The Benefits of Bodyweight Training

Even without gyms, equipment and fancy classes, you can still get fit using your own body. That’s what bodyweight training is all about—working against your own weight to build muscle. This type of exercise is effective and comes with all kinds of benefits. Let’s see what they are.

It’s Free!

Gym membership and gym equipment can cost an arm and a leg, but using the weight of your arms and legs is free! You can do bodyweight exercises anytime, anywhere. Start in your living room, move to your backyard, and eventually, you can be that ripped person doing pull-ups at the beach.

Great for Beginners or Pros

Anyone can do push-ups, squats, and sit-ups. Beginners should start slow and focus on form. It’s a good idea to do these exercises in front of a mirror so you can watch yourself and make sure you maintain good posture. If you’re a pro, then bodyweight training is an excellent way to stay in shape while the gyms are closed. You may even find that you’re more fit afterward.

Fewer Injuries

Weights can be dangerous if you lose control. This is why many people who lift weights use spotters to make sure that the weights don’t fall on them. Even things like swinging a kettlebell can be dangerous if your hand slips. But with bodyweight exercises, the only thing you need to watch out for is form. Make sure that your shoulders are relaxed and pulled back, and your abdominals are tight (to take the pressure off your back). Finally, don’t forget to squeeze your glutes. Keep your eyes facing forward and your chin tucked to take the strain off your neck.

Versatility

You don’t need to worry about boredom when you do bodyweight exercises. There’s a nearly-endless number of exercises you can do, so switch them up every day. In fact, it’s even more effective than running through the same gym routine day-in and day-out. Like your brain, your muscles get used to the same motions, so you’ll find that your progress begins to plateau. But by switching up your routine, you work different groups of muscles with each session.

It Works

Bodyweight training exercises are considered to be the core of many fitness routines. Why? Because they are that effective. If someone has a client that is unable to use gym equipment, having them work with the weight of their own body is always an option. Even if you are able to go to spin class or participate in a Crossfit class, bodyweight exercises are still a good alternative on non-class days. You can’t go wrong with a gym routine that only involves you and gravity!