews ☆☆☆☆ |
|
|
$ |
15” (L) 35.5” (W) 12“(H) |
1-year |
50 lb |
Olympic size weight sleeves 11 gauge steel construction |
38 reviews ☆☆☆☆.6 |
Benefits Of Calf Machines
Calf machines can provide a number of benefits which is why you'll find them in many commercial gyms. Let's have a look at a few reasons you might consider buying one for your home gym.
1. Convenience
The main benefit of an in-home calf machine is similar to that of other isolation machines – they allow you to isolate the calves from the legs in the comfort of your own home. You can only do so much for your calves with traditional equipment like barbells or squat racks. Calf machines will add a lot of value to your overall workouts, and they take up less space than commercial equipment. Plus, if you’re able to pick up a combo squat/calf raise machine, you can do double duty without breaking the bank and still leave space for more equipment!
2. Improve Ankle Stability & Balance
Strengthening your calves can directly impact your ankle stability in a positive way. one study showed that high speed calf raises can improve the force generation of the plantar flexion which resulted in better balance.¹
3. Reduce Potential Injuries
By specifically targeting the calves with consistent strengthening exercises you reduce your chance of sustaining injuries including shin splits. When performing calf raises you will strengthen and stretch the muscles which will help mitigate potential injuries.
4. Enhance performance
Strong calf muscles can lead to better performance in various athletic pursuits. One study found that the standing and seated calf raise resulted in improved counter movement jump and squat jumps in elite basketball players. ²
What To Look For When Buying A CALF Machine For Home Gym?
If you're shopping around for calf raise machines for your home gym then you must be serious about building bigger and stronger calves. From a standing calf raise machine to a seated calf machine there are a few questions that you need to ask yourself before you make a purchase.
1. Size:
Our top pick for the best calf raise machine from Body Solid, measures 47” long x 23” wide x 39” tall. These are near-perfect dimensions for any calf machine. In general, you want a base as long as the main weight-bearing arm and broad enough to straddle without instability to either side. Height shouldn’t be a hindrance, but anywhere around 35” is an excellent position to enable a proper range of motion as well as vertical storage if you're looking at a seated calf raise machine.
If you opt for a standing calf raise machine, the most critical measurement is the height: 60” is the minimum we’d recommend, as this may prompt you to squat too much or bend your back. Be sure the size is appropriate for your needs.
At the end of the day, both seated calf raises and standing calf raises can lead to muscle growth.
2. Build Quality:
- Construction: Most, if not all, best calf raise machines are made from 2” x 3” tubular 11-gauge steel. This is the industry standard and provides the most durability.
- Weight Capacity: 500 pounds is a good place for most calf machines to be since any more weight is really not necessary for most purposes.
- Padding: Most calf raise machines are equipped with 3” thick densely padded shoulder and/or thigh cushions. This is sufficient for most needs and matches what you’ll find on commercial equipment. A good machine will have durable thick stitching and multiple pads if covering a large area.
- Range of Motion: The range of motion depends on the setup of the machine, as in the length of the weight bar, the placement of the lever, and the machine’s height. The range of motion on a well-built machine will all a full extension of the calf where your feet don’t touch the ground, and the top of the flexion should have you up on the balls of your feet. So, any machine should allow upwards of 6” of vertical travel.
- Safety/Stops: Any good calf raise machine will have automatic or built-in stoppers and ½” pins for adjustments.
- Weight Types: You should opt for a calf raise machine that supports Olympic plates instead of only standard weight plates. Many machines that work with standard weight plates also have the ability to throw a weight sleeve adapter on so that it works with Olympic weights.
3. Price:
Our top budget pick – the Titan Seated Calf Machine – costs about $200 but you could spend thousands of dollars for a commercial grade calf machine. However, an average price point is between $400 and $800. Much less, and the quality and/or features will be lacking. Much more, and you’re probably spending more than you need to.
4. Difficulty of Assembly:
Most machines ship partially assembled and will take a rather non-mechanically inclined person a couple of hours, at most, to assemble. Just be sure you have all the equipment, tools, and patience to see it through.
5. Usage:
Most pieces of equipment are designed to last a lifetime, especially if kept indoors and used a few times a week. Obviously, greater use, such as by more than one person or multiple times a week with heavy weights, won’t last as long. But you can count on your calf machine lasting a few years, at least, with regular use.
6. Online Ratings:
Be sure to read reviews as well as product specs and manufacturer descriptions. You’ll learn a lot more about how each machine differs and what people think, especially in terms of durability, good and bad features, and ease of assembly.
Standing Vs. Seated Calf Machines, Which Is Better?
