Let your body be your weight!

Using your own body weight for training against and with can be as equally effective as training using weights in a gym. Body weight training however, gives you so much more flexibility and scope to go anywhere and do it on the cheap too, so with this in mind I sourced this article through 'ezinearticles' (http://EzineArticles.com/8909363) and written by Phillip Schiefer (http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Phillip_J_Schiefer) - a certified personal trainer and corrective exercise specialist with the national academy of sports medicine.


With so many different styles of exercises workouts and fitness trends, it can become a challenge just to see what programs are really effective. With most programs, results will depend on how much effort is given to each exercise and by taking the time to become proficient at the basics. I have always been fascinated with bodyweight training for numerous reasons. The exercises work large muscle groups, the progressions are seemingly endless and the entire body can be strengthened with minimum equipment.

This style of training has become increasing more popular as of late. Exercises such as muscle ups, handstands and pistol (single leg) squats have become a staple in the routines of many. The exercises are effective, you can increase your mobility, flexibility, strength and balance by doing calisthenics (bodyweight exercises). The only problem is that most people want to learn the tricks and fancy moves without dedicating the time and effort to properly prepare and condition their bodies for such movements.

Take the handstand for example, you can find many pictures of people doing handstands. Most of them are learned without proper coaching or techniques, so the elbows may be bent, the back may be arched and the balancing aspect can't be controlled. Wrist flexibility and strength, along with shoulder and core stability must be properly developed prior to attempting a freestanding handstand. This usually isn't the case, therefore increasing the risk for injury. I treat training like advanced college classes, with prerequisites to proceed to the next level. There is no race to the finish line, take time to enjoy the journey and learn things about yourself along the way.

With minimal equipment, the world is your gym. Find a set of bars and pull yourself up. Find an unstable surface or ledge and work on your balancing. Get on the floor and bust out some push-ups, mountain climbers or V-ups. If you want more of a challenge, try suspension training. With suspension training, you are essentially using a pair of straps with handles that are hung from a secure post, which is overhead. You can grip the strap with your hands or place your feet in them for a plethora of exercises that vary in difficulty. Suspension training provides a wide array of exercises with one versatile and lightweight piece of equipment. You can work your entire body, in all three planes of motion. By placing your body in suspension, it is less stable, which means that your body has to create that stability. Hence, each exercise is engaging more muscle groups and strengthening your stabilizing muscles. The concept can be difficult to learn at first but the results are very rewarding. If you like the idea of suspension training but think it looks difficult, seek the help of a professional.

When executed correctly, any exercise can be effective. Bodyweight training is no different. No matter what equipment you use, the possibilities are limitless. If you fall down, try it again and come back stronger. Push your body to its limits. If you don't fail, you aren't trying hard enough.

WhyWeight, don't hesitate, participate, before it's too late!

-Steve, at WhyWeight-