Age is Just a Number: Why You Can Crush Calisthenics Goals After 40

 

Age is Just a Number: Why You Can Crush Calisthenics Goals After 40

Have you ever dreamed of mastering a muscle-up? Or maybe achieving a handstand?

You might think these calisthenics skills are reserved for the young and the super-fit, but that's simply not true.

The beauty of calisthenics training lies in its accessibility and ability to transform bodies at any age.

Here is my client Salomon who is turning 45 years old in two weeks. It took him 6 months to learn the muscle up with the Online Calisthenics Program. We have then been working on getting the movement cleaner and cleaner for the last year.

And these are his cleanest muscle ups so far!

Remember that muscle ups are a complex movement and require solid overall strength AND mobility to be performed with proper form.

This article is your inspiration to ditch the age-related excuses and dive headfirst into the world of calisthenics.

We'll explore why calisthenics training is perfect for beginners and experienced exercisers...

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Calisthenics Leg Workout: My Favorite Hamstrings Exercise!

 

Calisthenics Leg Workout: My Favorite Hamstrings Exercise!

Looking for a leg workout that pushes you to the limit, builds explosive power, and sculpts a strong, mobile lower body?

Look no further than the mighty Nordic curl – a calisthenics exercise that deserves a major role in your routine.

Why are Nordic curls so special?

They isolate and strengthen your hamstrings, often the neglected cousin of the quadriceps when it comes to leg training.

Strong hamstrings are essential for:

  • Explosive Power: Improved sprints, jumps, and overall athletic performance.
  • Running Efficiency: Better form and injury prevention.
  • Stronger Hips and Back: Enhanced stability and posture.
  • Improved Mobility: Increased flexibility for everyday activities.

Unlike squats and lunges, which work both quads and hamstrings, Nordic curls zero in on your hamstrings.

They're challenging, but the rewards are undeniable. Here's what you need to know to finding your setup:

  • The "downside" of Nordic curls can be...
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What Is The Best Body Fat Percentage?

What Is The Best Body Fat Percentage?

Did you ever ask yourself that question? I have!

The pursuit of a shredded physique often leads to a singular focus: body fat percentage.

Social media bombards us with images of incredibly lean individuals, raising the question – what's the magic number for achieving that look?

The reality, however, is far more nuanced.

Today let’s explore the concept of body fat percentage, debunks common myths, and demonstrates how calisthenics training can be a powerful tool for achieving a healthy and sustainable body composition.

Moving Beyond the Single Number: Embracing Body Fat Brackets

Chasing a specific body fat percentage as the ultimate goal is a common misconception. A more effective approach is targeting a healthy body fat bracket that considers your sex, age, and overall health.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Men: Aim for a range between 10-15% body fat. This zone balances aesthetics with optimal athletic performance and well-being.
  • Women: A...
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Stronger Core, Stronger Legs: Calisthenics Leg Workout - Part 3

 

Ignite Your Core: Calisthenics Leg Workout - Part 3.

This is the final chapter in my calisthenics leg workout mini-series!

Here, we'll explore the powerful connection between your legs and core. Many people mistakenly view the core as an "upper body" concern, but the truth is, legs and core work in beautiful harmony.

Core Powers the Legs, Legs Strengthen the Core

Moving your legs effectively is a fantastic way to develop a strong core.

Conversely, building powerful and explosive legs relies heavily on a solid core foundation. This two-way street makes leg exercises even more beneficial for your entire body.

Let's delve into some of my favorite calisthenics exercises designed to build this crucial leg-core connection:

Explosive Power and Core Control:

  • Broad Jumps: These rank among my all-time favorites for leg power and explosiveness. Aim to jump as high and far as possible with each rep, controlling your landing. Avoid slamming your heels – strive for a mid-foot, controlled...
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Mobility Meets Muscle: Level Up Your Calisthenics Leg Workout (Part 2)

 

Mobility Meets Muscle: Level Up Your Calisthenics Leg Workout (Part 2)

Ready to take your calisthenics leg workout to the next level?

In part 1, we focused on building a strong foundation for your lower body.

Now, let's add mobility and speed to the mix, creating powerful and resilient legs that move with agility.

The best part? You still won't need any equipment – just your own bodyweight!

This workout is designed to be completed once a week alongside part one for a well-rounded leg training program. Aim for at least three leg workouts per week, either integrated into a full-body routine or dedicated leg days.

