Bar Evolution Calisthenics might sound like something strange and complicated at first, but this simple and effective method of exercise and training has raised the bar for body weight training in Potchefstroom.

One just has to look at the variety of the shapes and sizes that are part of the Be-Cali training group at the SANDF Army Base’s Kopanelo Sports Ground to know that this healthy lifestyle event caters for anybody.  “The great thing is that Be-Cali is for everybody and we focus on each person’s individual abilities and fitness levels at a specific point in time. The key is to progress gradually –  there are always alternative exercises,” says Erich Wiese, instructor of the Potch Be-Cali group.

Wiese, an SA javelin thrower and former learner at Hoërskool Wesvalia, started training with Be-Cali at his school where the first training ground was situated. He and Monique van Niekerk started instructing in Potch four months ago. Fourteen regular members attend this fun and rewarding training session that focuses on a full body workout.

According to Wiese, training sessions are based on specific muscle groups per day. “On Mondays, we have our ‘Muscle Hustle’ day when we focus on upper body exercises on the bars. On Tuesday, we focus on cardio and leg exercises and on Wednesday, we do a core workout, finishing with the full body Spartan workout on Thursday. The great thing is that the exercises are highly adaptable,” he said.

Be-Cali is also a matter of specific taste and it does, in a sense, cater to individuals who are not accustomed to, or comfortable with, the traditional gym setup.

“People are uninformed about the nature of the exercises and sometimes assume they would be too advanced. Personally, I have never seen anyone who did not like the exercises,” adds Wiese. Classes are R300 per month and the first class is free of charge. Classes start at 16:45 and end at 17:30, going on to 18:30 in the summer season.

Enquiries: Erich Wiese at 082 655 6475.