THE BEST CALISTHENICS EQUIPMENT: RANKED FOR MAXIMUM IMPACT
Posted by Solid Strength Equipment on 22nd Jan 2025
Calisthenics is a minimalist approach to fitness that uses bodyweight exercises to build strength, mobility, and endurance. With no need for a gym, it’s perfect for training at home, outdoors, or anywhere you choose. While you can start without equipment, the right tools can accelerate progress, enhance your workouts, and help you achieve advanced movements.
Here’s a ranked guide to the best calisthenics equipment, starting with the essentials and moving to optional add-ons to optimise your training journey.
1. Parallettes: Unlock Deeper Movements
Why It’s Worth It: Parallettes are compact bars that allow for exercises like dips, push-ups, L-sits, and handstand progressions. They improve wrist positioning and provide a deeper range of motion for better strength gains.
Options to Consider:
- Mini Parallettes: Lightweight and travel-friendly.
- Full-Size Parallettes: Ideal for more stability and advanced exercises.
Why They’re First: Parallettes are a great starting point refining your form and unlocking advanced calisthenics skills. No matter your current skills level, parallettes can help build and refine your skills.
2. Pull-Up Bar: The Essential Tool for Calisthenics
Why It’s a Must-Have: The pull-up bar is the foundation of most calisthenics workouts. It allows you to perform exercises like pull-ups, chest-to-bars, muscle-ups, and hanging leg raises—movements that build upper-body and core strength.
Options to Consider:
- Wall-Mounted Bars: Sturdy and durable for regular training.
- Fold Back Squat Rack: Ideal for saving space and an all-in-one solution.
- Free Standing Rig: All-in-one freestanding solution
Why it's second: Parallettes serve as a better starting point if you have no background in training or it's been a while. A pull-up bar opens up a huge variety of exercises and progressions, making it the most impactful piece of equipment for beginners and advanced athletes alike.
3. Resistance Bands: Versatility in a Compact Package
Why It’s Worth It: Resistance bands are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for assisting beginners with exercises like pull-ups or dips and adding resistance for advanced athletes. Bands are also excellent for stretching and mobility work.
Options to Consider:
- Large Resistance Band: Great for beginners adding resistance to bodyweight movements.
- Resistance Bands Full set: Best for all levels of assisted pull-ups and stretching.
Why Start Here: Affordable, portable, and beginner-friendly, resistance bands are an essential companion for any calisthenics setup.
4. Gymnastic Rings: Advanced Strength and Stability
Why It’s Worth It: Gymnastic rings introduce instability, requiring greater muscle engagement and control. They’re ideal for exercises like ring dips, rows, push-ups, and muscle-ups.
Options to Consider:
- Wooden Rings: Comfortable and durable.
- Plastic Rings: Weather-resistant for outdoor training.
Why Add Them Later: While they’re versatile, rings require a stable setup and some skill. Add them once you’ve mastered basic movements and want to push toward advanced skills.
5. Weighted Vest: Add Intensity to Your Training
Why The Weighted Vest Is Worth It: When your bodyweight movements become too easy, a weighted vest increases resistance and helps you build strength and endurance. Use it for exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, dips, and even planks.
Features to Look For:
- Adjustable weights for progression.
- Secure fit for dynamic movements.
Why Add It Later: Weighted vests are a progression tool best suited for intermediate to advanced athletes.
Building Your Calisthenics Setup
Here’s a simple roadmap to guide your investment:
- Start with a pull-up bar and resistance bands for foundational strength and versatility.
- Add parallettes to refine push-ups, dips, and handstand progressions.
- Introduce gymnastic rings or a weighted vest as you advance.
- Add specialised tools like dip bars, ab wheels, or grip aids when you’re ready for more variety.
Conclusion: Progress at Your Pace
Calisthenics offers a scalable and adaptable fitness journey. By starting with the essentials and adding equipment as you progress, you can customise your setup to match your goals and skill level.