Selecting the right calf machine to build stronger legs is difficult. Particularly when there are many options to choose from.
Our experienced team of personal trainers has researched and tested more than 50 of the most effective machine for raising the calf for your home gym. Based on our strict standards, we’ve narrowed the list down to the best 10 best machines.
If you’re in a hurry you’ll appreciate the XMark Seated calf raise Machine will be our first recommendation for the seated calf raiser. Its Body Solid Squat and The Calf Raise Machine is our most recommended standing machine to raise your calf. They provide top quality at a reasonable price. Buy them at the special marketplaces.
If however, there is no cost, then it’s the Reflex Donkey machine is my recommendation. The weight and comfort stack it comes with beats other competitors over the head.
The Best Calf Machine Reviews
1. XMark Seated Calf Raise Machine (XM-7613)
The XMark Calf raise machine that is seated is our top recommendation for a machine that sits. This model was created to assist you in building stronger and more powerful calves by using raised calf muscles.
The machine can be adjusted to meet your requirements. The XMark Calf raise machine that sits seated allows you to alter the thigh pads as you work out to provide a more relaxing experience. The pads also rotate to follow you through raising your calf.
The XMark Calf raise machine that sits in a seated position is equipped with two Olympic post weights. It is easy to adjust the weights that you add to the seated calf raise machine to match your fitness routine. It can be used with conventional weights or Olympic weights.
It’s worth mentioning that the XMark standing calf raise machine doesn’t include the weights you’ll require. You’ll have to purchase the weight plates on top of the cost that the equipment.
2. A BodySolid Calf Raise Machine That is Seated
This is an alternative variation on the lever-loaded seated machine for the calf. It offers a simple method to fill the calves. However, we would prefer the prior machine due to a variety of reasons.
The first issue is that the actual direction of BodySolid foot supports is a pain. They touch the floor, which means that the actual position of your feet is dictated by them, however, the foot supports that were smaller than the earlier model let users adjust to their body’s shape more quickly.
The lack of Olympic plates with sleeves can be a serious issue. The design doesn’t provide the support needed for the two” wide plates every barbell is made to support.
This is a major issue as the price currently includes the purchase of additional adapter sleeves, which can be difficult or annoying to use, and aren’t necessary for conjunction with other products!
The customer service has also been rated poor this suggests that you’re likely to have an unwelcome and frustrating encounter with BodySolid team. The product itself is good however this is an unnecessary oversight of the product and will be a major drain on time and money, even when other products, such as that Xmark machine is set to start.
3. The Deltech Calf Raise Machine
The Deltech machine falls somewhere between Xmark or BodySolid regarding design. It sports a rugged design that’s very nostalgic for gym clothing in the 1990s and 2000s, as well as it is a simple design that helps reduce wear and wear.
The product comes with an adapter that turns this into an Olympic-weighted model however this seems somewhat absurd since nearly no one has large amounts of normal plates. This makes it more difficult in comparison to the Xmark however, it’s easier to use over the BodySolid the calf raise device for the most part.
Most of the issues revolve around quality, and the placement of the components can result in uncomfortable exercise. Sometimes, build issues can cause an uncomfortable workout, while the position of the foot support is in fact too in close proximity to the chair for many users.
This is an issue because a too-tight foot position places more stress on the knees, and could result in a very uncomfortable or even painful exercise. This makes the Deltech product between our previous two models and is a clear “okay” product, though it’s possible that this is due to the price.
4. Reflex Calf Seated Tibia
Our choice for an upgrade for seated calf machines is Reflex seated Calf-tibia.
This model comes with a number of features to provide the most comfortable sitting calf workout. It comes with an aluminum skid plate that is rounded for more advanced workouts.
The Reflex calf-tibia seated in a seated position has the 2″ and three” high-density foam thigh pads to give you more comfort during your exercise. It is also possible to adjust the thigh pads according to your fitness needs.
The best thing with this Reflex seated calf-tibia incline machine is it includes tibia pads to provide an entire lower leg workout. The tibia pads can be adjusted to 6 different positions to provide a balanced exercise.
It’s important to note that the Reflex Calf-tibia machine that sits in a seated position requires the space of your gym in your home. Its dimensions are 63″ (L) and 45″ (W) 42″ (H).
