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Top Full-Body Calisthenics Workout For Strength & Conditioning

- Writen by: - Reviewed by April Edwards, MSc, PT Fact checked

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Not everyone has access to a gym, but that does not mean you cannot build strength, mobility, and endurance. A full-body calisthenics workout offers a no-equipment solution to help you reach your fitness goals at home, outdoors, or on the move.

This bodyweight full-body workout combines compound and isolation exercises to engage every major muscle group. It is ideal for developing functional strength, improving conditioning, and supporting total-body balance. Whether you are training in your living room or at a park, this calisthenics full body circuit fits any routine. Let us get started.

Best Exercises For A Full-Body Calisthenics Routine

Push-Up

Chest

All Calisthenics Exercises For Full-Body Training

Looking to build strength from head to toe? This list includes every movement you need for a true calisthenics total body workout. These exercises target your upper body, lower body, and core using only your bodyweight, making them ideal for training at home, outdoors, or anywhere in between.

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Chair Chest Dip

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Chair

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Place two sturdy chairs shoulder-width apart on a stable, non-slip surface, with their backs facing inward and away from each other.
  2. Stand between the chairs with your feet hip-width apart and arms by your sides... Read more

Russian Twist

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Sit on the floor with your knees bent.
  2. Tilt your torso back as you lift your feet off the floor... Read more

Side Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Set up a flat area to perform the side plank. Consider using a yoga mat or towel for added cushion while performing this exercise. 
  2. Lay down on the mat on your right side. .. Read more

Side Lying Tricep Press

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Lie on your side on a mat. Ensure your body forms a straight line but maintain a slight bend into the knees for better balance.
  2. Lift your torso so that you have enough space to place the forearm of the bottom arm under your torso... Read more

Pseudo Planche Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Enter a tabletop position with your hands and knees on a mat or towel. 
  2. Position your hands out to the side and near your stomach. Your fingers should point away from your body. Ensure both arms are fully extended with your elbows next to your ribs... Read more

Incline Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Chair

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Get a bench, table, or any stable elevated surface. Ensure it's set up in a suitable space.
  2. Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the edge of the surface with your arms extended. .. Read more

Push-Up Burpees

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

Leg

  1. Start in a standing position.
  2. Hinge from the hips and squat down... Read more

Mike Tyson Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Set up near a wall and start in a tabletop position with your back facing the wall.
  2. Place your feet against the wall, hip-width apart, and lift into a high plank with your shoulders stacked over your wrists... Read more

Hanging Leg Raise

Equipment:

Pull Up Bar

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Standing directly below the chin-up bar, jump up and grab the bar using an overhand grip.
  2. Point your toes toward the ground... Read more

Reverse Snow Angels

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Lie face down on a mat with arms at your sides, palms facing up.
  2. Engage your core and squeeze your glutes to stabilize your body... Read more

Plyo Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the floor. Keep your body straight from head to heels.
  2. Slowly lower your chest towards the floor by bending your elbows. Keep your core engaged and back straight... Read more

Reverse Iron Cross Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Start by laying flat on your back.
  2. Bend your knees pointing upward... Read more

Chair Tricep Dip

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Chair

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Sit on the edge of a sturdy chair. Place your hands on the edge beside your hips, fingers pointing forward, elbows close to your sides.
  2. Slide your hips off the chair, keeping your arms extended to support your weight. Extend your legs forward with knees bent at 90 degrees—or straighten them for more challenge. Keep your chest lifted and head facing forward... Read more

Cross-Body Shoulder Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Find a suitable area at home or in the gym. Allow enough space to move your arms through a full arc motion. 
  2. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Your hips should be facing forward... Read more

Arm Circle

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. For this exercise, you will need to enter an upright standing position.
  2. Place feet shoulder-width apart. .. Read more

Decline Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Chair

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Be sure you have a sturdy bench or elevated surface that can support your body weight. Starting from an all-fours position, bring your feet up to the bench and place them slightly apart.
  2. Place your hands on the ground, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart... Read more

High Knees

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Stand with feet hip-width apart, arms relaxed at your sides.
  2. Lift your right knee toward your chest, simultaneously swinging your left arm forward. This movement simulates a running position... Read more

Fingertip Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Find a suitable padded area or gym mat to improve comfort during the exercise.
  2. Begin in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor, body facing downward... Read more

