What we've found so far is that continuing with partial repetitions after failure during Smith machine calf raises may increase total workout volume in untrained men, and this could have implications for muscle growth [1]. Our analysis of the available evidence currently supports this idea, with no studies found that contradict it.
We looked at 60 assertions from the research, and all of them support the idea that when untrained individuals perform partial reps after reaching failure on full-range calf raises using the Smith machine, they are able to significantly increase the total amount of work done in that session [1]. Specifically, this strategy appears to nearly double the volume compared to stopping at failure with full reps alone [1]. Since workout volume is one factor often linked to muscle growth, this suggests that extending the set with partials might enhance the potential for muscle development over time.
However, we want to be clear: our current analysis only shows a link between increased volume and the *potential* for more muscle growth. We can’t say for sure that this extra volume directly leads to bigger muscles in untrained men, because the evidence we’ve reviewed doesn’t confirm long-term outcomes. Also, all the data we have right now comes from a single line of reasoning—60 supporting points with none refuting—so while the direction is consistent, we’re still building a fuller picture.
We don’t yet know how this method compares to other volume-building strategies, or whether the benefits hold over weeks or months. There’s also no data on injury risk, fatigue, or whether this works the same for different people.
Practical takeaway: If you're new to training and want to push a little further in your calf workout after hitting failure, doing partial reps on the Smith machine might let you do more work in that session. Based on what we’ve seen so far, that extra effort could support muscle growth—but it’s just one piece of a bigger puzzle.
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