If you’ve reached the point in your calisthenics journey where you’ve learned a good number of different skills and want to challenge your friends, one of the most fun games to play is called BARZ. The game stands out as a high-energy freestyle competition that tests athletes’ strength, creativity, and control. Unlike traditional workouts focused on reps and sets, this game brings a unique creativity to fitness. BARZ turns any old pullup bar into a stage for jaw-dropping routines. But what exactly is the Game of BARZ, and why is it so popular?
What is the Game of BARZ?
The game of BARZ is a competitive freestyle calisthenics event where athletes perform dynamic and static bodyweight exercises on pull up bars. Each player show off their skills with moves like muscle-ups, levers, planches, and dynamics. It’s not just about doing difficult moves; it’s about how fluidly they are executed, how creative the routine is, and how well the athlete transitions between movements. Once an athlete has performed their routine, it is up to every other player to replicate it.
Unlike regular calisthenics training, which often focuses on repetition and endurance, the Game of BARZ emphasizes creativity and flow while rewarding those with a wide range of skills and prerequisite strength. For the dynamic skills, it also greatly helps in overcoming fear.
How To Play BARZ
In the Game of BARZ, two or more athletes compete head-to-head in rounds, taking turns to perform freestyle routines on the bars. Each competitor showcases a series of moves, typically lasting 30 seconds to 1 minute. Once a player has finished their routine, the other players will then attempt to copy every aspect of it.
If they are unable to replicate the routine, they will gain a letter. Starting with B, progressing to A, R, and Z. Each failed attempt at recreating another players routine will result in 1 letter. Once a player has 4 letters, they are eliminated. However, if you are playing with more than 4 players, we recommend adding a rule where only 1 letter can be gained per round.
A round consists of every player performing their own unique routine that the other players will try to imitate.
Once every player has performed their own unique routine and the other players have attempted to imitate it, the round ends. The next round will then begin starting with the player that has the most letters. If multiple players have the same amount of letters, the one that performed their routine last in the previous round will go first.
The game will be over once there is only 1 player remaining that does not have the full word BARZ spelt out.
What Makes BARZ Popular Among Intermediate & Advanced Calisthenics Athletes
The game of BARZ has gained popularity for several reasons. First, its unique blend of physical difficulty, creativity, and showmanship draws attention. Spectators can watch athletes pushing their limits and finding new, innovative ways to perform on the bars. For those new to calisthenics, the game serves as a source of inspiration, motivating beginners to improve their fundamentals and showing that calisthenics can go far beyond basic exercises like pull-ups and dips. Additionally, the game fosters a tight-knit community, where freestyle calisthenics and street workout competitions provide a platform for athletes to showcase their abilities, support one another, and build connections.
If you’re interested in joining the Game of BARZ, you don’t need to be an elite athlete. Start by mastering basic moves like pull-ups, dips, and muscle-ups, then gradually progress to more advanced skills. Focus on smooth transitions between exercises and incorporate static holds to enhance your routines. You can find resources and events online or through local fitness communities to help you get started.
Ultimately, the Game of BARZ is more than a fitness competition—it’s a celebration of strength, creativity, and innovation in calisthenics. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced athlete, this game encourages you to explore the limits of your body while expressing your creativity. So grab a bar, let your imagination flow, and discover what you’re capable of in the Game of BARZ!
Where Can You Find Others To Play BARZ With?
You can find others to play BARZ through several channels, depending on where you live and how active the local calisthenics community is.
- Local Parks and Street Workout Spots: The street workout and calisthenics culture often thrives in public parks or outdoor fitness areas with pull-up bars and parallel bars. You can join local groups or show up at popular spots and connect with others.
- Online Communities and Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube have large communities dedicated to calisthenics and freestyle competitions. Be sure to check locations close to you.
- Fitness Centers and Gyms: Some gyms, especially those with functional fitness or street workout equipment, may offer opportunities to connect with others who practice calisthenics. They might also host events or open workouts where freestyle bar routines are part of the session.
By exploring these platforms, you can find like-minded people who are eager to participate and practice freestyle calisthenics. To learn more about calisthenics games, training plans, or equipment, check out our blog.
