Parallette bars are exercise equipment commonly used in calisthenics. They consist of two short bars that run parallel to each other. Some call them push-up bars, dip bars, gymnastic bars, or simply the best parallettes, which provide a great range of motion (ROM) for building strength with your body weight.
Parallettes are extremely mobile, offer the ultimate versatility, and are considered a complete gymnastics workout. In fact, Calisthenics Worldwide, suggests that every gymnastics lover should own one. But there are quite a few. So, which one is best for you? Let’s dive into the post further.
Benefits of Parallettes
Training with parallettes involves a lot of upper body and core strength. By using your arms to suspend your body in the air, you’ll need to hold various positions and sometimes transition between them. For the most part, parallettes may seem like a simple piece of calisthenics equipment. However, there are many benefits to using these when training. Below are the top five ways you can benefit from using parallettes:
· Improved body control: Holding different positions and stepping in different directions requires a lot of weight control. Keeping your body in the air between two bars requires a high level of fitness, coordination, and upper-body strength.
· Increased power and muscle building: As you work to boost your body control, you’ll build strength and muscle in your upper body. Parallette training is great for toning your chest, shoulders, triceps, and core. Some people find it useful for working their backs, biceps, and legs.
· Enhanced core strength and balance: You don’t have to do exercises that only focus on core stability and balance. Movements performed in a series of parallettes affect the core to some extent. This is because the core stabilizes the body during various exercises.
· Improved grip strength: A strong, neutral grip should be maintained to keep the body afloat when performing parallettes. Over time, this will help improve your grip strength. It also helps condition your hands and wrists.
Parallettes are relatively small, making them more portable than most exercise equipment. Whether you’re on a business trip or on vacation, you can take it with you wherever you go. Just find a hard, flat surface to set up your parallettes on, and you’re good to go.
Smaller parallettes are more portable. These are ideal for those who travel frequently and are looking for a parallette they can take anywhere. The smaller option is also suitable for exercises such as dips, providing more depth when executing the movement.
The Final Verdict
Parallel bars have their roots in gymnastics. They were originally developed to replicate the feel of parallel bars. Today, parallettes are generally used by strength-training and advanced gymnastics athletes to support a variety of dynamic bodyweight exercises. Exercises range from simple push-ups and dips to more advanced movements such as planks, swing-throughs, and handstands. Parallettes are not only great for multiple exercises, but they are also ecologically versatile.