Hey there, fitness enthusiasts! If you’ve been on a quest to enhance your flexibility, strength, and overall mobility, you’ve likely heard about the Calisthenic Movement Mobility Program. Well, you’re in the right place because today, we’re diving deep into this program to bring you an honest, no-nonsense review.
We all know that mobility is the cornerstone of a well-rounded fitness routine. In that context, Calisthenic Movement (often shortened to Cali Move) has been making waves in the fitness community with its revolutionary Mobility Program. This particular workout program promises to help you move better, feel better, and reach new heights in your training. But the question is – does it live up to the hype?
Here, we’ll break down the ins and outs of the Cali Move Mobility Program, sharing everything you need to know before embarking on this mobility journey. So, let’s explore the world of mobility training together!
Table of Contents
What Is The Calisthenic Movement?
Before we delve deeper into the review, let’s give you a brief idea about the Calisthenic Movement – the team that came up with the program. Calisthenic Movement, lovingly known as Cali Move, is a beacon of inspiration for fitness aficionados globally. Helmed by the dynamic duo Sven Kohl and Alex “El Eggs” Lorenz, this online platform is a veritable treasure trove for Calisthenics enthusiasts and advocates of a wholesome lifestyle.
Sven Kohl, a fitness trainer and certified physical therapist, founded the Calisthenic Movement. With over a decade of experience in training, he brings a wealth of knowledge to personal training and group courses.
The other founder, Alex “El Eggs” Lorenz, is a sports teacher with a focus on nutritional sciences. For over 27 years, he has participated in sports like bike trials, parkour, taekwondo, and tricking. His expertise extends to online personal training and nutritional coaching, alongside conducting workshops in the German-speaking area. In fact, besides the Calisthenic Movement, he has also founded the Leipzig Calisthenics and Parkour Association.
Cali Move’s dedication to calisthenics is palpable through its extensive tutorial videos, complete workout routines, and more. Their invaluable contributions have resonated with millions of enthusiasts worldwide, fostering a community of like-minded individuals committed to a healthier, more agile lifestyle.
A Brief Overview Of The Cali Move Mobility Program
The Cali Move Mobility Program is a game-changer in the world of mobility exercises and bodyweight training. This comprehensive program is thoughtfully designed to enhance your agility, joint health, and overall flexibility while imparting a deep understanding of mobility exercises.
It is structured into three challenging levels, with each lasting eight weeks. This program provides a gradual progression from beginner to advanced. It all begins with a “Prep Week” that precedes the three levels and helps to establish a solid foundation.
From there, you’ll embark on a transformative journey, with each level building upon the previous one, incorporating exercises like pull-ups, squats, strength training, and even the more difficult handstand press.
The team recently upgraded the program to Mobility 2.0, which offers even more benefits than the original iteration. Moreover, Calisthenic Movement’s high-quality online videos and tutorials, coupled with detailed reading material and schedules, make it accessible to individuals of all fitness levels. Whether you’re aiming for body transformation, weight loss, or mastering exercises like the V-sit and front split, this program works wonders in just six months.
Cali Move Mobility Program Review
Now that you have a basic idea of the Cali Move Mobility Program let’s dive right into the review. First, we will discuss how the program works by delving into the different levels. Then, we will explore other key aspects of the program, which will help to determine its usefulness.
1. A Breakdown Of The Cali Move Mobility Program
Below, you will find a detailed breakdown of the different levels followed in this Mobility Program.
A. Prep Week – Establishing The Foundation
Your journey through the Cali Move Mobility Program kicks off with a crucial “Prep Week.” This initial phase is like the warm-up before an intense workout, and it plays a vital role in setting the stage for your mobility transformation.
During prep week, you’ll engage in basic walking and sitting squat exercises for a few minutes, offering your body a gentle introduction to the mobility exercises that lie ahead. These exercises help you gauge your current level of flexibility and mobility while allowing you to familiarise yourself with the movements.
In addition to these mobility exercises, a thorough warm-up is a crucial component of the prep week. It primes your muscles, increases blood flow, and reduces the risk of injury as you progress through the program’s various calisthenics movements, strength exercises, and mobility workouts.
Prep week is also an opportunity to become acquainted with the program’s structure and expectations. While it may seem like a light start, it’s a necessary step to ensure that you’re adequately prepared for the upcoming challenges. So, take this week to ease into the world of Cali Move, understanding that it’s the foundation upon which your mobility journey will be built.
B. Level 1 – Building The Basics
Level 1 of the Cali Move Mobility Program is where the real work begins. In these eight weeks, you’ll dive headfirst into a well-structured routine that combines mobility exercises, calisthenics movements, and strength-building exercises. The foundation laid during prep week will now support your journey as you progress through this fundamental level.
Your commitment in Level 1 involves working out three to four times a week, with rest days in between to allow your body to recover and adapt. Each workout session begins with a 15-20 minute warm-up, preparing your body for the new mobility exercises that await.
The workouts in Level 1 are holistic, targeting every aspect of your body, from your neck down to your ankles. You’ll engage in mobility exercises like walking and sitting squats to enhance your flexibility and range of motion. In addition, push-ups and pull-ups are introduced to build strength and stability, key components of any calisthenics movement.
