Best Parallettes for Calisthenics Workouts

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing The Best Parallettes for Calisthenics Workouts

Have you ever scrolled through social media and stumbled upon a video of someone effortlessly holding a planche or an L-sit, their body seemingly suspended in mid-air? It looks like a feat of superhuman strength and balance. But what you might not notice is the secret tool they're using to achieve this incredible control: a simple pair of parallettes. You might think, "I could never do that. My wrists would hurt, and I'd fall flat on my face." But what if I told you that a pair of parallettes is not just for the elite athlete? It’s a tool that can unlock a world of strength and mobility for you, right in your own home.

For three decades, my business has been helping people build their perfect fitness space, and I've seen a massive shift in how people train. We've moved away from big, bulky machines and toward more functional, bodyweight-based training. Calisthenics—the art of using your body as a machine—is at the forefront of this movement. And if calisthenics is a language, parallettes are one of its most essential words. They are a gateway to more advanced movements, a way to build a solid foundation of strength, and a tool that can save your wrists and joints from the strain of a floor-based workout.

Think of parallettes not as a luxury item, but as a strategic piece of gear that allows you to train with a greater range of motion, improve your wrist health, and build incredible core and upper body strength. They are a set of parallel bars, usually low to the ground, that give you the leverage you need to perform push-ups, dips, handstands, and a whole universe of other movements. We’re going to dive deep into this. We’ll talk about what makes a good pair of parallettes, the key benefits of incorporating them into your routine, and the seven products that I, with my years of experience, would confidently recommend for your home gym. We'll find the perfect pair to help you push, pull, and balance your way to a stronger, more capable you. Are you ready to train like a human? Let's get to it.

The Science of the Bars: Why Parallettes are a Game-Changer

Before we look at the products, let's understand the fundamental reasons why parallettes are so much more effective than just training on the floor. It all comes down to a few key principles of human movement and physiology.

• Neutral Wrist Position: This is the biggest reason to use parallettes. When you do a push-up or a handstand on the floor, your wrists are bent at a 90-degree angle, which can cause discomfort and strain. Parallettes allow you to keep your wrists in a neutral position, which is a more natural and comfortable way to support your body weight. This is a game-changer for anyone with wrist pain or for those who want to do a high volume of push-ups.

• Greater Range of Motion: The height of the parallettes off the ground allows you to go deeper into your movements. In a push-up, you can lower your chest past the level of your hands, which increases the stretch on your chest and shoulders, leading to more muscle growth and strength. For exercises like dips, the extra height allows for a deeper, more effective dip.

• Improved Leverage and Stability: The two separate bars give you a stable base of support that is perfect for a variety of exercises. For movements like the L-sit, the parallettes give you the height and leverage you need to lift your legs off the ground. For handstands and planches, the bars give you a solid, unwavering foundation to balance from.

• Enhanced Body Awareness: Using parallettes forces you to be more aware of your body in space. You can see if your shoulders are level, if your hips are square, and if you are using the right muscles to perform a movement. This feedback is invaluable for correcting imbalances and improving your overall posture and form.

A pair of parallettes is a tool that allows you to train at your body's current level, providing the support you need and the range of motion you need to progress safely and effectively.

The Great Debate: Wood, Metal, or Plastic?

When you start looking for parallettes, you'll quickly discover there are three primary materials: wood, metal, and plastic. Each has its own unique feel and purpose, and the right choice for you depends on your practice, your goals, and your personal preference.

1. Wooden Parallettes: The classic and most popular choice for calisthenics athletes. Wooden handles have a natural, organic feel and provide a superior grip, as the wood absorbs sweat. They are also gentle on your hands and wrists, making them perfect for a high volume of training. They are typically lightweight and easy to transport. The downside is that they can be more expensive than other materials and may not be as durable if dropped on a hard surface.

2. Metal Parallettes: The most durable and stable option. Metal parallettes are built like tanks and will last a lifetime. They provide a rock-solid, unwavering foundation for a variety of exercises. The downside is that they can be heavy and are not as portable. The grip can also be slippery when your hands are sweaty, so you may need to use chalk.

3. PVC Parallettes: A great, budget-friendly option for a DIYer. PVC is very lightweight and can be easily assembled at home with some simple tools. They are perfect for a beginner who wants to try calisthenics without a big financial commitment. The downside is that they are not as stable or as durable as wood or metal, and the grip can be slippery.

