5 things we wish we knew when we started calisthenics

Calisthenics is a fantastic way to build strength, flexibility, and endurance using just your body weight. Here are five beginner tips that can help you get started and progress effectively:

1. Start with the Basics: Before diving into complex movements, master the foundational exercises. These include push-ups, pull-ups, squats, dips, planks, and lunges. These basic movements form the core of calisthenics and will build a strong base for more advanced exercises later on.

2. Focus on Proper Form: Correct form is crucial for preventing injuries and maximizing results. Take the time to learn the proper technique for each exercise. Quality over quantity is key. If you find yourself sacrificing form to complete reps, it's better to do fewer reps with good form.

3. Progress Gradually: Progression in calisthenics is about increasing the difficulty of exercises as you get stronger. There are many ways to progress: increasing reps, changing leverage (e.g., elevating feet for push-ups), slowing down the movement (eccentric training), or moving to a more challenging variation (e.g., from knee push-ups to full push-ups). Listen to your body and progress at a pace that's challenging but not overwhelming.

4. Consistency is Key: Like any form of exercise, consistency is crucial for progress. Aim for regular workouts, whether it's 3 times a week or more. Consistency builds strength and muscle memory, making the exercises feel more natural over time.

5. Include Rest and Recovery: Rest is just as important as the workouts themselves. Your muscles need time to repair and grow stronger. Make sure to get adequate sleep and consider active recovery days where you do lighter activities like walking, yoga, or stretching. Overworking your muscles without proper rest can lead to burnout or injury.

Bonus Tip: Stay Patient and Have Fun: Progress in calisthenics takes time. Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results. Celebrate small victories along the way, whether it's being able to do one more push-up or holding a plank for a few seconds longer. And most importantly, have fun with it! Calisthenics offers a lot of variety, so experiment with different exercises and routines to keep it interesting.

Remember, everyone's journey in calisthenics is unique, so listen to your body, stay consistent, and enjoy the process of getting stronger and more agile with each workout.

P.S. Need extra guidance? Check out our social media for training tips, and inspirational content to fuel your calisthenics journey!