DIY Calf blocks

Deadly Ferret · 30 Jan 2009 at 00:44

I want to add a calf block to my gym, but they seem quite expensive (£90) for what they are. A search turned up somebody who has just used a concrete block instead, and presumably he's happy enough with it but he doesn't comment on how it compares to a proper one.

Do any of you use an improvised block, and if so what is it and how good is it?

Thanks.

Morba · 30 Jan 2009 at 00:55

like it makes a difference?
as long as it has an edge that allows you to go as low as you want, thats all that matters. could use anything solid with an edge :]

Deadly Ferret · 30 Jan 2009 at 00:59

The 'real' ones I've seen pictures of have a curved drop though, as in the picture. Mightn't that make a difference?

http://elitemuscleperformance.com/product_images/BCP1001.jpg (Down to £65 on the lowest price found now, but still quite a bit to pay considering I can claim a free concrete block from the workplace!

)

Rebelius · 30 Jan 2009 at 01:01

didn't realise you could buy them - I've used various things for them at home in the past - stacks of printer paper, wii fit board...

how much weight can you use on calf raises to question the integrity of a block of concrete?

Deadly Ferret · 30 Jan 2009 at 01:03

Must be at least a few hundred kilos I would imagine, as they routinely have hundreds or thousands of tonnes sitting on them (shared out of course). I can imagine them flaking a bit at the edge though.

Morba · 30 Jan 2009 at 02:27

wow, never seen one of those!
i used to use one of those fitness boards, the ones where you can add squares beneath them to make them higher.

^TANK^ · 30 Jan 2009 at 03:04

I just use a piece of thick wood, simple really.

drunkenmaster · 30 Jan 2009 at 03:20

few yellow pages, since the internet, theres no other use for them.

Deadly Ferret · 30 Apr 2009 at 23:48

I've restarted my training, and I went ahead and built one out of some 4" x 2" I got free from work. I glued & screwed three bits of it into one block 4" high and 6" deep, then used another couple of bits as outriggers to eliminate the possibility of me upturning it/causing it to move as I mount the bugger. I did calf raises today and it works really well, I couldn't stand properly for a few minutes after!