Calisthenics and its promise of beauty and strength

New Delhi, Oct 2: Calisthenics might not be one of the trendiest terms in the fitness world. This is quite ironic because it actually originates from Greek words that mean beauty and strength. Undoubtedly, the combination of pure beauty and rigorous strength is what defines glamour and sex appeal. And it works better than a regular gym workout or cardio training.

Calisthenics is defined as gymnastics exercises necessary for achieving grace of movement and bodily fitness. Of course, the definition is pretty vague and does not cover what the workout actually entails. Hence, in simpler terms, calisthenics is a set of exercises that utilises the body's own weight for shaping and sculpting it. Fitness enthusiasts can use their own weight to train their bodies, build core strength, lose weight and boost stamina.

Calisthenics workouts have found their way to the homes of fitness enthusiasts and professionals who wish to challenge their core body strength and build their stamina, strength and agility. Several crucial training camps, including the ones held by sports and police academies or military boot camps, opt for calisthenics.

By varying iterations and utilising the core body weight, calisthenics propels fitness enthusiasts towards a fitter, healthier and more flexible body. Some of the exercises covered in a proper calisthenics workout include jumps, push-ups, squats, pull-ups, dips, leg raises, lunges, and chin-ups.

Other exercises can also be included in the workout, depending on an individual's current training and previous level of training.

Here are the multiple benefits of calisthenics:

For one, it needs no equipment -- and no need to invest in a gym. At most, you may invest in a pull-up bar -- in case it isn't already there. Other enthusiasts, based on their level of training and fitness goals, may also get a set of gymnast rings or an ab wheel.

As you progress from the beginner level to the advanced or expert stages, you may add items to your arsenal to push yourself and draw the maximum output from the training.

If you are looking at the ultimate control of your body, getting into a relationship with it, losing weight and building muscles in an organic and natural way, calisthenics is the "go to" option for you.

A word of caution though. I would not recommend calisthenics to somebody who is overweight. I would rather they reduce the extra fat via proper dieting and other workouts instead of straightaway jumping into calisthenics. In any case, consult a fitness trainer before embarking upon the journey towards your fitness goals.