What muscles make up the calf?

National Athletic Trainers' Association

The gastrocnemius is the primary muscle of the calf. The soleus muscle lies deep to to gastrocnemius and may be included as a calf muscle.

(This answer provided for NATA by the Gustavus Adolphus College Athletic Training Education Program.)

Continue Learning about Parts of the Muscular System

National Athletic Trainers' Association

Lumbar stabilizers are the muscles in the low back that help maintain the spine’s curvature. The...

National Academy of Sports Medicine

The two primary muscles in the upper back include the trapezius and, although usually considered mor...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Parts of the Muscular System

Your skeletal, smooth and cardiac muscles work together to keep your body running like a machine. Within this muscular system there are various parts, from muscle fibers to ligaments. You may know about hamstrings, quadriceps and abdominal muscles, but there hundreds of muscles that move within your body. Some are involuntary, like parts of your digestive system, while you control others whenever you go for a walk or lift weights.

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