A beginner calisthenics class for the LGBTQIA+ community

Brighton's first beginner calisthenics class, exclusively for the queer community!

During this class you will get the chance to learn some of the basic calisthenics foundations, such as beginner movements you can do using parallel bars and gynastics rings, as well as building functional strength through beginner-friendly exercises.

Whether you are completely new to exercise, or have already dabbled a bit with calisthenics and are keen to know more, this class is for you.

Your coach Emma (she/her) loves introducing calisthenics to people in a playful and low pressure style. This isn't about being perfect, it's about trying new things, having fun, and maybe even surprising yourself with things you never knew you could do!

What to expect during the class

5-10 min warm up

A gentle warm-up to allow you to drop into the space, and warm-up the parts of your body you will be using in the class

20-25 mins foundational calisthenics skills

First we will introduce the skill of the day, and do some demonstrations

We will then break down the movement, and demonstrate the different progressions you can try during the class

The group will be split into smaller groups of 2-3 people, where you will get time to try out the movements yourself, with some coaching tips from your coach, and cheerleading and support from your fellow classmates

20 minute strength circuit

Our strength circuit will be made up of 5 different exercises that your coach will demonstrate

Each exercise will have different adaptations to make it harder or easier, so you can choose the right level for you

In small groups, you will spend 30 seconds on each exercise, until you have completed the circuit

You will then get a short break, and we will repeat the circuit a further 2 times

5-10 minute cool down

A series of gentle stretches to return your heart rate back to normal, and an oportunity to ground and regulate before heading back out into the world!

* If any point during the session you feel you need to take a break, don't feel you have to push through. Find somewhere you feel comfortable to take a rest, and join back in as soon as you feel ready!

Venue and accessibility

The class is held in a gym room below ground. There is a wheelchair lift down to the basement floor, and a wheelchair ramp into the gym space.

The venue has multiple gender-neutral toilets (individual rooms, rather than cubicles) and an accessible bathroom. There are no changing rooms, but the toilets can be used for changing. There is no shower on site.

There is a sink to re-fill water bottles, and some drinks and snacks available for purchase (ask your coach).

The gym space itself is fully private. There will be low lighting and some music (which we keep at a low level so that you can hear your coach!)

Additional information

Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the class, and wait in the communal area by the picnic tables outside the gym room (down the stairs from the entrance and turn left).

Please fill out the following health questionnaire before joining the class. This helps coach Emma to keep you safe during the class:

https://www.calisthenicsbrighton.com/parq/

Please bring with you:

A water bottle

Loose, breathable clothing (that you feel comfortable exercising in)

Yourself - however you are able to show up that day :)

Many people choose to do calisthenics barefoot or in socks, but it is up to you whether you would prefer to keep your shoes on. If so, please wear trainers, or barefoot shoes.

Nervous?

Most people feel nervous when trying out a new class or fitness space. If you are feeling particularly nervous when you arrive, just let coach Emma know before the start of the class.

Description supplied by the event organiser.