Plank Shoulder Tap

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Begin on your hands and knees with your hands shoulder-width apart and wrists positioned directly under your shoulders.
  2. Step your feet back under your legs are completely straight and you’re in a plank position... Read more

Pike Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Find a suitable mat or padded area away from gym equipment. This can be at home or in the gym. 
  2. Stand with your feet hip-width apart with your arms by your sides. Assume a plank position on the ground. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders and the balls of your feet should be on the ground... Read more

Diamond Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Start in a plank position with your hands placed directly under the center of your chest. 
  2. Position your hands close to each other and form a diamond shape between your index fingers and thumbs... Read more

Tricep Dip On Bench

Equipment:

Flat Bench Without Rack

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Sit on the edge of the bench and place your hands next to your hips on the bench. Your fingertips should be facing forward gripping the side of the bench.
  2. Slide your hips off the bench and straighten your legs out in front of you. Keep a slight bend in your knees. Your heels should be on the ground, and your arms should be fully extended, supporting your weight... Read more

Deficit Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Get a non-slippery mat and place two sturdy weight plates, yoga blocks, or dumbbells on it shoulder-width apart.
  2. Get into a push-up position with your body in a straight line head to heels... Read more

Flutter Kick

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms by your sides.
  2. Raise your legs off the ground about six inches... Read more

Push-Up to Shoulder Tap

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Start in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on a padded surface or mat for support and comfort.
  2. Position your hands shoulder-width apart with fingers pointing slightly outward... Read more

Walking Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin in a high plank position with your hands shoulder-width apart. Your body should be straight and your core muscles fully engaged.
  2. As you inhale, lower your chest to the ground by bending your elbows. Then, on the exhale, push back up to the starting position... Read more

Seated Hamstring Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Sit on the floor. Extend one leg straight out in front. Bend the other leg with the knee pointed outward. Tuck the foot in toward your center.
  2. Sit upright. Keep your back straight and shoulders stacked over your hips... Read more

Chin-Up

Equipment:

Pull Up Bar

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Stand directly below the chin-up bar. Reach up with both arms and grab the bar using an underhand grip. 
  2. Gently pull your shoulder blades back and down to make a proud chest. .. Read more

Reverse Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. First, position your hands facing backward at approximately a 45-degree angle. Your fingers should be pointed in the general direction of your feet.
  2. The underside of your forearm will be facing forward... Read more

Hindu Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Set up next to a suitable mat or padded area for comfort and safety.
  2. Assume a kneeling position and place your hands on the floor, shoulder-width apart, with your fingers slightly angled outward... Read more

Knee Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Start in a kneeling plank position with your arms fully extended. Your hands should be beneath your shoulders, palms flat on the ground.
  2. Inhale as you slowly lower your chest down to the ground, flexing your elbows to 90 degrees... Read more

Glute Bridge

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Begin by lying on a mat with knees bent and feet flat, hip-width apart. Your arms should be resting by your side.
  2. Make sure your knees are aligned with your hips. Inhale and engage your core to flatten your lower back against the ground and stabilize your hips... Read more

Scissor Kick

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Obtain an exercise mat and lie on your back with your legs parallel to the floor and arms at your sides.
  2. Pull your belly button towards your spine to engage your core. Your back should stay in this position for the entire exercise. Be sure to focus on your breath to engage your deep core... Read more

Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Start on your hands and knees. Place your hands directly under your shoulders. Be sure to keep your shoulders down and away from your ears.
  2. Extend both legs to have straight knees. Your knees should now be risen off the ground... Read more

Bodyweight Bulgarian Split Squat

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Flat Bench Without Rack

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Stand a few feet in front of a bench or elevated surface, with your back to it.
  2. Put your hands on your hips. Place the top of your left foot on the bench... Read more

Mountain Climber

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Position yourself on the floor with your hands directly under your shoulders. Keep your legs extended straight behind you. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Brace your core to stabilize your spine. Keep your hips level and avoid sagging or piking... Read more

Knee Hug Glute Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Lie flat on your back with your legs extended straight and arms relaxed at your sides.
  2. Bend one knee and bring it up towards your chest. Use both hands to hug the knee... Read more

