Interview: Calisthenics

Expert Frank Medrano

How and when did you start training?

I first started training about five years ago. I got inspired into getting in shape after seeing myself getting in poor shape year after year. I would be embarrassed to even take my shirt off. I was constantly tired, slow, weak and my diet did not make things better. Then one day a light bulb turned on inside my head. I was tired of feeling tired, slow and weak and I wanted to get bigger, faster and stronger.

What are the benefits of calisthenics are over
other methods of training?

There are many advantages that I feel calisthenics has over other forms of training. Bodyweight calisthenics use only the weight of your own body as resistance to develop the ability to squat, reach, twist, lunge, jump, land, push and get up and down… allowing you to meet the challenges of sport, work and life with excellence. Calisthenics can also be done anywhere....indoors or outdoors. No matter where you are… you will have an effective physical training method at your disposal! Calisthenics can be done anytime... day or night. The point is, whenever you want an effective workout you can have one… your body never closes! For many body weight calisthenics exercises, the resistance of your own bodyweight is sufficient to promote fitness, health and physique benefits. In some instances some other elements will be necessary to complete the bodyweight calisthenics exercise… like a wall, a chair, a box, a pull up bar, etc. However, in most cases… if you have a functional body, you have a gym! Although my routine is heavily filled with calisthenics exercises I also use free weights.

How do you manage to stay motivated and consistent?

I set small realistic goals for myself. I have my mind trained that I can do anything I want if I really want it and I challenge myself with every training session. Being consistent is a necessity for progression and with out it, Motivation dies. I want to be in the best shape possible and my dedication and progression keeps me motivated.

How long do you usually spend training?

I normally train six days a week and for about two hours each day.

What is your training routine like?

Click image to download workout

What is your diet when trying to get in peak condition?

I am a vegan so I do not eat any meat or animal by-products. My diet is also always low fat and enriched in superfoods so the only thing I do to get in peak conditioning with my diet is limiting my sodium intake and I take in a lot more vegetables.

What is the most challenging bodyweight
exercise you do?

Tiger bend push-ups

Who are your favourite athletes, bodybuilders
or fitness models?

Nathane Jackson (fitness competitor and model), an inspiration to all that you can be super healthy, strong and build muscle on a healthy vegan diet.

What are your future goals?

My fitness goals are to continue my physical fitness progression to extreme levels. My body is capable of so much more and I want to keep tapping into that inner strength. I want to set an example, motivate and inspire anyone interested in inquiring in super wellness in having a VEGAN diet and mastering their own body weight to high levels. I also eventually hope to be able to get a cover on a fitness magazine someday.

Do you listen to music whilst you train?

I love to listen to music while I train and I listen to all types as well. Right now I'm listening to instrumental score soundtracks.

What top 3 tips would you give to anyone
wanting to get CutAndJacked?

1. Consistency is very important. The more consistent you are, the more progress you will make to reach your goals.

2. Diet and nutrition. No matter how hard you train you will not be able to acquire a truly ripped physique if you do not follow a proper healthy nutrition plan.

3. Cardio (HIIT) to keep your metabolism in a constant fat burning state you MUST put in your cardio. Without cardio there is no fire to jack you up!

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