We know you are a Pilates or Yoga fan! Telling you to skip your Reformer workout would be terrible. However, if you feel like you want to add something different to your workout routine, something you could take your strength and flexibility to the next level, then Calisthenics is what you are looking for!

Calisthenics is more than just the latest trends you'll see while scrolling your Instagram page. It has actually been particularly popular for decades, but in recent years, it has started to gain more and more popularity.

With roots in ancient Greece -yes, everything good comes from ancient Greeks!- when the equipment we use nowadays didn't exist, and people used their body strength to increase muscle endurance and learn to control their bodies, they developed specific exercises to do so, aka the now known Calisthenics.

Calisthenics is an amazing type of workout, where you don't need any equipment and you can practice it in the comfort of your house or, if you are the outdoor type, in the nearest park!

So, if you feel at least a bit intrigued and are thinking of diving a bit more into the concept, keep reading because we found 5 reasons why you should stand up and give Calisthenics a try!

It improves Strength, Endurance and Muscle Tissue

Calisthenics exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, and sit-ups activate many muscle groups at once. For example, pull-ups activate not only the biceps and dorsiflexor but also the trapezius, rhomboids, pectoral major, shoulders, core (dorsal, abdominal, obliques), and triceps; and if your legs are straight or slightly forward, it activates the quadriceps and glutes as well. Over time, we get the desired results without using exercise equipment or weights.

It Improves Flexibility

Calisthenics helps to improve our flexibility. During the workout, the emphasis on fluid movements where all the muscles of the body are used activates the muscles at different levels, increasing the range of motion. Dynamic exercises, such as those in Calisthenics, require the joints to move through their full range of motion, leading to improved flexibility. This holistic approach to bodyweight training ensures that not only do you develop strength but also achieve increased functional mobility, highlighting the flexibility and comprehensive benefits of calisthenics in cultivating a flexible and agile physique.

It Strengthens the Torso

Strengthening the core is one of the key goals when we start exercising. The trunk regulates the smooth execution of movements without putting any strain on the spine when performing the exercises. Calisthenics aims to strengthen the core through a series of exercises that activate many muscle groups simultaneously.

It Minimizes Injuries

The results of weight training may be more quickly apparent, but when not executed correctly, they often cause musculoskeletal problems and joint injuries over time. Calisthenics exercises, on the other hand, minimize the likelihood of similar problems occurring as the pressure on the bones, tendons, and spine is minimal. At the same time, stretching both before and after the workout contributes significantly to the protection of muscles and joints. However, it is important that they are performed under guidance and in a controlled environment.

It Improves Balance and Posture

The nature of exercises executed in a Calisthenics workout helps to improve balance and general posture. Considering that we spend a generous amount of time sitting in front of a computer screen, improving posture is a gift to our body. And, of course, Calisthenics can help us improve our balance and posture while relieving musculoskeletal pain caused by a long, sedentary life.

Calisthenics, with its holistic approach to exercise, can have infinite benefits for your body and your health.

It is suitable for any age body type and independent of your physical condition. All you need is patience, perseverance, and the desire to achieve your goals!

If you are new to Calisthenics, it is recommended to start under the supervision of specially qualified trainers in a controlled environment to avoid injuries and to understand more about the philosophy and the history of this extremely cool workout.

We are grateful to the Calisthenics & Fitness Society team for giving us the opportunity to learn more about Calisthenics. If you are in Athens, it’s worth visiting