The Claim
Performing calf raises with the knee flexed induces greater soleus muscle hypertrophy compared to knee-extended variations, a difference mediated by gastrocnemius shortening and modified force-length relationships.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Doing calf raises with your knees bent builds more of the deep calf muscle than doing them with straight legs. This happens because bending your knees changes how the calf muscles stretch and push, making the exercise more effective for that specific muscle.
See the scientific wording
Knee-flexed calf raises elicit greater soleus hypertrophy than knee-extended variations due to gastrocnemius shortening and altered force-length relationships.
What the research says
1 studyThe study shows that bending your knees while doing calf raises makes your soleus muscle swell more than keeping your legs straight, confirming that this variation is better for targeting that specific muscle.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.