Lower Legs Exercise · Body Weight
Circles Knee Stretch
The Circles Knee Stretch is a flexibility movement for the calves. Follow the demonstrated setup and the movement steps within a comfortable range.
Go to the movement steps- Category
- Lower Legs
- Equipment
- Body Weight
- Target
- Calves
Exercise reference published by PlanWorkouts; see our editorial standards.
How to Do the Circles Knee Stretch
- Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your hands resting on your hips.
- Bend your knees slightly and raise your heels off the floor, balancing on the balls of your feet.
- Keeping your knees bent, circle them first clockwise, then counterclockwise.
- Continue for the set reps, taking care to lower with control and reset your posture between each rep.
Quick Exercise Facts
Stretch Duration & Control
Follow the hold duration or controlled repetitions in the movement steps. A held stretch and a moving stretch use different approaches; bodybuilding sets-and-reps targets do not apply.
Move smoothly, keep breathing comfortably and avoid forcing an uncomfortable range.
For general guidance, see the NHS flexibility exercises.
Technique & Form Tips
Use the setup and movement shown in the demonstration. Move slowly within a comfortable range; a stretch should not be treated as a loaded lifting exercise.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forcing the range: Ease back if the position is uncomfortable rather than pulling harder.
- Bouncing or jerking: Move smoothly and keep held positions steady.
- Using lifting targets: Follow the hold duration or controlled repetitions in the movement steps instead of using a bodybuilding sets-and-reps target.
How to Breathe During This Exercise
Keep breathing comfortably throughout the movement or hold rather than holding your breath.
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Comfort and Control
Do not force the range or stretch into pain. Ask a qualified professional about suitable movements if you have an injury or an existing condition. If discomfort persists, stop and ask a qualified professional about an appropriate exercise and range.
General guidance: Mayo Clinic on weight-training technique. Follow the specific movement steps above for this variation.
Muscles Worked
The Circles Knee Stretch mainly targets your Calves, with your Hamstrings helping support the movement, along with your Quadriceps.
More Lower Legs Exercises
Ankle Circles
Assisted Lying Calves Stretch
Band Single Leg Calf Raise
Band Single Leg Reverse Calf Raise
Band Two Legs Calf Raise - (band Under Both Legs) V. 2
Barbell Floor Calf Raise
More Calves Exercises
Barbell Seated Calf Raise
Barbell Seated Calf Raise on a Step
Barbell Standing Calf Raise
Barbell Standing Leg Calf Raise
Barbell Standing Rocking Leg Calf Raise
Bodyweight Standing Calf Raise
FAQ
- What muscles does the Circles Knee Stretch stretch?
- The Circles Knee Stretch is a stretch for the calves. Use the setup shown in the demonstration and stay within a comfortable range.
- What equipment do I need for the Circles Knee Stretch?
- You do the Circles Knee Stretch with no equipment — just body weight. Make sure your equipment is set up safely before starting. If you work out at home or have limited gear, check out our alternative exercises below.
- What form mistake should I watch for on the Circles Knee Stretch?
- Avoid forcing the range, bouncing or holding your breath. Follow the specific movement steps and ease out of an uncomfortable position.
- How long should I perform the Circles Knee Stretch?
- Follow the hold duration or controlled repetitions in the movement steps. Static holds and moving stretches use different approaches; do not substitute a muscle-building sets-and-reps target. Use a range you can control comfortably.