When it comes to functional fitness, few exercises can match the effectiveness and intensity of the best battling ropes. These heavy-duty, thick, and often unwieldy ropes are created to challenge the entirety of your body, from building strength and endurance to improving cardiovascular health. We consider them an essential for any gym.
The best battling ropes at a glance:
• Best overall battling rope: PROIRON Battle Ropes - View on Amazon
• Best battling rope for beginners: Corength Cross Training Battle Rope - View on Decathlon
• Best battling rope for customisable length and thickness: Mirafit Sleeve Battle Rope - View on Mirafit
What is a battling rope?
Battling ropes, also sometimes referred to as battle or workout ropes, are a type of exercise equipment used in workouts and strength training. They consist of long, heavy-duty ropes usually made of materials like polydacron, nylon or polypropylene. You'll often find battling ropes being used for HIIT, full-body workouts and are a unique tool for working on overall fitness, strength and endurance.
The primary purpose of battling ropes is to use them during dynamic and challenging exercises by explosively moving the ropes in different ways. For example, you could be making waves, slams, spirals or other rhythmic motions with the battling ropes. The continuous movement of the ropes creates added resistance and means that your arm, shoulder and core muscles are having to work harder. This also means that workouts, including battle ropes, are efficient in burning calories, building muscle strength and enhancing cardiovascular conditioning.
We've seen the best battling ropes climb in popularity, and they're now being used in fitness centres, home gyms and even during CrossFit sessions. Suitable for individuals of differing fitness levels, the versatility of battling ropes allows fitness enthusiasts to shape their workouts to their personal goals, whether that's improving performance, building muscle tone, or shedding body fat.
In our guide, we'll explore the best battling ropes to bring you the top choices for battling ropes that will help you reveal your inner warrior.
The best battling ropes to buy right now:
Best overall battling rope
If you're looking for a battling rope with both quality and durability, the PROIRON Battle Rope is our top pick. Made from polydacron, this battle rope is built to withstand the most demanding workouts, whether that be at home or at the gym. The rope is available in two lengths, 9m and 12m, accommodating different fitness levels and training areas. The heat-shrink handles provide a secure and comfortable grip, ensuring that individuals can execute a wide range of dynamic rope exercises with confidence.
Pros
- The material is heavier than others for more of a challenge (9m battle rope weights 7.7kg, while the 12m battle rope weights 10kg)
- Sealed with heat shrink to keep the shape of the rope and help with grip
- Available in both beginner and intermediate lengths for individuals of all fitness levels
Cons
- One reviewer found the rope can scratch surfaces
| Length: | Available in 9m, 12m |
| Weight: | 9m weighs 7.7kg, 12m weighs 10kg |
| Material: | 100% Polydacron |
- Customer review: "Chose this particular PROIRON rope over all the others after reading numerous reviews and checking spec and suppliers. It doesn't always pay to opt for the cheapest and this rope is not. It is of a high quality, works well and I expect to get many years of use out of it."
Best battling ropes for beginners
www.decathlon.co.uk
The Corength Battle Rope is a game-changer in the world of fitness equipment. Designed for individuals who seek maximum performance and versatility, this battle rope is a testament to versatility and functionality. The diameter of the rope is 36mm, while the length is 12m and weighs 7.5kg, making it the perfect rope for beginners. Another couple of features of note is the rubber sheath on either end of the rope to help with grip and braiding to make it extra durable.
Pros
- Rubber sheath ends for the ultimate grip
- Extra-durable braiding
- Two-year warranty in case the rope snaps or breaks
Cons
- A great rope for beginners, but with a weight of 7.5kg it's not ideal for intermediate or above
| Length: | 12m |
| Weight: | 7.5kg |
| Material: | Polyester |
- Customer review: "Very good rope and best price. My son does CrossFit, me and daughter running. This is tough to use, lots of ways to use on line. This is the ‘beginners’ weight, well believe me if gives you a work out. Got it treaded through our picnic bench (if had to be threaded thru something not just lying on ground). I am so glad I bought this for garden workouts."
