What Will Calisthenics Do?
Maybe you haven't come across the word calisthenics before; however, interestingly, you are already doing it! Because all exercises done by you without any external aid come under the heading of calisthenics. Does this mean that running, jogging, gymnastics, martial arts and PT training are all forms of calisthenics? Yes! They all are. Let me explain, calisthenics is also known as 'body-weight training' is a series of high-intensity muscle workouts that can be done with body weight i.e. no added weight. Sports players, law enforcement agencies and soldiers are bound to do calisthenics exercises, not only to remain fit but also to build discipline.
There are thousands of ways to perform calisthenics however, you can start it as a stand-alone routine or can consult a professional trainer for a better physical enhancement. Some of the well-known calisthenics exercises include push-ups, chin-ups, jumping jacks, abdominal crunches, squats, lunges and planks.
Benefits of Calisthenics
Cost effective
Perhaps the most obvious benefit is the fact that these exercises can be done anywhere and require no equipment at all. Hence, there is no need to commute to the gym and back, no need to pay for gym membership and so everyone can afford it. However, if your goal is to build muscle fast it will not get you there as fast as weights can.
Strengthens the entire body
Most calisthenic exercises involve a group of muscles. A proper push-up involves the quads, the glutes, the core and the abs. By repeating these exercises over and over again the whole body, including bones and muscles get stronger. (See article 'How Do Muscles Grow And Recover?')
Supports weight loss
The calisthenic moves are mostly compounded exercises, this means more muscle groups have to work together, therefore, the body burns more calories as fuel for the muscles. The body also needs more oxygen, this leads to more heart and lung work. This makes calisthenics great for cardiovascular system.
Develops Endurance
When calisthenics exercises are performed properly with the correct sets and repetitions, they boost the body's endurance. Body-weight exercises that require holding still in a given position for some time are especially great for muscles.
Develops flexibility
Most of the calisthenic exercise involve moves that are fully extended which produces strength without loss of flexibility. Dynamic stretching at the end of warm-up and static stretching at the end of work out also helps with flexibility.
Helps Coordination
It is the cooperation of different body parts, the proper order of rhythm of movements that allows you to successfully do calisthenic exercises, therefore it supports coordination.
You can perform calisthenics anywhere without prior knowledge or training, with little or no equipment to get a rippled shape and optimal strength. In my personal opinion for an ideal range of motion and natural strength, there is no better exercise other than calisthenics.
If what Ralph Waldo Emerson says is true, 'The first Wealth is Health' then we can all be on our way to wealth because we all can, and should begin to improve our health with calisthenic exercises. There is absolutely no reason not to, we all have what it takes: a body and some space. Our gains will be tremendous!
