Fitness Champ Get the app

Calves exercise · body weight

Ankle Circles

The ankle circles is a bodyweight exercise that targets the calves, with the ankle stabilizers assisting.

Animated demonstration of the ankle circles
Ankle Circles — demonstration
Target muscle
Calves
Also works
Ankle stabilizers
Equipment
Body weight
Body part
Lower legs

How to do the ankle circles

  1. Sit on the ground with your legs extended in front of you.
  2. Lift one leg off the ground and rotate your ankle in a circular motion.
  3. Perform the desired number of circles in one direction, then switch to the other direction.
  4. Repeat with the other leg.

Sets and reps

Hold each stretch for 20–40 seconds, breathing slowly, and repeat 2–3 times per side. Stretch to mild tension, never pain.

Muscles worked

The main muscle is the calves. The ankle stabilizers work as secondary muscles. See all calf exercises or every bodyweight exercise.

Free on iPhone and Android

Track your ankle circles in the app.

Every one of these 1,300+ exercises is in the app with its demo and steps. Build a plan for your goal, log every set, and the rest timer starts itself. No account, no ads.

QR code linking to the Fitness Champ download

Scan to get the app

Similar calves exercises