Calisthenics has been a slowly growing trend with fitness newbies as the exercise form uses only a person’s body weight and little to no equipment, making it more accessible than regiments like weightlifting. Additionally, professionals and people who have been training in calisthenics for years have mesmerised audiences online, particularly on TikTok showing off the staggering feats their bodies can now do thanks to the exercise form.

However, one fitness expert is highlighting the red flags in this growing trend and warned budding fitness enthusiasts that they could be setting themselves up for “serious injuries” if they practise calisthenics incorrectly. Jose Guevara, a Shredded Dad fitness expert with 15 years of experience, explained how calisthenics can result in muscle strains, joint damage and overuse injuries.

Jose noted that the viral trend could see gym newbies trying out the workouts meant for experienced callisthenic practitioners or people with knowledge about their bodies and how to care for them during extreme challenges. He said: “People try these workouts without the foundational knowledge or preparation needed to do them safely.”

Jose referred to one viral video showing a variety of push-up and pull-up workouts including complicated moves like ‘skin the cat’ which starts by hanging from a bar and then pushing your body through your arms to do a full 360-degree flip without letting go. The expert warned: “The specific moves in the video involve high levels of body control, balance, and core strength.

“Without appropriate training and knowledge, people engaging themselves into these kinds of workouts are likely to endure serious injuries such as muscle pulls, joint injuries, and overuse conditions.”

He warned that some of the most common issues people may face include having the wrong form, not doing adequate warm-ups and attempting moves beyond their capacity. The expert, however, was not trying to deter eager newcomers as he shared six tips to get started in calisthenics.

The first of which, like any new form of fitness, is starting slow and steady by learning good foundations and then focusing on building strength and technique. Additionally, the Shredded Dad urged people: “For avoiding injuries, posture is vital when it comes to calisthenics. Consult a certified trainer if you’re not sure about your form.”

Seeking professional guidance when needed is also tip 3 from the expert, swiftly followed by having a decent warm-up and listening to your body: “If it hurts or you feel pain, stop immediately to check yourself on how you are doing it.” Lastly, for people learning on their own, he advised: “Break down difficult movements into simpler parts and learn each of them before progressing.”