How To Choose the Best Size Parallettes

The Gravity Fitness Story

Gravity Fitness was built on parallettes. They were our first-ever product – the one that started the brand – and they’re still what we’re best known for. Over the years, we’ve redesigned and expanded the range based on your feedback.

Whether you’re into planches, L-sits, handstands, or building functional strength, there’s a pair of Gravity parallettes built for you.

All parallettes have two handles, but spend five minutes training on different sizes and you’ll realise how different they are. The right pair of parallettes can completely change how you train. Here’s how to choose.

What Are Parallettes?

Parallettes are simple pieces of calisthenics equipment that mimic the function of parallel bars, scaled down for floor-based training.

They elevate your hands off the ground, increasing range of motion and providing a stable base for exercises like planches, L-sits, and handstands.

The handles improve wrist alignment and comfort. Depending on their size, you can also use parallettes for dips, push-ups, levers, or full bodyweight conditioning.

Gravity Fitness currently offers four main sizes – five if you count our Statics Bars.

What Are Parallettes Used For in Calisthenics?

Parallettes are a foundation tool for calisthenics athletes. They bridge the gap between beginner-level bodyweight training and advanced skill work.

People use parallettes to:

• Build wrist and shoulder strength for handstands or planches

• Add depth and range to push-ups, dips, and L-sits

• Strengthen the core and stabiliser muscles

• Practice lever progressions safely

• Improve balance and control in inverted positions

Different Sizes and Materials of Parallettes

The height affects which movements you can do, the handle material influences grip and comfort, and the length impacts stability and range.

Each size has its own strengths, allowing you to train the full range of calisthenics skills.

Steel vs. Wood Handles

• Steel handles: Long-lasting and durable, though they can feel cold and tough on wrists.

• Wooden handles: Natural feel, absorb sweat, and stay grippy – ideal for longer holds or handstands.

Tall vs. Low Parallettes

• Tall parallettes: Provide more clearance for dips, deeper push-ups, and L-sits.

• Low parallettes: Better for planche, handstands, and lever work.

The Story of Gravity Fitness Parallettes

Back in 2016, our founder was trying to find decent parallettes for home calisthenics training – but everything available was flimsy or poorly made. So he built a set himself. That prototype became our first product.

Those first parallettes sold fast. Since then, we’ve sold over 100,000 pairs, constantly refining designs based on community feedback. Requests for greater stability, comfort, and different sizes led to the diverse range we have today.

From Travellettes to XL Adjustable Dip Bars, every design is rooted in the needs of real athletes. Gravity parallettes are now trusted by calisthenics athletes, coaches, and beginners worldwide – in gyms, homes, and training parks.

And we’re still innovating – but here’s what you’ll currently find on the Gravity website

How To Choose the Right Parallettes

XL Adjustable Parallettes / Dip Bars

Our tallest and most versatile design, these full-height parallettes double as dip bars. With five adjustable height settings, they’re suitable for everything from basic calisthenics to advanced gymnastic-style training.

Pros:

• Adjustable height for multiple uses

• Wide 60mm feet for rock-solid stability

• Great for dips, handstands, L-sits, and front levers

• Durable steel construction

Cons:

• Heavier and larger than other models

• Less portable

Best for: Full-body calisthenics, dip training, and maximum versatility. Ideal for dips, handstand push-ups, L-sits, and planche progressions.

Medium Pro Hybrid Parallettes

The all-rounder of our range – large enough for all core calisthenics moves, stable, yet light enough to carry anywhere.

Pros:

• Ideal size for most exercises

• Wooden handles for wrist comfort and natural grip

• Extremely stable welded design

Cons:

• Not as compact as Travellettes

• Less clearance than XLs

Best for: Calisthenics generalists, home or gym training, and strength building for planches, handstands, and levers.

Travellettes – Small Parallettes

Our most portable parallettes, designed to fit in your gym bag but built with the same robust construction as the rest of the range.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable

• Wooden handles reduce wrist strain

• Small footprint, yet very stable

Cons:

• Limited height for dips or deep push-ups

Best for: Travel, outdoor workouts, minimalist setups, and training on the move.

 

Long Hybrid Parallettes

Inspired by official gymnastics bars, these long, low parallettes are ideal for advanced control work and static holds.

Pros:

• Long handles for full range of motion

• Wooden grips for comfort and temperature stability

• Exceptional stability for static training

• Gymnastics-inspired proportions

Cons:

• Larger footprint and less portable

Best for: Handstand specialists, lever training, and athletes focused on static control and transitions.

Choose the Best Calisthenics Parallettes for You

Gravity Fitness parallettes have helped over 100,000 athletes train their calisthenics movements at home, in the gym, and on the move.

Which pair will you choose next?

If you need any help choosing, our in-house customer service team knows every product inside out – just drop us a message.