Calisthenics: Building body strength and community feeling

Calisthenics, a form of exercise, is quietly reshaping Delhiites’ approach to fitness. Derived from the Greek words kállos (beauty) and sthenos (strength), calisthenics emphasises using one’s body weight for resistance training, promoting strength, agility, and overall fitness through natural movements.

Beyond its physical benefits, calisthenics in Delhi is also fostering a strong sense of community among its practitioners. Local groups and clubs, such as the Workout Warriors group of India’s Got Talent fame, organise regular meet-ups, workshops, and training sessions where members support and motivate each other. This camaraderie not only enhances motivation but also creates lasting friendships and networks that extend beyond fitness.

“Calisthenics in Delhi has gained popularity for its simplicity and effectiveness. Utilising basic bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and planks, enthusiasts can sculpt their bodies and improve their fitness levels without the need for expensive gym memberships or specialised equipment. This accessibility has made calisthenics a preferred choice among Delhiites looking for practical and sustainable fitness solutions,” said Prajapati, who is the trainer of Workout Warriors.

Accessibility and Affordability

One of the key advantages of calisthenics in Delhi is its affordability and accessibility. Parks like Lodhi Garden, Nehru Park, and Rajpath serve as natural gyms where enthusiasts gather to practice their routines amid greenery and fresh air. This outdoor setup not only enhances the workout experience but also eliminates the financial burden associated with traditional gym facilities.

Rajan Sharma, a prominent calisthenics coach based in Delhi, highlighted the accessibility of this form of fitness. 

“Calisthenics is for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced athlete, all you need is dedication and a space to move. It’s about using your body’s weight to build strength and flexibility naturally,” he said. 

Natasha, a student and calisthenics enthusiast from Delhi, shared her experience, saying, “Joining the calisthenics community has been transformative. I’ve met incredible people who share my passion for fitness and encourage me to push my limits. It’s a supportive environment that keeps me motivated.”

Growth and recognition

Though initially concentrated in central Delhi areas like Connaught Place, and south Delhi, the calisthenics movement is spreading across various neighbourhoods of other parts of Delhi and its suburbs. 

Parks and public spaces increasingly feature calisthenics-friendly equipment and designated areas, reflecting the growing recognition of its health benefits and appeal among fitness enthusiasts of all ages.

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Tushar Sharma, owner and founder of Alphapack Academy, the first calisthenics academy in Delhi, described its growth. 

“When we started in 2015, we were just a few people who were crazy about fitness and keen on finding something fun for our fitness regime outside of gym. I’ve seen calisthenics grow in the city from nothing to where it is now. In 2016, our team participated in India’s Got Talent, which gave us recognition and helped people in getting to know us. We got media coverage, which really inspired us to do more and inspired others as well. Initially, our parents didn’t support us, but after 2016, they also started to trust us, and that’s how our journey took off,” he says. 

Sharma said Delhi’s beautiful parks and open gyms helped them kickstart this journey. 

“We started taking workshops in open parks and introduced people to calisthenics. Many of them started doing calisthenics because they were bored with the gym. Calisthenics was interesting and new for people. After a lot of hard work, we opened the first calisthenics academy in Delhi in 2021, and now, in just four years, we have three branches in Delhi NCR. This shows the growth of calisthenics in the Capital.”

He added, “In one of our interviews after IGT, we shared our vision to represent India and bear the national flag at the highest level. We did it. Two of our players, Sidharth Tyagi and Kunal Mahour, have represented India in four World Cups (2017-2021) so far, and Kunal is a five-time national champion.”

As for women in calisthenics, he said, “Women are very few compared to men; the ratio is very uneven. But the number is increasing slowly, and it will definitely go up with time.”

Future prospects

Sharma has high hopes for the future of calisthenics. 

“The future of calisthenics in Delhi appears promising. As awareness grows and more individuals prioritise fitness and well-being, calisthenics is expected to continue expanding its footprint across the city. Advancements in digital connectivity and online resources further facilitate learning and community engagement, making it easier for newcomers to join and thrive in the movement.

“In fact, calisthenics in Delhi represents not just a fitness trend but a cultural shift towards holistic health and community bonding. By promoting accessible fitness solutions and fostering supportive networks, calisthenics empowers people to lead healthier, more active lifestyles. As the movement gains momentum, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the fitness landscape of Delhi for years to come,” concluded Sharma.