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50 Best Calisthenic Exercises - CamEdit
50 Best Calisthenic Exercises - CamEdit
Calisthenic Exercises
For
Beginners
www.calisthenics-gear.com
50 Best
CALISTHENIC
EXERCISES
FOR
BEGINNERS
50 Best
CALISTHENIC EXERCISES
FOR
BEGINNERS
www.workplace.co.tz
Copyright © 2020 by Calisthenics-gear.com
INTRODUCTION
Have you recently seen someone creating a human flag in the park? Or maybe they
used the bars at the local park as a way to do a few chip-ups in the outdoors? Chances
are, you’ve observed calisthenics in action.
Today, calisthenics is no longer a new term. We hear it all the time, even when visiting
a gym. It has become a popular training method that requires nothing more than
gravity and your own body weight. Calisthenics does not require lengthy or expensive
gym memberships, and the world becomes your playground with this training method.
You’ve shown an interest in calisthenics, perhaps after seeing it in real life, or maybe
you watched a video on YouTube. The problem, however, is that getting started can be
a challenge. Most people won’t be able to go out and do a human flag on their first run
with calisthenics. In fact, this particular method is generally considered advance – it
requires dedication and a lot of strength.
The good news is, that guy doing the human flag so easily had to begin somewhere.
Following the right guidance, understanding how calisthenics work, and knowing
where to begin – these are factors that are sure to contribute to your success. They are
also factors that we will be addressing in this book.
By following this book, you will discover what calisthenics is and find out how you can
develop a training program that matches your preferences, needs, and your goals. You
will also discover 50 of the best calisthenic exercises that are perfect for beginners.
We look at a few myths surrounding these exercises too and consider the truth behind
each of these.
WHAT ARE
CALISTHENICS EXERCISES?
While calisthenics has become popular, many people do not thoroughly understand how
the process works and what it does. With this in mind, we thought it would be a good idea
to start this book out by providing an easy-to-understand explanation.
The word “calisthenics” originates from the Greek language. There are two specific Greek
words that were used to develop the term “calisthenics.” These include Kalos and Stenos.
You should note that calisthenics was not originally intended to help you gain strength
and muscle mass. In fact, the program was initially implemented in schools and
educational institutes. Calisthenics was used as a way to promote the overall health of the
body – particularly among children.
Over the years, calisthenics has evolved. It is no longer a simple activity used to help
promote fitness and health among children at school. Today, people have taken the idea
of calisthenics and created more intensive versions – which means more resistance and,
as a result, the ability to create a training program that works for adults too.
Calisthenics is generally not performed in a gym, although some people do visit a gym to
perform a few moves that form part of their training program. If you prefer not to go to a
gym, then no problem – you can perform the exercises that are part of calisthenics even
when you do not have your own equipment at home.
As you gain more experience in calisthenics, note that you can expand your horizons and
make the outdoor world part of your experience. This is why calisthenics is often called a
street workout – many people take the exercises to the park or other outdoor areas.
Calisthenics is sometimes called bodyweight training too. This is due to the principle
behind the exercises. While you would usually pick up a set of weights when training,
calisthenics generally does not involve the use of such equipment. Instead, the exercises
that are part of a calisthenics program uses gravity, combined with your own body’s
weight, to create resistance. This, in turn, helps you activate muscle hypertrophy, which
results in an increase in both muscle mass and strength.
There are also some cases where people combined more traditional “weight lifting” ideas
with calisthenics. This is often found among people who have gained more experience in
the field of bodyweight training. In this case, the exercises may be referred to as weighted
calisthenics. A weight set may be added to the workout, such as in the form of a belt that
contains weights. This type of activity would add extra weight to your body – creating
more resistance in the workout routine.
With this in mind, we should turn our focus to studies done on the subject. Fortunately,
there are a few studies that have looked at calisthenics and bodyweight exercises. By
considering these studies, you can get a better idea of what you should expect when
participating in calisthenics. You can also use data provided by studies to determine the
safety of the exercises – allowing you to understand whether you would be putting your
body at greater risks, particularly when compared to a more traditional workout routine.
In the first study, we look at what was published in the Journal of Isokinetics and Exercise
Science. The study was done in 2017 and specifically looked at calisthenics training
programs. The researchers looked at how calisthenics affected body composition and
strength, as well as posture.
There were 28 male participants in the study. The participants had a mean age of 24 years
and an average bodyweight of 67kg.
