Calisthenics

       January 1, 0000    1691

 

The word Calisthenics has a Greek origin. It is a combination of words, which means beauty and strength. It is a group of exercises, which are useful to the body. These can be performed while watching television. Such a type of beauty results in gaining entertainment from television and simultaneously improving the physique of the body. Also for those who are reluctant to exercise, this method proves best as they perform Calisthenics unknowingly and gradually it becomes part of their daily routine.

Calisthenics in the United States

The history of Calisthenics is associated with gymnastics. Disciples of Friedrich Ludwig Jahn introduced their version of gymnastics to the United States. Catherine Beecher and Dio Lewis organized physical education programs for women in the 19th century. The set up systems of Calisthenics was less favored than the competitive sports after the Battle of the Systems in which the states made physical education systems compulsory. Calisthenics is a mode of exercise in which there are a variety of simple movements done without weights or any other apparatus. The intention is to raise body strength and flexibility by using the body weight for resistance. Some of the exercises are Sit-ups or crunches, Push-ups and Squats.

Calisthenics in Australia

In Australia, calisthenics is a competitive women’s sport. Girls who have reached the age of three also take part. It is comprised of free-arm like in gymnastics, aesthetics that is a graceful dance, rhythmic that is similar to a ballet, folk dance, singing, marching, and club swinging and metal rod exercises. At the supreme level, calisthenics needs competitors to gain good levels in flexibility, strength, balance and control. Some amount of precision, good technique and deportment are also desired. The girls wear very good-looking dresses that are carefully designed for the year’s competition items. The competition is usually in the form of a team. But the ultimate aim for callisthenic girls is a solo competition called “Graceful Girl.” Girls are congregated into 6 groups depending on their age.

Uses

It is used as a warm up before different sports. It is carried out to burn food energy without the need of gymnasium equipment. Other use is in military training and initiations. Some forms of calisthenics are used as a punishment on the spot.
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