Many exercisers have the erroneous belief that lifting weights is the only thing they should do to build their best body. But the truth is, bodyweight exercises should be an integral part of EVERYONE'S workout program. Using your own bodyweight is the perfect starting place for beginners, but is also important for advanced exercises who want to perform, feel and look their best.

There Are two Types Of Movement You Need To Train

Exercise is really about movement. Unfortunately, the bodybuilding culture has shifted the focus from movement to muscles. Let's switch it back!

There are two types of movement everyone should train: the movement of your own body and the movement of weighted objects. (And some exercises, like barbell squats, are a combination of both). To build a high-performance body that looks its best, you need to train both.

However, if I had to pick just one I would say that moving your body with bodyweight exercises is more FUNDAMENTAL to fitness. Many of the challenges you'll face in sport, work and life will be overcome by your ability to move your body with strength, flexibility, power, agility, speed and coordination. And if you want to perform your best, you must train for it.

The SAID Principle

Many people believe weight training is better than bodyweight training because of the added resistance. They think if they can move with the added weight, then moving without the weight will also be improved. And while there is some carryover, you still need to training bodyweight only movements for the best results.

The SAID Principle means "Specific Adaptations To Imposed Demands". Basically, your body makes specific adaptation to the kinds of demands placed on it. In other words, if you want to be better at bodyweight movements, you need to use bodyweight exercises.

Bodyweight Exercises Are The Foundation Of Any Training Program

Using your own bodyweight for exercise should be the first thing you master before you attempt weighted exercise. Sadly, many workout programs skip bodyweight training all together or think it unnecessary if using weight machines. This is a big mistake. So, if you are just starting out on an exercise program, start with bodyweight calisthenics. If you are already performing a weight training program, add bodyweight calisthenics.

Bodyweight workouts have a lot to offer your fitness, fat loss and physique building. Frankly, many people are not reaching their performance, health or appearance goals specifically because they avoid using bodywieight only exercises. So, to be the best you can be, don't forget bodyweight exercises!