The soleus muscle is an often-overlooked muscle in the lower leg that is responsible for plantarflexion of the ankle, which is the action of pointing the foot downward. While it may not be as well-known as other leg muscles, the soleus plays a crucial role in a variety of activities such as walking, running, and jumping.
One effective exercise for targeting the soleus muscle is the soleus pushup. This exercise involves lifting the heel while keeping the front of the foot stable, which is the opposite of a traditional calf raise where the heel remains on the ground.
In this article, you will explore the benefits of the soleus pushup exercises and how to properly perform the exercise, with tips and techniques.
Recent findings published in the scientific journal iScience [1] have suggested that incorporating soleus pushups into your exercise routine may have several health benefits. The soleus pushup exercise targets the soleus muscle located in the calf and can lead to an increased metabolic rate, lower blood sugar levels, and reduced risk for type 2 diabetes.