At first glance, some might overlook calf development in bodybuilding, but that was never the case for Jay Cutler. Recently, the bodybuilding legend broke down how to build 20-inch calves, providing insight into training frequency and his favorite exercise selection for getting the job done.
“The best way to train your calves is just like every other body part: only train them once every 72 hours. You need that recovery, but I’ve tried every single calf routine there is, and thankfully, I finished my bodybuilding career with great calves,” said Jay Cutler.
Throughout his career, Cutler was tasked with a near-impossible challenge: match the sheer mass of Ronnie Coleman while maintaining physique symmetry and balance. He managed to do so, having finally dethroned “The King” in 2006.
Cutler’s reign was short-lived. He lost his title to Dexter Jackson in 2008, but this set the groundwork for one of the sport’s most iconic moments. Although he was counted out, the Massachusetts native completely transformed his look and handily won back the Sandow trophy. In the process, he became the only Men’s Open Mr. Olympia to ever regain gold.
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Still training seven days a week, the 52-year-old remains in spectacular shape, and best of all, he hasn’t forgotten how he built a one-of-a-kind lower body. Cutler explains how the standing calf raise allowed him to supercharge his calf gains.
Jay Cutler Shows How To Build 20-Inch Calves With a Single Exercise
In the video, Cutler shared that his calves measured 20 inches in his prime. In bodybuilding, competitors often aim for equal arm and calf development, a feat Cutler almost accomplished.
“In my prime, my calves measured 20 inches. They say your arm size is supposed to match your calf size when it comes to professional bodybuilding.
My arms were a little bigger, so I’m not going to lie. But this machine, I actually bought this machine from my home gym back in 1995, it’s called the calf punisher.”
Cutler credited standing calf raises as an essential calf-growing exercise.
“Standing calf raises are essential for anyone trying to build their calves. You wouldn’t believe how many people have stopped me and say, ‘Jay, how do I build my calves?’”
As for execution, he shared that it’s best to stick with a ‘one-two motion’ for optimal isolation and peak contractions.
“I always talk about that one-two motion. As I go through the movement, that double pump to really get that isolation, that peak contraction, I’m going to always do at least 10 reps, 12 reps, 15 reps, some of you guys might do 20,” said Cutler.
In addition to the calves, Cutler always sported huge biceps. He recently walked through how to grow bigger biceps and triceps, emphasizing that isolation and control are key aspects to acquiring more muscle tissue and development.
Cutler still boasts big and conditioned calves in retirement. He believes it’s most optimal to train them every 72 hours, just like any other body part.
Watch the full video from the JayCutlerTV YouTube channel below: