Liftsmith

Free

Bodyweight strength, one step at a time

Calisthenics gets hard by changing the exercise, not the weight. Liftsmith's bodyweight skill ladders tell you which step you're on and when you've earned the next one.

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A bodyweight set with reps to do and the rest timer

Ladders for every movement

Each ladder runs from an easy version to a hard one: incline push-ups to one-arm work, assisted squats to pistol squats, negatives to pull-ups. You do 3 sets of 5 to 8, and once you hit 3×8 the next workout moves you up a step. Holds like the plank run 20 to 60 seconds before they step up.

Ladders cover the pull-up, push-up, dip, squat, hinge, row and core. The program is free.

See every step done right

Every exercise has a 3D demo you can turn around, with the working muscles lit, so you can check a push-up or an inverted row from the side before you try it.

  • Timed holds count down for you
  • Weighted calisthenics: add a belt or vest and log the extra weight
  • Mix in rings, a dip station or bands if you have them

Where to begin

Start each ladder where you can do 3 clean sets of 5. Our guide to calisthenics progressions shows the steps from first push-up to pistol squat.

Questions

Is it good for complete beginners?
Yes. Every ladder starts with an easy step, like wall or incline push-ups and assisted squats.
Can I add weight later?
Yes. Log the extra weight for any bodyweight exercise, and it counts in your stats.
How often should I train?
Three or four days a week works well, with each movement trained two or three times.

Read more: calisthenics progressions, strength training with no equipment and pull-up bar exercises.

Get strong anywhere

No gym needed: a plan that moves you up a step whenever you've earned it.

  • ✓ Free to start, no account needed
  • ✓ Plans every set, rep and weight for you
  • ✓ Works offline, on Android, iPhone and the web
  • ✓ No ads, ever
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