Balance is a fundamental skill in acrobatics, and calisthenics provides a variety of exercises to improve it. Training balance involves strengthening the muscles that stabilize your body and improving your proprioception, or awareness of your body’s position in space. Begin with basic balance exercises such as single-leg stands, planks, and core stability exercises.
Single-leg stands are a simple yet effective way to improve balance. Stand on one leg while keeping the other leg lifted and your core engaged. Hold the position for as long as possible, then switch legs. To increase the difficulty, try closing your eyes or performing the exercise on an unstable surface. Planks, both traditional and side planks, strengthen your core and improve your stability.
Advanced calisthenics exercises like handstands, pistol squats, and planches further challenge your balance. Handstands require you to balance your entire body weight on your hands, while pistol squats demand both strength and balance in a single-leg position. Planches, an advanced gymnastic move, require a high level of core and shoulder strength. Incorporate these exercises into your routine to continuously challenge and improve your balance.