Best battling rope for customisable length and thickness
mirafit.co.uk
The Mirafit sleeve battle rope offers excellent value for money without compromising on quality. This rope comes in various lengths, from nine to 15 metres, and in various thicknesses, from 38mm to 50mm. The handles are extremely comfortable to hold, and the overall build quality is impressive for the price point. Its rope will help you tone and target areas like your arms, legs, back and shoulders without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Various lengths and thicknesses available, so you can choose a battle rope that best suits your fitness level
- Intertwined polyester rope with protective sleeve for durability
- Sleek design featuring the Mirafit logo
Cons
- Only available in black
| Length: | Various lengths available: 9m, 12m, 15m |
| Weight: | Various weights available: 8.5kg, 11kg, 13.8kg, 14kg, 18kg, 23kg |
| Material: | Polyester |
- Customer review: "I will give this a 5-star review, because - as with everything from MiraFit - the quality is outstanding. I'm so grateful to have them in the UK! The 9mX50mm/13.8KG version is way too much for a beginner (i.e. me). The cost-saver in me thought: "I'll grow into it", but I don't think that's the case. 50mm is brutal. You try and lift it off the floor, and it: sticks its tongue out and belly laughs. I'm not sure where a rope's belly IS; but it laughs all the same.
"So, I've added a 38mm to my basket. The sleeve/sheaving is very strong. The handles are heat shrunk plastic, protect the rope well, but are harsh on humble hands. I put on some mtb gloves, just to further add to my shame. I haven't done this yet, but I see this product being useful as a chain/band alternative, for adding variable resistance to barbell exercises; especially squats, where the length would be advantageous."
Best battling rope for colour choice
The Next Alpha Battle Rope could make for a great addition to your fitness arsenal, particularly if you prefer to colour-coordinate your equipment. Available in four colours; black, pink, red and white, its battling rope features a durable nylon sleeve to protect from fraying and a three-strand twisted design for improved shock absorption and strength. Next Alpha also throws in a few additional items with purchase, like their battle rope workout instruction poster to ensure you're using the ropes to best practice and a wall anchor so you can attach your equipment to a central point.
Pros
- Features a heavy-duty nylon sleeve to protect your battle rope, especially during outdoor use
- Sold with a wall mount to fix your battle rope on a centre point
- Three-strand twisted design to provide the maximum elasticity and shock absorption
Cons
- The nylon cover is not removable to clean
| Length: | Various lengths available: 9m, 12m, 15m |
| Weight: | 9kg |
| Material: | Dacron, Polypropylene |
- Customer review: "Used the Alpha Battle Rope for intervals to finish off a callesthenics workout, I wanted a thick and reasonably heavy rope to ensure a good workout. This is better than the battle rope in the gym in that the protective cover gives it that added layer of protection.
"It comes with an anchor that can be bolted to a wall, but I just weight it with two dumbbells so that I can take it out and out it away as needed. It feels solid and the thicker handles give the forearms a decent dynamic workout. Well worth the money."
Best tough battling ropes for outdoors
The CCLIFE Battle Rope is one of the durable ropes on the market, as it's made to be high-strength. The ropes themselves are engineered from polyester, so there's no need to worry about it fraying or splitting. With purchase is a handy wall anchor, which is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its non-slip handles are also there for added grip to stop the rope from slipping out of your hands when the workout gets tough.
Pros
- Comes with a solid, high-performance steel anchor for secure battle roping
- Made from a flexible polyester that also has high tensile strength to ensure the rope doesn't fray or even snap
- Bright red colour
Cons
- Some of the weights may not be great for intermediate fitness enthusiasts
| Length: | Various lengths available: 9m, 12m, 15m |
| Weight: | Various weights available: 7.9kg, 10.1kg, 12.6kg |
| Material: | Polyester |
- Customer review: "I can recommend this CCLIFE product, the quality is great and comes with a protective sleeve where the rope passes through the anchor, plus supplied with the anchor which is also great quality. I've used it several times now and very pleased with it."
