The word ‘calisthenics’ comes from the Greek words ‘kallos’ (meaning ‘beauty’) and ‘sthenos’ (meaning ‘strength’). Our sport aims to achieve these physical attributes in addition to developing emotional and social development of students through friendship and teamwork.
There are 8000 of participants throughout Australia. Calisthenics has a strong focus on deportment and presentation, helping participants to develop confidence in movement and performance and to enjoy the thrill of competing on stage in front of an audience several times a year. It also helps improve deportment and overall grooming, which continues to help them throughout their lives.
Participants learn to appreciate and interpret different styles of music with different styles of movement and dance. There is a strong focus on flexibility, strength and control, grace and poise, expression through both the body and the face and simply just enjoying different forms of dance and movement.
Calisthenics combines the best aspects of sport and performing arts
– Calisthenics Victoria Incorporated
Calisthenics encompasses several types of dance styles. Team items include a variety of dance styles, depending on the age and skill level of the participants. These routine combine dancing, singing, gymnastics and balletic movements to provide a spectacular and entertaining performance.
Teamwork is important. So is the bonding and the friendships that the students develop.
Calisthenics also offers the opportunities for individual training, allowing the students to compete at competitions and dance eisteddfods. The pinnacle of a solo pathway is the Graceful Girl section of the Royal South Street Competitions.
Students can also select a pathway that involves Cadet training and Coaching.