The Claim
Performing calf raise exercises with an inward foot position (FPI) causes greater hypertrophy in the lateral gastrocnemius muscle head compared to outward (FPO) or forward (FPF) foot positions, resulting in a 9.1% increase in muscle thickness after nine weeks of structured resistance training, compared to 5.5% and 6.4% increases for outward and forward positions, respectively.
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.
When doing calf raises, pointing your toes inward builds more muscle in the outer part of your calf than pointing them out or straight ahead. Over nine weeks of training, this inward position can increase that specific muscle by about 9%, while other toe positions only add around 5-6%.
See the scientific wording
Pointing the foot inward (FPI) during calf raise exercises yields superior hypertrophy in the lateral gastrocnemius muscle head compared to outward (FPO) or forward (FPF) foot positions, achieving a 9.1% increase in muscle thickness after nine weeks of structured resistance training, whereas outward and forward positions resulted in 5.5% and 6.4% gains respectively.
What the research says
1 studyPointing your toes inward while doing calf raises builds the outer part of your calf muscle better than pointing them out or straight ahead, according to this nine-week study.
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.