Whether you’re running uphill or standing still, your calves work to support your body. They also stabilize your ankles and help you do movements like jumping, turning, and bending. But it can be difficult to increase the size of your calf muscles. In fact, the fitness community considers calves to be the most stubborn muscle group in the body. You already work your calves whenever you stand or walk. But if you want to make them bigger, the key is to challenge them even more. Read on to find out more about the pros and cons of small calves and how you can bulk them up. What are the causes of small calves? Small calves are thought to be caused by genetics. Other factors, like age and body weight, may also play a role. Let’s explore each of the causes more closely. While there isn’t hard evidence, it’s widely accepted that genetics are usually the main cause of small calves.
Many people report having calves that are similar in size to those of their relatives. Additionally, some say their families have big calves, even though they don’t specifically work their lower legs. Age is another factor. As you get older, Titan Rise Daily your muscle mass tends to decrease. This muscle loss, called sarcopenia, also affects the legs. Research has shown that, in general, people over the age of 50 tend to lose 1 to 2 percent of lean leg muscle mass every year. Low body weight might also contribute to small calves. Usually, the less you weigh, the less your calves have to support. But if you weigh more, your legs have to carry more body weight. This can cause bigger calves, even if you don’t do calf-strengthening exercises. Contrary to popular belief, small calves may have potential benefits. According to research, slender calves could improve your ability to run long distances. In a small 2008 study published in the Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, researchers analyzed the body measurements of six elite distance runners.
They found that the runners shared a common trait: small calf size. The researchers speculated that there could be a potential link between smaller calf circumference and distance running performance. Since slim legs require less force to move, less effort is needed to cover long distances. However, Titan Rise Daily it’s important to note that distance running is affected by many factors, including respiratory endurance, leg length, and overall body composition. More research is needed to understand the benefits of small calves for distance running. Interestingly, small calves might be an indicator of a lower risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD occurs when too much fat accumulates in the liver of a person who drinks little to no alcohol. According to a 2017 study, calf circumference could be a marker of lower body fat. This form of fat is associated with the accumulation of free fatty acids (FFA), a type of fat fuel. So, bigger calves could be tied to more FFA accumulation.
This suggests that smaller calves may be associated with a lower risk of these conditions. But this potential benefit may not apply to everyone. The link between calf size and NAFLD risk was only observed in obese and overweight people, not lean individuals. Small calves are linked to some health disadvantages. If you prefer sprinting over long-distance running, small calves may be a disadvantage. Sprinting requires more leg power than distance running. And greater leg power is associated with larger calf size. Calf muscles are also used in jumping. But if you have small calf muscles, it may be difficult to achieve maximum jumping ability. Your calf muscles are important for balance, posture, and stability. They work to support your foot and ankle joint. Weak calves may make you more prone to balance and stability issues. Bigger calves are usually stronger. They can help reduce the risk of injuries and falls, especially as you age.