Leg Curl with Elastic: Calf Strength Guide

Learn how to perform the elastic band calf curl to improve lower leg definition and ankle mobility with our step-by-step guide.

How to Perform

  1. Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you and your back upright.
  2. Loop the resistance band around the ball of one foot and hold the handles or ends with both hands to create tension.
  3. Pull the band toward your torso until it is taut while keeping your heel resting on the ground.
  4. Press your toes forward away from your body against the resistance of the band while keeping your leg straight.
  5. Pause for one second at the peak of the contraction when your foot is fully extended.
  6. Slowly return your foot to the starting position by allowing the band to pull your toes back toward your shin under control.
  7. Repeat for the desired number of repetitions before switching to the other leg.

Common Mistakes

  • Moving the entire leg instead of isolating the ankle joint
  • Allowing the band to snap the foot back too quickly during the eccentric phase
  • Wrapping the band around the arch of the foot instead of the ball of the foot
  • Rounding the lower back significantly while holding the band tension

Muscles Worked

Primary movers

  • Calves

Stabilizers

  • Hamstrings
  • Tibialis Anterior
  • Plantar Flexors

Related Guides

Calves · Legs