Dynamic Arm Swing

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

Chest

  1. Stand with flat feet hip-width apart on the floor with your knees slightly bent.
  2. Raise your arms out to your sides at shoulder height... Read more

Wall Tricep Press

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand facing a wall, placing your hands on it at shoulder height and shoulder-width apart. Your fingers should point upward.
  2. Step back slightly so your arms are extended, and your body forms a straight line from head to heels... Read more

Crab Walk

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Sit on the ground with your knees bent in front of you and your feet flat on the floor. Your palms should be flat on the ground beneath your shoulders, with fingers facing out to the sides.
  2. Inhale to engage and lift your hips off the ground... Read more

Grasshopper Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Place your hands shoulder-width apart on the floor. Keep your body in a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Bend your elbows, lowering your chest towards the floor as if doing a regular push-up... Read more

Wall Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Place your feet 1–2 feet away from the wall.
  2. Lean forward and place your hands on the wall. Position them shoulder-width apart, at the same height as your chest... Read more

Side-Lying Hip Abduction

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Find a suitable mat or padded area. Lie down on your side with your torso slightly forward. Bring the arm closest to the floor to a right angle and rest your head on your hand.
  2. Bring your top leg forward slightly and straighten it at an angle. Your bottom leg should be at a right angle resting against the floor. Place your free hand on the floor so you’re on your side... Read more

Plank Leg Raise

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

Abs

  1. Begin by lying face down. Place your forearms on the ground, elbows directly under your shoulders.
  2. Extend your legs straight behind you, with your toes on the floor. Lift your body off the ground, forming a straight line from head to heels... Read more

Overhead Triceps Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand with your arms by your aides and your feet hip-width apart.
  2. Raise your left arm above your head and bend the elbow to bring your hand behind your head... Read more

Negative Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin in the classic push-up position, with a straight line from your ankles through to the top of your head. Your feet should be hip-width apart and your hands shoulder-width apart.
  2. Slowly and deliberately lower your body until it almost hits the ground. Keep a nice straight line from your ankles through to the top of your head... Read more

Bodyweight Bicep Curl

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Sit down on a chair or gym bench with your back straight and upright.
  2. Place your feet flat on the ground, about shoulder-width apart. Your legs should have a 90-degree bend... Read more

Bird Dog

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Start in a tabletop position, with both hands and knees touching the ground. Your spine should be in a neutral position. Inhale and engage your core.
  2. Exhale while slowly extending your right arm forward and your left leg backward, keeping both limbs parallel to the floor... Read more

Dead Bug

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Lay on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor.
  2. Raise your arms and straighten them over your chest so your fingers point to the ceiling.  .. Read more

Burpees

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

Abs

  1. Start in a standing position.
  2. Begin by hinging at the hips to squat, while reaching down with your hands towards the ground... Read more

Cossack Squat

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Start by standing in a very wide stance, somewhere between two and three times shoulder width.
  2. Shift your body weight to the right side. As you do, rotate your left foot so your toes point up, and the heel is on the ground... Read more

Jump Squat

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Standing, set your feet shoulder-width apart to create a solid base.
  2. Bend your elbows so your hands are pointed toward the ceiling at chest height... Read more

Fire Hydrant

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Get on the floor on your hands and knees. Your hands should be directly under your shoulders, and your knees should be under your hips.
  2. Lift your right leg off the floor to the side by moving your knee out and up. Keep your knee bent... Read more

Archer Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Find a flat space where you can perform the archer push-up safely and comfortably.
  2. Begin by placing your knees on the floor and leaning forward to position your hands about twice shoulder-width apart... Read more

Wrist Extension

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand upright with your feet shoulder-width apart and arms relaxed by your sides.
  2. Extend one arm straight in front of you at shoulder height with your palm facing downward. Keep a slight bend in your elbow... Read more

Doorway Chest Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Stand in a doorway with your elbows bent at shoulder height and your forearms resting on the doorframe.
  2. Keeping your forearms and palms flat on the doorframe, gently lean through the doorway. Avoid excessively arching the lower back when doing this... Read more

V-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Lie on your back with arms and legs extended and feet together. Reach your arms overhead to touch the floor above your head.
  2. Pull in your belly button as you hinge from the hips to bring your arm and feet into the air. Do not bend at the elbows or knees... Read more

