Unwritten Rules Of Calisthenics 

Calisthenics is known to be one of the most social activities. So, beginners can get worried about going to their first park. To ease the nerves, we have written 12 of the most crucial calisthenics rules to learn:

You Should Use Chalk For Calisthenics

When using shared gear (be it bars, rings, or resistance bands), it’s thoughtful to wear chalk to prevent your sweat from sticking to the equipment. The chalk absorbs any moisture, so the equipment isn’t slippy. 

Calisthenics athletes hate slippy equipment – as well as the hygiene aspect; it prevents you from gripping the bar tightly, so you can’t execute statics or movements.

Other activities use a towel; however, it isn’t as common for calisthenics. Chalk is preferred because it doubles up as a layer of protection for your skin.

The same logic applies to wearing gloves too. However, chalk is simply the “cooler” one to use!

If You Use Wooden Rings, Share Them

We don’t like to admit it, but most of us secretly struggle to attach, detach and adjust wooden rings! 

The first person to tie rings to a pull-up bar should leave it for everyone to use. 

It’s much easier to share: instead of having everyone attach and detach their rings when needed. This saves time and allows other athletes to use the bar during rest periods. 

Therefore, if you’re the first to put on rings, leave them on the selected bar for others to use. Feel free to step away – it’s unlikely for someone to steal them. 

Most leave them until they’ve finished their full workout, at this point, they pack it up, and someone else usually replaces them with another pair of rings. 

The only exception is if there’s only one pull-up bar. In this case, some athletes want to use the bar without rings. As there isn’t an alternative, it’s fair for you to detach them.

Always Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

Calisthenics parks are small relative to the number of people that attend. People often bump into one another, and there is only a tiny amount of private space. Therefore, you must consider your workplace and what area to keep to yourself. 

When doing floorwork at an indoor calisthenics park, place your mat appropriately from everyone. Not too close that you’re abusing their private space, but not too far so nobody else can fit. For stationary statistics (like planks), keep 5 feet away, but for motion exercises (like mountain climbers), extend it to 8.5 feet.

When using bars, be conscious of people in front and behind you. So, when you’re kipping (swinging), you don’t throw your legs at them and cause an injury. 

Look at an example of one calisthenics park:

Don’t Place Your Belongings Under Bars

Public calisthenics parks don’t have changing/locker rooms to place gym bags. Therefore, people dump phones, water bottles, or gym bags in a corner or carry them around.

If you want to leave your gym bag, have a quick scan. If there’s a designated spot, individuals park them, drop it there; if not, place it away from equipment and walkways. 

On the other hand, if you want to carry it around with you, avoid placing it underneath bars because it prevents anyone from using the equipment, and you risk your items getting damaged. Instead, keep hold of it until you start exercising; at this point, place it a few feet from your workspace. 

If you need help deciding what to take to a calisthenics park, click here.

When Filming Exercises, Avoid Getting Others In Shot

If you enjoy documenting your calisthenics journey, like us, try to keep the camera on you. To do this, you may have to:

• Go to a calisthenics park when it’s quiet. 
• Use a narrow lens. 
• Cut people out in an edit. 

Everyone appreciates it’s difficult, so when unavoidable, ask if they mind being on camera. Once you ask for their permission, likely, they won’t be fussed; however, it shows respect for their privacy. 

Evaluate The Appropriate Footwear During Floorwork

Indoor calisthenics gyms have different rules when using mats – some aren’t bothered, and others require them off. The rule of thumb is to take your shoes off when standing on them; otherwise, you can keep them on.

To be sure, glance at what everyone else is doing and copy their decision.

Some indoor gyms section off an area specifically for floorwork. The unit will have a cushioned floor with padding, so it’s likely to be a no-footwear policy to access this area.

Conversely, there may be small mats you place on a solid floor. In this case, gyms will only expect you to take your shoes off if you’re standing on them.

Street Wear Is Normal In Calisthenics

The dress code for a calisthenics park is for women to wear sports bar and leggings; men to wear joggers and a vest. It’s very casual – athletes’ primary focus is mobility.

Despite this, calisthenics athletes are still fashionable! They love representing street fashion brands, and most don’t touch fitness-specific brands. For example, some calisthenics athletes train in jeans!

While it is your choice what you wear, most athletes avoid bright colors – no reason other than it not being ‘street’ enough.

Respect Athletes At All Skill Levels

Calisthenics has a friendly community; it’s imperative to welcome individuals of all strength and skill levels. Some basic tips include:

• Greeting everyone when you come into the park.
• Not laughing or staring when someone fails a trick or static – instead, ask if they are okay.
• Offering help where you can.

While it isn’t always practical, everyone is at the calisthenics park for the same reason – to exercise. So, creating a positive environment to do so goes a long way. 

Beginners can get nervous when they first go to a calisthenics park. The dangerous tricks, loud music, and hecticness can intimidate them. If you do notice, always welcome them to a workout and offer to help out!

Offer To Share Equipment

When you see another athlete looking over or standing close by, they’re waiting to use the equipment/machinery you’re on. If you notice this, ask if they want to share or tell them how long you have left.

Athletes commonly let you finish your set and politely deny sharing equipment; however, if they accept the invitation, alternate between resting and exercising with the equipment.

Most of the time, they will insinuate they want to use the equipment politely. In the rare case they’re rude, defuse the situation by finishing your set and walking away. Remember, it’s a public gym, so you have as much right to use it as they do!

Wait Patiently For Equipment

On the flip side of the abovementioned point, if you want to use engaged equipment, show your eagerness politely and patiently. This includes a range of techniques, such as:

• Asking them how long they have left. 
• Glancing across at the equipment.
• Standing a couple of feet away from them and placing your gym bag on the floor. 
• Asking if they mind sharing equipment. 

Finding the balance between showing your interest and not making it obvious is key. 

In most cases, individuals have a sense of urgency. Nonetheless, if you’re waiting a prolonged time, fill in your workout with an alternative exercise – and return once said equipment is free.

Don’t Stand Infront Of Mirrors

Indoor calisthenics gyms have mirrors for individuals to analyze their technique. If somebody is using one, don’t stand in front of them – blocking their vision from looking at themselves. 

The same rule applies to changing room mirrors – when someone appreciates their physique, avoid standing between their eyeliner and the mirror. If you’re feeling confident, give them a compliment – the may appreciate it more than you think!

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