Parallettes

Why train with parallettes?

Parallettes may seem simple, two sturdy handles on legs, but don't be mistaken, they are a powerful tool to train with your bodyweight. From beginners to advanced athletes, everyone can benefit from the advantages a good set of parallettes offers. Here is why:

1. More strength and stability
   Exercises such as push-ups, L-sits, dips, and handstands become harder and more technical when performed on parallettes. Because your body is further from the ground, your core tension is additionally challenged. This leads to stronger shoulders, arms, and core, and thus more control over your movements.
2. Less strain on your wrists
   In floor training like push-ups or planks, your wrists often are at an unnatural angle. Parallettes offer a neutral grip, significantly reducing the strain on your wrist joints. This makes training more comfortable and sustainable – especially with repetitive or static exercises.
3. Perfect for bodyweight training
   Whether you train with calisthenics, gymnastics, CrossFit, or as a supplement to strength training: parallettes fit seamlessly into any bodyweight training. They give you the opportunity to build progressions, from incline push-ups to advanced skills like planches or handstand push-ups.
4. Ideal for explosive power & balance
   Parallettes force you to keep full control of your body. This makes them perfect for developing explosive power, coordination, and body awareness. Think of exercises like tuck jumps, shoot throughs, or even plyo push-ups.
5. Compact and versatile
   They take up little space and you can train anywhere, at home, in the park, or in the gym. From static holds to dynamic combinations: parallettes are one of the most versatile training tools available.

Want even more control and challenge? Then combine your parallettes with a set of gymnastics rings and take your bodyweight training to the next level.

Parallette exercises

With a set of parallettes, you open the door to countless exercises that elevate your strength, control, and mobility. Whether you are a beginner or working on advanced skills: parallettes provide the stability and challenge you need as a workout. Below are some essential exercises you absolutely must try:

• Push-ups: The classic push-up, but with more depth and less wrist strain. On parallettes, you activate more muscle fibers in your chest, shoulders, and triceps, and also train your core extra hard.
• L-sit: A static strength movement where you keep your legs straight off the floor while pushing your body up on the parallettes. Perfect for developing core strength, shoulder stability, and hip mobility.
• Dips: Ideal for building powerful triceps, shoulders, and chest muscles. Dips on parallettes are harder than bench dips and offer more freedom of movement – you can go deeper and use your full range of motion.
• Planches: One of the most impressive calisthenics skills. The planche requires full body control, an iron-strong core, and a lot of shoulder strength. Parallettes give you the space to safely build progressions.
• Handstands: Parallettes are excellent for practicing handstands because they relieve your wrists and provide more grip. They also help with balance and alignment, which is crucial when building a stable handstand.
• Tuck Holds and V-Sits: Static holds where you keep your legs tucked (tuck) or straight (V-sit) off the ground. These exercises are invaluable for your abdominal muscles and improve your control over your body in static positions.

Want to train more comfortably? Then use an ab mat for some extra cushioning during exercises where you place your knees or elbows on the ground.

Buying parallettes: what should you look for?

Not all parallettes are the same. Want to buy the right set of parallettes that fits your training style? Then pay attention to these points:

1. Material: wooden or metal parallettes?

When choosing the best parallettes, the material is an important factor. Both wooden and metal parallettes have their own advantages, depending on your training style, experience, and preference. Below we list the main differences for you:

Wooden parallettes

Wooden parallettes are known for their comfortable, warm grip. The natural material feels less slippery, even if your hands get a bit sweaty, giving you more control during exercises like handstands or L-sits. They are often lighter in weight and feel nice for longer training sessions or static holds.

Ideal for: bodyweight training, calisthenics, yoga- and gymnastics-like movements, beginners and advanced users who work a lot with balance and technique.

Advantages:

• Natural anti-slip surface
• Comfortable grip without gloves
• Light and easy to carry
• Suitable for indoor use

Metal parallettes

Steel parallettes are designed for maximum stability and durability. They are often heavier, which makes them extra sturdy during explosive or heavy strength movements like dips, planches, or plyometric push-ups. They often feel more like premium parallettes. Many models are adjustable in height or angle, allowing more variety in your training.

Ideal for: intensive strength training, CrossFit, outdoor use, and users looking for maximum sturdiness.

Advantages:

• Very robust and wear-resistant
• Often suitable for both indoor and outdoor use
• Suitable for heavier loads or extra weight
• Some models are adjustable in height or angle

2. High or low?

• Low parallettes (10-15 cm): Perfect for L-sits, push-ups, and tuck holds.
• High parallettes (30-50 cm): This high variant offers more freedom of movement for your upper body and can be used as dip bars and for other explosive exercises.

3. Stability 

Choose a pair of parallettes with a wide base so they don't wobble during your workouts. And an anti-slip bottom helps to stay effortlessly stable, especially on smooth floors.

4. Maximum load

Pay attention to the maximum load capacity. Cheap parallettes can be unstable under heavy load.

Training with parallettes and want to go even further in skills and stability? Then also check the handstand ramp to take your wrist and shoulder control to the next level!

How to get the most out of your parallettes?

Parallettes are a fantastic tool, but only if you use them properly. Here are some tips to get the most out of them:

• Focus on technique, not speed
  It's not about as many repetitions as possible, but how you perform them. Move controlled and with full range of motion. The right technique prevents injuries and ensures your muscles really do the work.
• Train with progressive overload
  Even in bodyweight training, progression is key. You can achieve this by doing harder variations of an exercise, increasing time under tension (for example in static holds), or shortening rest between sets. Small steps, big gains.
• Keep your core engaged
  Your core is the foundation of almost every movement on the parallettes. By consciously tightening your abdominal and glute muscles, you stay more stable, prevent sagging, and get more power from your body as a whole.
• Combine with floor training
  Don't use parallettes as a replacement, but as a supplement to your regular training. Think of push-ups on the ground, planks, hollow body holds, or mobility exercises. This way you build strength in multiple planes of movement.
• Use extra resistance
  Want to go beyond your own bodyweight? Add a weight vest, resistance bands or ankle weights to increase intensity. This is especially effective with repetitive movements like dips or push-ups.

Not familiar with bodyweight training yet? Then check out our bodyweight products for extra tools that complete your training.

Frequently Asked Questions about Parallettes

1. Which parallettes are best for beginners?

Low wooden parallettes are a good choice. They provide extra grip and are perfect for basic exercises like push-ups and L-sits.

2. Are parallettes suitable for strength training?

Absolutely! They strengthen your shoulders, triceps, core, and grip. Combine them with rings or weights for maximum strength building.

3. Can I use parallettes for handstands?

Yes! They give you more control and help you stay more stable than on the floor.

4. How often should I train with parallettes?

2-4 times per week is ideal. Are you training skills like planches? Then daily practice can help you progress faster.

5. Why buy parallettes from ZEUZ?

Our parallettes are designed for serious athletes: sturdy, durable, and perfect for both beginners and advanced users. 

Order your parallettes today at ZEUZ!

Want to get stronger? Work on your balance? Or take your skills to the next level? Parallettes are the tool to get started with.

Embrace. Empower. Thrive. Ready to take your training to the next level? Order your parallettes today and go all-in!