5. Valor Fitness Calf Raise Machine
We are really impressed by the style of design used with the valor seated raised calf. It’s similar to the Xmark machine, but with the strength of a built and well-designed foot-plate.
The difficulties with this product aren’t due to the design, which is excellent, however, but rather from quality control.
Many customers who were pleased with the product complained of the lack of attention to the packaging and shipping quality that was deteriorating. It ranged from broken boxes and components that were damaged to parts that were missing parts and an inability to care about the packing of parts.
It’s a shame because the product itself is said to be a great choice to use as a home gym. Although it’s not as smooth and reliable as a commercial calf raiser, it does offer a viable alternative, however, it is not as good as Xmark which is comparable in price.
6. Reflex Standing Calf Raise
The Reflex standing raiser for the calf is our top choice when it comes to the top standing calf raise machine. It comes with everything you require to get a leg workout that is effective to strengthen your legs.
Adjust the Reflex standing leg raise machine to fit your personal fitness preferences. Its shoulder pad can be adjusted to seven positions to ensure a comfy workout session.
This Reflex standing machine for calf comes with various sturdy parts to make a machine that can stand up to the toughest training.
It comes with 1″ rods with a hardened coating with high-density foam pads and a myriad of premium features for a top exercise.
In part the top-quality components Partly due to the top-quality components, and due to the high-end components, Reflex stand-alone calf machines can be priced a bit high.
7. Awarded Standing Calf TDS Unit
Our top budget choice for an upright calf machine is TDS 1000 Rated Standing Calf Unit.
This machine will give you all the essentials you require from equipment for your home gym to help you build stronger legs.
What’s so great with what’s great about the TDS 1000 Rated Standing Calf It’s made with home use in the back of their minds.
It has the EZ assembly, so users can put it together by themselves. It’s not necessary to hire a professional to set it up at your home gym.
This model has dual plate holders. They can accommodate the weight of up to 1,000 pounds of Olympic plates. It is easy to modify the weight plates that you use in order to increase or decrease the resistance required.
Although this model is an excellent budget option it’s not equipped with the necessary weights to complete your calf workouts.
8. The Powerline Calf Raise Seated Machine
This is a” loaded machine for raising the calf. It’s a poor start considering that normal plates are not offered in large quantities and are generally outdated as the Olympic barbell is the most popular option for a great home gym for years.
The decision to choose the square foot support is an odd one. It’s a bit counterintuitive and could result in a more uncomfortable workout than those using a more comfortable foot rest. This is an oversight that isn’t worth it and creates a grueling experience, particularly since the foot support is small and limits your range of motion considerably.
The quality of the welding and construction is also a problem, as are the constant reports from customers of broken parts when using the equipment in a normal, as-advertised manner. This is an illustration of the importance of durability for home gym equipment. The weight for a calf raise can be quite high, however, this item shakes, and wobbles, along with the padding being of poor quality and also has structural breakages that are light in weight.
Overall, the product ranks last in our rankings due to many reasons.
9. Powertec Fitness Standing Calf Raise Machine
Another product does everything, however, the position of the feet is superior. With foot support that is flat, it provides security and comfort that’s far superior to the previous model and is the best already.
But, it also performs several other things just right. It’s a good example. It’s less prone to wobble and doesn’t cause the same problems regarding padding, since the design is fitted with high-quality shoulder pads. They distribute the loads evenly and decrease the chance of experiencing shoulder pain or discomfort.
The primary concern with this product is the finish made of metal on the foot support. However. The finish is slippery and does not offer the grip needed for optimal results with a calf raiser – it can be easily fixed with the use of an aftermarket grip. However, it would be great for the manufacturer to give a rubber finish instead!
It’s clearly the most superior standing machine to raise the calf however we’d like to find other examples of these machines which are focused on one function because the squat function isn’t compatible when using these machines.
10. The Fitness Master Sled
The Fitness Master Sled is our preferred choice for an item that gives your body great exercise.
It is an excellent workout for your calves. It can be employed for a variety of exercises.
It comes with low push handles with rubber grips to strengthen your calves. The push handles that are larger serve as storage for weight. This lets you adjust how much resistance the sled has according to your fitness routine.
The Fitness Master Sled doesn’t require the same amount of space as a standing or seated leg machine.