By the end of Level 1, you’ll not only have a deeper understanding of mobility exercises but also improved flexibility and strength. This level serves as a strong foundation for your journey toward advanced mobility, and it’s a testament to your dedication to the program’s principles.
C. Level 2 – Advancing Your Mobility
As you transition to Level 2 of the Cali Move Mobility Program, be prepared to embrace a heightened level of complexity and intensity in your workouts. This phase is all about pushing your limits and taking your mobility to the next level.
Advanced calisthenics workouts become a focal point of Level 2, challenging your strength, balance, and mobility in new and exciting ways. You’ll dive into exercises like kneeling, bending, and sitting squat exercises that demand greater control and skill.
Your commitment intensifies as well, with workouts now scheduled four to five times per week, each lasting between 30 minutes to an hour. This increased frequency and duration reflect the program’s commitment to your progress.
The exercises in Level 2 are noticeably more intricate, requiring more coordination and control. They encompass a range of movements that further expand your mobility horizons. You’ll find yourself bending, stretching, and contorting your body in ways you might not have imagined possible.
By the end of Level 2, your mobility will have reached new heights, and your confidence in tackling advanced exercises will have grown substantially.
D. Level 3 – Mastering Advanced Mobility
Level 3 is the pinnacle of the Cali Move Mobility Program. This is where your dedication and hard work culminate in mastering highly complex workouts and pushing your mobility to its limits.
All the exercises in this stage are designed to challenge your body like never before. Bending and hip-rotational exercises will test your flexibility, balance, and control to their utmost extent. Furthermore, other complex moves like squat walking and handstand presses are included to push the limits of your core strength and muscle group fitness.
The program intensity in Level 3 is at its peak, with workouts scheduled almost every day, totalling six times per week. Each session extends to one to two hours, reflecting the intensity and complexity of the exercises. This level is a platform to demonstrate the skills you’ve honed in the previous levels, pushing the boundaries of what you thought possible.
2. Requirements
The Cali Move Mobility Program is designed to be accessible to individuals with a range of fitness levels and equipment availability. For your convenience, we have discussed the physical requirements along with the necessary tools.
A. Equipment Requirement
To participate in this program, you’ll need some basic calisthenics equipment, such as:
- Broomstick or towel
- Pull-Up bar
- Gymnastic rings
The broomstick or towel may be necessary for basic warm-ups. Plus, they can be used for other things like cleaning the workout area or drying yourself off after exercise.
Subsequently, the pull-up bar is a versatile tool used for various mobility exercises like pull-ups, chin-ups, and stretches, assisting in enhancing your flexibility and range of motion. If you don’t have a pull-up bar, you can use gymnastic rings instead. They are essential for exercises like hanging leg raises and other upper-body movements that contribute to your overall mobility and strength.
Besides the above, there are a few other optional equipment requirements, which are not mandatory but can be pretty useful. For example, you can use a chair or similar object to support your body weight during certain exercises or to assist with balance and stability.
Similarly, resistance bands can be employed to adapt to the difficulty of exercises, providing varying levels of resistance to cater to your specific needs. Apart from that, additional weights or everyday objects like a water bottle can be used to add resistance to certain exercises, making them more challenging as you progress.
B. Physical Requirements
As we have said before, the Cali Move Mobility Program is designed to accommodate individuals at different fitness levels. Still, we’d recommend that you consider your own physical capabilities and limitations before starting the workout routine. The program’s intensity increases as you progress through the levels, so it’s crucial to start at an appropriate level based on your current fitness.
It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or fitness trainer if you have any underlying medical conditions or injuries before starting the program. For example, if you have obesity, you may need to make alterations to the workout program.
It is important to ensure that you can comfortably perform basic movements like squats, push-ups, and overhead reaches. These serve as the building blocks for the program, which means that you cannot make any compromises with them.
Ultimately, the Cali Move Mobility Program is adaptable and can be tailored to your specific fitness level and equipment availability. That’s what makes it accessible and effective for a wide range of individuals looking to improve their mobility and overall fitness.
3. Progression
The progression within the Cali Move Mobility Program is a highly individualised journey. As we have suggested in the previous point, the workout is influenced by a multitude of factors, such as your current fitness level, background, and physical condition. Unlike one-size-fits-all programs, Cali Move understands that there can be significant differences among participants.
For individuals who already have a foundation in martial arts or calisthenics, progressing through the program may feel like a natural and swift process. They may find themselves achieving the intended 8-week ideal for each level as their bodies adapt more readily to the demands of mobility training.
On the other hand, for those who may have been leading a more sedentary lifestyle or have excess body weight, progression could be more gradual. Cali Move recognises this and encourages individuals to move at their own pace.
It’s perfectly acceptable to spend more time on a level or even repeat it if the next level’s progression feels too challenging. The key is to prioritise safety and steady progress over rushed advancement.
One of the program’s strengths is that it offers lifetime access, ensuring that you can revisit and retake any level whenever you choose. This flexibility empowers you to tailor your progression according to your unique needs and physical capabilities.
