We get asked this question a lot. Since we are pro-calisthenics, this must mean we are against the actual lifting of weights, right? Before we get into more details, let's clarify. "Lifting weights" indeed also covers calisthenics, as your own body is considered "weight," but semantics aside, when most people think of "weightlifting," it pertains to the metallic objects at the gym.
So, are we actually against the usage of gym equipment? Not at all! As a matter of fact, we were all pretty much gym rats back in the day before getting bitten by the calisthenics bug. Once in awhile, we'll feel compelled enough to actually visit the gym to whip out some compound movements, such as deadlifts and squats (never any curls or isolation exercises), but the majority of our program still involves only bodyweight, including 100% of upper body movements.
When training our clients, we certainly recommend calisthenics for ease and convenience, but of course it all depends on their needs and wants. We have a few right now who are on strict bodybuilding and powerlifting workouts, while others are doing nothing but calisthenics.
What it boils down to is what resources you have available to you, and what your end goals are. The workout you most enjoy doing, and see the best results with, is the one you will stick with.
