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CALF
Standing Calf Raises |
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1.
Holding onto a desk, wall, or the back of a chair for balance,
stand tall on the edge of a step with stomach muscles gently
pulled in to protect your lower back. If you are stretching
outside, use the curb and find a nearby tree for balance.
2.
Keep your weight on the balls of your feet and let your heels
hang off the edge of the step or curb.
3.
Exhale as you lift up onto your tiptoes. Your heels should
rise above the step or curb.
4.
Pause and take a breath. Then inhale and lower your heels
so they dip just below your toes. Repeat 8 to 10 times. This
is 1 set.
When
this feels easy, work one leg at a time. Bend the resting
leg and cross it behind the working one. This will help improve
your balance and your calf strength.
Don't
hold your breath. Exhale through your mouth when you lift
and inhale through your nose when you lower your heels. This
helps deliver oxygen to your muscles. It also helps you get
into a rhythm, so you're not working too fast or too slow.
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