Participants in the study were divided into two groups. This allowed the researchers to
have a control group, ensuring results from the calisthenics program could be compared
to other exercise interventions. The first group was introduced to a calisthenics training
program. The second group performed a standard weight training routine.
Measurements and tests were performed at baseline, as well as after the study period
concluded. The following tests were performed on all participants:
The group of participants who performed calisthenics exercises experienced the following
results:
The study concluded that calisthenics is a highly effective training tool that can be used
to improve posture, the composition of the body, and overall strength.
This is not the only study to look at calisthenics. A study in the Journal of Strength and
Conditioning Research looked at how calisthenics would affect upper body strength. The
goal was also to see if there was an increase in muscle thickness or lean muscle mass
when a participant is introduced to calisthenics.
The study had 23 male participants. All of the men were considered healthy at the time of
the study. The participants were also moderately trained, which means they were already
familiar to exercise. Two groups were used. One group used calisthenics as a training
protocol. The second group focused on bench presses.
A significant improvement in several aspects of lean muscle mass and strength was
observed among the male participants who performed calisthenics exercises. Push-up
progression had improved. There was an increase in muscle strength throughout the
upper body. Similar improvements in lean muscle mass were observed between the
calisthenics and the bench press groups.
Studies show that calisthenics provides effective results in both men and women. For
example, in one study, researchers looked at how calisthenics could affect and benefit
women of mature ages. Women were introduced to low-intensity calisthenic exercises and
performed these training protocols over a period of 10 weeks. The mean age among the
female participants was noted as 42 years.
A decrease in body fat percentage was observed among the women who completed the
study. There were improvements in knee mobility and flexibility. Strength was improved
among the female participants. The study results were compared to a control group.
With a traditional bench press, you would lay down and take a bar in your hands. Weights
are attached to both ends of the bar. This creates resistance from the bar and weights,
which you use to work out. You then use your arms to lift the bar into the air and then
slowly bring the bar back toward your body. A number of reps are done based on your
current strength and abilities.
As you continue this workout, the impact from the weight causes muscle tissue to tear.
This causes injury, which means a reaction develops in your body. To heal the injury,
muscle fibers are fused together – leading to an increase in lean mass. Muscle size
improves in the process, and you also feel like you are getting stronger.
Calisthenics does not use the same process as a traditional workout routine, yet there are
still similarities to take note of. When you perform calisthenics exercises, you will not be
lying on that bench with a weighted bar on top of you. Instead, the methods described
in calisthenics uses your own body’s weight to create resistance. Essentially, your body
replaces the bar and attached weights.
The same principles apply, however. As your body creates resistance, muscle fibers tear
and then goes through a recovery process. You start to notice an increase in muscle size,
and your muscle strength becomes elevated.
To truly understand calisthenics, you should also realize that there are different types of
these exercises.
Two of the primary categories that you can consider include standard calisthenics, as well
as weighted calisthenics.
With standard calisthenics, you would only rely on your bodyweight as a means to create
resistance in your training routine. When you do weighted calisthenics, you use certain
elements, such as a weighted belt, to increase your bodyweight. As a result, there is more
resistance during the exercise.
As a beginner, you are not likely to start out with weighted calisthenics. Instead, you will
rather begin by following standard calisthenic steps and exercises. You’ll also use less
strenuous ones at first and then gradually build up to some of the more advanced training
options as your body gets used to the beginner-level protocols.
BENEFITS OF CALISTHENICS
Let’s start by looking at some of the benefits that people often note when they implement
a calisthenics program into their own life:
Still, when you’re new to the entire exercise protocol, it can be tough knowing where to
start. The best way to get into calisthenics is to just start practicing exercises that use
your bodyweight for resistance. There are many opportunities for you to explore – and a
majority of these can be done right inside your home or in the backyard.
The great thing about calisthenics is that warm-up exercises can also be used for mobility.
The thing here is that mobility is important when performing bodyweight exercises.
You depend on mobility throughout your entire body to ensure you can perform those
jumping jacks, planks, and lunges, for example.
Here, we will introduce you to a few mobility exercises that are great for addressing your
upper body. You can easily include these as part of your warm-up protocol. They will not
only help to get your muscles loose and make exercising easier but also provide long-
term benefits for your overall mobility.
exercise 1
SCAPULA PUSH-UPS
The scapula is an area that many people overlook when they perform exercises. This
is the area surrounding the shoulder blades. It is where muscle tissue and bones come
together and form a basis for your upper body. To ensure workouts that focus on the chest
and arms can be done without any issues, you should start your warm-ups with some
scapula push-ups.
