When did the meaning of the word "calisthenics" change?

[@spooniegee]

I've been carrying this thought around for some time. Props for putting it in a video. You totally hit the nail on the head when it comes to explaining what I'm all about to my age group peers. Back in my Connecticut days in the 70s and 80s, calisthenics was seen exactly like you said, like some easy and boring gym class check mark.

[@The_Aging_Warrior]

Thank you! I thought I was the only one who noticed!

[@socialdistancewarrior9099]

So what if “calisthenics” covers a wide variety of skill levels? If one is lifting a 2lb dumbbell or trying to set the world deadlift record the are still weightlifting.

[@The_Aging_Warrior]

That's very true. I knew going in that maybe I was the only one who felt this way about the word calisthenics. I did intend it to be mostly humorous though.

[@socialdistancewarrior9099]

@@The_Aging_Warrior Haha. I saw the humour in message. As an advanced novice practitioner of calisthenics I like the term because people like you inspire me!

[@TheSandkastenverbot]

100% agreed, beastskills is the perfect name 👍

[@EarhirX]

Not that far back it did mean jumping jacks and stretching. Beast Skills does sound better XD

[@GeekClimber]

Like the intro to the history of "calisthenics". Really interesting!

[@The_Aging_Warrior]

Thanks! Not sure if it qualifies as history though. Farcical history at best :)

[@Kynan_Nicholls]

Calisthenics got its name by joining the Greek 'Kalos', meaning "beautiful," and 'Sthenos', meaning "strength." pretty fitting I think, considering Calisthenics is such an art form.

[@The_Aging_Warrior]

Thanks - I didn't know that. I guess it's not such a bad name...

[@kingly71]

This is so true lol. And you don't have to be over 50. I'm 39 and I remember having the exact same thought when I first started seeing the word calisthenics everywhere on youtube. It was like the lamest word ever back in the day! And you're right the average person definitely still thinks of mountain climbers when they hear it.

[@The_Aging_Warrior]

Thank you! Finally somebody remembers!