21 Day Beginner Calisthenics Workout Plan for Men

Starting a fitness journey can be challenging, especially if you are not sure where to begin. This 21 day beginner calisthenics workout plan for men is designed to help you build strength, endurance, and mobility using only your body weight. It is ideal for men who want an effective, equipment free routine that creates a solid foundation for long term fitness progress.

And we also have a progression plan for you to follow at the end of this workout plan to keep you moving forward!

Calisthenics is a form of exercise that uses your body weight to improve strength, flexibility, and endurancae. Unlike traditional gym workouts that require equipment, calisthenics can be done anywhere, making it accessible and convenient. The benefits of calisthenics extend beyond physical fitness. It enhances your body awareness, coordination, and balance, which are crucial for daily activities.

One of the key advantages of calisthenics is its scalability. Exercises can be modified to match your current fitness level and progressed as you become stronger. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for beginners who may find certain movements challenging at first. By focusing on bodyweight training, you also reduce the risk of injury associated with weights. For more on the benefits of combining different training modalities, check out Why You Should Combine Calisthenics and Gym Training.

A successful fitness plan is incomplete without proper nutrition. As you embark on this 21-day journey, it’s essential to support your workouts with a balanced diet. Consuming the right nutrients will fuel your body, enhance performance, and aid recovery. Focus on incorporating lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats into your meals. Proteins are crucial for muscle repair and growth, while carbohydrates provide the energy needed for your workouts. Healthy fats support overall health and hormone production.

Hydration is another critical component of your diet. Staying adequately hydrated ensures that your muscles function properly and recover efficiently after workouts. Aim to drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily, and consider increasing this amount on workout days. For more detailed nutrition tips, visit Reset Your Nutrition During the Holidays.

While calisthenics primarily relies on natural bodyweight exercises, supplements can play a supportive role in enhancing performance and recovery. Protein supplements, such as whey protein, help meet your daily protein intake, essential for muscle repair and growth. Creatine is another popular supplement that can improve strength and endurance, making it beneficial for high-intensity calisthenics workouts.

Before incorporating any supplements into your routine, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure they align with your individual health needs and fitness goals. For more information on effective supplementation, see Top 5 Workout Supplements for Fitness and When to Take Them.

Recovery is a crucial aspect of any fitness plan. It allows your muscles to repair and grow, reducing the risk of injury. Adequate sleep, hydration, and nutrition are vital components of recovery. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to support optimal performance and recovery. Incorporate active recovery days, as outlined in the plan, to keep your body moving without overexertion.

Injury prevention is equally important. Ensure proper form during exercises to avoid strain and injury. Warm up before each workout with dynamic stretches and cool down afterward with static stretches to improve flexibility. For more tips on recovery, explore Recovery Revolution: Active Recovery Workouts Benefits.

While this plan provides a structured approach to calisthenics, it’s important to listen to your body and adapt exercises as needed. Factors such as fitness level, age, and any pre-existing conditions may require modifications. For beginners, it’s advisable to start with fewer sets and reps, gradually increasing as strength improves.

If you find certain exercises too challenging, consider performing modified versions. For instance, knee push-ups can be a good starting point if standard push-ups are too difficult. Conversely, advanced individuals can increase intensity by adding more reps or incorporating explosive movements.

Day 1: Upper Body

Block #1
Hand Release Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 30 seconds
Prone Back Extension to Reverse Hyperextension3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Close Grip (Diamond) Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 30 seconds
Wall Knee Bent Superman Pull3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #3
Push Up Plus (Kneeling allowed)3 x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #4
Floor Tricep Dip3 rounds x 30 seconds
Plank To Full Plank3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest25 seconds
Finisher
Feet Up Crunch3 rounds x 30 seconds
Side Mountain Climber to Hip Roll3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds

You can find the plan in the Gymaholic App:

