Calisthenics

    

Calisthenics consists of bodyweight exercises that work large muscle groups and are often performed with minimal equipment. They are intended to increase strength, fitness, flexibility, endurance, and coordination.

The word Calisthenics comes from the Greek terms Kallos (Beauty or Beautiful), referring to the aesthetics of the human body, and Sthenos (Strength), mental and physical strength, courage, and determination. Calisthenics aims to beautify and strengthen the body.

Calisthenics is a component of physical education in primary and secondary schools. Besides, it is part of the physical training of athletes, military, police, and people in general.

There are many calisthenic exercises; here are a few examples:

• Pull-Ups: This is an excellent exercise for the upper body; some of the muscles worked are the lats, traps, and shoulders, and it also works the biceps.   

• Close-grip Push-Ups: This Push-Up variation is very good for developing the strength of the triceps, chest, and shoulders.

• Rope Jumping: It’s a compound exercise that works the legs, glutes, and forearms, strengthens the bones, and burns a lot of calories.

• Bench Dips: This exercise mainly develops the triceps, but also works the chest and shoulders.

• Lateral Squats: This squat variation mainly targets the glutes, quadriceps, and inner thighs.

Leg Raises: This exercise strengthens the lower abdominal muscles and hip flexors.