Product Reviews: My Top 7 Picks for Parallettes

After years of helping customers find the perfect fit for their home gyms, I've seen which products truly deliver. These seven products are my top recommendations for anyone building a calisthenics corner in their home. They represent a blend of functionality, durability, and a smart, effective design.

1. Rogue Bolt-Together Steel Parallettes

If you're looking for the gold standard in metal parallettes, look no further than the Rogue Bolt-Together Steel Parallettes. They are a beast of a bar that is built to last a lifetime. They are made from a heavy-duty steel and have a textured black powder coat that provides a great grip. They are incredibly stable and can hold a huge amount of weight. The 1.5-inch grip diameter is perfect for a variety of hand sizes, and the extra height allows for a deeper range of motion. The price is typically in the range of $125 to $150.

2. Pullup & Dip Wooden Push Up Bars

This is a fantastic option for anyone who wants a wooden grip with a metal base. The Pullup & Dip parallettes have a high-quality beech wood handle that provides a superior grip and a metal base that is incredibly stable. They are the perfect blend of the best of both worlds. The minimalist design is sleek and modern, and the anti-slip rubber footings ensure that they won't move, even on a smooth floor. The price is usually in the range of $50 to $70.

3. Lebert Fitness Parallette Push Up Bars

This is a great, budget-friendly option for a steel parallette. The Lebert Fitness bars are lightweight, portable, and a great entry point into the world of parallettes. They have a foam-rubber grip that is comfortable to hold, and they have non-slip foot grips that provide a good amount of stability. The downside is that the foam grips can wear out over time. But for the price, they are a great value and a perfect choice for a beginner. The price is typically in the range of **$50 to $70.

4. Gravity Fitness Medium Pro Hybrid Parallettes

Gravity Fitness is a brand known for its high-quality calisthenics equipment, and their Medium Pro Hybrid Parallettes are a perfect example. They have a wooden grip that is comfortable and absorbent, and a durable steel base that provides a rock-solid foundation. The height is perfect for a variety of exercises, and the overall design is sleek and professional. They are a fantastic investment for a serious calisthenics athlete. The price is usually in the range of $90 to $120.

5. Gornation Premium Parallettes

Gornation is a brand that is dedicated to the calisthenics community, and their Premium Parallettes are a testament to that. They have a high-quality beech wood handle that provides a superior grip and a durable steel base that is incredibly stable. They also have a very well-thought-out design that is perfect for a variety of exercises. The price is usually in the range of $70 to $90.

6. The Thenx Parallettes

If you're a fan of calisthenics and have seen Chris Heria's videos, you know his brand Thenx. His parallettes are simple, straightforward, and effective. They are made from a high-quality wood and have a good amount of stability. They are a great choice for a beginner who wants a simple, no-frills product that will get the job done. The price is usually in the range of $50 to $70.

7. The Withgear Folding Parallette Bar

For a portable option that you can take anywhere, the Withgear Folding Parallette Bar is a fantastic choice. It has a clever folding system that allows you to easily pack it into a bag and take it to the park or a friend's house. It's made from a durable steel and has a comfortable grip. It's a great choice for anyone who wants the freedom to train anywhere, anytime. The price is usually in the range of $40 to $60.

Your Calisthenics Blueprint: A Step-by-Step Guide

You've chosen your parallettes, you've unboxed them, and you're ready to get to work. What do you do? The key is to start with a plan.

Phase 1: The Foundation. Start with the basics. Practice your push-ups with a neutral wrist position. The extra range of motion will make the exercise more challenging and more effective. You can also practice your L-sit progressions on the parallettes. Start with a tuck sit, and as you get stronger, you can start to extend your legs.

Phase 2: The Core. Once you have the basics down, you can start to incorporate more core exercises. Use the parallettes to do a vertical knee raise or a leg raise. The added stability will allow you to focus on your core strength and control.

Phase 3: The Skills. Once you have a strong foundation, you can start to learn more advanced skills. The parallettes are a great tool for learning a handstand, a planche, or a variety of other advanced calisthenics moves. The added height and stability will give you the confidence to push your limits.

The Final Word on Your Training Journey

The ultimate truth about parallettes is that they are more than just a piece of equipment. They are a gateway to a new level of strength, control, and body awareness. They will challenge you in a way that traditional gym equipment can't, and they will help you build a body that is not just strong, but truly functional.

So, don't let a fear of the unknown hold you back. Choose the right parallettes, get to know them, and start training. With a little bit of dedication and the right tools, you'll be performing moves you once thought were impossible in no time. The ultimate guide is now in your hands. It's time to start training like a human.