If you’re looking to get fit and build muscle, you may wonder what the difference is between calisthenics and bodybuilding.
Both methods have their benefits, but some critical distinctions exist between them. What is the difference between calisthenics and bodybuilding?
This article will explore the differences between calisthenics and bodybuilding, so you can figure out which one is right for you. Stay tuned!
Calisthenics vs. Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding and calisthenics are two very different approaches to exercise. Bodybuilding is typically done in a gym using weights, machines, and other equipment.
The goal for most bodybuilders is to build muscle mass and achieve a certain level of definition.
On the other hand, Calisthenics is a form of bodyweight training that uses minimal equipment. The goal is to increase strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Both forms of exercise have their benefits and drawbacks.
Bodybuilding can lead to significant gains in muscle mass, but it also requires heavy weights that can stress the joints. It can also be challenging to maintain proper form when using heavier weights.
As a result, injuries are relatively common among bodybuilders.
On the other hand, Calisthenics is much less likely to cause injuries. This has been the case for me as well.
When I transitioned from weight lifting to calisthenics, it did wonders for various conditions, like tennis elbow and post-workout migraines. The latter was brutal. Plus, other pains just went away.
Calisthenics is less likely to cause injuries because the exercises are often performed at a slower pace and with perfect form in mind.
However, calisthenics can be incredibly challenging, and it can be easy to achieve significant gains in strength and size without adding weight to the exercises.
That’s easy enough to do, though. I add resistance to almost all my calisthenics workouts. I use a dip belt for various pull-up movements and hang weights.
And eating enough food is crucial to putting on size. It’s more important than any workout you could do.
Which One Produces More Muscle Gain?
There’s no definitive answer regarding whether bodybuilding or calisthenics produces more muscle gain. I’ve seen both sides, and it’s easily possible in either scenario.
I know people who have tested this out to see if you could build more muscle and get more defined by using calisthenics alone, and their results are excellent. They all followed this home calisthenics program here.
So, regardless of whether you choose bodybuilding or calisthenics, your muscle gain depends on two factors:
- How much food you’re eating (calories consumed)
- How well you’re performing and progressing with your workouts.
If you’re dedicated to lifting weights and eating a lot of protein, you’ll probably build more muscle than someone who does calisthenics eating low protein and fewer calories.
But the same is true for the opposite.
You could easily see similar results if you’re progressively focused on form and increasing intensity in your calisthenics.
It ultimately comes down to what works best for you and your goals. So if you want to bulk up, EAT MORE FOOD! And follow a solid and proven workout routine.
Some people go to the gym and randomly lift weights.
You know today is leg day, and tomorrow is chest day.
Don’t do that. Follow a solid program. This is the best I know of. Whether you focus on bodybuilding or calisthenics, you can bulk up.
That said, many people do calisthenics to get leaner and more toned. Just know that in either scenario, what you eat determines how big or small you get.
The exercises themselves help define your muscle. One of fuel, and the other is sculpting.
Benefits Of Calisthenics Training
Bodybuilding tends to focus on isolated muscle groups, while calisthenics exercises tend to use multiple muscle groups at the same time.
This can lead to more effective and efficient training sessions.
Additionally, calisthenics exercises exclusively involve your body weight, which can be a more natural and effective way to build strength than using weight machines or free weights.
Calisthenics exercises can also be done anywhere and don’t require special equipment, making them very convenient.
I’ve done pull-ups from trees and pistol squats using gallons of water.
Calisthenics is also less expensive than traditional gym memberships or personal training sessions.
Many people find calisthenics exercises more enjoyable than lifting weights, which can help you stick with your workout routine in the long term.
That’s a huge benefit I found in it myself.
Popular Calisthenics Workouts
Though there are many different types of calisthenics exercises, some of the most popular include push-ups, pull-ups, pistol squats, dips, and hanging leg raises. When performed correctly, these exercises can help to build strength, stamina, and power.
Here’s a list of calisthenics exercises and videos you can do from home.
Benefits Of Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding is a weight-bearing exercise that helps to build muscle and strengthen bones. It also promotes proper joint function and can help to prevent injuries.
Both bodybuilding and calisthenics offer benefits, but bodybuilding may be better suited for those who want to build muscle mass and strength. In contrast, calisthenics may be better for those who want to improve their fitness.
That said, the same holds that were mentioned earlier. Food is the fuel you need to build muscle.
The person who eats right and maximizes their workouts wins the muscle-building game, whether with bodybuilding or calisthenics.
Popular Bodybuilding Workouts
Anyone who’s ever stepped foot in a gym knows that there’s a lot of fancy equipment and workout regimens. But when it comes down to the basics, there are four key exercises that many bodybuilders choose to focus on: the bench press, the bicep curl, the deadlift, and the overhead press.
- The bench press is a great all-around exercise for building upper body strength. It works your pecs, shoulders, and triceps all at once and can be easily varied to target different muscle groups.
- Bicep curls are a classic exercise for building bigger, more muscular arms. They can be done with dumbbells, barbells, or even resistance bands, making them versatile and easy to do anywhere.
- Deadlifts are one of the best exercises for building lower body strength. They target your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and lower back all at once and can be done with a barbell or a pair of dumbbells.
- Overhead presses are excellent for developing shoulder strength and stability. They can be done with a barbell, dumbbells, or kettlebells, making them another versatile move that can be done anywhere.
So if you want to get big and strong, focus on maximizing your workouts and eating enough calories. With these things as your focus, you’ll be well on achieving your goals.
What Is The Difference Between Calisthenics And Bodybuilding: In Summary
So, what is the difference between calisthenics and bodybuilding? Calisthenics and bodybuilding- are two very different types of exercise.
While they both have their benefits, it ultimately comes down to what you prefer, as they affect your body differently.
So if you’re unsure which one is right for you, try them out and see which one you like better! In the end, your size and muscle mass will directly affect how much you eat.
Calisthenics has been a life changer for me if you’d like. Learn about the program I recommend; you can learn all about it here.
I hope you found this article to be helpful. If you have any questions at all, please let me know and I’ll be more than happy to get back to you as soon as possible.