Best high-end battling rope
www.trxtraining.eu
The TRX Battle Rope is our high-end option, designed to deliver a highly effective and challenging workout. Created to the same standards that have made TRX a trusted name in fitness, this battle rope is built to last, with its heavy construction that prevents breakage. TRX offers two lengths, 30 feet and 50 feet, and its battle ropes are equipped with rubber handles for a secure grip to allow you to perform a wide range of exercises, from waves and slams to spirals and more.
Pros
- TRX are an industry leader in functional training for two decades, so you know you're getting quality
- Available in two lengths, 30 feet (weighs 8.6kg) and 50 feet (weighs 11.7kg) for individuals of different strength levels
- Rubber grips for comfort and anti-slip during workouts
Cons
- Needs to be anchored to a stable surface, like a pole or tree
- The most expensive battling rope option on our list
| Length: | Various lengths available: 30 feet, 50 feet |
| Weight: | Various weights available: 8.6kg, 11.7kg |
| Material: | Unknown |
- Customer review: "Love the TRX Battle Rope. Since leaving the gym I belonged to and making my own at home, I added the battle rope to my workouts and feel better now than I have in a long time. The rope is well made and very durable."
Are battling ropes a good workout?
Battling ropes are not only highly effective for improving overall strength and endurance, but they also offer a fun way to break a sweat and can be tailored to your own fitness levels by selecting the appropriate length and weight. They are extremely versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises.
Wave: There are two options here, alternating waves and simultaneous waves. Alternating waves involve holding one end of the rope in each hand and creating an up-and-down motion with the ropes. Simultaneous waves are where you create waves with both ropes at the same time, focusing on maintaining a rhythm.
Spiral: You can easily work your arms and shoulders by creating a spiral motion with your battling ropes by moving your hands in a circular pattern.
Slam: Firstly, power slams are where you lift both ropes over your head and slam them down forcefully to the ground, with the aim to engage your core and upper body. Secondly, rotational slams will work your obliques by adding a twist to your slams by pivoting your hips as you slam the ropes on the floor.
Lateral: To perform lateral exercises, make alternating waves while moving laterally to work your legs, hips and core.
Partner: If you prefer to work out with a friend or partner, try engaging in a fun game of tug of war by trying to pull the battling ropes from each other's hold. Or, stand facing each other and perform simultaneous waves to add resistance for each other.
Whatever exercises you end up adding to your workouts, incorporating battling ropes into your fitness routine can help you to discover and achieve a well-rounded and challenging workout experience.
What is the best size and length battling rope?
The best size and length of a battling rope will depend on your fitness goals, your strength and the amount of space you have available. For length, 9m to 15m is common, but the ideal length can vary. Longer ropes provide more intensity and room for varied movements, which makes them a better fit for bigger designated workout areas and individuals who are more familiar with battling ropes. Shorter ropes, around 9m in length, are easier to handle and are a better choice for people who have smaller spaces available and are beginner-level.
Are battle ropes better than weights?
It's important to recognise that battling ropes and weights, like dumbbells or adjustable kettlebells, serve different fitness purposes. Battle ropes are great for high-intensity, full-body workouts that improve cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance and coordination. They also engage various muscle groups, which can help with strength and fat burning.
Alternatively, weights are a more specific option for strength and muscle building. They allow for targeted muscle isolation and progressive resistance training.
Making the decision between battling ropes and weights depends on your objectives. If you're looking to improve functional fitness, agility and cardio conditioning, battle ropes will work better. But, for individuals aiming to build substantial muscle mass in specific areas, traditional weights may be a more appropriate selection.
The best option is to find a well-rounded routine that incorporates both battling ropes and weights, to be highly effective in achieving a whole-body level of fitness. A great routine for building muscle and burning fat is German Body Composition training.
Gemma Lavers is a fitness writer for What's The Best. When she’s not travelling or writing, Gemma loves spending her weekend completing home workouts, or attending yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes.
Subscribe to the What's The Best Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from the rest of the What’s The Best team.