Beyond the Bars: Why Finding Ethical Calisthenics Coaching in Montreal is Harder Than a Straddle Planche
Five years ago, I fell in love with calisthenics in the parks of Montreal. From Bois-Franc to Côte-Saint-Luc, I started with basic sets and reps, quickly moving on to complex static movements. I proudly mastered the straddle planche, front lever, back lever, muscle-ups, and handstands—all fueled by the raw discipline of the sport.
My journey took me deep into the local scene. I met representatives, trainers, and athletes across Mont Royal and Peel Basin. However, as my fitness certifications expanded into Powerlifting, HIIT, and advanced Functional Training, I gained a crucial perspective that revealed a significant, and frankly disappointing, truth about the core calisthenics community here in Montreal.
The Problem: When Ego Trumps Ethics
Calisthenics is a beautiful physical discipline. Its benefits are profound: it builds mental resilience, deep perseverance, raw physical endurance, and total mind-body control. It's a sport that demands humility.
So, what is the big problem I discovered?
It remains the representatives and established figures within the community.
I, and many others I’ve spoken to, have observed a toxic atmosphere, unprofessional dynamics in training centers, and a clear sense of superiority from some coaches toward their students and even employees. This culture, built on falsehood, elitism, hypocrisy, and a lack of true humility, is bastardizing the true beauty and ethos of calisthenics.
This is not a single viewpoint; it's a summary of recurring, poor experiences shared by several people who are truly passionate about the sport. A community sustained by toxic gatekeeping becomes unstable, unethical, and stifling for those genuinely interested in growth.
Functional Body Method: Training Beyond the Ego
My goal here is not to discourage you, but to make you aware of a reality within a specific segment of our city’s fitness scene.
The good news is, no, it’s not all lost!
You absolutely can still practice calisthenics safely and ethically. In fact, many amazing people genuinely represent a healthy, open, and growth-focused community.
The key is to look for professionals and groups who prioritize movement quality, joint health, and coaching integrity over simply proving their ego.
Where to Find Ethical and Professional Training
If you are looking for high-quality, professional training that respects the discipline while focusing on safety and longevity, there are great paths available:
Group Calisthenics Classes: Check established gyms in the Montreal area that prioritize technique over trick execution.
Specialized Personal Coaching: Seek out certified trainers—like myself, Andrés Romero, or other respected coaches—who combine advanced calisthenics principles with injury prevention and functional longevity. We offer specialized Personal Training sessions at clinics or spaces that prioritize the client.
The Parks: The equipment at Réseau-Vert Linear Park, Complexe sportif Claude-Robillard, or even the bars beneath the Peel Basin bridge remains an incredible resource. Grab your own set of gymnastics rings and train with focus.
At Functional Body Method, our expertise (combining advanced calisthenics concepts with certified powerlifting and functional training knowledge) means you train smarter, safer, and with an ethical coach dedicated to your strategic progress.
