JASMINE ROLFE
Jaymes Wright testing the forces of gravity at Tumgun Lookout, Burleigh Heads. Photo: Jaymes Wright, AMPM
The calisthenics craze has taken the Gold Coast fitness industry by storm and the bodyweight bars along the Burleigh Beach esplanade are busier than ever.
Off the back of Australian Ninja Warrior 2017, arguably one of the most viewed television shows in a decade, gym goers have been inspired to swap the barbells for the freestyle bars along the beach.
The term calisthenics is derived from the Greek words ‘kallos’ for beauty and ‘thenos’ for strength and if you’ve witnessed the athletic skills of the so-called ‘ninjas’ while strolling along Burleigh, it is easy to understand why strength is a key component.
‘Ninja training academies’ are popping up across Australia and local Gold Coast facility, Art of Motion Pursuit of Movement, is setting the standard.
Self-described AMPM mutant, Jaymes Wright, is excited to be a part of such a great movement and believes that the reason sport has gained popularity so quickly is due to its modifiable nature, to suit everyone from beginners right up to the fully-fledged ninja.
“No matter what level of fitness there’s a workout for you. The progressions are endless, the level of strength you can get to is ridiculous and it’s so rewarding!” Jaymes said.
“Most of all it’s super fun which is why it’s so easy to stick to because you look forward to your next session!”
AMPM is raising the bar in the fitness industry and want to encourage the Gold Coast community to join the ‘family’, get active and try something new.
“AMPM is such a massive community of calisthenics, full of so much love for the sport and the people doing it. It is such a good vibe, there are no egos,” Jaymes said.
“We want to show people that training doesn’t have to be a chore, it can be fun, creative and challenging with the greatest rewards.”
The AMPM ‘family’ hanging out on the bars at Burleigh Heads. Photo: Jaymes Wright, AMPM
Launching the inaugural King of the Bars competition in 2017 here on the coast, Editor in Chief of Mens Muscle and Health magazine, Lindy Olsen, is also riding the calisthenics wave and challenging entrants to put their skills to the test to claim the crown.
“You need to record yourself performing as many strict-form muscle-ups, clap push-ups or Superman push-ups as possible in 45 seconds,” Lindy explained.
“But that’s just the entry requirement, the real challenge will be on the day!”
Entries are still open for the King of the Bars competition. Click here to enter!
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