Make sure you know exactly where your shoulder blades are positioned. This will allow
you to perform the scapula push-up without any issues.
• You want to start in a standard push-up position. Make sure you hold a natural stance
in your position.
• During the push-up process, the elbows should not bend at all. They should remain in
a static position.
• While bringing your chest downward toward the floor, you need to squeeze the two
shoulder blades together.
• As you come out of this position, the shoulder blades are pushed apart. The spine
should slowly rise up toward an elevated position.
It’s a good idea to start out with about ten reps of a scapula push-up. Know your limits,
and don’t push your body if you feel like it’s too much.
exercise 2
ROTATOR CUFF STRETCHES
While warming up the scapula, do not forget about the rotator cuff. This is an area at the
shoulder that plays a part in various movements. When you fail to stretch the rotator cuff
prior to performing more intensive exercises, you risk yourself unpleasant injuries. The
area may also feel stiff, which could affect your performance.
It’s simple to do a rotator cuff stretch. Simply follow the instructions below:
• Stand straight or position yourself on the ground for this stretch. Extend an arm
should be at a 90-degree angle across the body and hold it in place with the other arm.
Your hand needs to point upward in the air.
• While holding the angle of the elbow start pulling in gently. Don’t pull too hard, as
this could cause injury.
• The stretch position should be maintained for about half a minute.
• Switch positions to stretch the other rotator cuff too.
exercise 3
CHEST STRETCHES
When working out, regardless of the intensity, you want to focus on your upper body. In
addition to warming up the shoulders, you need to focus on your chest too. There are a
few stretches that will help to open up both your shoulders and your chest at the same
time. These can be helpful when you are going to perform pull-ups and other exercises
that focus on your upper body.
Below is a quick stretch that can be used to open up your chest while also loosening
the muscles in your shoulders.
exercise 4
SCAPULA FOAM ROLL
Foam rolling has become a popular activity among people who enjoy calisthenics. Even
as a beginner, you should make a habit of including some foam rolling activities in your
exercise routines. You will need an appropriate foam roller to do this exercise. Don’t worry
– they are usually very affordable.
When you do scapula foam rolling, you will essentially reduce tightness in your shoulder
blades and upper back. Stiffness in these areas can interfere with your mobility. By
loosening muscles in this area through foam rolling, you’ll find that the exercises you
perform are easier and leads to less soreness.
Lie down on your back, Place both feet flat on the Slowly roll back and
with your foam roller ground. Using your feet forth on the foam roller.
underneath the upper back and the foam roller as You can reduce the
region. Place your support, left your pace at which you roll
hands on top of your chest hips upward. when you get to a spot
in a “hugging” position. that feels especially
tight or sore.
exercise 5
MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS
Mountain climbers might not be the easiest exercise to do, but with some practice, you’re
sure to perfect the movement. This is a multi-faceted exercise that you can use as part of
your general routine or as a warm-up. With mountain climbers, you’ll be able to condition
your body. This particular exercise is also excellent for boosting your metabolism – and a
faster metabolism means it will be a bit easier to shed excess fat.
When you perform mountain climbers, you are also stretching your hamstring
muscles, as well as your hip flexor.
• Start by positioning your body as if you are going to do a push-up. Life the chest area
a little, and position your left foot next to your hand. Bring the leg in as close to your
hand as you can.
• Your arms should remain straight during this entire process. Do not bend your
elbows. You will now jump with your feet while your hands remain grounded on the
floor. As your legs move into the air, your left leg is pulled back.
• During the jumping activity, you will bring your right leg forward, positioning it next
to your right hand.
• Repeat this for about ten reps if you can. You should feel a stretch at your hamstring
and upper legs while performing mountain climbers.
exercise 6
DEEP SQUAT
Everyone knows what a squat is – but did you know that there are different variations of
this exercise. While some squats – such as a weighted squat – is often used as part of your
main exercise routine, in calisthenics, a squat can be a great way to loosen those tense
lower body muscles.
• Move into a squat position as you would usually. Your heels should be about shoulder-
width from each other.
• Your toes should be pointed outward – but only slightly.
• Now, as you bend your knees to enter the squat, push the hips backward.
• Try to go as low as you can with your buttocks. While lowering your body, you should
aim to keep the spine in a straight position.
• When you reach your lowest point, your elbows go inside of the knees. Once your
elbows are in position, push them outward – this means your knees should also now be
moving outward.
