Calisthenics dates back to ancient times, where the Ancient Greeks developed a superior method of training for their military, based on calisthenic exercises. Solely using an individuals own body weight as resistance, the exercises were performed with differing levels of intensity, allowing for the development of strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination.

While various forms of calisthenics training have evolved over time, competitive calisthenics is a sport unique to Australia. Originally finding its Australian roots in Victoria, during the Gold Rush, Calisthenics, then called Physical Culture, was undertaken by Victorians wishing to keep their bodies supple. In the 1930’s, the sport was rolled out across Victorian state schools and this is where it cemented its foothold in Australian sport culture.

Today, in Australia, there are over 100 calisthenics clubs and 15 000 participants who compete in the sport.  While the core fundamentals of strength, flexibility, and control remain unchanged, they are now complimented by attributes including deportment, grace, poise, discipline and expression.

Calisthenics combines dance, marching, singing and acting and is choreographed to music.  The competitive season is much anticipated and competitors, dressed in costume, look forward to delighting their audience as they showcase their technique, expression and execution in a strong and confident manner.