Tight calf muscles may result from everyday activities, cardiovascular workouts, and genetics. There are, however, a number of stretches one can do to lessen this often uncomfortable problem. Those who create a stretching routine and follow instructions from professional fitness experts can learn to loosen the calf muscles over time. Doing so may have a number of benefits, such as avoiding muscle strains and alleviating pain in other areas of the body.
Many experts agree that adhering to a careful stretching regimen may be the surest way to keep calf muscles from getting tight. Stretches can gradually lengthen muscles and increase blood flow. These exercises should be performed only by individuals who are healthy enough for light exercise and movement. If in doubt, a certified trainer or doctor can help individuals figure out whether they are fit for stretching exercises.
Tight calf muscles should be warmed up with light or moderate exercise first. Many moves can be performed any place where there is ample space. Some stretches, though, might require the assistance of common household items.
One popular stretch for tight calf muscles is the heel dip. Using the lowest step on a staircase or any solid, safe base, an individual can stand with both feet at hip distance. Focusing on one foot at a time, the heel hangs off the back of the base and dips down toward the ground. This move lengthens calves gently.
The use of a towel or similar object may be used during a seated calf stretch. In this exercise, one leg extends fully in front of the body. With the towel wrapped around the ball of the foot, one can pull on the towel to ease the toes backward. These are only two of many typical calf stretches.
Sometimes, tight calf muscles may be either the cause or the result of other tight muscles. For instance, constricted hamstrings or hip flexors might also need to be loosened for lasting effect. Full leg stretches that do not necessarily isolate the calves may still have a positive effect.
Performing stretches correctly is also an important part of easing tight calf muscles. While each move should create some level of discomfort, no stretch should cause searing pain. If a sharp pain persists, an individual should ease himself out of the stretch slowly.
Each stretch should be held for a minimum of 20 seconds; 30 seconds is optimal. Individuals may find that they are able to sink further into a movement over time. “Bouncing” during the stretch, however, could cause injury and should be avoided.
Loosening tight calves is important for people from nearly every walk of life. Tight muscles can interrupt exercise and normal functions and could lead to more dire health problems over time. Tightness can cause people to favor one leg over another, placing extra stress on foot, ankle and knee joints. Stretching may be performed several days per week and more than once per day for best results.