We’ve discussed if you should, then how you should if you absolutely have to.  Here’s another quick tip for you.  Start your calf training with a high-rep set FIRST.  You will need to do 30-50 reps for that first set to really amp up metabolic stress.

Now, keep in mind with any set that goes higher than 10-15 reps, your form will invariably break down and get sloppy.  This can lead to the muscle losing the ability to keep good muscular tension, and fiber recruitment will also deteriorate.  Sloppy reps are just not good for anything.  So leave your ego at the front desk, YOU WILL NEED TO GO LOWER IN WEIGHT.

Here we go, there is an answer…but you will need to put in effort and it has to be quality.  Concentrate on the tempo (likely a 3231 or similar) on EVERY SINGLE REP.  As Flex likes to say, the mind-muscle connection is key here.  This cannot be just moving the weight up and down.

• Using a 3231 tempo.
• Take a good 3 seconds to lower the weight.
• Hold at the bottom for 2 seconds at a dead stop, feel the stretch.
• Slowly contract the weight up for 3 seconds.
• Squeeze the calves tight at the top for 1-2 seconds.
• Repeat.

Now, do the math!  A set of 12 will take 108 seconds, that’s almost a 2 minute set.  For that first set of, let’s say 40, we’re now talking 360 seconds for a SET!  That’s a 6 minute set of calves.  And, of course, mobility/stretching and nutrition will be just as key as the workout for growth.  Keeping in mind our blog from Monday discussing “should you be,” keep your expectations realistic.  Again, you will not be able to use the weights/overloads that you normally use, it just won't happen.  I've done this on an empty seated calf raise and could barely walk the next day.