Calisthenics workouts have been in the limelight for some time now, ever wondered what ‘Calisthenics’ actually means, or why and how people are opting to do this type of training? The word Calisthenics is derived from two Greek words, ‘Kalos’ which translates to beauty and ‘Stenos’ which translates to strength. It is a form of training that focuses on naturally mastering one’s body weight using minimal or no equipment.
Even though calisthenics exercises are a lot like gymnastics training, the major difference is that it can be practiced outside, thus, calisthenics are also known as ‘street workouts’. Mastering our bodyweight carries manifold health benefits like enhanced physical balance, improved muscular function and more. Curious? Then read on for Calisthenics: 5 Reasons Why You Should Start, Now!
1. Can be Practiced Anytime, Anywhere!
As described earlier, calisthenics require minimal equipment or set up and can be practised outside. This makes it easy to train anywhere at any time. Calisthenics put no restriction on the place or time for working out, only passion and enthusiasm are required to start a full-body high-energy exercise session, whether it’s for 5 or 10 or 15 minutes or longer, take your pick!
2. Calisthenics are Easy On Your Joints
Since calisthenics does not require the addition of extra weight or resistance, the chances of injuring your joints are reduced. Extra strain from using extra weights (dumbbells or barbells etc) can cause unnecessary pain or discomfort. Our joints are designed to support our natural bodyweight, adding extra loads (if you’re not taught how to lift properly) can cause serious, lifelong damage to your joints.
3. Increases Total Body Strength
Calisthenics is not designed to work on one specific body part or muscle group. It’s all about stimulating every single part of the body and strengthening them optimally to your genetic maximum. Our muscles work together in harmony to perform the movements, which in turn helps develop a more evenly balanced, desirably aesthetic physique.
4 Improves Muscular Coordination & Endurance
Since calisthenics works on strengthening our muscles, it also automatically improves muscular endurance and injury recovery. The coordination among muscle groups enhances as well, as the movements require different muscle groups to work together in a synergistic manner. Good muscular coordination and endurance helps keep the body healthy, firm and stable even throughout old age.
5. Develops Bodily Flexibility
The movements performed in calisthenics stretch the muscles and joints while making them flexible. A flexible body is agile and remains more resistant to niggling, annoying and unwanted injuries. A flexible body is a more active body and one capable to perform tasks with ease. With age mobility and flexibility reduces, calisthenics helps retain these important bodily assets.
