Calisthenics is part of the fitness universe.
Calisthenics is a term that comes from the English word callisthenics . The concept refers to a set of physical exercises that allow you to gain strength and increase agility .
Calisthenics can be understood as a training method or system that is based on the use of the body's own weight . Calisthenics works on muscle groups or chains and takes into account the plasticity and aesthetics of the movements, since it also aims to achieve harmony and beauty.
Before training
It is important to go to a doctor before starting calisthenics for a check-up to confirm that you are fit for physical exercise. On the other hand, it is advisable to have the support of a gym teacher or professional trainer who is able to act as a guide to indicate how the routines should be developed correctly.
Warming up before training , on the other hand, is essential to reduce the risk of injury . Once the exercise has begun, postures and joints should not be forced and recovery periods should be respected.
Of course, those who train must pay attention to their body and not minimize ailments. Early diagnosis and eventual treatment can prevent a minor injury from becoming serious. Furthermore, it is possible to overcome chronic illnesses and disorders that, in the long term, prevent physical activity .
There are calisthenics exercises that help develop muscles.
Types of calisthenics
There are different modalities or disciplines that fall under what is known as calisthenics. Sports gymnastics , in fact, is usually considered a type of calisthenics.
Training that takes place in streets, parks and other public spaces is called street workout . This form of calisthenics is the most popular and usually involves the use of benches, trees and various structures for different exercises.
We said above that the distinctive characteristic of calisthenics is the use of body weight to perform the routines. If a weight is added to increase the effort, we can talk about weighted calisthenics .
Cooperative calisthenics , meanwhile, means that two or more individuals collaborate with each other to perform the exercises . Many times one does the exercise and the other adds resistance .
Sports clothing and training shoes are necessary for calisthenics practice.
Most popular exercises
Calisthenics includes exercises that are well known and that are also part of other training methodologies. Sit-ups and squats , for example, are often included in the most basic calisthenics routines.
Once you have mastered these simple exercises, you can move on to more complex figures such as the plank and the flag . Jumps and turns are also added that enrich the practice.
At a general level, calisthenics seeks to achieve proper alignment of the body and achieve good muscle contraction. This helps outline the contour and improve posture .
It is important to keep in mind that calisthenics involves a large number of repetitions of each movement . The focus is on the way it is carried out and not so much on the intensity of the effort .
Beyond calisthenics
As a process or system, calisthenics can combine strength training with body resistance training , among other methods. Its development may include aerobics , yoga , pilates and parkour practices or techniques, for example.
The purpose is to gain flexibility , coordination , joint mobility and other skills and abilities that are necessary in sport but that also improve well-being and health .
It should be noted that calisthenics, which can be carried out outdoors, in a gym or in any other training area, helps prevent sports injuries and contributes to muscle recovery. Of course, it must be complemented with cooling and stretching exercises, adequate hydration and any other care that helps protect the human body.
It cannot be overemphasized that, as we already mentioned, calisthenics can be practiced anywhere. One room is enough to perform a training routine with sets and repetitions , so it is not even necessary to leave the house. If there is free time in the office, it can also be done there. In any case, the benefits are multiplied by going to a park or square since the environment is ideal for relaxing and recreating.
For this reason, practicing calisthenics does not require paying for a gym . Implements or accessories are also not needed, although some may be useful for certain exercises. What is important is to go to a medical professional before starting the practice to be clear if there are risks and to prevent injuries. In any case, this prior advice is essential with any sport , which means that it is not a requirement exclusively associated with calisthenics.