Fighting the force: Few exercise regimes are currently as fashionable as callisthenics. Hard, effective and frill-free, all we need is the most basic equipment and plenty of gravity. Contrary to popular opinion, the machines are not taking over. Callisthenics, defined as exercises that don’t require external resistance or weights, are on the up. More and more are going back to basics.

The best thing about callisthenics is that they can be as simple or as complicated as we want them to be and we can do them in the open air. Exercises include sit-ups, crunches, push-ups, dips, pull-ups, squats and lunges and the right combination ensures a thorough full-body workout. As well as increasing flexibility and building strength and endurance, our heart rate increases, burning more calories and improving circulation. Another bonus is that bodyweight resistance training eliminates the possibility of cheating - like using other muscles to help out the ones we are targeting - as when using machines or free weights. A steady routine will help achieve and maintain firmer, more toned and stronger muscles.

Keep in mind that whatever bodyweight exercise we are attempting, form is everything. Maintaining good posture (ie. a straight back and a soft bend at our elbows and knees) is far more important than the number of repetitions we summon up.