The key to strengthening your calves if doing the right exercises with the right amount of resistance. Depending on your goals, it is best to shoot for 8 to 15 reps for each exercise.Whether you are trying to jump higher, run faster, or do your daily activities better, these calf strengthening exercises will help your reach your goals. Here are a few exercises you can do using only dumbbells.

Dumbbell Calf Raises

Procedure: Start by standing with your feet about shoulder width apart. Get one dumbbell in each hand and hold them by your side. Begin by pushing your toes down so that your heels become raised so that you are on your toes. When you reach the top, squeeze for one second. Return to the start position and repeat until failure.

Single Leg Calf Raises

Procedure: Start in a standing position with your feet close together. Hold a dumbbell with your right hand and use your left hand to stabilize yourself on a fixed structure such as a barbell rack or bench. Lift your left foot slightly off the ground and begin the exercise with your right calf muscle. Push up with your foot and rock up onto your toes. Make sure you are in control of the movement. Squeeze your muscle at the top for one second. Return to the start position and repeat until failure.