Hand-Release Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin in a high plank position with your hands placed directly under your shoulders and your body forming a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Inhale as you lower your body all the way down to the floor by bending your elbows, keeping your core engaged... Read more

Ring Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Ring

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Start in a high plank. Your toes should be on the ground. Each hand should grip the inner part of a ring with your elbows straight.
  2. Slowly lower your body by bending your elbows. Lower until your chest is about midway between the rings. Keep your elbows tucked in at 45 degrees... Read more

Superman Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Lie face down on the floor with arms outstretched overhead and palms flat.
  2. Place your toes on the floor so the weight is resting on the ball of the feet... Read more

Crunch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Place a mat or towel down on a flat surface.
  2. Lie down with your legs straight and arms at your sides. .. Read more

Handstand Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Find a suitable wall in a large space. Ensure that the wall is sturdy and free from clutter or obstructions.
  2. Face away from the wall with your feet hip-width apart. Stand with your head facing forward around 10 inches from the wall... Read more

Clamshells

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Lie on your side with your legs stacked and knees bent at an approximately 90-degree angle. Rest your head on your lower arm to support your neck.
  2. Engage your core to stabilize your body and prevent your hips from rotating as you move your top leg... Read more

Standing One-Arm Chest Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Stand sideways next to a wall or flat vertical surface.
  2. Extend the arm closest to the wall backwards, so that your palm is flat against the wall. Your arm should be parallel to the ground... Read more

Side Plank with Leg Lift

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

Glutes

  1. Lie on your side on an exercise mat, with your elbow directly under your shoulder.
  2. Stack your legs on top of each other while keeping them straight... Read more

Close-Grip Chin-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Pull Up Bar

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Begin by standing in front of a high, sturdy bar that will support your weight.
  2. Grasp the bar with an underhand grip, palms facing up. Your grip should be narrower than shoulder width and your arms extended with a slight bend in the elbow... Read more

Butt Kickers

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms relaxed at your sides.
  2. Begin by bringing your right heel up towards your glutes, bending at the knee... Read more

Toe Touches

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Laying flat on your back, lift both legs up as straight as you can. Your hip joint should be at a 90-degree angle.
  2. Lift your arms towards the ceiling and then reach up even further towards your toes... Read more

Chair Inverted Row

Equipment:

Stick

Chair

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

Shoulder

  1. Set up two chairs with their backs facing each other. Space the chairs two shoulder-widths apart.
  2. Position a bar in the middle on top of the backs of the chairs... Read more

Planche Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin with your knees and hands on the floor and feet lifted off the floor.
  2. Position your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart and rotate your hands back... Read more

Aztec Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Start in a push-up position with your hands wider than shoulder-width.
  2. Inhale and lower your chest towards the ground by bending your elbows... Read more

Sit-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Place a mat on the floor and lie down on your back.
  2. Bend your knees at a 90° angle and place your feet flat on the floor; hip-width apart... Read more

Lateral Step-Up With Knee Drive

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Get a step that is about mid-shin level.
  2. Stand with the step to your side... Read more

Wide-Grip Pull-Up

Equipment:

Pull Up Bar

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Find a sturdy pull-up bar that can support your body weight. Make sure it's high enough so you can hang freely without your feet touching the ground.
  2. Stand below the bar and reach up to grab it with both hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Your palms should face away from you (overhand grip)... Read more

Bear Crawl

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Shoulder

  1. Kneel and place your hands on the floor directly below your shoulders.
  2. Breathe in and tense your abdominal muscles... Read more

Wide Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin in a plank position with your feet and hands flat on the floor.
  2. Get comfortable in a standard push-up position with your hands under your shoulders, and elbows 45 degrees from your torso... Read more

Side Plank With Hip Abduction

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Balance on your side, supporting your weight with both hands on the ground.
  2. Stack your legs on top of each other... Read more

Single-Leg Glute Bridge

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Lie down on your back, bend your right knee, and place the right foot flat on the floor.
  2. Keep your left leg straight... Read more

Close-Grip Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Begin in a plank position with your hands slightly narrower than shoulder-width apart and your arms straight.
  2. Inhale as you bend your elbows, keeping them close to the body. Lower your chest to the ground... Read more

