A standing tibialis raise under a Smith machine bar, heels on a raised platform and the balls of the feet hanging off. Lifting the toes from a full stretch trains the tibialis anterior, balancing heavy calf work.
Primary muscles
This information is general fitness guidance, not medical advice. Stop if you feel pain and consult a qualified professional.
Main muscles working (thicker lines)
Set a step or block under the Smith bar, stand with your heels on it and the balls of your feet off the edge, and unrack the bar across your upper back with a soft knee bend.
Let the toes drop below the platform to start from a stretch.
Pull the toes and forefoot up toward your shins as high as you can.
Hold the top for a second, keeping the knees still.
Lower the toes slowly back down and repeat.
Breathing: Exhale as you lift the toes and inhale as you lower them.
Heels pinned to the block
Toes to the shins
Slow on the way down
Rocking the body back to lift the toes
Bending and straightening the knees
Cutting the range short at the bottom
The bar is only there for balance; keep it light and set the safety stops just below it.