• You can hold this position for a few seconds. As you progress, you can aim to hold the
• position for longer with every session. Your goal should be to be able to hold the
position for about five minutes at a time.
exercise 7
HIP FLEXOR STRETCH
The hip flexor is an often overlooked part of the body when it comes to power and drive.
Whetheryou are planning to go for a run or want to perform some bodyweight exercises,
your hip flexors play multiple roles.
When the hip flexors are tight, you may run into different problems. First, your
performance will lack. You will find that the hip suffers from reduced power when you
have tight hip flexors. You also put yourself at risk of certain injuries with a stiff hip flexor.
The hip flexor stretch helps to take care of this. Follow these instructions to warm up
the muscles:
• Kneel down with one knee in front of you at a 90-degree angle. The other leg should
be stretched out toward the back of your body.
• Rest both hands on the knee located in front of your body.
• While keeping your back straight and aligned, lean forward. A stretch should be
experienced at the hip, as well as your upper legs. You may also feel a stretch at the
hamstring.
• Hold the stretch for 10 seconds, then repeat with the opposite leg position.
exercise 8
PIRIFORMIS FOAM ROLL
Similar to the hip flexors, the piriformis is another muscle where stiffness is very likely
to develop. When you participate in exercises that demand a lot of movement from your
hips, you may find that stiffness in the piriformis increases. These are the muscles located
in the outer region of your hips. Stiff piriformis muscles can lead to tension, as well as
soreness. It can also greatly reduce the mobility of your hips.
This is another area where foam rolling can be exceptionally helpful. Piriformis foam
rolling can help to relieve tension and tightness in the area, allowing for better mobility.
• You’ll need to sit down for this one. Your left foot goes on your right knee. Grab hold
of the left foot with your right hand, and pull it just a little.
• You will be sitting on top of the foam roller for this stretch, but not with your buttocks
Instead, move your body to the side so that the left piriformis muscles rest on the
roller.
• In slow motion, roll over the foam – back and forth. Take time to focus on the areas
that feel tender – decrease the motion, even more when you hit such a spot.
• While rolling on the foam, the torso should be kept upright. A stretch should be felt in
the glute. Take deep breathes during the activity.
• Once you’re done with one side, switch over to the other side.
exercise 9
KNEE CIRCLES
When you are planning to perform lower body exercises, you need to ensure you focus on
the hips during warm-up. You essentially want to open up the hips, allowing for greater
mobility and flexibility in the lower body. Knee circles are great for achieving this particular
goal.
• You will do this activity with both your knees and your hands flat on the floor.
• Start with your left leg – lift it toward your side. Once raised, extend the knee, which will
backward, then bring it in toward your body. Imagine drawing a type of arc with your
knee.
• Bring the knee back to the ground, and do the same with the other leg.
• About ten reps with each leg should be enough to give you the benefits of knee circles.
exercise 10
ADDUCTOR FOAM ROLL
One last exercise to use as a warm-up for your lower body is a foam roller that focuses on
the adductor – a group of muscles that starts at the front of your pelvis and runs toward your
thighs. The adductor muscles work with the glutes and the hamstrings. Thus, you can’t only
focus on loosening the glute and hamstring muscles, as you also need to address tightness in
the adductor.
With this in mind, we are going to take a look at a few calisthenic techniques that can be
used to assist in the development of core mobility. As you perform these, they will also
gradually contribute to a stronger set of core muscles while also helping you experience
improved composition and toning in the area.
exercise 11
SIDE LEANS
Working on your core muscles involves more than just your abdomen. You need to
concentrate on the obliques too. These are the muscles that are situated at your torso’s left
and right sides. The muscles are crucial for sideway bending – an action that you will likely
be performing frequently throughout your calisthenics journey.
Side leans ideal for stretching these muscles. To do side leans, you ideally want to get a rod.
You can buy one at the local equipment store. If you do not have a rod, you can use a bar or
another object that can be held in both hands.
• Your feet need to be apart – stretch them out more than shoulder width.
• Use both hands to hold onto the bar. Your hands should be situated at the same width
from each other as your feet. Stretch your hands out above your hand.
• While keeping your hands straight, bend toward your left side. Make sure the bend
happens at the waist. Your oblique muscles should be used to assist with the bend.
• Note that the shoulders should not move out of position during the bend.
• Go as low as you possibly can with the bend, then slowly return to the starting position.
