Calisthenics Coach: Why Ed Rocha is the UK’s Go-To for Bodyweight Training
Workouts
Calisthenics Coach: Why Ed Rocha is the UK’s Go-To for Bodyweight Training
If you’ve been searching for a calisthenics coach to help you master pull-ups, handstands or even your first muscle-up, you’ve probably noticed there aren’t many specialists out there. That’s where I come in. This blog will explain what a calisthenics coach does, why it’s different from traditional personal training, and how I can help you get stronger, more mobile and more confident through bodyweight training.

July 29, 2025

A calisthenics coach specialises in teaching people to use their own bodyweight for resistance. Rather than relying on machines or barbells, we build strength, mobility and control with exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, dips, squats, L-sits and handstands.
The difference between a calisthenics coach and a standard PT? We don’t just count reps we teach progressions. Every exercise has easier and harder variations so you always have a clear next step, whether you’re a beginner or already advanced.
I’m Ed Rocha, a UK-based calisthenics coach who’s been helping people learn bodyweight training for over four years. Whether you’re starting with wall push-ups or aiming to compete in calisthenics events, I build structured plans that match your goals and current level.
What Does a Calisthenics Coach Do?
Why Work With a Calisthenics Coach Instead of Going Solo?
You can learn calisthenics on your own. But most people who try solo training hit one of three problems:
- Form mistakes – leading to injury or plateaus.
- No progression plan – doing random workouts without knowing what’s next.
- Motivation dips – not sure if you’re improving or when you should level up.
Working with a coach fixes all three. You get:
- Personalised programming
- Feedback on form (in-person or online)
- Clear weekly structure
- Support when motivation drops
"You don’t need a gym to get strong. All you need is your body, a plan, and the patience to show up each week." Ed Rocha
Why Choose Ed Rocha as Your Calisthenics Coach?
Looking for a UK calisthenics coach who actually understands how to take you from complete beginner to advanced bodyweight skills? That’s exactly what I do. I’ve been coaching calisthenics for over four years, both online and in person, helping clients achieve everything from their first proper push-up to full muscle-ups and planches.
Unlike a typical personal trainer, I specialise purely in bodyweight training. This means every plan is built around calisthenics progressions, mobility work, and core control the foundations of real strength. I’ve trained clients across the UK and beyond through online calisthenics coaching, making it possible to get expert feedback even if you’re not local.
Some highlights of what you can expect working with me:
- Clear progressions tailored to your goals (not cookie-cutter workouts)
- Support learning advanced skills like handstands or human flags
- Flexible coaching options, from calisthenics coaching near me in parks to fully remote online programs
- Real results: clients have gone from zero pull-ups to multiple clean reps in under 12 weeks

How My Calisthenics Coaching Works
Initial Assessment
We look at your current strength, goals and available equipment (home, park or gym). No two people are the same, so your plan shouldn’t be either.
Custom Training Plan
I design progressive workouts that cover push, pull, legs and core the fundamentals of calisthenics. These plans evolve as you get stronger.
Ongoing Support
Whether in-person around the UK or online, I provide technique feedback, progression cues and regular check-ins to keep you on track.
Benefits of Working With a Calisthenics Coach
- Build functional strength without heavy weights
- Improve mobility and body control
- Train anywhere parks, gyms or at home
- Clear progression from beginner to advanced
- Learn skills most gym-goers never attempt

FAQs About Calisthenics Coaching
Do I need equipment to work with a calisthenics coach?
No. We can start with bodyweight-only movements. Over time, adding a pull-up bar, rings or parallettes opens up more progression options.
Can I build muscle with calisthenics?
Yes. With structured progression and proper nutrition, calisthenics builds lean, functional muscle that looks and performs great.
Do you coach beginners?
Absolutely. Most of my clients start as complete beginners. We focus on fundamentals like push-ups, squats and rows before moving to advanced skills.
Do you offer online calisthenics coaching?
Yes. I work with clients across the UK and beyond via video calls, progress reviews and custom plans.
How is calisthenics different from weight training?
Calisthenics uses your bodyweight for resistance instead of external weights. It improves relative strength, mobility and coordination and you can train anywhere.
How much does calisthenics coaching cost?
Costs vary based on whether you want in-person or online coaching and how often we work together. I’ll talk through options during a free consultation so we can match your goals and budget.
Do I need to be fit before starting?
No, calisthenics coaching is designed for all levels. We’ll start where you are, even if that means wall push-ups or assisted rows on day one.
Can I combine calisthenics with weightlifting?
Yes, many of my clients mix the two. Calisthenics builds body control and joint strength that complements barbell training.
How long will it take to learn a muscle-up or handstand?
It depends on your starting strength and how consistent you are. Most beginners see big changes in 4 weeks, with skill goals often achievable in a few months of focused training.
Who I Help (And How)
I’ve worked with people who:
- Couldn’t do a single push-up and wanted to build confidence
- Wanted to lose weight and get fit outdoors without a gym
- Needed help progressing to advanced skills like muscle-ups or planche
- Wanted to balance strength training with flexibility and mobility work
One of my favourite success stories is Dan, who started with assisted pull-ups . Within eight weeks, he was repping clean pull-ups and holding a solid handstand for five seconds, something he never thought possible.
"Calisthenics isn’t about doing the hardest skills on day one, it’s about building the basics so those skills come naturally later." Ed Rocha
Ready to Start Training With a Calisthenics Coach?
If you’re ready to finally take calisthenics seriously or you’ve been trying alone and not seeing results I’d love to help.
Book a free chat with me to discuss your goals, current level and the best way forward. Whether you want to train online or in person, we’ll find an approach that works for you.