What is Calisthenics?

What is Calisthenics?

Calisthenics is a uniquely Australian sport that blends elements of dance, gymnastics, ballet, marching, apparatus work (Clubs and Rods), and singing. The word itself is derived from the ancient Greek words kallos (beauty) and thenos (strength), which perfectly capture the essence of the sport.

Athletes typically learn six choreographed routines, each 3–4 minutes long, which are performed in full costume on stage at annual theatre competitions. It’s an artistic and athletic sport that builds skills and friendships for life.

Who Can Participate?

In South Australia, both girls and boys can begin calisthenics as early as 2.5 years old (as a “Tinie”) and continue through to Master’s levels. Classes are age-based and cater to a wide range of abilities.

Through both team and solo opportunities, calisthenics helps develop:

• Coordination
• Flexibility
• Fitness & strength
• Discipline
• Teamwork
• Perseverance
• Responsibility

Competitive Structure

Competitions involve multiple “items” (routines), with clubs competing for points. Points are awarded as follows:

• 1st Place: 6 points
• 2nd Place: 4 points
• 3rd Place: 2 points
• Honourable Mention: 1 point

To avoid penalties, teams must have:

• At least 8 competitors on stage at all times
• A minimum of 6 competitors to be eligible to perform

There are also elite opportunities through state and national team auditions, coordinated by the Calisthenics Association of South Australia (CASA).

Calisthenics Items Explained

• Figure March

A precision-based marching routine focused on teamwork, discipline, and intricate formations, similar to traditional marching girls.

• Club Swinging

Arguably the most challenging skill to master. It involves swinging a club in each hand with perfect timing and rhythm. Advanced routines feature complex patterns and synchronized movement.

• Free Exercises (Freearm)

A physically demanding routine combining strength, flexibility, and gymnastic elements like walkovers and headstands. Performed without apparatus.

• Rod Exercises

Similar to freearm but with the added complexity of a metal rod. Emphasis is on coordination, control, and body alignment.

• Aesthetic

A flowing, expressive routine that draws from classical ballet. Dancers wear long skirts and interpret classical music with soft, graceful movement.

• Song and Dance

Seen in older sections, this item combines live singing with modern dance, focusing on performance, expression, and choreography.

• Action Song

Performed by younger age groups, this is a fun, storytelling performance that combines singing, acting, and props, with singing as the main focus.

• Folk Dance

Also for younger age groups, this routine teaches traditional dances from various cultures, incorporating authentic music, costume, and steps.

• Rhythmical Interpretation

A more physically expressive version of aesthetics, allowing leaps and jumps while telling a story through movement.

• Rhythmical Aesthetic

A hybrid of aesthetics and rhythmical interpretation, combining graceful flow with elevated movement and strength.

• Calisthenics Revue

A creative and entertaining routine that blends acting, singing, dancing, and calisthenics to tell a story or entertain.

• Dance Arrangement

Focuses on interpreting a specific dance genre (like jazz or contemporary), developing performance and dance technique.

Solo & Duo Performances

Performers can compete individually or in pairs with routines that highlight jazz, lyrical, or contemporary styles. These routines emphasize personal expression, technical strength, and stage presence.

Graceful Girl

This solo routine focuses on poise, grace, and musical interpretation, using aesthetic and ballet-inspired movement to create a polished and expressive performance.