Forearm Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Place yourself in a high plank position with your shoulders directly above your wrists. Your hands should be placed slightly narrower than in a traditional push-up. Your spine should be in a neutral (flat) position. This is your starting position.
  2. Inhale and slowly bend your elbows to lower your body down to the floor. Keep your elbows tucked in close to your sides and your core tight and engaged... Read more

High Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Get into an all-fours position on the ground (i.e., on your hands and knees). Your hips should be over your knees. Your hands should be flat on the floor about shoulder-width apart and in line with your shoulders.
  2. Engage your back and shoulder muscles... Read more

Seal Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Begin by lying face-down on a mat on the floor with your legs extended, hip-width apart.
  2. Place both hands on the mat at chest height, slightly wider than shoulder width. Fingertips point toward the top of the mat. Elbows should be tucked close to the ribcage and bent at about 90 degrees... Read more

Side Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Lie on your right side with a 90-degree bend in your knees, keeping them stacked on one another.
  2. Wrap your right arm around your body, while keeping the upper right arm flat on the ground... Read more

Spider Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin in a plank position with your hands underneath your shoulders. Your arms need to be fully extended with your legs stretched behind you on the balls of your feet. Your body should form a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Inhale and stabilize yourself by engaging your core... Read more

Bodyweight Single-leg Deadlift

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

Leg

Back

  1. Stand upright with your feet close together and your arms relaxed by your sides. Keep your chest lifted and your head facing forward.
  2. Inhale as you engage your core and begin to hinge at the hips, bringing your right leg straight back while lowering your upper body forward... Read more

Copenhagen Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

Abs

  1. Find a suitable, stable surface that is slightly below knee height. If you are in a weight room, a bench or box will do nicely. If you are at home, a chair or couch can do the trick.
  2. Get set up in a side plank position with your left elbow and forearm on the floor. Place the inside of your right foot and ankle on the elevated surface. Your left leg should go beneath the elevated surface but be elevated off the floor... Read more

Bodyweight Reverse Wrist Curl

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and engage your core.
  2. Extend the arms down by the sides with shoulders relaxed and elbows straight... Read more

Seated Forward Bend

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Sit on the floor.
  2. Both legs should be hip-width apart and straight out in front of the body... Read more

Clap Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Kneel on the floor, lean forward, and place your hands on the floor.
  2. Position your hands at chest height, just wider than chest width apart... Read more

Reverse Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

Abs

Back

  1. Sit down on the floor or mat with your hands slightly behind you and a bit wider than shoulder-width apart. Your fingers should point forward.
  2. Lift your butt off the floor until your body forms a straight line from the heels to your head... Read more

Leg Raise

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Lie flat on your back with your arms resting on either side of you with your legs out straight.
  2. Engage your core by pulling your stomach muscles in towards your spine... Read more

Knee Diamond Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Start on your knees and place your hands together under your chest. Your hands should form a diamond shape with your thumbs and index fingers touching. Your hands should be in line with your chest, not your shoulders.
  2. Keep your back straight from your knees to your head. Engage your core to maintain a neutral spine throughout the movement... Read more

Single Leg Wall Sit

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Begin by standing with your back to the wall and your feet together about a foot out from the wall. You can place your hands flat on the wall behind you.
  2. Inhale and engage your core. Flatten your back against the wall and stabilize your hips with your knees together... Read more

One-Arm Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Place your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart for better balance.
  2. Slowly shift your body weight toward the arm that will remain on the ground... Read more

Plank Jacks

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Start in a high plank position with the palms of your hands flat on the floor beneath your shoulders. Your body should form a straight line from your head to your heels with your feet together.
  2. Inhale and engage your core and glutes... Read more

Oblique Rotations

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Place your forearms on the ground, elbows directly under your shoulders. Keep your legs extended and your body in a straight line from head to heels.
  2. Tighten your abdominal muscles to keep your body stable. This will help you maintain balance and protect your lower back... Read more

Side Plank Hip Raise

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Consider using a carpeted floor, yoga mat, grass, turf field, or towel for added cushion while performing this exercise.
  2. Lay down on your left side... Read more

T Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

Abs

  1. Start in a normal push-up position, with a straight line from your ankles through to the top of your head. Your feet should be hip-width apart and your hands shoulder-width apart.
  2. Lower your body until it almost hits the ground, maintaining an erect posture... Read more

