What two muscles make up the calf muscles that form the Achilles tendon?

The calf muscles that contribute to the formation of the Achilles tendon are the gastrocnemius and the soleus muscles.

The gastrocnemius is the larger muscle that gives the calf its bulk and is responsible for the visible contour of the upper calf. It is involved in activities like running and jumping, as it allows for the flexion of the knee and plantar flexion of the foot. The soleus lies underneath the gastrocnemius and is important for standing and walking, providing stability as it primarily acts on the ankle, allowing for sustained plantar flexion.

Together, these two muscles merge to form the Achilles tendon, which attaches to the heel bone (calcaneus) and is crucial for activities that involve powerful push-off motions, such as sprinting and jumping. This connection also emphasizes the functional importance of this tendon for mobility and balance. Understanding the muscular anatomy of the calf is essential for recognizing how injuries to these muscles or the tendon itself can affect overall lower leg function.