5 Famous Books That Will Be Films in Soon Theaters2/2.074 Calf raises are good for strengthening the legs without any equipment. iStock.com While it’s tempting to concentrate on larger muscle groups, you don’t want to ignore smaller ones while you restore strength. The calves need as much attention as any other group of muscles, maybe even more. The Houston Chronicle says keeping your calves healthy helps protect your ankles and feet. It also reduces your chances of a painful pull that might take months to heal. Skip the equipment of the luxurious gym and do this easy exercise in your living room. To perform this move stand against a wall with your fingers to help you balance. Standing on one leg lifts to your feet as much as you can. Squeeze the calf muscles until fully extended, and stay for two seconds. Reduce gradually back to starting position and repeat as many times as possible. Then change onto the other leg. Men’s Health suggests for six straight days doing this step twice a day.