Gymnastic rings for outdoor bars
A set of rings weighs a couple of pounds and turns a single pull-up bar into a full upper-body gym: rows, push-ups, dips, support holds and eventually muscle-ups.
Most outdoor bars are the right height, so all you need is the rings and long enough straps.
What to get
- 01
Wooden rings with cam-buckle straps
Best for: Most people training outdoors
- ◆Wood: grippy when sweaty, not slippery like plastic
- ◆Cam buckles for quick height changes
- ◆Numbered straps so both rings match
- 02
Plastic (ABS) rings
Best for: Rainy climates and leaving in a car
- ◆Textured grip
- ◆Same 1.1 in (28 mm) diameter as competition rings
- 03
Extra-long straps
Best for: Tall outdoor frames
- ◆At least 15 ft per strap
- ◆Rated well above body weight
Links go to Amazon search results so you can compare current options and prices.
Hanging rings on an outdoor bar
Loop each strap over the bar about shoulder-width apart, thread it through the buckle and set the height. For rows the rings sit around hip height; for dips and support holds, just above hip height with your feet able to touch the ground.
Five ring moves to start with
Ring rows, ring push-ups, support holds, assisted dips with feet on the ground, and false-grip hangs. Together they cover pulling, pushing and grip.
FAQ
- Are wood or plastic gymnastic rings better?
- Wood grips better when your hands are sweaty, which is why most people prefer it. Plastic shrugs off rain and is easier to leave outside or in a car.
- How long should gymnastic ring straps be?
- Long enough to reach from the bar to hip height with slack for the buckle. Around 15 ft covers most outdoor frames.
- Can beginners use gymnastic rings?
- Yes. Ring rows and push-ups with your feet on the ground are easier to scale than most bar exercises.