• Repeat the process, but this time to the other side.
exercise 12
SPINE FOAM ROLL
There are two primary functions that you can achieve with a spine roll. While you are
targeting the core muscles, the thought of foam rolling the spine may not come to mind.
The thing is, the position of your spine and its ability to extend can actually affect your core
muscle performance.
A spine foam roll helps you increase the extend you can achieve with your spine. It’s also a
great activity for removing knots in the back and can be exceptionally helpful for tension in
your lower and upper back.
Each of the exercises we include in this section counts toward your overall goals. We
ensure all of these activities are beginner-friendly, but some can be mildly adjusted to suit
you as you start to progress. Start small and with the basics, and as you get more used to
calisthenics, try to add some of the more intensive or demanding activities. Remember to
listen to your own body – know when you are pushing yourself, and then take a step back.
exercise 13
PUSH-UPS
Most people know how a normal push-up works. This forms a basis for calisthenic workouts.
• You’ll do this exercise on the ground, with your abdomen at the bottom.
• Place your hands flat on the floor, ensuring they are about shoulder-width from each other.
• Your legs are stretched out, and you will gain balance on your toes instead of your entire
foot.
• As you move your chest toward the ground, bend your elbows. Try to move your chest as
• close to the ground as you can.
• While moving your body up and down, your legs should remain stretched, and you need to
keep using your toes to balance your body.
• Once you reach the lowest level, your chest can go, hold the position for a second or two,
then push your body back up using your arms and hands.
exercise 14
ONE-ARM PUSH-UPS
A type of push-up that focuses on both your upper body and your core. It takes some work,
and you should move to this one once you are used to doing normal push-ups. Once you
achieve the onearm push-up, you gain an incredible opportunity for building strength.
• You’ll perform this in a normal push-up position. Your feet, however, should be spread
out a bit wider.
• Start with your one arm on the ground. Place the other arm at your back. This way, you
won’t lose focus trying to keep the hand at your side.
• Do a push-up as you would normally, but keep your hand behind your back.
• Make sure to switch positions to the other arm too. Do an equal number of reps with
both arms.
exercise 15
WALL PUSH-UP
The wall push-up sounds simple, sure – but it can be a challenge. And no, it’s not the type of
push-up where you stand against the wall and pretend to put effort into your training. This
push-up is done in a similar way as a normal one, but only close to a wall.
exercise 16
WRIST PUSH-UP
The wrist push-up, just as the name suggests, focuses on your wrists. This is often an
area that people overlook when building upper body strength. You can have exceptional
strength at your core and shoulders but may still fail to perform well due to weak wrists.
exercise 17
ROWS
Rows are classified as pulling exercises.
They work on the same exercises as a classic pull-up.
• You’ll need to get a bar in your hands for this exercise. Hands should be placed on the
bar, about the same width apart as your shoulders.
• The bar goes above your body. Your heels remain flat on the ground.
• Hold your arms out in a straight position. The bar is then pulled inward toward the
chest, while the heels and feet are pivoted.
• As the bar moves in closer to your chest, straighten both arms again while lowering your
entire body at the same time.
exercise 18
ROCK CLIMBER PULL-UP
A great pull-up for those who like a challenge. The extra pulling action is needed, giving
your muscles a great workout.
• Use a pull-up bar that gives you a grip at the overhand position. Your hands should be
placed wide apart on the bar.
• Your shoulders should be pulled downward.
• When you pull yourself up, do so in such a way that your body pulls to one side, not
straight up in the middle.
• When you lower your body, you need to repeat, but this time to the other side.
exercise 19
ROPE PULL-UP
The rope pull-up is sometimes referred to as the towel pull-up.
exercise 20
WIDE-GRIP PULL-UP
The wide grip pull-up is also a bit more advanced than a normal pull-up you might be used
to – but its benefits are really great when trying to build up strength and mass.
• Your hands need to be as far apart as possible when gripping onto the bar.
• Your arms need to be in a straight position when you hang from the bar. You should
not bend the elbows at all.
• The shoulders are pulled back, similar to how you would do a scapula stretch.
• Get your chin in a position above the pull-up bar before bringing your body down
again.
exercise 21
INCLINE PULL-UP
The incline pull-up combines principles from rows and the traditional pull-up.
• Your palms should be positioned so that they face each other when you hold onto the
bar. Your palms should also be touching each other.
• Lean back with your head while ensuring your arms have a straight position while
hanging on the bar.
• Your shoulder blades are pulled inward.
