This calf-raise pivot board I built is a piece of exercise equipment meant to condition and increase gastrocnemius and soleus strength and tone.
A metal pipe is welded to a plate which is bolted to the platform. The pipe is then situated in two inch bearings which are epoxied into the four by four pine on each side. This allows for a smooth tipping movement. The four by four pine are screwed into three two by six's that form a base. The upper platform is covered with skateboard grip tape.
To exercise the targeted muscle groups, one would position oneself on the platform heels over one side of the pipe and toes over the other. It would help to hold on to a wall or other stand to steady oneself while on the pivot board. Then one could perform a motion where you push your toes down and heels up, contracting these muscles.
You could also put feet on either side of platform and balance yourself, for hip stabilization, or static holds.
This model was a bit on the heavy side, with all the wood necessary for construction, and was broken down for scrap.
