[McSquat]

I've just started using my smith machine for donkey calf raises, I was using a dip belt but got to the point where there were too many plates in the way.
I set the catch pins just under the lowest point of the movement, then I just tape the bar catch hooks onto the bar so that it wont catch at any points and it sits of the saftey catch pins. Then I just get some padding, bend under the bar holding the padding on my lower back and lift up, then I can do the reps and lower the bar back on to the safety pins when I'm done. Been doing it this way for 2 workouts now and it works great.

[Beefcake]

That sounds like a good plan. I mainly do donkey calf raises on the hack squat machine. Smith I only really use when I'm trying for a new 1RM or heavy ass squats.

[chrispghmuscle]

My friend you are going to seriously hurt your lower back performing donkeys in this manner..

[Beefcake]

You'd be better off doing them the Arnold way...getting 2 hot ass girls to sit on your back. OR just use a hack squat machine reversed.

[mabo]

I hate smith machines.

Tie it to your belt and drag it around the parking lot, that's the best use I can think of for a smith machine.

[monkeybiker]

Isn't the donkey calf raise basically doing the same thing as the standing calf raise.

[chrispghmuscle]

Yes, almost,, except the weight positioning is different,, I started working my calves seated and I'm up to 4 -45# plates... 3 sets of 6 reps.. stretching in between sets to really work out the calf so I don't get a nasty cramp in them.. ( you don't want a calf cramp) it's not a good feeling..


Chris

[Beefcake]

When I get a calf cramp sometimes when I'm flexing, it hurts like someone stabbed it with a knife.