How To Do A Calisthenics Workout Better

For some reason, people spend more time figuring out how to get the results they want with weight training than with a calisthenics workout. Weight lifters come up with complex calculations of weight, sets, reps, rest periods, nutrition etc. to gain an edge on getting superior results faster. But when it comes to bodyweight workouts, it seems like the one size fits all method rules.

I think this stems from the mentality that bodyweight exercises are only good for moderate improvements and general fitness. And since it is believed to be a "mediocre" training method, it is only given "mediocre" attention. This is a big mistake, and I'm going to show you why you should strive to make your bodyweight workouts the best they can be.

Don't Rely On A One Size Fits All Calisthenics Program

You'll commonly see calisthenics used as a warm up for other forms of resistance training (weight lifting) or to improve general fitness. Basic bodyweight exercise like push ups, crunches and squats come to mind. But this doesn't even scratch the surface of the power of bodyweight workouts.

Here is the truth. Bodyweight calisthenics can be just as effective as weight training to improve performance, burn off fat and build a muscular body. Therefore, just as much care and planning should be used to design your bodyweight only workout program as you would a weight training program. A one size fits all, "mediocre" workout program just won't do.

Use Multiple Calisthenics Workouts To Reach Your Ultimate Goal

Basically, there are three types of calisthenics workouts you should design. One targeted to general fitness, one to fat loss and one to strength and size. Why these three focuses? Because these are the three areas most people need to work on in order to reach their fitness, fat loss and physique goals.

In the weight lifting world workouts are often split up along these lines. And they should also be used in a bodyweight only program. The trick is to design the programs so they focus on a specific goal, without neglecting all other goals.

Blur The Lines Between Strength Training And Cardio Conditioning

The biggest mistake I see both bodyweight exercisers and weight lifters do is insisting on splitting up their resistance training and cardio training. They divide their training so much that they don't get the best benefits.

In the real world, activities require the COMBINED effort of all the muscles in your body, heart and lung power and mental toughness. Activities must be performed in a fluid manner switching between all three. You must blur the lines between your resistance training and cardio training.

Bodyweight calisthencis workouts make this easy. By using bodyweight exercises combined with fast paced calisthenics exercises, you can get a great workout that results in more real world benefits. If you want you body to respond in the face of real sport, work and life challenges, you must train it properly by challenging the entire body as one complete unit.

A calisthenics exercise program should be planned just as carefully as any other type of physical training. Design different workouts with different goals in mind. And push the limits by combining your resistance training and cardio training. You'll be happy with the results.

About the Author

Coach Eddie Lomax helps you get the best at home workouts with the Ultimate Gymless Workout. If you think you know everything about bodyweight calisthenics workouts, check out the Above And Beyond Package.

How to Shop for a Home Treadmill

Specialty fitness dealers are always your best and safest way to shop for a home treadmill regardless of your budget or fitness level. This article will provide you with on how to shop for a home treadmill in Arizona. Whether you're just looking for something simple or the next big thing, the following information will be beneficial to you.

Shopping for a home treadmill can be very intimidating! There are so many different brands, models and styles it can be next to impossible to choose the right one for your home. For most people, buying a home treadmill is a major investment. It's also a good investment for those who have decided to make a conscious effort to be fit and healthy. That is why it is important to put together a checklist that identifies attributes that are most important for you and your workout. Here are some tips that should help you out:

1. The first thing you should consider when choosing a treadmill is the construction. A well-constructed treadmill is something that everyone in your family can enjoy. You will want a treadmill that is built with high alloy steel or aluminum frame that is strong enough to support the heaviest person. Some machines come with a weight limit - make sure that limit won't inhibit your workout.

2. Quality is also very important when shopping for a home treadmill. Better quality treadmills provide cushioning to limit the impact on your knees, ankles, hips and lower back. Your body absorbs up to 2 - times your body weight when your feet hit the belt. You'll also probably want a treadmill that has 1.5 to 3.0 horsepower to regulate power and prevent surges. One key thing to remember is that a larger motor will probably run cooler and require less repair and/or maintenance! Don't forget to check the length of the manufacturer's warranty - the longer the better!

3. How will you be using your home treadmill? Will you be walking? Jogging? Running? Depending on the type of exercise you'll be doing, you may need a machine that is sturdier than others. Always keep in mind that you get what you pay for! A heavy-duty treadmill can withstand running as well as walking, but be prepared to spend more money. If you're planning to use a treadmill purely for walking, you probably don't need an expensive, top-of-the-line machine.

4. Watch out for noise! A major consideration for a home treadmill is the amount of noise it can produce. A loud machine can drown out a lot of noise - kids, television, oven timers, etc. And some small, repetitive sounds can drive a person crazy and provide you with one more reason not to exercise. We recommend testing a treadmill before you buy it. Turn it on and step on it so you can assess the noise level and see if it's something you can live with.

5. One feature that is absolutely necessary for a home treadmill is an emergency stop button or a safety key. If you or one of your family members accidentally trip, stumble or fall, you can pull the key or push the button to turn the machine off automatically. Remember - this is a machine and not a toy! Don't leave anything to chance.

6. And finally, don't forget the bells and whistles! The newest models come with many extra features, but if there's one we recommend as a necessity, it's a heart rate monitor. Using a heart rate monitor during your workout will help you adjust the speed or incline to keep your heart rate in the optimum zone. It's a good investment in your health!

These tips, along with your own personal preferences, should make choosing a home treadmill easier for you and your family. Don't forget your checklist!

About the Author

Bob Lachinet is the owner of Fitness 4 Home Superstore, a specialty fitness equipment dealer recently named the #1 choice for home fitness equipment in Arizona by BestFitnessDealers.com! Find the best way to buy fitness equipment in Arizona - visit our site today.