For the majority of the time, bodybuilders enjoy training using a large selection of different exercises that can concentrate on a specific group of muscles from a bunch of various angles. This will make sure that the largest amount of fibers possible will be recruited, which will allow the most gains to be made. But as far as calves go, the majority of bodybuilders don't have a lot of concern for the number of angles they hit the muscle group with. A good portion of the time, specifically in busy gyms, we do calf exercises towards the end of the training session by crawling to the closest calf machine not being used, cranking out a couple of fast sets, and then trying to locate our car keys to get out of the gym and find a protein source that will replenish us after an arduous day of training.

So because of all the neglecting of exercising the calves properly and a possible lack of machines, a lot of bodybuilders don't have calves that are well developed. There are some specific exercises that can be used to isolate the weaker areas in the leg.

For Small Calves

Standing calf raises are great for putting on muscle to your lower legs. Seated calf raises will also put on muscle mass as well as help reduce fat. Leg press calf raises can also be very good for putting on muscle mass. You can work your lower legs with a dumbbell, barbell, or machine. If adding size to your calves is the goal, then lifting a lot of weight with just the lower legs will help you reach that goal.

For Shallow Calves

Many bodybuilders train their calves and notice that they lack thickness. To assist with this, donkey calf raises are an excellent way to isolate the back of the calf muscle, this will help them develop more of a three-dimensional shape, which makes them appear better from all angles.

For Imbalanced Calves

Sometimes bodybuilders develop one leg better than the other, using one-legged calf raises either on the leg press machine or standing with a dumbbell can be very beneficial to hit one calf harder than the other. A muscle group that is out of proportion to the other needs to taken care of early on. Doing this now will prevent any symmetry problems at future shows and competitions.

By just knowing about the various angles for all kinds of calf short comings, it will help you notice problems with your calves that you will also then know exactly how to correct. It's also good to know so that you can plan out your time with the machine at crowded gyms. It's good to avoid calf problems by training them just as intensely and as seriously as every other muscle group.