Building a useful body capable of easily handling any daily challenge doesn’t necessarily mean hitting the weights.
Calisthenics aka body weight training is a very rewarding style of training that requires essentially no equipment – well, maybe an exercise mat for comfort and a pull up bar can be a handy addition but it’s not essential to start.
With a minimalist approach and the right variety of movements you can achieve great results. In a typical session lasting anywhere from 10-60 minutes you can train every part of your body and practice many functional and useful movements. Many fun movements too.
One of many great benefits of utilising calisthenic training is that you get to learn how to operate your body rather than a gym machine.
Now, before you start switching off thinking this style of training is for the seasoned exerciser, believe me when I say it’s the perfect place to start as a beginner. Yes, experienced gym goers can incorporate calisthenics into their routine, but a beginner will benefit hugely by learning about how to move themselves before moving themselves plus a barbell or the big ol red hack squat machine in the gym.
I recently started a calisthenics class in TBB Raheen (Limerick) and it’s great to see it gaining traction.
Every week we practice the skills that allow us to be stronger in various leg, trunk, pushing and pulling movements. Not quite pistol squats and pull ups just yet, but all the pre requisites for building these.
What I would like to do is share some of the essentials of bodyweight training in a short series of emails to those interested.
Each week I’ll share one movement to learn and practice. We can gradually gradually build this collection of movements into a nice little training programme too.
If this is for you, email me and let me know if you’re a beginner or if you have a little experience.
movewithjamie@gmail.com
Jamie