We rank the best parallettes that will improve your bodyweight workouts

You can work wonders with a good arsenal of home gym equipment, and it doesn’t have to leave you bankrupt either. A pair of parallettes rank among the most effective bodyweight training equipment you can get your hands on, adding huge range and variability to your bodyweight and calisthenic workouts.

The perfect pair of parallettes for one person will be different to the next. You should choose your set based on what you plan to use them for. For exercises that require you to go deep and work negatively to the bar – like bodyweight dips – you’ll need a pair of high parallettes. Otherwise, a lower set of handles will suit you better if you plan to work closer to the ground – with raised push-ups or L-sits.

The best parallettes of 2024 at a glance:

• The best paralette bars for dips: Gravity Fitness Parallettes – View at Amazon
• The best adjustable parallette bars: CORENGTH Adjustable and Compact Design Dip Bars TS 100 – View at Decathlon
• The best non-slip parallettes: Myprotein Paralettes – Grey – View at Myprotein

It’s also important to take into account the material in which your parallettes are made from. Typical options include wood, steel, and plastic, all with distinct characteristics. Wood will generally be more comfortable, but it does take more looking after. Metal is far more durable but may be more susceptible to slipping on flat surfaces. Plastic falls somewhat in the middle but is less adept at withstanding large weights, so if you plan on adding plates to your dips, opt for a hardier material.

Another point of interest when purchasing a set of parallettes is how thick the bars are. If you don’t get a suitable bar width, you might find exercising with the bars far more uncomfortable than it should be. Smaller hands will struggle with thicker bars, while bigger hands will struggle with thinner ones.

The best paralletes of 2024:

Please note: All prices are correct at the time of writing. Prices, stock and deals are subject to change without notice.

FAQs

What are parallettes?

Parallettes are typically a pair of bars or grips which an individual uses to perform bodyweight exercises. Parallette bars are used for strength exercises, callisthenics, and even gymnastics. A set of good parallettes can be an extremely versatile kit and make a fine addition to anyone’s home gym setup.

How to use parallettes

How parallettes are used depends entirely on the person and their goals. A gymnast would use parallettes to master their balance and stability through exercises like planches and handstands, while a bodybuilder might use parallettes for dips and push-ups. If used correctly, a pair of parallettes can be as versatile as a multi-functional push-up board.

Are parallettes worth it?

Yes, parallettes are a great investment for anyone who wants to perform bodyweight exercises either in the comfort of their own home, or on the move. There’s a vast catalogue of movements and exercises where a set of parallettes are the key, whether that be for gymnastics training, strength training, or a mix of both.

If you're interested in finding more bodyweight training equipment to light up your home gym, check out some of the best pull up bars too.

Jack Barrell is a Tech and Fitness Writer for What’s the Best. He is invested in all things entertainment and keeps well up to date with the latest sports and exercise trends too. On his off days Jack can usually be found doing one of two things; lifting heavy weights – or watching his favourite Star Wars for the thousandth time.