Turn Those Calves into Bulls

Turn Those Calves into Bulls

Calves are a problem spot for many a bodybuilder. For some people it seems like everything grows except for their calves. And yet good calf development can go a long way towards a balanced looking physique.

Fortunately, there is a lot that can be done to improve calf development. Here we discuss exactly what can be done to make your calves grow into the massive hunks of muscle they should be.

With so many people struggling with calf development, it begs the question "why?" Surely, not everyone can have a genetic predisposition towards small calves. No, many people who are afflicted with Small Calf Syndrome perpetuate the problem every week through their training.

Calves Need Volume Too

Whenever someone expresses displeasure with their calf size and confusion as to why their calves refuse to grow, the first question I have is "what's your training volume like for your calves?" The typical answer is something like "a few sets a week."

For some reason people will train chest twice a week for 20+ sets over the week and only train calves for a few sets once a week. Then they complain that their calves won't grow. If you treat your calves like an afterthought then don't complain when they don't grow. Give your calves the volume and the frequency they deserve and they just might thank you by packing a little muscle onto those twigs you call lower legs.

Don't Be Afraid to Put Calves First

If you are like most people then calves are trained at the end of a grueling leg day. How much steam is really left in the tank at that point? Probably not a whole lot.

Try moving calves to the beginning of the workout where you can hit them with maximum intensity. It doesn't have to be every day. But if you train calves twice a week, then maybe one day calves can come first. And the thing is, it doesn't have to be a leg day. Heck, you could have a dedicated calf day!

Occlusion Training Anyone?

Occlusion training on calves at the end of your calf workouts can be just what you need to give your calves the "little extra" they need to grow. I've personally had pretty good success using occlusion training to improve literally every area of my physique. Why not calves? Why not, indeed.

What About Genetics?

Genetics can be a limiting factor for anyone. But most people just use genetics as an excuse. Sure, genetics can prevent you from becoming the next Mr. O. But I firmly believe that at the amateur level, most people's genetic flaws can be overcome with proper diet, training and shit ton of hard work.

Even people who have poor insertions or an undesirable shape can improve. You may never have Arnold calves, but you can have better calves. And isn't that what bodybuilding is about, anyway? Getting better.

Posted by Clayton Long