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Calisthenics

By Paige Waehner, About.com

Updated August 18, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: Calisthenics refers to exercises that are done in a rhythmic, systematic way using the body weight for resistance. Typical calisthenic exercises include pushups, jumping jacks, squats and crunches and focus on building strength, endurance and flexibility. These days, we regularly see calisthenic exercises in traditional strength training workouts as well as in circuit training and bootcamp training.

You can find examples of body weight exercises in my No Weight Workout.

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