It’s the following dimensions: 43″ (L) It measures 43″ (L) 11.5″ (W) and 8.5″ (H). But, it’s worth noting that you’ll need space to move the unit around your home exercise area for your workout.
This model does not include the weights required for more rigorous workouts.
Standing Calf Raises vs Seated Which is the Best?
The main concern concerning the calf machine is whether it is better to stand or sit. These machines have important differences and provide different exercises based on your preferences.
They also have different costs of cash and space. The standing calf machines tend to be less expensive and cost less while standing lever-loaded raisers of the calf can become rather expensive.
It’s not just about the workouts they provide. There are some notable differences and you should not only look at how they’ll fit in your budget or space The best option is the one that delivers the greatest results in working out at home.
Standing Calf Raise Machines
These are typically bigger and more expensive than the equivalents for sitting although there are a few inexpensive and costly examples of both.
From a standpoint of training, It’s best to utilize the standing calf machines if you’re experienced. They offer a large amount of axial load (the kind that could compress the spine) It could be better and more efficient to stay clear of it.
However, this type of calf machine is also able to allow more range of motion as well as not binding you to the floor in the seat position. This allows for more effective training (since the stretch-mediated, long-range movements increase muscle strength and muscle development) and can increase the strength of your tendon more than sitting.
It’s a special case of trade-offs, but. Maximizing your performance through longer ranges of motion can be excellent, but the expense of a higher risk of load on your spine and the physical price could be a significant reason to be concerned.
If you’re just starting out or are looking to achieve good (but not ideal) gains using a lower-cost small product, you could be searching for the seated calf raise machine.
But, if you’ve got many years of experience, a strong core, and a willingness to trade in space and cash for the top, then you should consider a standing calf raiser as the most suitable option.
Seated Calf Raise Machines
The sitting calf raise is likely the best option for a beginner or journeyman in calf training.
It’s a common, simple-to-operate, safe machine that requires less space and cost than standing versions. It is essential to achieve good results, however, the sitting calf raise machine is the perfect home workout, without the dangers and expenses we encounter when using the standing model.
It’s unlikely to be as effective if you compare it 1-1, however, the cost and logistics may be worth the trade.
The position of sitting reduces the degree of control you have in the movement range, but while doing it, it lessens stress on your back and the core. There’s not much you could be doing wrong by doing a seated calf lift and is a good option, to begin with in case you’re just looking to incorporate some training at home in your fitness center.
For the common Joe who would like to look better fitter and healthier, We believe that the seated calf machine might be the best choice. The set of equipment clearly has winners as well as losers (as we discussed during the section on review) however, overall it is a superior “entry-stage” for the calf-training machines at-home gyms.
Calf Raise Machine Buyer’s Guide
There are five major things you need to think about when you purchase a calf machine to help build your legs.
- Equipment size
- The durability and quality of the machine
- What kind of calf machine do you require
- The range of options available to the machine
- Your budget
These five factors will work and your goals for fitness to figure out which pump is the most appropriate for your home fitness center.
Here are the main factors we took into consideration when selecting our top 9 calf machine models to build stronger legs. These are the most important factors to take into consideration when choosing the most effective calf machine to use at home.
The Dimensions of the Machine Used to Calf
The size of the calve machine is a crucial aspect to consider. You must consider the area you have at your fitness center. If you’re not able to find enough space, it’s going to limit the types of calf equipment you have the option of choosing from.
This Master Sled requires an adequate amount of room to move about and can serve as a larger variety of workouts.
It is important to consider the frequency you use the equipment. If the calf machine you choose is large in size, it could take away from other equipment you’re thinking of purchasing that you could require more often.
In the same way, smaller equipment such as that liftoff device can limit your options in the kind of workouts you are able to perform. It’s all dependent on the kind of calf machine you’re looking for and the type of exercises you plan to perform with it.
Calf Machine Gauge Steel
The caliber of the machine is often measured by the steel gauge employed.
You should choose a calf machine made of eleven gauges or greater. The steel is 1/8 inches thick and tough and makes the machine safe to perform intense exercises.
Our top seated pick is our XMark, XMark is made of 11 gauge steel, which is extremely durable, yet less expensive than the price of comparable models.
This is a crucial element to think about when you’re considering heavyweights. The thicker it is, the more durable and more durable it’ll be. The rule of thumb is that the smaller the number, the greater the thickness of the steel.
