Calisthenics introduces the world of dance to girls and boys from 3 years of age, offering them the opportunity to experience a variety of dance forms including ballet, jazz, gymnastics, physie, folk dance and singing all in one activity.

Teams and soloists perform and compete in up to 4 competitions each year, where they wear up to 7 different costumes, full stage makeup and elaborate hair pieces.

The word calisthenics comes from the Greek words ‘kallos’ for beauty and ‘thenos’ for strength. Indeed, the components of the sport aim at achieving those physical attributes, but the sport also influences the emotional and social development of girls and boys through friendship and team work.

Calisthenics, as we know it today, involves a team of pupils learning routines choreographed to music, each of approximately three to four minutes duration and presenting those routines at competitions. Pupils learn approximately six routines concurrently throughout a year and this is where the diversity of the sport is seen.

There are different levels of Calisthenics, some clubs are non-competitive, performing only at their annual concert. Other clubs enter their teams in various competitions throughout the year. New South Wales also has State Representative Teams that competes at the Australian National Championships.

Sport or Art? - Calisthenics can be categorised as both. As a sport it encourages physical development, coordination, self-discipline and team spirit. As an Art it develops an appreciation of music and rhythm, the beauty of line and the excitement of presenting on stage.


(Dowling Calisthenics Academy is an affiliated member of the New South Wales Calisthenic Association Incorporated).