Calisthenics vs Weights ( Which is better? )

What is Calisthenics?

en.wikipedia.org

Calisthenics or Callisthenics is a form of strength training consisting of a variety of movements that exercise large muscle groups ( gross motor movements ), such as standing, grasping, pushing, etc. These exercise are often performed rhythmically and with minimal equipment, as bodyweight exercise. 

What is Weights?

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Weights is the synonym for "Bodybuilding". Weights is the use of progressive resistance exercise to control and develop one's muscles ( muscle building ) by muscle hypertrophy for aesthetic purposes. It is distinct from similar activities such as powerlifting because it focuses on physical appearance instead of strength. An individual who is engaged of this activity is is referred to as bodybuilder.

Which is better?

Although weightlifting and calisthenics are both forms of strength training. they yield different results. The best choice ultimately depends on your fitness goals. 

Benefits of Calisthenics 

1. Affordable and convenient 

Calisthenics primarily uses your bodyweight for the exercise, thus it can be done without any equipments.

2. Uses multiple muscle groups at once

A major benefit of calisthenics is that it involves compound exercises. This means it uses multiple muscle groups at once. It requires a high amount of movement, allowing you to burn a lot of calories in a short period of time. 

3. Improves flexibility, balance, and more

Calisthenics can improve :

• Coordination
• Flexibility
• Balance
• Endurance

Benefits of Weightlifting

1. Easy to progress 

Compared to calisthenics, progressing your effort is more straightforward. For instance, you can simply use heavier dumbbell to make your workout harder ( be sure not to push yourself too hard though! ).

2. Can isolate specific muscle groups 

Performing an isolated exercises is easier when weightlifting. These movements use just one primary muscle group, which works against all the resistance. This concentrated load can make it easier to increase the size of specific muscle groups. 

For Building Strength 

If you want to build strength, weightlifting is the way to go in long run. 

Using external weight makes it easier to overload muscle groups, promoting tiny tears in the muscle that stimulate repair. The result is muscle growth, or hypertrophy, which increases muscle strength.

That’s not to say calisthenics doesn’t make you strong. The dynamic, compound movement of calisthenics requires a great deal of strength. Plus, with the right technique, you can add enough resistance to increase muscle size and strength.

For Burning Calories 

Calisthenics is better for burning calories, which in turn may help you lose weight and body fat. That’s because it uses a lot of movement. This requires more energy, which your body gets by burning calories. The more calories you burn, the more weight you lose.

Calisthenics can also be used in more vigorous workouts, like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or circuit training. This can add even more movement and further increase your caloric burn.

The isolated movements of weightlifting don’t require as much energy. Yet, it’s worth noting that it will still contribute to overall weight loss. Building muscle increases your basal metabolic rate, or the number of calories you burn at rest.

Key Takeaway 

If you’re stuck between calisthenics vs. weightlifting, consider your goals and workout style. Calisthenics uses your bodyweight and involves compound exercises. It requires a lot of movement, making it better for losing weight and defining your muscles.

With weightlifting, you use external weights like dumbbells. It involves isolated exercises that increase the size of a muscle group. When done regularly, weightlifting is best for building strength and muscle size.

Both techniques are excellent forms of strength training. If you’d like to combine them, try doing calisthenics and weightlifting on the same day or on alternative days.

most informations are taken from https://www.healthline.com/health/calisthenics-vs-weightlifting#best-for-building-strength