Calisthenics
/ˌkælɪˈθɛnɪks/noun
Gymnastic exercises performed using a person’s body weight, often to develop strength, flexibility, and coordination.
Did you know?Calisthenics combines Greek κάλλος (beauty) and σθένος (strength), linking physical training to an ancient ideal in which bodily form and inner power were meant to harmonize.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
κάλλος (kallos)
“Beauty or physical loveliness”
Ancient Greek
Greek
σθένος (sthenos)
“Strength, force, or bodily power”
19th Century
French
calisthénie
“A system of physical exercises intended to develop grace and strength”
19th Century
English
calisthenics
“Gymnastic exercises using the body, especially for strength and agility”
Modern English
English
calisthenics
“Body-weight training involving movements such as push-ups, squats, dips, and pull-ups”
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