Exercise guide · Beginner · Stretch

Calf Stretch with Hands Against Wall: How to Do It & Muscles Worked

A stretch targeting the calves, performed by leaning against a wall with one leg extended back and the heel pressed to the ground.

Primary muscles
Calves
Secondary muscles
Hamstrings
Equipment
Body Weight
Level · type
Beginner · Stretch
Demonstration of the calf stretch with hands against wall
Front view: muscles worked by the calf stretch with hands against wall. Primary: calves. Secondary: hamstrings.
Back view: muscles worked by the calf stretch with hands against wall. Primary: calves. Secondary: hamstrings.
Primary Secondary

How to do the calf stretch with hands against wall

  1. Step 1: Stand facing a wall with your feet hip-width apart.
  2. Step 2: Place your hands against the wall at shoulder height.
  3. Step 3: Step your right foot back, keeping your heel on the ground and your leg straight.
  4. Step 4: Bend your left knee and lean forward, keeping your back leg straight and your heel on the ground.
  5. Step 5: Hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds.
  6. Step 6: Switch legs and repeat the stretch.

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Step-by-step instructions and demonstration media are from the ExerciseDB exercise dataset.

This guide is general fitness information, not medical advice. Stop if an exercise causes pain and speak to a doctor or physiotherapist about injuries or health conditions before starting a new programme.