We can't say seated calf machines are better or worse than standing calf machines, it comes down to a few factors that determine the better option for your needs. In an ideal world, we would recommend doing both standing and seated calf raises if you want nicely developed calves. However, the most important aspect to keep in mind when doing calf raises is proper form and going through a full range of motion without bouncing up and down.
Seated calf machines:
A seated calf machine is ideal for those who want a small machine that works only for the calves. The range of motion will be slightly limited on a seated calf raise compared to standing, but comfort is enhanced.
The main difference in the way a seated calf raise machine works during calf raise exercises is that your knees are bent at roughly 90 degrees and in contact with thigh pads which makes your soleus muscle engaged more than the gastrocnemius muscle. When using a seated machine for your calf workout you can work the soleus muscle which will give your calf muscles a wider thicker look.
The seated calf raise machine is also the cheaper option which is often a critical component when decking out home gyms.
Standing calf machines:
many standing calf raise machines usually double as squat machines, enabling you to do a nearly full leg workout. When you perform calf raises in a standing position you put more stress onto the gastrocnemius which is the calf muscle responsible for creating the aesthetic shape of the back of your legs.
A solid standing calf machine will also allow a greater range of motion and can support a heavier weight load.
These calf training machines are the bigger, more expensive option compared to a seated calf machine, but not often by much.
CALF MACHINE FAQs:
Are Calf Machines Worth It?
Do you want big calves? Do you have the space for another machine? If yes, then calf machines are great for anyone who is looking to build a complete at-home gym. Your best bet would be to look at standing calf raise machines and they might have squat capability, therefore, killing two birds with one stone. You’ll end up spending a bit more money, but you’ll get far more utility without taking up much more space. However, it you want to work the soleus muscle then opt for a seated calf machine.
What Machine Is Best For Calves?
The standing calf raise is a bit better in terms of activation and range of motion compared to a seated calf raise machine if you want to hit the gastrocnemius. On the other hand if you want to work the soleus then consider a seated machine.
What exercise works the calves the most?
Calf raise machines should work the calf muscle the best. The calf is composed of a few different muscles – the soleus and gastrocnemius, both of which perform plantarflexion of the ankle. On the other side of the leg is the tibialis, which pulls the foot upward. The standing calf raise works the calf muscles the best as it provides a greater range of motion and supports heavier weights. That said a seated calf raise machine will hit the soleus muscle better due to the angle of the knee which can provide a thicker-looking calf muscle.
Should I Train Calves Every Day?
No. the calves are designed to handle high volume and endure long-term usage, so they’re relatively fatigue resistant, but training the calves every day is overtraining and doesn’t allow for proper progression. It will likely contribute to quicker plateaus and an increased risk of injury.
The calves recover quickly, so you can get away with training them every few days.
SUMMARY: WHAT'S THE BEST CALF MACHINE FOR HOME GYMS?
In summary, we’ve provided the seven best calf raise machines for the home gym. This list included both seated and standing calf raise machines and what to look for in either. There are a lot of variables to consider, including build quality, machine size, weight type, and safety features. Knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision. It will also help you understand how calf machines work and possibly how to improve your form and enhance your leg routine.
We recommend you find a calf raise machine for your home gym that suits your needs, such as budget, space, and fitness level. If you’re going to spend the money and you have the space, consider an upright machine. These will ensure a greater range of motion and can support greater weight to work the calf muscles. Plus, they'll likely double as squat machines.
Ultimately, choose what works best for you.
As a final recap, here are our top picks for the best machines for calf raises:
- Overall Best Calf Machine: Body Solid Seated Calf Raise Machine
- Best Budget-Friendly Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine
- Most Premium Calf Machine: Powertec Squat/Calf Machine
- Best Seated Calf Machine On Amazon: Xmark Seated Calf Raise Machine
- Best Standing Calf Machine: Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack
- Best Standing Calf Machine On Amazon: TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack
- Best Calf Machine for Tibia Dorsi: Titan Fitness Tibia Flexion Machine
Check out our other equipment reviews if you’re looking for more home gym equipment:
- Best GHD Machines
- Best Leg Press Machines
- Best Squat Racks
- Best Leg Extension Machines
- Best Sissy Squat Machines
References
- Ema, Ryoichi, et al. “Effect of Calf-Raise Training on Rapid Force Production and Balance Ability in Elderly Men.” Journal of Applied Physiology, vol. 123, no. 2, 1 Aug. 2017, pp. 424–433, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5583613/, https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00539.2016.
- Warneke, Konstantin & Keiner, Michael & Lohmann, Lars & Hillebrecht, Martin & Wirth, Klaus & Schiemann, Stephan. (2022). The Influence of Maximum Strength Performance in Seated Calf Raises on Counter Movement Jump and Squat Jump in Elite Junior Basketball Players. Sport Mont Journal. 20. 10.26773/smj.220610.
Kiel DiGiovanni
Author