Posterior lower leg
Soleus
Plantarflexes the ankle and plays an important postural role during standing and walking
- Origin
- Posterior fibular head and proximal fibula, and soleal line of the tibia
- Insertion
- Posterior calcaneus through the calcaneal tendon
- Primary actions
- Plantarflexes the ankle and plays an important postural role during standing and walking
Educational anatomy reference only. This page does not diagnose pain, injury, or movement limitations.
From anatomy to action
Explore the movement, not just the muscle.
A single muscle rarely explains a movement by itself. Use the related movement content to see how this anatomy may contribute, then choose a focused program when you want a complete progression.
Corrective movement strategies and exercises
Mobility focus
Foot Pronation During Movement
Explore foot and ankle control while preserving comfortable, adaptable movement during standing, walking, and squatting.
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Mobility focus
Excessive Forward Trunk Lean
Explore ankle, hip, and trunk strategies that make squatting or lowering tasks feel more balanced.
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Mobility focus
Heel Rise During Squat
Explore stance, depth, and ankle options that help the foot remain comfortably supported during a squat.
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Mobility focus
Knee Dominance
Explore squat and step variations that distribute effort comfortably across the foot, knee, and hip.
Open corrective movement strategyComplete guided progressions
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These programs include this muscle through a related guide or corrective recipe.