Block #1
Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Gorilla Squat1 x 40 seconds
Lying Glute Stretch (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Lying Glute Stretch (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #2
Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)1 x 30 seconds
Front Leg Raises1 x 40 seconds
Quadriceps Stretch1 x 30 seconds
Quadriceps Stretch (Right Side)1 x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #3
Inchworm1 x 40 seconds
Torso Rotation1 x 40 seconds
Quadruped Push Up Plus1 x 40 seconds
Forearm Wall Slide1 x 40 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #4
Camel Pose1 x 30 seconds
Cobra Pose1 x 30 seconds
Twist Hip Stretch2 x 25 seconds
The Straddle Stretch1 x 25 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #5
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 30 seconds
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 30 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Left Side)1 x 30 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Right Side)1 x 30 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Pile Squat3 x 10 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Prone Back Extension Hold to Hamstring Curl3 rounds x 40 seconds
Wall Squat Hold3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #3
Single Leg Jump Lunge2 rounds x 12 reps
Single Leg Jump Lunge2 rounds x 12 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Squat To Alternate Side Abduction3 rounds x 50 seconds
Calf Raise3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest45 seconds
Block #1
Cross Mountain Climber2 rounds x 40 seconds
Oblique To Front Toe Touch2 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Reach And Catch2 rounds x 30 seconds
Heel Touch To Crunch2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Suitcase Crunch2 rounds x 40 seconds
Plank Jack2 rounds x 30 seconds
Dead Bug Heel Tap2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
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Block #1
Pile Squat3 rounds x 40 seconds
Glute Bridge Pullover3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Single Leg Jump3 rounds x 40 seconds
Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Bear Plank Fire Feet3 rounds x 40 seconds
Reverse Snow Angel To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Squat To Alternate Oblique Crunch3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Finisher
Bent Knee Hip Raise2 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Oblique Hip Raise2 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Forearm Wall Slide1 x 40 seconds
Butterfly Pose Warmup1 x 40 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Torso Rotation1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Twist Hip Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Twist Hip Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Camel Pose1 x 45 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Front Leg Raises1 x 40 seconds
Front Leg Raises1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #4
Frog Stretch1 x 30 seconds
Lying Quadriceps Stretch1 x 25 seconds
Lying Quadriceps Stretch (Right Side)1 x 25 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #5
Camel Pose1 x 30 seconds
Cobra Pose1 x 30 seconds
The Straddle Stretch1 x 25 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Movements #1
Quadriceps Stretch (Left Side)1 x 30 seconds
Quadriceps Stretch (Right Side)1 x 30 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Leg Up Hamstring Stretch (Left Side)1 x 30 seconds
Leg Up Hamstring Stretch (Right Side)1 x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Movements #2
Clasp Hands Behind Back Shoulder Stretch1 x 30 seconds
Chin To Chest Stretch1 x 30 seconds
Elbow Back Stretch1 x 30 seconds
Cobra Pose1 x 40 seconds
Child's Pose (Balasana)1 x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Walking1 x 10 minutes
Block #1
Reverse Snow Angel To Superman3 x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Knee Push Up Release3 x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Lying Lat Pulldown To Shrug3 rounds x 30 seconds
Knee Bicep Push Up3 rounds x 20 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #4
Floor Tricep Dip3 rounds x 30 seconds
Bear Plank Shoulder Tap3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Finisher
Oblique Leg Pull In To Alternate Leg Raise3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Side Plank Knee To Elbow3 rounds x 30 seconds
Alternate Heel Touch3 rounds x 50 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Inchworm1 x 40 seconds
Lateral Hip Opener1 x 40 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Hamstring Stretch With Twist1 x 40 seconds
Torso Rotation1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Front Split1 x 40 seconds
Front Split1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Alternate High Knee Hug1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 40 seconds
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Front Leg Raises1 x 40 seconds
90/90 Hip Warmup1 x 40 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Block #1
Reverse Cross Lunge (Curtsy) (Total reps)3 x 16 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Freehand Squat To Lateral Walk3 rounds x 30 seconds
Glute Bridge On Heels (Hamstring Focus)3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #3
Single Leg Glute Bridge3 rounds x 10 reps
Single Leg Glute Bridge3 rounds x 10 reps
Rest45 seconds
Block #4
Sumo Squat Calf Raise3 x 50 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #1
Frog Sit Up2 rounds x 30 seconds
Alternate Side Plank Knee To Elbow2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Crunch2 rounds x 30 seconds
Lying Alternate Knee Raise2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Tuck Crunch3 rounds x 30 seconds
Plank To Alternate Oblique Hip Raise3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Reverse Snow Angel3 rounds x 40 seconds
