Parallettes and push-up handles are small, inexpensive pieces of equipment that can make bodyweight training more comfortable and more varied. Push-up handles give you a neutral grip that some people find easier on the wrists than pressing on flat palms. Parallettes, which look like miniature parallel bars, add the option of dips, L-sits and other gymnastics-style moves. Both take up little space and fit easily into a small home gym. This guide covers how to choose them and use them sensibly. It is general information; if you have wrist, elbow or shoulder problems, ask a doctor or physical therapist which exercises suit you.
What they are good for
Both tools raise your hands off the floor and change the angle of your wrists. Common uses include:
- Push-ups with a neutral wrist, which some people find more comfortable than flat-hand push-ups
- Deeper push-ups, since your chest can travel below hand level
- Supported holds, such as L-sit or tuck holds on parallettes, which build core and shoulder strength
- Low dips and pike push-ups on sturdy parallettes
- Mountain climbers and plank variations with a firmer grip
They do not replace a pull-up bar or rings for pulling movements, so pair them with rows or band pulls for balance; see resistance bands explained and suspension trainers at home.
Push-up handles
Push-up handles are short grips on a small base. Options include:
- Fixed handles, the simplest and most stable choice
- Rotating handles, which let your wrists turn during the movement. Some people like the freedom, but they can feel less stable for beginners.
- Board systems with multiple hand positions, which add variety but take up more space
Look for a base wide enough not to tip when you press at an angle, non-slip feet and a grip that fits your hand without pressure points.
Low and tall parallettes
Parallettes come in different heights:
- Low parallettes, a few inches tall, are compact and stable. They suit push-ups, planks, L-sit progressions and handstand practice close to the ground.
- Tall parallettes, often around knee height or higher, allow deeper dips, rows underneath and more advanced gymnastics skills. They take up more space and must be very stable.
For most home users starting out, low parallettes are the more versatile and forgiving choice.
Materials
- Steel is strong and stable, and powder coating helps resist rust. Steel models are heavier, which adds stability.
- Wood feels warm and comfortable to grip and is popular for gymnastics-style training. Check for a smooth finish without splinters.
- Plastic or PVC options are light and inexpensive. They work for push-ups but may flex or slide under heavier loads, so check weight ratings.
Whatever the material, check the maker's weight rating, especially if you plan to use them for dips or holds where all your body weight is on your hands.
Stability and grip
A stable base matters more than any other feature. Before each session, place the equipment on a flat, non-slip surface and press down at an angle to check that it does not wobble or slide. Rubber feet help on hard floors. On thick carpet or soft mats, equipment may rock, so a firmer mat or flooring tile can help; see home gym flooring and noise. Keep your hands dry and grips clean, and consider gloves only if they do not make the grip slippery; see choosing workout gloves for home pulls.
Wrist and shoulder comfort
Many people choose handles because flat-hand push-ups bother their wrists. A neutral grip can help, but it is not a cure for pain. Warm up your wrists and shoulders before pressing, keep your wrists straight rather than bent back and stop if you feel sharp pain. See warming up before home strength. Deeper push-ups and dips put more stretch on the front of the shoulders, so increase depth gradually.
Beginner exercises
Start with exercises you can do with good form:
- Incline push-ups with handles on a sturdy bench or step if full push-ups are hard
- Full push-ups with handles, keeping a straight line from head to heels
- Plank holds gripping the handles
- Tuck holds on low parallettes, lifting your feet briefly with knees bent
- Pike push-ups with feet on the floor and hips high
Build strength over weeks before trying advanced moves such as L-sits, deep dips or handstand work.
Progressing safely
Progress one variable at a time: add a few repetitions, slow down the lowering phase, increase depth or move to a harder variation. Our guide to progressive overload without a full rack covers ways to make bodyweight work harder. Many fitness apps include push-up and core progressions you can follow; see following strength programs in apps.
Fitting them into a short routine
Handles and parallettes work well in short, simple sessions. One example for a beginner is to warm up for five minutes, then rotate through push-ups, plank holds and tuck holds for two or three rounds, resting as needed, and finish with a few minutes of gentle wrist and shoulder stretches. Pair the session with a pulling exercise, such as band rows, on the same day or the next. Keep a quick note of reps and holds so you can see progress; see journaling workouts without an app. Two or three sessions a week, with rest days between harder efforts, fits the US Physical Activity Guidelines' recommendation of muscle-strengthening activity on at least two days a week.
Floor protection and noise
Steel parallettes can scratch hardwood or tile if dragged or dropped. Place them on a mat and lift rather than slide them. Rubber feet also reduce noise in apartments.
Storage and care
Push-up handles and low parallettes tuck under a bed, on a shelf or in a corner. Wipe grips after sweaty sessions, check for loose bolts, cracks or worn feet and tighten or replace parts as the maker advises. Keep steel equipment dry to prevent rust, especially in garages; see caring for home gym equipment.
Bottom line
Parallettes and push-up handles are compact, affordable ways to make push-ups more comfortable and add new bodyweight moves at home. Choose stable equipment with a suitable weight rating, start with low designs and basic exercises, warm up your wrists and shoulders, and progress gradually.
About this guide
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