Bicycle Crunch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. To begin, lay on your back on something soft. A yoga or exercise mat is ideal.
  2. Place your hands behind your ears with your elbows out to the side. Bend both knees so your feet are flat on the floor... Read more

Split Squat

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Begin by standing upright, with your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your hands straight and your shoulders back.
  2. Take a split stance by moving your right foot backward. Slightly elevate your right heel while keeping your left foot flat on the ground... Read more

Knee Close-Grip Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Start in a kneeling plank position with your hands slightly narrower than shoulder-width apart and your arms fully extended.
  2. Keep your core engaged and a neutral spine (to avoid letting your hips sag) throughout the movement. Maintain a straight line from your knees through your head... Read more

Finger Down Forearm Stretch

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Start in a standing position.
  2. Lift one arm for it to be parallel with the ground, palm facing up... Read more

Bodyweight Frog Hip Thrust

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Glutes

  1. Lie flat on your back on a solid surface.
  2. Create a frog position by bending your knees and bringing the soles of your feet together. Your knees should fall out to the sides and your feet should be about a foot away from the hips... Read more

Sissy Squat

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Chair

Muscle Worked:

Leg

  1. Set up a bench at an approximately 45-degree angle.
  2. Stand behind the bench with one hand placed on the edge for balance... Read more

Bodyweight Inner Wrist Curl

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand upright without holding a weight in your hands.
  2. Allow your arms to naturally hang next to your sides... Read more

Weighted Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Begin by putting on a weighted vest that provides adequate resistance while still allowing you to maintain proper form.
  2. Start in a high plank position with your arms fully extended and your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, palms flat on the ground... Read more

Wrist Adduction

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart in a suitable area. Make sure you have enough room to bring your arms out in front of you.
  2. Ensure your hips are straight with your chest up and your head facing forward. Keep both arms tucked by your sides... Read more

One Arm Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Kneel on the mat.
  2. Put the forearms and hands on the mat shoulder-width apart... Read more

Walking Plank

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Abs

  1. Start in a high plank position with your hands under your shoulders.
  2. Breathe in and slowly walk your hands forward one at a time... Read more

TRX Close-Grip Push-Ups

Equipment:

Suspension System

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Arm

  1. Find a TRX setup or prepare one on a sturdy anchor point.
  2. Adjust the TRX straps so that they are fully lengthened... Read more

Medicine Ball Push-Up

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Medicine Ball

Muscle Worked:

Chest

  1. Start in a high plank position with both hands on top of the medicine ball.
  2. Position your hands close together, keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels... Read more

Child's Pose

Equipment:

Bodyweight

Muscle Worked:

Back

  1. Begin by kneeling on the floor with your knees spread about hip-width apart and hands flat in front of you. 
  2. Inhale and engage your core... Read more

Best Calisthenics Full-Body Workout Routine

This full-body calisthenics workout focuses on stimulating muscle growth through a structured hypertrophy training approach, using a calisthenics full-body circuit and prioritizing the ideal set and rep scheme to support progress.

Exercise

Sets

RepsDurationRest (Between sets)
Pull-Ups3–4 sets8–12 repsN/A30–90 seconds
Chin-Ups3–4 sets8–12 repsN/A30–90 seconds
Push-Ups3–4 sets8–12 repsN/A30–90 seconds
Bodyweight Squats3–4 sets8–12 repsN/A30–90 seconds
Planks3–4 setsN/A45–60 seconds30–90 seconds
Full-Body Calisthenics Workout Without Equipment

Benefits Of Full-Body Calisthenics

So many calisthenics benefits are waiting to be accessed by lifters seeking to improve their overall health and fitness. From improved coordination to building overall strength, here are the benefits of a full-body calisthenics workout, whether you are following a beginner full-body calisthenics workout or progressing to an advanced full-body calisthenics workout.

Boosts Coordination

Incorporating a full-body calisthenics workout into your weekly plan can be especially effective for boosting coordination. It is ideal for those without gym access or who prefer bodyweight training.

These movements challenge your balance and motor skills while doubling as a mobility and flexibility workout. Better coordination also helps lower the risk of injury by improving control, awareness, and body stability.

