Whatever Became of Calisthenics?

With all the modern technology available today, getting a decent basic workout now requires a PhD. Where is Jack LaLanne when we need him?

I was about six years old. I was watching TV and recall seeing a man and a woman, each with their own rope, jumping in unison. They were fit and smiling, and as I recall, they there the most animated subjects on the set-a very basic set. I enjoyed watching them, though, and would sometimes join in as "Jack" would do his world-renowned push-ups.

Good times.

That was long ago. Too long. As I recently pondered getting back into shape (I've been inactive for several months…ok, years), I decided to check out the local gyms in my area. I had no idea what lie ahead. The experience left me more confused than ever.

My first stop was a very nice nationally known chain. The place was huge! I hadn't seen so many cycles in one place since I watched the Tour de France back in 1999. I'll admit, I was intimidated. Would I be required to keep up with the rest of the cyclists? Could I get a permanent spot in the rear of the class? The thought of anyone seeing me from behind was just too cruel to consider. Besides that, I didn't want to spend a monthly stipend that resembles a utility bill-especially given the limited time I'd have to take advantage of working out.

Next, I stopped at a very posh workout spa. It was so clean and shiny, I'm sure I'd feel guilty sweating up a place like that. And I got the feeling I was much too poor to join.

Then I went home. I started thinking of how I used to stay in shape when I was younger, and remembered the LaLanne's and their daily program. I was determined to go back to my roots, strap up my footwear and start my workout at home, sans expensive equipment.

With a surge of adrenaline, slowly rolling my head from side to side, I quickly built up my pace and began marching in place. Uh-oh, what that THAT? I seemed to have pulled something. Oh, that's right. I gotta stretch first.

I could tell right from the start that this wasn't going to be easy. That's ok, I'm up for the challenge. So I start over by slowly stretching…and stretching…and stretching. Oof! Did something just 'pop'? I don't recall feeling THAT when I was ten. I spend the next three minutes or so getting reacquainted with various ligaments, muscles and otherwise places on my body that were obviously comatose during the last 25 or so years.

I'm ready to begin my workout now. I start off with squats. With my back straight and my arms extended at shoulder length at each side (in a curved position), I lower my body about five inches, and back up again. Dear Lord. I feel a surge in both upper legs, then my calves. Good grief! This is going to be harder than I thought. Just then I'm determined to conquer the enemy within. Think positive. You can do it…you can do it! And with that, I slowly repeat another squat. Ah, two. I can feel it working now. Wow, I think I lost 3 pounds with that one!

Of course I didn't. But that's not the point. The point I'm making is that calisthenics, when practiced properly can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Modern technology is great, but if you can't get to the gym, or get out for your morning jog, there are still options. Ten jumping jacks, leg lifts and scrunches does the body wonders.

So get up and do something. Anything to work those muscles.
Bend.
Extend.

Get reacquainted with the good old-fashioned calisthenics used in second grade gym class.

You won't be sorry.