First Cut Fitness

As most of you know, I am a proponent of natural bodyweight calisthenics exercises over pumping that iron. Of course, there are good and bad qualities to both, and I wouldn't necessarily say that one is better than the other, but one thing that calisthenics has over lifting metal weights is the convenience.

Sure, going to the gym, and seeing all the other people giving it their all is plenty motivating, but first you have to actually get there, and above all, you must fork over your hard earned cash just to get in the door. Why waste time and money when the best gym of all... is the one right where you are standing?

When it comes to overall effectiveness and ease of performance, few exercises can match the good old fashioned push up. Whether you are just starting out or a seasoned athlete, a consistent push up routine can provide one heck of a workout. As a matter of fact, if you were to choose only one exercise to build up the upper body, you'd be hardpressed to find something better.

One of the best programs I have found for those just starting out or looking to add a little extra to their repertoire is called One Hundred Push Ups. This step by step tuturial is just the ticket to sculp a bit of lean muscle onto that physique for the summer beach months, and if done correctly, can be accomplished in six weeks or less. I know it is cliché to mention maximum results in minimal time as a means of motivation, but in terms of return on investment, few routines can match this when it comes to "bang for your buck." Now, if you'll excuse me, time to go bust out another set!

For those who practice calisthenics, you have likely looked up in awe at the acrobats from internationally famous troupes such as Cirque Du Soleil. What makes them even more remarkable is the sheer amount of training they must partake in on a daily basis, let alone the actual nightly performances in front of hundreds if not thousands of spectators.

If they were to listen to the general principles of sets and reps preached in normal fitness circles, they would surely be overtraining. However, with calisthenics being a more natural training system involving only your own bodyweight, the human body can more easily adapt, greatly decreasing the possibility of injury.

Like many who are now strictly into calisthenics, I was once an avid weightlifter going through the normal trials and tribulations at the gym. Over the years, I sustained many minor aches and pains hoisting up those artificial, metallic, manmade creations. Things were going decently well, but I was looking for something more enjoyable, more effective, and above all, more fulfilling.

About five years ago, I started doing parkour, but still pumped the iron as my main source of strength training. It wasn't quite ready to forgo the gym completely.

However, one day, it all just clicked. After viewing countless parkour and calisthenics training videos over time, I had seen enough to make me a believer. I gave up going to my once beloved gym cold turkey, and as they say, ain't never turning back! It's also no coincidence that most of the nagging injuries have all gone by the wayside. I haven't picked up a single iron weight for quite some time now, and I plan to keep it that way for the foreseeable future.

Here is just a sampling of some amazing videos I have recently come across. Prepare to be mesmerized and inspired at the same time. Obviously, these are the big time professionals, and most of us would be happy to perform 1/10 of the tricks they do, but one can't help but be motivated by merely watching.

Put away the dumbbells. This is what real strength is all about.

Ido Portal makes it look so effortless. If you have a chance to attend one of his workshops, don't pass it up!

Willy Weldens is a famous acrobat from France, where he has his own show. If he ever comes Stateside, I'll be the first in line for tickets.

Alternative Circus is one of many amazing circus troupes from the Ukraine.

I have no idea who these guys are, or where they're from, but simply prepare to pick up your jaw after it drops to the floor.

Encho Keryazov, undoubtedly is one of the strongest pound for pound individuals on the planet. Then again, is he even human?

I had the pleasure of witnessing the Alexis Brothers in action as part of Mystère in Las Vegas. Needless to say, I was quite in awe. With this clip here, they are fittingly at the Arnold Classic bodybuilding show, letting everyone in attendance know what, REAL, functional muscle is supposed to look like!

Oh, and last but not least, this guy isn't too shabby! ;-)

Wow, all these videos are getting me pumped up. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be at the park if you need me.