Here's the breakdown:

1. Typewriter Squats (10-20 reps x 5 sets)

  • Target: Hips, quads, adductors (inner thighs)
  • Benefits: Improves hip mobility and strength, while challenging your quads.
  • Form: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly outward. Begin by squatting down, keeping your back straight and core engaged. As you lower, twist your knees outward like a...
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The Quad Burner: Calisthenics Leg Workout for Explosive Power (Part 1)

 

The Quad Burner: Calisthenics Leg Workout for Explosive Power (Part 1).

Forget expensive gym memberships and bulky equipment – sculpting powerful quads is entirely achievable with your own bodyweight!

This is part one of my exciting calisthenics leg workout series, specifically designed to torch your quads and build explosive lower body strength.

Calisthenics training utilizes your bodyweight as resistance to build muscle and improve overall fitness. The beauty of this approach lies in its accessibility – you can perform these exercises anywhere, anytime. So, ditch the weights and get ready to engage your quads with these dynamic calisthenics exercises:

1. Reverse Nordics: Building Quads & Hip Flexor Strength

  • Benefits: Reverse nordics are a stellar exercise for isolating and strengthening your quads and hip flexors. This exercise challenges your lower body by mimicking the downward motion of a squat, placing emphasis on control and stability.
  • Execution: Kneel down...
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How Calisthenics Training Transformed My Youngest Client!

 

Building an Athlete: How Calisthenics Training Transformed My Youngest Client!

Have you ever witnessed someone completely transform their physical abilities?

Today, I want to share the inspiring story of my youngest client, a testament to the power of calisthenics training for people of all ages.

This calisthenics before and after video speaks for itself!

It all began when I started training his father. One day, his dad mentioned his son's desire to learn parkour. However, at the time, this young boy fell within the 10th percentile for weight in the US. While some might see limitations, I saw potential. I suggested the boy join our sessions, proposing a family training approach. That's how, at the young age of seven, he embarked on his calisthenics journey.

Building a Strong Foundation: The Power of Calisthenics for Kids

Calisthenics training, utilizing bodyweight exercises for resistance, is an excellent way for children to develop strength, coordination, and mobility.

It's a safe...

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A Week of Calisthenics Training in Paradise

 

A Week of Calisthenics Training in Paradise

For many, vacations mean a break from routine – including workouts.

But what if your workout routine could be your vacation?

With calisthenics training, that's exactly what's possible!

This past week, I spent a blissful time in Maui with my wife, exploring the island's beauty while simultaneously maintaining my fitness regime using nothing but my own bodyweight and what was around me.

Calisthenics is your passport to fitness freedom.

Calisthenics training isn't just about sculpted muscles; it's about embracing the natural human way of movement.

Unlike gym-bound routines, calisthenics allows you to train anywhere, anytime.

This trip perfectly exemplified this freedom.

Snorkeling, swimming, and hiking undoubtedly kept us active, but I also incorporated dedicated calisthenics workouts to truly connect with the island's stunning scenery.

Imagine this: push-ups on the soft sand, handstands overlooking the turquoise ocean, or pull-ups from...

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The Best Exercise for Better Posture

 

Back bending will tremendously improve your overall fitness and posture.

Practicing it regularly will make your body stronger.

Here is how to get started if you haven’t done it before.

1- Wall Standing Bridge:

  • Stand about one arm length away from a wall, feet a bit wider than shoulder width.
  • Brace your core and lift your arms over head.
  • Reach out to the wall behind you with one arm first, then once one arm is on the wall, bring the second arm to the wall as well.
  • Make sure to flex your knees forward a bit as lean back and apply pressure through your lower body (feet, quads, adductors, hamstrings and glutes) to support the hold.
  • Hold for 10-20 seconds and repeat for 3-5 sets.

2- Ladder step down

  • Use a vertical ladder at your gym or park to progress step by step just like I am doing in the video.
  • Start at a comfortable height and make your way down step by step.
  • Step on your toes to ease the range of motion as you are getting lower.Push your glutes up and open your rib...
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A Beginner's Guide to Running Longer

 

A Beginner's Guide to Running Longer

Are you tired of feeling winded after a short jog?

Do visions of long-distance runs fill you with dread, not excitement?

Well, even if you weren't born with a runner's physique, you can absolutely train yourself to get better at it!

This guide, specifically designed for beginners, will give you a strategic approach to improve your running endurance and unlock sustainable running.

Through dedication and a smart training plan, anyone can develop the ability to run farther and faster.

This article will detail a beginner-friendly protocol that will have you transforming your running skills in no time!

Building Your Base: The Pyramid Protocol

This program utilizes the "pyramid workout" structure, a strategic approach that eases you into running and gradually increases intensity. Imagine the workout as a pyramid shape – you'll start slow and gradually build up your pace before slowing down again.

Here's a breakdown of the pyramid protocol:

Phase...

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