The 11-gauge steel can be thought to be among the strongest steel types. It’s ideal for most home gyms.
The Comfort of the Machine For Calf
Your comfort is the most important factor while working your calves. The majority of calf machines feature cushioned features that provide added ease of working. This is a huge benefit in the event that you intend to use the calf machine you choose regularly to perform calf raises.
The position of your pads in your calves machine must be comfortable enough for you to perform sets and reps. The pads on your thighs shouldn’t be pressing too much upon your legs. Make sure you can sit comfortably in a sitting leg machine.
A standing calf machine can include shoulder pads to allow more comfort during exercises. If you sit at the feet platform and place your feet on the heels of your feet the shoulder pads need to rest on your shoulders.
It’s Reflex stand-up machine features the highest-density shoulder pad. They are much more comfortable than other models or putting a barbell on your back.
Also, make sure that the calf machine you choose has a foot platform that is non-slip. This makes it more comfortable as well as safer to operate.
Standing In vs. Raised Calf Seated Machine
The standing leg raise device will generally permit you to lift more weight and put greater stress on the gastrocnemius muscles. This muscle provides you with the upside-down love hearts that Arnie always did! This will make your calves appear larger by increasing your “thickness”.
But a seated calf raise will help isolate the calves. It’s much easier for you to bend the knees when doing an elevated calf raise standing up and will not just strengthen your calf muscles, according to muscle and strength mentions.
The calf raise seated employs a different muscle, the soleus. It is the muscle that sits beneath your gastrocnemius that creates your lower leg outside appears more slender.
If you have an Olympic barbell plate, and an effective rack for squatting, you can perform standing lifts of the calf. Therefore, you might prefer an incline calf machine that is seated to exercise the muscle of the soleus more. If you’re seeking to build bulk in your calf muscles, the standing calf machines are generally superior to sitting machines.
Are You Able to Adjust the Size of the Machine?
Height adjustments are a crucial element to look for. You must be able to adjust your equipment to your height so that you are able to use it comfortably. This can make your workout more efficient.
Seated calf machines will let you adjust the height of the seat as well as the pads. These kinds of machines usually include an under-seat lever to allow you to adapt the machine to your requirements. Its Body-Solid is a budget-friendly alternative, but it doesn’t come with these options.
Standing calf machines must let you adjust the height according to your preferences. Machines that provide a range of height adjustments are ideal for home gyms with more than one person.
Do You Require Weight Plates? What size?
The majority of the calf machines on the market will require you to purchase your own plates to weigh the animal, for example, the less expensive standing calf machine that uses TDS.
It’s crucial to be aware of the size of plates that can be used for weights. Standard plates are 1” in diameter. hole. However, Olympic plates come with a 2” in diameter hole.
Most calf machines are able to be able to accommodate Olympic plates unless they specify that they do not.
Weight Stack Included/Maximum Capacity
The weight stack your calf machine is able to support is vital. This will determine the amount of weight you can put on to the calf raise.
Although it might be tempting to choose the most weights, it is important to ensure that your calf machine is able to accommodate the proper weights to work out comfortably.
Certain standing calf machines include weight stacks. Others, like those made by Reflex Donkey Calf, have both!
If you have an existing gym at home equipped with a variety of plates, it will not matter which one you select. If you don’t have a variety of bumper plates then it might be cheaper to purchase a calf machine that has an integrated weight stack. For instance, the standing reflex of the calf machine.
Guarantee For Brand
The type of warranty the manufacturer offers is an additional factor to consider.
If the manufacturer offers assurance for their calf machines, it’s a sign that they’re taking their products seriously.
That means you’ll get an excellent calf machine that will last for a long time.
Verify whether the warranty will last. The more certain a company is in the fact that their machine for calf will last longer, the longer their warranty will be valid.
Look also – What Is The Best Seated Calf Raise Machine – TOP-11.
Calf Machine FAQs
Is the calf machine good?
Although using the machine to press your legs is designed to target your quads, there are a few fitness enthusiasts who utilize the machine to raise their calf muscles. However, this move won’t really help to build the muscles of your calf.
What is the calf press machine for?
Leg press machines let you reap the advantages of a barbell squat to strengthen the quadriceps. In addition, it helps develop the gluteus maximus and hamstrings, and calves. By altering your foot posture, you can increase the strength of various muscles.