I love calisthenic exercises for a couple of reasons. First and foremost it's super convenient. You can do it anywhere with no equipment. Although, my favorite calisthenic exercise is the pull up, which does require a pull up bar, otherwise you're good to go. Secondly, the exercises are safe and effective. Because you're using your bodyweight, the chances of injuries are minimal to none… assuming you're familiar with calisthenic exercises. And even if you were't familiar with the exercises, they're quite straight forward and easy to learn. Thirdly all of the exercises are inherently functional in nature, so you're not only getting in shape, but you're getting functionally fit which in my opinion is the best kind of fit.

Some people think calisthenic exercises are too easy because it's only using your own bodyweight. Although the term "easy" is relative, if you're used to doing 200 lb squats on a regular basis, doing bodyweight squats may seem easy, but there are many other ways to make "squats" more challenging other than just adding weight. For instance holding wall sit for 1 minute or longer is quite challenging… in a different way of course but nonetheless challenging.

It's also important to keep in mind that the goal of calisthenics isn't about bulking up like bodybuilding. That's not to say that you can't build an impressive physique using only your own weight… just look at any gymnasts. But you aren't going to look like Arnie or the Rock with calisthenics alone.

BUT… there is a way get best of both worlds… the weight-vest.

A weight-vest is just like it sounds… a weighted vest you can simply wear to add "weight" to your body. So when you perform all of the functional calisthenic exercises, you're essentially doing so with more weight. It's a hybrid of weight training and calisthenics.

I use weight-vest calisthenics quite often, especially at times when I don't have access to equipment or I simply want to increase the challenge of a calisthenics workout.

I've owned and used many different weight-vests and although I love using them, my biggest complaint was the way you had to add weight to the weight vest. All weight vests I've ever used required you to purchase specific weights that are made for weight vest. This can get pricey quick. And many of them are pretty cumbersome when it comes to adding weights which makes the process of adjusting the weight vests to your liking quite a hassle.

So when I saw the Kensui EZ WeightVest I was quite excited. The great thing about this weight vest is that you can use existing weights at the gym or at home instead of having to purchase separate weight vest weights like all of the other weight vests. Plus the design of the Kensui EZ WeightVest makes it easy to put the weights on and off, and it packs away nicely in a small bag so you can carry it easily which is super convenient if you workout at a gym.