The word "calisthenics" comes from the Greek words 'kallos' for beauty and 'thenos' for strength.

Calisthenics is a type of exercise consisting of a variety of simple movements usually performed without weights or other equipment and are intended to increase body strength and flexibility using the weight of one's own body for resistance. The history of calisthenics is linked to gymnastics.

Calisthenic workouts help to raise fitness levels by strengthening a variety of muscles throughout the body.  By raising heart-beat rate, they contribute to improved heart health and lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Calisthenic exercises concentrate on specific areas of the body. For example, situps target the abdominal muscles, while push-ups concentrate mostly on the pectoral muscles. Other examples, include jumping jacks, any floor exercises or gymnastics and leg lifts.

Examples of calisthenic exercises include:

• Sit-ups/crunches: Lie on your back on the floor, knees bent, bottoms of feet against the floor. Lift shoulders off the floor by tightening abdominal muscles bringing your chest closer to your knees. Lower back to the floor with a smooth movement.
• Push-ups: Start face down on floor, palms against floor under shoulders, toes curled up against floor. Push up with arms keeping a straight line from head through toes. Lower to within a few inches off floor and repeat. You should keep your head tilted upward, your back straight. Do not rest on your shoulder blades, even when you feel fatigue.
• Squats: Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Squat as far as possible bringing your arms forward parallel to the floor. Return to standing position. Repeat. Again, if you feel like this is not a challenge, there are other forms of squats. One method is lifting one leg off the floor in front of you, putting both arms in front of you for balance, and squatting. This is a one-legged squat or pistol.
• Leg Raise:  Lie down flat on your back, with your hands under your lower back,  Raise your legs a few inches off the floor, slowly. By lifting slowly, you do not gain momentum from the upwards swinging. Also, the slower the legs are raising, the more work your muscles must do, therefore giving you a better work-out. Lower your feet to the floor, without your heels touching the floor and repeat.
• Reverse Crunches:  This exercise concentrates on the lower abdominals.  Lie on your back, with your thighs vertical. Keep your feet as close to your pelvis as possible.  Move your knees toward your chest, just so that your hips are slightly raised off the ground. Then, after a brief pause, return your knees and thighs to the original position. Note: going at a slower pace will work your muscles best.