As published on Closeronline Want to tone your lower legs but worry you’ll end up bulky rather than sculpted? You’re by no means alone.
According to research by British Military Fitness, it’s the fear of building up muscle that puts women off exercises that focus on toning the calves.
Even Jordan has complained about building bulky muscles during her training for this year’s marathon.
So, what’s the answer? According to Mathew Moine, lead instructor at British Military Fitness, says it’s all about sculpting not building muscle.
And he reckons there’s no time like the present!
Mathew quoted: ‘With spring finally here and the weather improving, nows the time to work on your calves’.
‘Apart from looking good there are also benefits of having stronger lower legs; you will be able to run for longer, walk for longer and dance for longer.’
‘Do this routine for a month and we guarantee your legs will feel stronger.’
Exercise 1: The Calf Muscle Raise
Stand straight on both feet. Slowly start raising your feet and you should come into such a position that you are on the balls of your feet.
Stay in this position for some time and then slowly return to your original standing position.
You should perform this exercise 10 times in the early stages and later go onto 20 repetitions.
Exercise 2: Squats
The main emphasis of a squat is on the thighs and buttocks but it also involves the hamstrings, calves and lower back.
Stand with your feet just under shoulder width apart, bend knees and hips, lowering torso between the legs.
Once your knees are at a 90 degree angle, reverse direction to stand up straight again.
The torso remains upright throughout the movement. Once you have returned to your original position, start again.
You should perform this exercise 10 times in the early stages and later go onto 20 repetitions.
Exercise 3: Skipping
Generally you can perform skipping for weight loss but this is one of the best exercises for calf muscle.
Your calf muscles will become pretty sore if you skip for more than 20 minutes because the exercises force you to stay on your toes.
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