No outdoor gym nearby? Doorway pull-up bars
The closest free outdoor gym is the best option, but not every neighborhood has one and not every day has good weather. A pull-up bar at home keeps the habit going between park sessions.
What to get
- 01
Leverage doorway bar
Best for: Renters: no screws needed
- ◆Fits your door-frame width
- ◆Padding where it rests on the trim
- ◆Neutral and wide grip options
- 02
Wall- or ceiling-mounted bar
Best for: Kipping, muscle-ups and heavier use
- ◆Mounts into studs or joists
- ◆Enough clearance from the wall for your knees
- 03
Power tower
Best for: Pull-ups and dips at home
- ◆Wide, stable base
- ◆Dip handles and a back pad
Links go to Amazon search results so you can compare current options and prices.
Measure before you buy
Measure the inside width of the door frame and the depth of the trim. Doorway bars only fit a range of widths, and thin or decorative trim may not hold one.
Pair it with the park
Use the home bar for short daily sets, and save rings, dips and longer sessions for the outdoor gym.
FAQ
- Do doorway pull-up bars damage the door frame?
- They can mark the trim. Bars with padded contact points and a frame in good condition reduce the risk.
- Can you do muscle-ups on a doorway bar?
- No. You need a bar with clearance above it, like a wall- or ceiling-mounted bar or an outdoor pull-up bar.