Promotes Full-Body Progress

Full body calisthenics workout stimulates muscle growth
A full-body calisthenics workout is a powerful way to stimulate muscle growth using just your body weight. Photo: oscar_m/Freepik

The workout provided above targets all major muscle groups through a mix of core and upper and lower body exercises. This type of training is ideal for developing calisthenics for full-body strength and promoting balanced physical development.

In a single session, you can train your entire body through functional strength training that fits into any schedule. You might be looking to build muscle, stay active, or improve performance; full-body calisthenics conditioning helps increase total-body control and coordination.

Improves Core Activation

A strong core is essential for daily movements like standing, sitting, and walking. The calisthenics exercises included in this scalable calisthenics workout activate the core through a range of functional patterns, including push and pull calisthenics.

Activating the core leads to measurable increases in the strength and stability needed to support the body during movement. Research shows that core-focused training can help reduce chronic low back pain, a condition that affects over half of adults in the United States.

With a stronger core, you can better protect your spine, improve posture, and enhance athletic performance.

Tips To Make The Most Of Your Full-Body Calisthenics Routine

When you begin training with this full-body calisthenics workout, keep these expert tips in mind to maximize results, train safely, and lower injury risk.

  • Perform Form Checks – Consistently check your form to correct poor technique and avoid injuries. Focus on cues like keeping your shoulders back, engaging your core, and maintaining a neutral spine.
  • Challenge Yourself – To promote continuous progress, apply principles of progressive overload in calisthenics by increasing volume, adjusting reps and sets for full-body calisthenics, or reducing rest time between sets.
  • Integrate Rest Days – Muscles need time to rest and rebuild; without it, the risk of injury increases. Depending on your fitness level and training volume, you may need multiple days to recover. Aim for at least 24 hours between full-body sessions.
  • Use Proper Breathing Techniques – Practicing correct breathing techniques supports spinal protection and improves performance. Inhale during lowering movements (eccentric) and exhale during lifting to better engage the core.
  • Do Not Skip Your Cool-Down – A structured cool-down routine helps lower your heart rate gradually, improves flexibility, and supports recovery. Simple stretches and mobility work can reduce post-workout soreness and prepare your body for your next session.

Conclusion

A full-body calisthenics workout is one of the most practical ways to build strength and stay consistent with your training. It does not require a gym or any equipment, making it easy to follow at home or outdoors. These bodyweight training exercises are simple to follow, easy to scale, and suitable for individuals of all levels who want to improve strength, mobility, and overall fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get a full-body workout with calisthenics?

Yes, a full-body calisthenics workout can effectively train all major muscle groups using bodyweight movements. By combining upper and lower body exercises along with core work, you can develop functional strength, endurance, and mobility without the need for equipment.

What is the 80/20 rule in calisthenics?

The 80/20 rule in calisthenics typically refers to focusing 80% of your training on fundamental, compound bodyweight movements and 20% on isolation or skill-specific exercises. This approach supports long-term progress and helps structure a scalable calisthenics workout that delivers consistent results.

Can you get ripped just with calisthenics?

Absolutely. You can get ripped with calisthenics by applying proper nutrition, consistency, and progressive overload in calisthenics. With the right reps and sets for full-body calisthenics, you can reduce body fat, build lean muscle, and achieve a defined physique.

Is it OK to do full-body calisthenics every day?

It depends on intensity and recovery. Doing a full-body calisthenics workout daily may be fine if you rotate intensity, include a proper warm-up and cool-down routine, and allow muscle groups time to recover. For most people, training 3–5 times per week is optimal to avoid overuse and maximize progress.

Resources

Endomondo.com refrains from utilizing tertiary references. We uphold stringent sourcing criteria and depend on peer-reviewed studies and academic research conducted by medical associations and institutions. For more detailed insights, you can explore further by reading our editorial process.