• Your goal is to lift up high enough for your chest to touch your pull-up bar. While lifting,
you need to place your body in a position where it leans backward – this is how you get
the chest toward the bar.
exercise 22
CHIN-UP PULL-UP
A variety of the pull-up that builds core and upper body strength, as well as works on
your arms.
• Get into position underneath your pull-up bar. An underhand grip is used.
• Hands should be about shoulder-width from each other.
• Keep your shoulder blades pulled back. Pull yourself up until your chin reaches
above the
• pull-up bar.
exercise 23
TRICEPS DIP
Triceps dips are generally considered a fundamental of calisthenics. They are a bit hard to
do, but you can start out small – with only a few reps for now.
• Use a lower dip bar for this activity. Hands should be on both bars. Make sure your
palms have an inward position on the grip.
• Bring your ankles up and cross them.
• While bending both elbows, lower your body. See how much you can lower your body,
then pause once you reach your limit.
• After a slight pause, bring yourself up again.
exercise 24
BOX DIP
If the triceps dip is too much for you, consider starting out with the box dip. Some find it is
a bit easier to perform.
exercise 25
FAST MUSCLE-UP
A variation of the normal muscle-up. In this one, you will be moving up a bit more and at a
faster pace.
exercise 26
FALSE GRIP MUSCLE-UP
When normal and fast muscle-ups become a bit too easy, it’s time to take things to the
next level. The false grip muscle-up uses the same techniques as these two, but you will
be moving slower. The slower movement will require more effort and power from your
side. It may feel a bit challenging, so start with only a few reps.
exercise 27
WALL WALKS
Handstands generally form a basis for many calisthenic programs. With this in mind, you
need to get comfortable with your body being in an upside-down position.
• Get a mat with a non-slip bottom. Position yourself in front of a wall that is stable and
has no obstacles.
• Get into a position as if you are going to perform a push-up. Your feet should be placed
against the wall.
• Start to climb the wall slowly with your feet. During this motion, move your arms and
hands back too.
• Go as high as you can while keeping the core muscles tight throughout the motion.
exercise 28
NINETY-DEGREE PUSH-UPS
Some handstands are surely easier to do than others. The nine-degree push-up is one
of the harder ones. Once you’ve got the hang of handstands and feel comfortable in the
position, be sure to give this one a try. You might want to wait a bit until you build up
some strength, but it remains a solid option when you want to reach your goals with
calisthenics.
exercise 29
PARALLETTE HANDSTAND
This is a variation of the freestanding handstand. You will need a pair of parallettes to do
this one. Once you have your equipment, position them shoulder-width from each other. Do
a regular freestanding handstand while using the parallettes as your grip.
exercise 30
FREESTANDING HANDSTANDS
After you’ve gotten used to doing a handstand against the wall, up your game and try
a freestanding version. This means you need to get into a handstand position without
using the wall as a supportive structure. Try to achieve a “V” shape with your legs a bit
apart during the handstand. Hold the position for a few seconds.
exercise 31
PLANKS
The plank is a popular exercise and often overlooked. In calisthenics, it should form a core
part of your program.
• Get into a push-up position. Your forearms should rest on the floor. Stretch your legs out,
and gain a balance with your toes touching the ground.
• Your hips should now be raised until they are level with your shoulder. Your legs should
remain in a straight, stretched position.
• Simply hold the position for a few seconds, then release. Try to aim for 20 seconds hold
time.
exercise 32
CRUNCH
The crunch is another easy exercise that is great for beginners.
• Lie down on the floor. Your back should touch the floor. Bend your knees at an angle
of about 90 degrees. Your feet will remain grounded on the floor at all times.
• You should now cross both your arms over each other. Imagine you are hugging
yourself.
• Lift your shoulders in such a way that they reach toward your knees. Your lower back
should remain in touch with the ground. Once the upper back region is lifted, hold
the position, then bring your body back to the floor again.
exercise 33
DRAGON FLAG
The dragon flag focuses on your core muscles. It is a floor exercise that is usually
broken down into three different segments. By dividing it this way, you’ll find it easier to
accomplish the dragon flag. Get close to a bedpost for this move. Start with a candlestick,
then move on to the tucked dragon flat. You can then progress slowly toward the standard
dragon flag.
exercise 34
This move is great for multiple muscle groups, including your core. It also works on
your grip.
exercise 35
WINDOW WIPERS
Window wipers add more variation and power to your leg raise. They do require more
strength at the core, so you might have to work on this one a bit.
