Calisthenic Workouts for Beginners

Lower Body First

Calisthenics for your lower body include the squat, step-ups and lunges. These three exercises are the foundation to more advanced exercises, like power training and Olympic lifts, says physical therapist Gray Cook, author of "Athletic Body in Balance." For beginners, use the multiple-set system, which is performing each exercise individually for two to four sets for eight to 15 reps. Rest for 20 to 30 seconds between sets before doing another set.

Upper-Body Strength

Pushups and pullups are the two basic upper-body calisthenics, and each has its own level of progression. If you cannot do the standard pushup, start doing pushups on an elevated surface, such on a chair, a pair of low, parallel bars or a flight of stairs. Gradually work your way down to the floor. For pullups, use a pullup machine that has a stack of weights to counter your own weight. Or you can use a low parallel bar, such as a squat bar on a squat rack, about two to three feet off the floor to help you do pullups.

Supersets

If you want to burn more calories and save more time, do supersets, which is doing two exercises that work different muscle groups without rest in between. You can divide upper-body and lower-body exercises or do one pushing exercise followed by a pulling exercise. For example, a superset can be a squat with a pullup or a pushup with a pullup. Rest for 30 seconds before doing another superset.

Considerations

Add various methods of exercise with your calisthenic workout to avoid boredom and exercise plateaus, such as jump-roping, kettlebell lifting, sprinting and medicine ball throws. If you experience pain or have any medical conditions that worsen with exercise, consult your health care provider before starting any exercise program.