Calisthenics: five ways this bodyweight workout can benefit your fitness

Calisthenics moves such as planks can help strengthen the deep core muscle. Krakenimages.com/ Shutterstock by Jen Wilson, Nottingham Trent University and Athalie Redwood-Brown, Nottingham Trent University Calisthenics, a workout routine that has existed for centuries, has seen a major resurgence in recent years – partly due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Celebrities including Chris Hemsworth and Jamie Foxx swear by this style of training, which has been used since at least ancient Greek times. Rooted in movements that resemble gymnastics, typical calisthenics exercises include push-ups, squats and lunges. This training method harnesses gravity and your own bodyweight to build strength, flexibility and endurance. It’s incredibly versatile and can be performed almost anywhere, as you don’t need any equipment. It’s also extremely beneficial for health and fitness in more ways than you might realize. Here are just a few of the benefits these no-frills bodyweight workouts can have. 1. Boosts core strength Calisthenics strengthens the deep core muscles in your abdomen and back, which play a crucial role in supporting and stabilizing the spine. By strengthening these deep core muscles, calisthenics improves coordination, which in essence makes your body more resilient and responsive – helping you avoid accidents and injury in...