T Push Up (Kneeling allowed)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Lunge To Front Leg Raise3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Supine Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Prone Back Extension to Reverse Hyperextension3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Floor Tricep Dip3 rounds x 30 seconds
Knee Bicep Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Reverse Lunge To Kickback3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Finisher
Alternate Leg Raise Clap Under Crunch2 rounds x 40 seconds
Plank to Alternate Downward Dog Toe Touch2 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Twist Hip Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Twist Hip Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Knee Across The Body Stretch (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Sit Squat Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Frog Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Lying Quadriceps Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Lying Quadriceps Stretch (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Clasp Hands Behind Back Shoulder Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Upward Dog Pose (Urdhva Mukha Svanasana)1 x 40 seconds
90/90 Hip Stretch2 x 40 seconds
The Straddle Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Inchworm1 x 40 seconds
Wall Downdog1 x 40 seconds
Seated Overhead Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #5
Side Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Lateral Hip Opener1 x 40 seconds
Camel Pose1 x 40 seconds
Child's Pose (Balasana)1 x 40 seconds
Block #1
Close Grip (Diamond) Push Up (Kneeling allowed, go to failure)3 x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Superman2 rounds x 40 seconds
Full Plank Shoulder Tap2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #3
Supine Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Knee Bicep Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #4
Reverse Snow Angel To Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Push Up To Plank3 rounds x 40 seconds
Russian Twist3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #1
Inchworm1 x 40 seconds
Lateral Hip Opener1 x 50 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Torso Rotation1 x 40 seconds
Walking High Knee1 x 50 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Side Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing1 x 40 seconds
Arm Circle1 x 40 seconds
Alternate High Knee Hug1 x 40 seconds
Cat Cow To Push Up Plus1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 40 seconds
Standing Aternate Hip Circle1 x 40 seconds
Leg Swing (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Side Leg Swing (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Ankle External Rotation (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Ankle External Rotation (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Hamstring Scoop (Left Side)1 x 20 seconds
Hamstring Scoop (Right Side)1 x 20 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Camel Pose1 x 40 seconds
Cobra Pose1 x 40 seconds
The Straddle Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Frog Stretch1 x 45 seconds
90/90 Hip Stretch1 x 45 seconds
Lying Clasp Hands Behind Back Shoulder Stretch1 x 45 seconds
Block #1
Single Leg Lunge To Calf Raise (Left Side)3 rounds x 8 reps
Single Leg Lunge To Calf Raise (Right Side)3 rounds x 8 reps
Rest40 seconds
Block #2
Pile Squat3 rounds x 30 seconds
Glute Bridge On Heels (Hamstring Focus)3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest40 seconds
Block #3
Walking Lunge (Total reps)3 rounds x 20 reps
Rest40 seconds
Finisher
Straight Leg Oblique Hip Raise3 rounds x 30 seconds
Reverse Plank3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #1
Crunch To Oblique3 rounds x 30 seconds
Plank Hip Roll3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Straight Leg Oblique Hip Raise2 rounds x 30 seconds
Plank2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #3
Side Plank Knee To Elbow (Left Side)2 rounds x 30 seconds
Alternate Side Plank Knee To Elbow (Right Side)2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
Squat To Hip Abduction3 rounds x 40 seconds
Prone Back Extension Hold to Hamstring Curl3 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #2
Alternate Lunge To Front Leg Raise3 x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Block #3
Push Up To Plank Walkout3 rounds x 40 seconds
Back Extension3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Block #4
Supine Push Up3 rounds x 40 seconds
Alternate Superman3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest35 seconds
Finisher
Suite Case Crunch To Air Bike3 rounds x 40 seconds
Hip Roll3 rounds x 40 seconds
Rest30 seconds
Block #1
B Skip Running Drill1 x 40 seconds
Front Leg Raises1 x 40 seconds
Standing Aternate Hip Circle (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Standing Aternate Hip Circle (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #2
Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana)1 x 40 seconds
90/90 Hip Warmup1 x 40 seconds
Lateral Hip Opener1 x 40 seconds
Walkout1 x 40 seconds
Knee Circle1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #3
Inchworm1 x 40 seconds
Clasp Hands Behind Back Shoulder Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Torso Rotation1 x 45 seconds
Ankle Internal Rotation (Left Side)1 x 40 seconds
Ankle Internal Rotation (Right Side)1 x 40 seconds
Cat Cow To Push Up Plus1 x 40 seconds
Rest60 seconds
Block #4
Bow Pose (Dhanurasana) Activation1 x 40 seconds
Cobra Pose1 x 40 seconds
Frog Stretch1 x 40 seconds
The Straddle Stretch1 x 40 seconds
Camel Pose1 x 45 seconds
Iron Cross Dynamic Stretch1 x 45 seconds
Movements
Child's Pose (Balasana)2 rounds x 30 seconds
Cobra Pose2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Movements #2
Cat Cow Pose (Bitilasana)2 rounds x 30 seconds
Downward Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Movements #3
Knee Circle2 rounds x 30 seconds
Bent Knee Hip Raise2 rounds x 30 seconds
Rest20 seconds
Finisher
Walking1 x 10 minutes

