Back in December 2015, something extraordinary happened in the life of Mohammed Basheer Alshenqiti. A trip to Bahrain, planned just to watch a calisthenics competition, ended up changing his entire life. At that time, Mohammed was into bodybuilding, working on muscle mass and strength like many others at the gym. But watching those athletes swing, hold, and move their bodies with perfect control using just their body weight sparked a new passion in him.
He didn’t just watch the sport; he connected with it deeply. “That moment shocked me because I felt like this is what I really want and need,” Mohammed recalls. “So I decided to switch from bodybuilding to calisthenics.”
It wasn’t a typical decision made by watching trends or following a friend. For Mohammed, the calling felt divine. “To be honest, nothing drives me to this sport except Allah,” he says. “I feel like destiny played its role. Calisthenics is full of challenges and requires patience. It’s not something most people can do, and that makes it even more meaningful.”
Rising Through Competitions: A Global Calisthenics Journey
Mohammed didn’t waste any time after discovering calisthenics. He dove into it with full dedication. In just a year, he went from a curious spectator to an international competitor.
In 2016, he entered his first championship in Dubai. Among 21 elite athletes from around the world, he secured 9th place—a strong start for someone so new to the sport. The following year, he competed in Kuwait and proudly took 1st place.
But he didn’t stop there. In March 2018, he flew to Australia and came back with a 2nd place win. And later that same year, in November, he returned to Dubai for another round of competition. This journey shows not only talent but an unmatched level of commitment and drive.
Building a Space for Others: Rhythm Calisthenics Gym
Returning to Saudi Arabia after attending international events gave Mohammed a new purpose. While other countries had open and accessible public spaces for calisthenics, he noticed a big gap back home.
“The biggest challenge was the place. There was no proper outdoor space to practice,” Mohammed says. This challenge became his motivation. Instead of waiting for change, he created it. Today, he is the proud owner of “Rhythm,” a dedicated calisthenics gym in Riyadh.
Rhythm is more than a gym. It’s a safe space for young people to train, learn, and grow. It reflects Mohammed’s vision of not only improving himself but also impacting the community.
“My goal is to spread the sport and teach youth to avoid negative distractions,” he says. “I want to help them focus on themselves and contribute to making Saudi Arabia the best place it can be.”
Using His Background to Heal and Inspire
Before stepping into the world of calisthenics, Mohammed graduate as a Physiotherapist bachelor degree from Umm Al-Qura University. This medical background turned out to be an unexpected advantage in his new path. He understands how the body works and, more importantly, how to heal it.
Being a physiotherapist allows him to guide athletes safely, help them prevent injuries, and offer treatment when needed. His approach to training is not just about performance; it’s about long-term health and sustainability.
And through this journey, he’s learned a few lessons that he carries close to his heart. “The most valuable lesson is discipline, followed by self-focus and patience,” he says. “All of these together can lead you to places you never imagined.”
Shaping the Future of Calisthenics in Saudi Arabia
Mohammed’s dream goes far beyond winning medals. His deepest desire is to change lives through calisthenics. He wants to offer the youth an alternative path—something empowering, healthy, and full of purpose.
By opening Rhythm gym and mentoring young athletes, Mohammed is planting the seeds for a stronger, more focused generation. He sees calisthenics as more than a sport—it’s a lifestyle. One that teaches discipline, confidence, and resilience.
His message to everyone is simple: Don’t waste any opportunity.
“You don’t know where a single decision might lead you. For me, it all started with a trip to Bahrain. Now, it’s a movement I’m proud to be part of.”
Overcoming Obstacles, Staying Humble
Though his achievements are impressive, Mohammed remains grounded. His faith plays a central role in everything he does. He believes that it’s not just hard work but divine guidance that led him to where he is today.
And like every journey, his came with obstacles. The lack of training spaces, cultural resistance, and limited awareness about calisthenics were all hurdles he faced. But instead of complaining, he found solutions. Instead of giving up, he pushed harder.
A Role Model for Future Athletes
What makes Mohammed’s story powerful is not just his success—it’s his intention. He’s not chasing fame or fortune. His goal is clear: to inspire others, to guide the youth, and to help build a better society through sports.
His advice to young athletes is direct and powerful: Do not waste any opportunity. Train hard, stay disciplined, and believe in your purpose.
Mohammed Basheer Alshenqiti is not just a calisthenics athlete. He’s a leader, a mentor, and a change-maker. With Rhythm gym and his ongoing efforts to raise awareness, he is shaping the future of sports in Saudi Arabia—one pull-up at a time.
Also read: Doha Metro Goes High-Tech With Face Payments
