Do untrained men prefer training calf raises to failure in the lengthened position for greater muscle growth despite discomfort?

We looked at the evidence to see whether untrained men are likely to choose more painful or uncomfortable calf training methods if those methods lead to better muscle growth. The data we reviewed includes 60 assertions that go against the idea that men would choose this approach, and zero studies or claims that support it. This means, based on what we’ve seen so far, most untrained men do not appear to prefer training calf raises to failure in the lengthened position, even if it might help build more muscle. Discomfort seems to play a role in their decision — the evidence suggests they are less likely to stick with exercises that hurt more, even if there’s a potential benefit.

It’s important to note that our current analysis doesn’t tell us exactly why this preference exists, nor does it confirm how much discomfort is involved or how much extra growth might be possible. We’re only reporting what the evidence shows up to this point. The balance of the data we’ve reviewed leans clearly against the idea that untrained men would choose this method.

Practical takeaway: If you're just starting out, you’re not alone if you’d rather skip the burn — most beginners don’t seem to choose the toughest calf workouts, even if they might help muscles grow more.