If you find this plan too easy, that’s a great sign! It means you’re ready to push yourself further.

Don't hesitate to repeat this 21-day calisthenics plan to further enhance your strength and endurance.

As you progress, consider increasing the intensity by adding more reps, sets, or reducing rest times.

If it still feels too easy, move on to our intermediate calisthenics workout plan for men.

If you have access to a gym and would like to incorporate equipment into your routine, consider checking our Beginner's Workout Routine Guide.

This 21-day calisthenics plan is a comprehensive approach to building strength, flexibility, and endurance using bodyweight exercises. By coupling the workouts with proper nutrition and recovery strategies, you’ll set a strong foundation for your fitness journey. Stay consistent, listen to your body, and enjoy the transformation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A beginner calisthenics workout plan is a structured exercise routine that uses bodyweight movements to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. It is designed for those new to fitness, allowing them to build a solid foundation without the need for gym equipment.

Calisthenics is ideal for beginners as it offers scalable exercises that can be adjusted to match one's fitness level. This adaptability helps prevent injury and promotes gradual strength and endurance improvements as you progress.

To support a calisthenics workout plan, focus on a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Proteins aid muscle repair, carbohydrates provide energy, and fats support overall health. For more nutrition tips, visit Reset Your Nutrition During the Holidays.

Supplements are not necessary but can be beneficial for enhancing performance and recovery in calisthenics. Protein supplements like whey can help meet daily protein needs, while creatine may improve strength and endurance.

Yes, combining calisthenics with other training methods, such as weight lifting, can provide a well-rounded fitness routine. This approach can enhance muscle gains and overall fitness. Learn more about this in Why You Should Combine Calisthenics and Gym Training.

A beginner calisthenics plan, like the 21-day plan, is a great starting point. After completing it, you can reassess your progress and either repeat it for further improvement or transition to a more advanced routine to continue challenging your body.