  1. Calatayud, J., Sebastien Borreani, Colado, J.C., Martín, F.F., Rogers, M.E., Behm, D.G. and Andersen, L.L. (2014). Muscle Activation during Push-Ups with Different Suspension Training Systems. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, [online] 13(3), p.502. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4126284/#:~:text=MVIC%20(n%20%3D%2029).-,Floor,F(4%2C108)%3D51.007%0Ap%3C0.001,-Open%20in%20a.
  2. Vigouroux, L. and Devise, M. (2024). Pull-Up Performance Is Affected Differently by the Muscle Contraction Regimens Practiced during Training among Climbers. Bioengineering, [online] 11(1), p.85. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/bioengineering11010085.
  3. Calatayud, J., Vinstrup, J., Jakobsen, M.D., Sundstrup, E., Brandt, M., Jay, K., Colado, J.C. and Andersen, L.L. (2015). Importance of mind-muscle connection during progressive resistance training. European Journal of Applied Physiology, [online] 116(3), pp.527–533. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-015-3305-7.
  4. Straub, R.K. and Powers, C.M. (2024). A Biomechanical Review of the Squat Exercise: Implications for Clinical Practice. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, [online] 19(4). doi:https://doi.org/10.26603/001c.94600.
  5. Lee, J. and Kim, J. (2022). Effects of an 8-week lunge exercise on an unstable support surface on lower-extremity muscle function and balance in middle-aged women. Physical Activity and Nutrition, [online] 26(4), pp.014–021. doi:https://doi.org/10.20463/pan.2022.0020.
  6. Martins-Costa, H.C., Lacerda, L.T., Diniz, R.C.R., Lima, F.V., Andrade, P., Peixoto, G.H., Gomes, M.C., Lanza, M.B., Bemben, M.G. and Chagas, M.H. (2021). Equalization of Training Protocols by Time Under Tension Determines the Magnitude of Changes in Strength and Muscular Hypertrophy. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, [online] 36(7), pp.1770–1780. doi:https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004004.
  7. Goldring, N., Wiles, J.D. and Coleman, D. (2013). The effects of isometric wall squat exercise on heart rate and blood pressure in a normotensive population. Journal of Sports Sciences, [online] 32(2), pp.129–136. doi:https://doi.org/10.1080/02640414.2013.809471.
  8. RICKSON, J.J., MARIS, S.A. and HEADLEY, S.A.E. (2021). Isometric Exercise Training: A Review of Hypothesized Mechanisms and Protocol Application in Persons with Hypertension. International Journal of Exercise Science, [online] 14(2), p.1261. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8758172/.
  9. None Krzysztofik, Wilk, N., None Wojdała and None Gołaś (2019). Maximizing Muscle Hypertrophy: A Systematic Review of Advanced Resistance Training Techniques and Methods. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, [online] 16(24), pp.4897–4897. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16244897.
  10. Altermann, W. and Gröpel, P. (2023). Effects of acute endurance, strength, and coordination exercise interventions on attention in adolescents: A randomized controlled study. Psychology of Sport and Exercise, [online] 64, p.102300. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychsport.2022.102300.
  11. Kotarsky, C.J., Christensen, B.K., Miller, J.S. and Hackney, K.J. (2017). Effect of Progressive Calisthenic Push-up Training on Muscle Strength and Thickness. The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, [online] 32(3), pp.651–659. doi:https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000002345.
  12. Chang, W.-D., Lin, H.-Y. and Lai, P.-T. (2015). Core strength training for patients with chronic low back pain. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, [online] 27(3), pp.619–622. doi:https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.619.
  13. Ángela Rodríguez-Perea, Waleska Reyes-Ferrada, Jerez-Mayorga, D., Ríos, L.C., Van, R., Ríos, I.C. and Martínez-García, D. (2023). Core training and performance: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Biology of Sport, [online] 40(4), pp.975–992. doi:https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2023.123319.
  14. Plotkin, D., Coleman, M., Every, D.V., Maldonado, J., Oberlin, D., Israetel, M., Feather, J., Alto, A., Vigotsky, A.D. and Schoenfeld, B.J. (2022). Progressive overload without progressing load? The effects of load or repetition progression on muscular adaptations. PeerJ, [online] 10, pp.e14142–e14142. doi:https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.14142.
  15. Caballero-García, A. and Córdova-Martínez, A. (2022). Muscle Recovery and Nutrition. Nutrients, [online] 14(12), pp.2416–2416. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14122416.
  16. Migliaccio, G.M., Russo, L., Maric, M. and Padulo, J. (2023). Sports Performance and Breathing Rate: What Is the Connection? A Narrative Review on Breathing Strategies. Sports, [online] 11(5), pp.103–103. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/sports11050103.
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