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?

• This article is written with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence based solely on Washington Times original reporting and wire services. For more information, please read our AI policy or contact Ann Wog, Managing Editor for Digital, at awog@washingtontimes.com *

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