Calves are some of the hardest body parts in which to instill new growth. For many bodybuilders, the calf size and density you achieve in your early twenties is about as far as you will go. Others will find ways to boost growth later in life, when shortcomings become obvious on the bodybuilding stage. Without further adieu, when you have tried to get those calves to grow and all else has failed…

Spike volume noticeably

If you’ve been using 8 to 10 sets per calf exercise, and you haven’t seen good results, don’t jump up to 12 to 14 sets per training day to see minimal new results. Instead, double your volume to 16 to 20 sets. The huge change in volume should shock those calves into growth. If you’re overtraining the group, soreness will persist and you’ll know when you back off.

Cheat more!

After 8 or 9 repetitions with perfect form, use a little body English to force another 3 to 4 repetitions. These reps are where the growth lie – but only after you’ve completed the first eight repetitions correctly!

Evaluate the scale

If you want to add some size to your body, you’re going to have to gain weight. If you are forcefully keeping yourself in a certain weight division for competition, you’re going to have a hard time making any noticeable size changes. Instead, opt for tossing the scale out for a few months, then returning to see if you’ve made good progress, regardless of what the numbers say.

Consider the use of AAS

If you planned on using anabolic steroids in the future, and your calves are a sticking point that is holding you back competitively, then you may want to look into AAS use. They will jumpstart growth in all muscle groups across the board, and bring your calves as close to their potential as they’ve ever going to reach.

Stretch more

Break up that lactic acid that builds up following your workout with 3 to 10 minutes of slow and painful stretching. Repeat this process 3 to 5 times per day for the non-training days.

Post-workout protein

After your workout, consume protein immediately. If you’re already getting 20 grams, move up to 40. If you’re getting forty, add another scoop of whey to your shake and move up to 75 grams per meal.

Change up your cardio

Some bodybuilders deliver great calf success not on the weight pile, but by virtue of the cardiovascular activity they choose. Try the stepper if the elliptical or treadmill isn’t making those calves grow.

Look at the calves of your relatives

Former Mr. Olympia winner Chris Dickerson had some of the best calves of his day, on the bodybuilding stage. However, his brother had calves that were even better – even though he never trained them. Your genetics go a long way in determining where you land in terms of calf development.

Injections

If you are a top national or even state bodybuilder, and your genetically poor calves are holding you back from achieving your bodybuilding potential. You may want to consider the short-term use of oil shots in the 48 hours before a show to deliver some short-term growth. Obviously, over-use will embarrass you and long-term use will be detrimental to your health. But a short-term shot to help on show day is common in the sport, all moral qualms aside.

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