Group Fitness Instructor

Answer: D - The gastrocnemius and soleus, often referred to as the gastroc-soleus complex, work closely together to powerfully plantar flex and evert the foot. While both muscles cross the ankle joint - via the Achilles’ tendon -- the gastrocnemius also crosses the knee joint. Because of this relationship, it is not possible to effectively stretch both muscles with a single “heel cord stretch”. To gain the most effective soleus stretch, it is necessary to first flex the knee. This prevents the gastrocnemius from growing taut early in the movement and preventing the stretch from affecting the soleus.