Calisthenics (American English) or callisthenics (British English) (/ˌkælɪsˈθɛnɪks/) is a form of strength training that utilizes an individuals body weight as resistance to perform multi-joint, compound movements with little or no equipment. Origin and etymology The Oxford English Dictionary describes callisthenics as "gymnastic exercises to achieve fitness and grace of movement". The word calisthenics comes from the ancient Greek words kállos (κάλλος), which means "beauty," and sthenos (σθένος), meaning "strength." It is the art of using one's body weight as resistance to develop physique. The practice was recorded in use in Ancient Greece, including the armies of Alexander the Great and the Spartans at the Battle of Thermopylae.Calisthenics was also recorded to have been in use in Ancient China. Along with dieting, Han Dynasty physicians prescribed calisthenics as one of the methods of maintaining one's health. Common exercises The more commonly...