My hands are sore from clapping so hard. This isn’t the first time this has happened. The skin is swollen. The bones ache. My palms are red.
Let me backtrack a little… My brother Al Kavadlo and I have the best job out of anyone I know. We get to travel and meet calisthenics aficionados from all over the globe. We spend three days teaching the moves, spreading the word, training intensely and basking in the love. We get to personally witness and be a part of so many amazing feats of strength and groundbreaking achievements that the outpouring of raw, unbridled joy, coupled with passionate pride and complete confidence almost takes on a physical manifestation of its own. It practically busts down the walls and flows all over the street! We pull-up, we flag, we applaud, we get emotional.
And yes… we clap!
The Progressive Calisthenics Certification’s debut this past weekend in the Windy City of Chicago was no exception. In fact, it was a perfect example of exactly what I’m talking about. Bodyweight beasts from all over these great States were represented… and they delivered the goods!
You see, when attendees and instructors work together face-to-face, we bring out the best in one another. Something magical happens. We train hard and inspire. We stand tall (even if it’s on our hands!)
PR’s included Muscle-Ups, One-Arm Push-Ups, Stand-To-Stand Bridges, Back Levers and more. But beyond that, the showing of solidarity is what really stole the show. The PCC community was the most powerful form of strength in the room. The calisthenics brother- and sister-hood is the mightiest force in the universe.
It is of note that this was a particularly powerful group of females, including two women who performed their very first muscle-ups. Can I get a hell yeah? Bodyweight strength training is for everybody!
PCC, Chi-Town had to be experienced to be believed. In fact, that’s’ what makes the Progressive Calisthenics Certification so special: It is an in person experience. You can read about it or look at it. You can even begin to get a feel for it. But you can’t touch it or taste it until you live it! I’m looking forward to seeing YOU at the next certification.
Keep the dream alive, my friends!
-DK
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Danny Kavadlo is one of the world’s foremost authorities on calisthenics, nutrition and personal training. He is the author of the Dragon Door titles Diamond-Cut Abs and Everybody Needs Training. Danny is known for his minimalist philosophy, simple approach and motivational talents.
A true in-person experience, Danny is a Master Instructor for Dragon Door’s Progressive Calisthenics Certification. He has been featured in the NY Times, TRAIN, Men’s Fitness and is a regular contributor to Bodybuilding.com. Learn more about Danny at www.DannyTheTrainer.com