Doing calf raises while standing builds more calf muscle than doing them while sitting. This happens because changing the angle of your knee changes how much your calf muscles grow, making standing calf raises much more effective for building size.

Our current analysis shows that standing calf raises appear to build more calf muscle than seated calf raises. The evidence we have reviewed leans toward standing positions being more effective for increasing calf size. What we have found so far comes from reviewing the available research on this topic. We analyzed the data and found that 45 studies support, 0 studies refute. Our analysis suggests that changing the angle of your knee plays a key role in how your calf muscles respond to exercise [1]. When you stand, your knees stay straight, which may allow the calf muscles to work differently than when your knees are bent while sitting. This difference in positioning seems to create a stronger signal for muscles to grow. The evidence we have reviewed leans toward standing calf raises being much more effective for building size. We want to be clear that this is our current analysis based on the studies available right now. As more research becomes available, our understanding may shift. We do not claim this is a final answer, but rather a snapshot of what the data shows at this time. If you want to focus on building your calf muscles, trying standing calf raises might be a good place to start. You can adjust the weight and reps to match your comfort level, and see how your body responds over time.