Calisthenics is a great way to improve your overall health and fitness. Learn what it involves, how to get started, and other useful tips and tricks to help you progress.

Ever wanted to do a handstand or hold your body horizontally from a pole like a flag? These are both examples of calisthenics exercises but don’t worry, you don’t have to start at such a high difficulty level. The best thing about calisthenics is that just about everyone can do it, and it doesn’t require any special equipment to begin.

What Is Calisthenics?

Calisthenics is a type of exercise that uses your own body weight and gravity rather than weights or other types of resistance equipment. It is sometimes known as a “street workout,” as many people practice calisthenics using publicly available playground equipment.

Calisthenics is an excellent form of exercise for people who want to be able to work out wherever and whenever, at little to no additional cost. You don’t need to pay for gym fees or expensive equipment to get started and progress. At the same time, you can use it to advance other fitness goals and in tandem with other types of workouts.

Top Calisthenics Exercises

There is an endless array of calisthenics exercises you can try. Here are a few examples of some of the most popular types:

Push-Up
The simple push-up is the staple of almost any calisthenics program. While there are many types of push-ups, the most basic involves keeping your back straight and your hands shoulder-width apart.

Pull-Up
A full pull-up can take some time to work up to, but it’s very rewarding when you do. Some people find it easier to do a chin-up (hands facing you on the bar), so consider adding both to your routine.

Dip
To do a dip, start by sitting on a sturdy edge and place your palms down on the edge beside your hips. Extend your legs and slide your hips forward so that only your hands support your weight. Slowly bend your elbows, then straighten them back up again.

Handstand
You won’t be able to do a handstand immediately, but it is a fantastic goal to work your way up to as you progress through your other exercises. Handstands are a superb way to improve shoulder strength, balance, and posture.

Best Calisthenics Workout Equipment

While one of the best things about calisthenics is that you don’t need to purchase any equipment to start, you might want to invest in some basic gear as you progress. A pull-up bar is often strongly recommended, and you can find versions that install easily into a doorway. Resistance bands can up the difficulty of your workouts, and dip bars can make it easier to do dips.

The good thing is that calisthenics equipment is usually much more affordable than other types of equipment. Try not to go for the cheapest models, however. You’ll save more money in the long term if you buy quality and sturdy products right off the bat.

Calisthenics Tips and Tricks

Get the most out of your workout by warming up before you begin, to get the blood flowing. While working out, pay close attention to your form and technique to prevent injury and reap the biggest benefits. In fact, you may even want to record yourself. Finally, don’t forget to mix it up so you aren’t overusing the same muscles, and take rest days when you feel fatigued.

Better fitness doesn’t require fancy bells and whistles. With calisthenics, you can get into shape and stay in shape with simple bodyweight exercises on your own time.