Ad
related to: best soleus vs gastrocnemius tendonitis exercises
Search results
Results From The WOW.Com Content Network
This photo demonstrates a calf raise exercise that can be performed to strengthen two of the major ankle plantar flexor muscles, the gastrocnemius and the soleus. This exercise can be performed with minimal to no equipment. A step can be added under the foot to enhance range of motion and weights can be added to increase the resistance [17]
Bridging exercises are done with a flexed knee to lessen the stretch on the hamstring (a knee flexor) and focus the hip extension work on the gluteus maximus. In that same respect, the reduced knee flexion makes plantar flexion work comparable to a seated calf raise, due to the lessened stretch on the gastrocnemius (like the hamstring, also a knee flexor).
Soleus muscles have more slow muscle fibers than many other muscles. In some animals, such as the guinea pig and cat, soleus consists of 100% slow muscle fibers. [6] [7] Human soleus fiber composition is variable, containing between 60% and 100% slow fibers. [8] The soleus is the most effective muscle for plantar flexion in a bent knee position.
Calf raises in a “V” position Stand tall with both feet shoulder-width apart and turn your toes outward so your feet create the letter "V." Place your hands on your hips.
The superficial portion (the gastrocnemius) gives off two heads attaching to the base of the femur directly above the knee. The deep (profundus) mass of muscle (the soleus) forms the remaining head which attaches to the superior posterior area of the tibia. The triceps surae is innervated by the tibial nerve, specifically, nerve roots L5–S2.
Along with the soleus muscle, the gastrocnemius forms half of the calf muscle. Its function is plantar flexing the foot at the ankle joint and flexing the leg at the knee joint. The gastrocnemius is primarily involved in running, jumping and other "fast" movements of leg, and to a lesser degree in walking and standing.
Several effective exercises target the muscles in the lower leg, including the calves, tibialis anterior, and other supporting muscles. Calf raises are a foundational exercise: standing with feet hip-width apart, you raise your heels off the ground and lower them back down, effectively strengthening the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles.
It is composed of a thin muscle belly and a long thin tendon. While not as thick as the achilles tendon, the plantaris tendon (which tends to be between 30–45 centimetres (12–18 in) in length) is the longest tendon in the human body. Not including the tendon, the plantaris muscle is approximately 5–10 centimetres (2.0–3.9 in) long and ...