Best Bodyweight Exercises

What are the best bodyweight exercises?

The benefits of bodyweight exercises are numerous. They are a fantastic way to increase general strength and fitness, especially for people without access to a gym or exercise equipment. They are also very adaptable because they can be carried out anywhere without any special tools. Additionally helpful for increasing range of motion, flexibility, and balance, bodyweight exercises can even help lower the risk of injury. 

So, what are the best bodyweight exercises?

1. Push-ups: This classic exercise targets the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. To perform a push-up, start in a plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Lower your body until your chest nearly touches the ground, then push back up to the starting position.

2. Squats: This exercise targets the glutes, hamstrings, and quadriceps, and can be performed with or without added weight. To perform a squat, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your toes pointed slightly outward. Bend your knees and lower your body as if you were sitting in a chair, keeping your back straight and your weight in your heels. Then, stand back up to the starting position.

3. Lunges: This exercise targets the legs and glutes and can be performed in various directions to target different muscles. To perform a lunge, start by standing with your feet hip-width apart. Take a step forward with one foot, bending both knees until your back knee nearly touches the ground. Push back up to the starting position, then repeat with the other leg.

4. Plank: This exercise targets the core, shoulders, and back muscles, and can be modified to make it easier or more challenging. To perform a plank, start in a push-up position, but instead of lowering your body, hold yourself in a straight line from head to heels, keeping your core tight and your shoulders over your wrists.

5. Burpees: This exercise targets the entire body and is a great way to improve cardiovascular fitness. To perform a burpee, start in a standing position, then squat down and place your hands on the ground. Kick your feet back into a push-up position, then immediately jump your feet back up to your hands and stand up.

6. Pull-ups: This exercise targets the back, biceps, and shoulders, and can be modified to make it easier or more challenging. To perform a pull-up, find a sturdy horizontal bar or set of rings. Reach up and grip the bar with your palms facing away from you. Hang from the bar with your arms straight, then pull your body up until your chin clears the bar.

7. Mountain climbers: This exercise targets the core, legs, and shoulders, and can be performed at different speeds and intensities. To perform mountain climbers, start in a plank position. Bring one knee up to your chest, then quickly switch and bring the other knee up while extending the opposite leg back.

8. Dips: This exercise targets the triceps and chest, and can be performed on parallel bars, the edge of a bench, or even on the floor. To perform dips, place your hands on a sturdy surface behind you and lower your body by bending your elbows. Push back up to the starting position, then repeat.

Overall, bodyweight exercises have many advantages and are a great way to increase strength and fitness without the use of any special equipment. These exercises can assist people in reaching their fitness objectives and enhancing their general health and well-being.