4. Costs And Payments
For a calisthenics workout program that runs for more than six months, it is quite affordable. You get access to the whole program and its resources for around 100 bucks. In this regard, the Cali Move Mobility Program offers two payment options to cater to your financial preferences, as described below:
Option 1: Payment Plan For 6 Monthly Payments
With this option, you can spread the cost of the program over six months, making it more budget-friendly. You’ll pay $18.99 per month for six consecutive months, for a total investment of $113.94.
This payment plan allows you to access the program immediately, and it’s a convenient choice if you prefer smaller, regular payments without the commitment of a subscription. After completing the six payments, you retain access to the program with no further charges.
Option 2: One-Time Payment For Savings
If you’re looking to make a one-time commitment and save some money in the process, Option 2 is the way to go. By paying $89.99 upfront, you save over $20 compared to the total cost of the monthly payment plan.
This option provides immediate, unrestricted access to the Cali Move Mobility Program without the need to worry about recurring payments. It’s an ideal choice for those who are confident in their commitment to the program and want to maximise their savings.
5. Things Included With The Program
When you purchase it, you get lifetime access to all the resources and tools that come with the program. To be more exact, here is a list of the things that you get with the program:
- Access to more than 160 different exercises and their variations
- The complete workout schedule for 24 weeks
- Detailed descriptions of every mobility exercise
- High-quality videos that can be accessed online
- Downloadable reading materials in PDF format
- Tutorials for additional workouts and support activities
The video resources are customised to fit almost every level of performance. On that note, you get access to 10-50 minute workout schedules around three to six times a week. You can adjust and modify your weekly workout routine based on the recommendations provided in these resources.
What’s more, the reading materials include instructions for things like how to prevent and recover from injuries and steps to eradicate imbalances or weak points. In short, you get a complete home workout system that helps to improve your overall mobility and fitness levels.
Other Similar Calisthenics Workout Programs To Watch Out For
If you’re looking for more calisthenics programs to diversify your training or focus on specific fitness goals, here are a few notable options:
1. VAHVA Movement 20XX Program
The VAHVA Movement 20XX program is a comprehensive calisthenics program designed to improve strength, flexibility, and overall movement quality. It incorporates a wide range of workout programs that cater to different fitness levels and goals. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your flexibility, master new exercises, or join a community of trained people, the VAHVA Movement offers various options to explore.
2. Cali Move Complete Calisthenics
Building upon the success of the Cali Move Mobility Program, the Complete Calisthenics program provides a holistic approach to calisthenics training. It encompasses a wide range of calisthenics exercises and workout programs that focus on strength, flexibility training, and mastering new exercises. This program is ideal for those looking to take their calisthenics skills to the next level.
3. Cali Move Body Transformation Program
For individuals seeking body transformation through calisthenics, the Cali Move Body Transformation Program (review) is a solid choice. This program combines calisthenics workouts with nutritional guidance to help you achieve your fitness goals. Whether you want to work on side splits, explore easier variations, or embark on a complete calisthenics journey, this program offers a structured approach.
Why Is Mobility Training So Important?
Mobility training is of paramount importance in calisthenics for several compelling reasons.
1. Optimal Movement Patterns
Mobility training enables individuals to achieve and maintain optimal movement patterns. It allows for the full range of motion in joints, ensuring that calisthenics exercises are performed correctly. This not only maximises the effectiveness of each movement but also minimises the risk of injury.
2. Injury Prevention
Mobility training helps reduce the risk of injuries in calisthenics. By improving flexibility and joint mobility, this workout ensures that the body can adapt to various positions and forces. It also reduces the likelihood of strains or sprains during exercises like muscle-ups, handstands, or planches.
3. Functional Strength
Mobility training complements calisthenics’ focus on functional strength. It ensures that your strength gains are applicable to real-world movements and activities, making you not just stronger but also more capable in daily life.
4. Longevity And Joint Health
Mobility training promotes joint health and longevity. By regularly working on flexibility and mobility, you reduce the wear and tear on your joints, fostering their long-term health and function. This is especially important for individuals engaged in calisthenics for the long haul.
5. Progression And Mastery
Many calisthenics movements require a step-by-step progression. Without adequate mobility, it’s challenging to advance through these progressions. Mobility training paves the way for mastering new exercises and achieving advanced calisthenics skills.
Verdict – Should You Go For The Cali Move Mobility Program?
The Cali Move Mobility Program is a comprehensive and adaptable fitness journey suitable for individuals of varying fitness levels and backgrounds.
With its emphasis on mobility, flexibility, and calisthenics, it provides a structured path to enhanced physical well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or someone seeking a transformative lifestyle change, the program’s flexible progression, comprehensive resources, and lifetime access make it an appealing choice.
However, individuals should consider their fitness level and dedication, as well as consult a professional if needed. Ultimately, for those committed to improving mobility and overall fitness, Cali Move offers a valuable and accessible solution.
Founder of www.calisthenics-101.co.uk. Training calisthenics since 2012.
Currently working on: 30 second one-arm handstand, muscle-up 360, straddle planche.