exercise 36
SINGLE-LEG SQUAT
If regular squats are getting boring, try a single leg variation. Start with an assisted
single-leg squat, and then progress up to the point where you can perform the move
without support. You can then take things one step further by trying weighted single-
leg squats.
exercise 37
CALF RAISE
Your calves play an important role in your lower body strength, so be sure to focus
on them too. Calf raises help to increase strength and power in this area while also
supporting your entire lower body.
exercise 38
JUMP LUNGES
An effective conditioning exercise that is great for working on your legs.
exercise 39
BEAR CRAWLS
The bear crawl is a bit demanding, that is something you will discover. It does, however,
work on multiple muscle groups, toning your legs, arms, chest, and core at the same time.
• Get into a position as if you are going to do a push-up. Your hands and your feet should
be positioned in front of each other.
• Now, you need to crawl. Use both your feet and your hands to crawl. When you move the
right feet, then the left hand should be moved at the same time; alternate between the
two sides as you crawl.
• To add some variety and an extra challenge, try doing this in a backward direction.
exercise 40
STAR JUMPS
Most people already know star jumps. They are popular in school and even used in
military settings as part of intense training programs. At home, star jumps can be an
excellent calisthenics exercise to help condition your body.
• Stand straight up. Place both feet directly next to each other. Move your arms so that
they hang down at the sides of your body.
• You will now jump up. While your body is moving into the air, your legs and hands
move outward.
• As your body comes down to the floor, your hands and feet return to the starting
position.
• Your goal should be to perform about 20 reps at a time.
exercise 41
SPRINTS
Sprinting is highly effective, and most people should be able to do it without any problems.
It’s a great exercise that focuses on increasing your lean muscle mass. Sprinting is also
great for giving your metabolism a boost.
exercise 42
JUMP SQUATS
Jump squats are relatively easy and are also good for improving strength and
conditioning in the lower body.
exercise 43
SQUAT THRUSTS
When it comes to increasing your heart rate to burn calories and push your workout results,
squat thrusts are great. This particular type of exercise can also be used to make burpees a
bit easier later on.
• Place your hands flat on your floor while you are in a crouch position.
• Jump up with your lower body while keeping your hands in touch with the ground.
• As your lower body moves into the air, extend your legs into a straight position.
• When your lower body moves back to the floor, bring your legs back into the starting
position.
WORKING ON FLEXIBILITY
In addition to power, composition, and toning, you also need to ensure you work on
flexibility. We’ve already covered some great warm-ups that can be used for mobility. While
there are some associations between flexibility and mobility, this particular subject definitely
deserves its own category. Flexibility not only helps with your general functionality but can
also make certain types of calisthenic exercises significantly easier to do.
exercise 44
COBRA STRETCH
If you’re planning to work on your abdomen and core muscles, then you should learn
the cobra stretch. It’s a great technique for releasing tension and reducing spasms in the
abdomen.
• Lie down on the floor. Your face should face the floor and not the roof.
• While keeping your lower body flat on the floor, push the upper body upward.
• You want to feel a stretch at your core while you are pushing your upper body.
Extend your arms until they are straight. Aim to retain the position for about 15
seconds.
exercise 45
QUAD STRETCH
You use the quads with most exercises that target the lower region of your body. With this
in mind, doing a quad stretch after your workout can help to reduce soreness and improve
flexibility.
exercise 46
CHEST STRETCH
The chest stretch will also work on your shoulders. It’s really easy to do and can be used
as both a warm-up and a cool-down activity. The chest stretch causes your chest and
shoulders to open up, increasing flexibility.
exercise 47
UPPER BACK STRETCH
Stress in your back is common in exercises where you focus on the upper body. To avoid
knots, tension, and reduced flexibility, make sure you perform upper back stretches. They
are relatively easy to do, but you will need a bar or another object that can provide stability
and support.
• Get in front of a bar or another stable object. Grab hold of the object, but only with a
single arm.
• While your grip is on the bar, lean toward the back. Keep the arm gripped on the bar
straight. Your legs also need to remain in a straight position.
• Your shoulder blades should be opened at this point. Move the shoulders to your front
and then “squeeze.”
• The freehand should then be used to reach toward the arm holding onto the bar.
