Aerobics vs. Calisthenics — What's the Difference?

Fitness routine with sustained, repetitive activity.

Workout style involving exercises like push-ups and squats.

Exercise with or without equipment, often in group settings.

Movement regimen for conditioning and muscle endurance.

Exercise to increase cardiovascular fitness.

Bodyweight exercises to enhance strength and flexibility.

Rhythmic workout involving dance-like movements.

Fitness training that requires minimal equipment.

Physical activity that elevates heart and breathing rates.

Routine of basic body movements for improved physique.

Aerobics is a form of physical exercise that combines rhythmic aerobic exercise with stretching and strength training routines with the goal of improving all elements of fitness (flexibility, muscular strength, and cardio-vascular fitness). It is usually performed to music and may be practiced in a group setting led by an instructor (fitness professional), although it can be done solo and without musical accompaniment.

Calisthenics (American English) or callisthenics (British English) (/ˌkælɪsˈθɛnɪks/) is a form of strength training consisting of a variety of movements that exercise large muscle groups (gross motor movements), such as standing, grasping, pushing, etc. These exercises are often performed rhythmically and with minimal equipment, as bodyweight exercises.

A system of physical conditioning designed to enhance circulatory and respiratory efficiency that involves vigorous sustained exercise, such as jogging, swimming, or cycling.

(used with a pl. verb) Gymnastic exercises designed to develop muscular tone and promote physical well-being

A program of physical fitness that involves such exercise.

(used with a sing. verb) The practice or art of such exercises

A form of exercise, designed to enhance one's cardiovascular fitness, normally performed to music.

(in the plural) Gymnastic exercises under the participation of a (surface-wise) multitude of muscles and often minimal equipment (thus, usually bodyweight exercises) with a stress on stamina.

Physical exercises performed in a sustained and strenuous fashion designed to cause a temporary increase in respiration rate and heart rate, such a running, swimming, walking, or calisthenics. Calisthenic sessions in groups, performed by following a leader in moving to a rhythmic musical accompaniment, are a popular form of aerobics.

(in the singular) A system of such exercises.

A system of physical conditioning relying largely on aerobics exercises.

The science, art, or practice of healthful exercise of the body and limbs, to promote strength, gracefulness, and general fitness; light gymnastics.

Exercise that increases the need for oxygen

Light exercise designed to promote general fitness

Calisthenics usually requires minimal equipment, like pull-up bars or mats.

Aerobics typically has continuous, high-energy movements, while calisthenics focuses on isolated, controlled exercises.

Aerobics focuses on cardiovascular fitness through rhythmic movement, while calisthenics uses bodyweight exercises for strength.

Yes, combining them can provide both cardiovascular and muscular benefits.

Aerobics includes dance-like steps, jogging, and stepping routines.

Aerobics typically burns more calories due to continuous movement, aiding weight loss.

Yes, many calisthenics movements can improve flexibility, particularly dynamic stretches.

Yes, calisthenics can be practiced individually or in groups, such as outdoor fitness parks.

It helps to have a plan for balanced muscle engagement in a calisthenics routine.

While aerobics primarily targets the cardiovascular system, some routines also improve muscle tone.

Aerobics is particularly effective for cardiovascular health due to sustained movement.

Calisthenics provides improved muscle tone, flexibility, and body strength.

Yes, aerobics classes often involve a leader or instructor guiding participants.

Yes, aerobics can be adjusted for different fitness levels and ages by modifying intensity.

Yes, aerobics has variations like step and aqua aerobics, while calisthenics varies by exercise type.