Pandemic fitness trend continues: Americans embrace calisthenics done at home

Don’t miss the full story, whose reporting from Jamie Ducharme at The Associated Press is the basis of this AI-assisted article.

​Calisthenics, the age-old practice of using body weight for exercise rather than equipment, is experiencing a resurgence driven by convenience, affordability and pandemic-era fitness habits, though experts note it has limitations compared to weight training for building significant muscle mass.

Some key facts:

• Sean Keogh runs Calisthenics Club Houston, a gym that focuses exclusively on body-weight training, including moves such as handstands and pullups.

• President Trump reestablished the Presidential Fitness Test in July, promoting old-school exercises such as situps, pushups and pullups for youth nationwide.

• The coronavirus pandemic accelerated the calisthenics trend as people became accustomed to exercising with minimal equipment at home.

• Research shows calisthenics can improve muscle strength and aerobic conditioning, making body weight a “phenomenal” training tool, according to Rice University experts.

• Experts warn that calisthenics cannot and should not completely replace equipment, as weights can sometimes make exercises safer and more practical for people with joint issues.

• People seeking significant strength gains or muscle size increases will likely see more dramatic results using weights rather than body weight alone.

• Approximately 75% of Americans aren’t meeting federal physical activity guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly plus two strength-training sessions.

• Beginners should start by assessing their current fitness level, practicing proper form with modifications if needed, and performing calisthenics in 10- to 30-minute sessions two to three times per week.

READ MORE: Calisthenics are making a comeback. Is body weight enough to get a good workout?