• The position should be maintained for 20 seconds, which counts as one rep.
exercise48
CAT STRETCH
If you have trouble controlling the shoulder blades at will, then the cat stretch is
definitely an exercise you want to include in your calisthenics routine. It’s simple to do
and comes from a popular pose in yoga.
exercise 49
KNEELING HIP FLEXOR STRETCH
When performing a lot of lower body exercises, you may sometimes find that your hip
flexors become stiff and tight. This can cause problems with your glutes. The kneeling hip
flexor stretch opens up the hips and relaxes these muscles, improving flexibility for lower
body exercises.
exercise 50
HAMSTRING STRETCH
Another set of muscles that need to be flexible during lower body activities would
be the hamstrings. These muscles are found in the upper region of your legs and
contribute to flexibility, movement, and power in your legs.
• For this exercise, you will be lying down on the ground. Place your one leg up in the
air in front of you, as straight as possible. The other leg is placed flat on the floor.
• While engaging your core, stretch a small towel or resitance band around the ball
of the extended foot, and gently pull back towards your chest. Your should feel a
stretch in your arms, shoulders, and leg.
• Hold the position for a few seconds, then do the same with the other leg.
DEVELOPING A CALISTHENICS
TRAINING PROGRAM
We’ve discussed some basic principles of calisthenics, so you should now realize what
these exercises are and why so many people are starting to follow these programs. We
also shared some great exercises with you – allowing you to determine which activities
you want to start with.
Reading about exercises and seeing the instructions – this is completely different
compared to knowing what to begin with. We’ve set out a complete list of 50 beginner-
friendly exercises, but now you need to decide where to begin, how to proceed, and what
needs to be done.
Before you jump into your own program, developing a plan is a great idea. This would
start with your own personal goals.
If you are overweight, your goal may be to use calisthenics as a way to reduce your body
weight. Those who are too skinny may want to gain some weight. Others could perhaps
simply want to maintain their current weight. Then, there are people who want to pack
some muscles – and this means an increase in lean mass is needed.
In addition to considering the goals that you will be striving toward, you should analyze
your current situation. If you haven’t been physically active for a long time, you will need
to start out slower. People who are already-fit and want to try calisthenics can usually
start with exercises that are more intense.
Apart from these steps, we share a few additional tips that you should consider when
developing a program to help you take advantage of calisthenics:
When developing your Consider where you will be Get any needed equipment
program, know your exercising. Some gyms have before you start. This will
limits. How fit are you? dedicated areas for people doing ensure you do not have to
Do you have any medical calisthenics. You could decide stop your routine halfway
conditions that may to do all your workouts at home. through. Make a list of any
interfere with your ability Some people take to the equipment – including bars
to train? If so, how much streets – this is why calisthenics and clothes, for
of a limitation should you is often referred to as a street example – and shop for
place on your activities? workout. them.
Focus on nutrition too. Building muscle mass or losing weight depends on more than just
exercise.
You need to give your essential body nutrients while considering an appropriate calorie
intake. A calorie deficit is needed if you are planning to lose weight. This means eating
fewer calories than the amount you will be burning.
On the other hand, if you need to gain weight, then you want to increase your daily
calorie intake. Be careful with your calorie calculation, as you need to ensure there is a
good balance. Don’t starve yourself, but also ensure you do not overeat – this may lead to
weight gain in the form of fat instead of lean muscle mass.
CONCLUSION
We’ve discussed some basic principles of calisthenics, so you should now realize what
these exercises are and why so many people are starting to follow these programs. We
also shared some great exercises with you – allowing you to determine which activities
you want to start with.
Reading about exercises and seeing the instructions – this is completely different
compared to knowing what to begin with. We’ve set out a complete list of 50 beginner-
friendly exercises, but now you need to decide where to begin, how to proceed, and what
needs to be done.
Before you jump into your own program, developing a plan is a great idea. This would
start with your own personal goals.
If you are overweight, your goal may be to use calisthenics as a way to reduce your body
weight. Those who are too skinny may want to gain some weight. Others could perhaps
simply want to maintain their current weight. Then, there are people who want to pack
some muscles – and this means an increase in lean mass is needed.
In addition to considering the goals that you will be striving toward, you should analyze
your current situation. If you haven’t been physically active for a long time, you will need
to start out slower. People who are already-fit and want to try calisthenics can usually
start with exercises that are more intense.
Apart from these steps, we share a few additional tips that you should consider when
developing a program to help you take advantage of calisthenics:
References / Sources
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317321468_The_effects_of_a_calisthenics_training_inte
rvention_on_posture_strength_and_body_composition
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29466268/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12930192/
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