Week 11: The Calf Stretch (Gastroc)
By Trent Brooke, DPT
AZOPT Goodyear Physical Therapist
Type of stretch: Static
Standing Calf Stretch: Start by standing and leaning both hands against a wall or table. Put one foot back and the other forward. Bend the front knee and keep the back knee straight with your heel firmly on the floor. Continue to bend the knee until a mild/moderate stretch is felt in the back of the lower leg.
Seated Strap Calf Stretch: You will need a strap, towel, or dog leash for this stretch. Start in a seated position and hook the strap around your foot and pull your ankle back toward you until a mild/moderate stretch is felt in the back of the lower leg. The stretching knee should be straight while the other leg is bent.
Why stretch the calves?
Stretching the calves is a very important stretch for all types of people. It is important for the more active person as well as the less active person. Having good flexibility in the calves can help reduce and prevent certain types of knee, ankle, and foot pain. It can also play a roll in reducing and preventing certain types of hip and even back pain.
