Fitness can be found in many forms, from strength training to cardio workouts and yoga classes. What if you could achieve your fitness goals through another type of exercise?
A routine that includes calisthenics is essential to any workout. Since so many moves fall into the Calisthenics category, workout plans for the class are extensive. You can incorporate them into any fitness regimen, no matter how athletic you are. Obe Fitness instructor Melody Davi says it helps achieve strength, cardiovascular fitness, balance, and flexibility.
In the following articles, our expert fitness experts explain what calisthenics is, its benefits, and when to incorporate it into your fitness routine.
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Calisthenics: What Is It?
Johnny Garcia, the A.C.S.M. certified personal trainer at The Training Lab N.Y.C., explains calisthenics as exercises that utilize your body weight alone. In addition to building strength and cardiovascular health, calisthenic exercises improve mobility and flexibility. Davi said, “These exercises are important because they lay the foundation for functional training or everyday movements.”
Here are some calisthenics examples:
- Squats
- Lunges
- Pushups
- Sit-ups
- jumping jacks
- Burpees
- High knees
Calisthenics Workout For Beginners
Starting calisthenics slowly is recommended for beginners. Once you develop strength, flexibility, cardio ability, and mobility, you can move into more challenging exercises, Garcia says.
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Davi shares a calisthenics workout plan for beginners. Each exercise should be performed for 40 seconds, followed by a 20-second rest. Repeat four to five times after one round.
- Jumping jacks
- Bodyweight squats
- Alternating reverse lunges
- Plank
- Sit-ups
Calisthenics Workout Benefits
- An excellent choice for beginners.
- It is possible to do it anywhere.
- There is no equipment required.
- Work out with a variety of exercises.
- Especially useful for injured individuals.
- Strengthens and improves posture.