How to Work Out Calves With Dumbbells

While more people prefer using a designated machine to work out their calves, sometimes this luxury simply is not available. Fortunately, you can use a plain pair of dumbbells to work out your calves as well as any machine. Here you'll learn how to work out calves with dumbbells.

Things You'll Need

  • Pair of dumbbells
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold a dumbbell in each hand. The dumbbells should be heavy enough that you are aware that you are holding something, but not so heavy that you must strain or distort your body to lift them.

    • 2

      Place your feet slightly closer together than shoulder width. Do not lock your knees.

    • 3

      Raise the dumbbells so that they are in line with your shoulders. Your palms will be facing forward and your elbows will be sharply bent. If you feel pain in any part of your arm, select a lighter weight set of dumbbells.

    • 4

      Rise up so that you are standing on your toes. This movement should be slow and steady.

    • 5

      Lower yourself until your heels almost touch the ground. Do not allow your heels to bang into the ground or you can damage your shins. Stop just short of standing flat-footed. You can repeat this exercise as many times as you wish. Most trainers recommend three sets of 10 to 20 repetitions.