Calisthenics
/ ˌkaləsˈθɛnɪks /
Calisthenics is a discipline of physical training using bodyweight movements to develop strength, coordination, flexibility, and body control. The word comes from the Greek kalos (beauty) and sthenos (strength).
Unlike weight training, calisthenics builds relative strength - the ability to control your own body in space. It ranges from fundamental movements like the pull-up and push-up to advanced static skills like the planche and front lever, and dynamic skills like the muscle-up.
This wiki documents skills, their prerequisites, progressions, and programming - for all levels, in English and French.
Competitions
All →- 🇫🇷 FR Upcoming
International Strength Nights (ISN)
An elite calisthenics event elevating the sport to new heights, showcasing the most creative and spectacular athletes on an exceptional stage.
3 editions · since 2024
- 🇪🇸 ES Upcoming
Queen of Statics
An all-women's calisthenics competition gathering the world's top 10 female statics athletes in Madrid, organized by Blanca Almoh and Estefany Villamizar.
1 edition · since 2026
- 🇩🇪 DE Active
Calisthenics Cup
Annual calisthenics competition at FIBO in Cologne, featuring 1v1 Freestyle battles and Strength Endurance knockout rounds.
3 editions · since 2024
- 🇧🇷 BR Active
Free Power World Championship
Annual Power Freestyle championship in São Paulo. Athletes qualify through national selections only, no direct invitations.
2 editions · since 2025
- 🇮🇹 IT Active
International Burningate Cup (IBC)
Italian calisthenics competition with two formats: a scored statics category and a freestyle combo open to men and women.
10 editions · since 2014
- 🇨🇭 CH Active
Sthenos Xbition
Annual Swiss calisthenics knockout competition in Lausanne featuring statics battles from Round of 16 to the final.
4 editions · since 2023
- 🇪🇸 ES Active
Street Workout Ultimate Battles (SWUB)
The world's premier calisthenics competition, where the best athletes face off in 1v1 battles combining dynamics, statics, and power moves.
8 editions · since 2017
Blog
All posts →-
How often should you train calisthenics?
The real answer: the frequency you can sustain for years. Why regularity beats volume, plus realistic 2 to 6 sessions per week by lifestyle.
programmingtrainingcalisthenics -
Best calisthenics apps in 2026: a practical comparison
Top 3 calisthenics apps by profile, plus a full comparison of features, programming quality, and price. No affiliate links, just honest framing.
toolsappscalisthenics -
Handstand progression: from wall to freestanding
How to learn a freestanding handstand in 6 to 18 months. Wrist prep, the 4 progression stages, and the daily 10-minute practice that works.
skillsprogressionhandstand
Browse by Category
- Pull Rows, pull-ups, muscle-ups 3 skills
- Push Dips, push-ups, handstand push-ups 4 skills
- Core L-sits, dragon flags, ab work 3 skills
- Static Planche, front lever, back lever
- Dynamic Muscle-ups, 360s, kip variations
- Legs Pistol squats, Nordic curls 3 skills
- Mobility Flexibility and joint prep
- All Skills → Full index
Featured Skill
beginnerPull-Up
The fundamental vertical pulling movement - the foundation of every upper-body calisthenics skill.
Muscles
Category
pullDifficulty Levels
No prior training required. Foundational strength movements.
Requires consistent training. Compound skill required.
Years of dedicated practice. Technical mastery needed.
Achieved by very few. Exceptional strength and technique.