Mastering Parallettes: 5 Exercises for Beginners

Parallettes are a great tool for building strength and improving balance. If you're new to using them, these five exercises are a great place to start. With a little practice, you'll be able to master these moves and take your fitness to the next level. Let's get started!

Basic Push-Ups / and or elevated deep Push-Ups

Basic push-ups are a great exercise to start with when using parallettes. Begin by placing your hands on the bars and getting into a plank position. Lower your body down towards the bars, keeping your elbows close to your body. Push back up to the starting position and repeat for several reps. This exercise will help build upper body strength and improve your push-up form.

L-Sits

L-sits are a challenging exercise that require both strength and balance. Begin by sitting on the parallettes with your legs straight out in front of you. Place your hands on the bars and lift your body off the ground, keeping your legs straight and parallel to the ground. Hold this position for as long as you can, aiming for at least 10 seconds. As you get stronger, you can try lifting one leg off the ground or even both legs for an even greater challenge.

Tuck Planche

The tuck planche is another challenging exercise that requires a lot of upper body strength and core stability. Start by placing your hands on the parallettes and lifting your feet off the ground, bringing your knees up towards your chest. Lean forward and try to lift your hips up towards the ceiling, keeping your arms straight and your shoulders engaged. Hold this position for as long as you can, aiming for at least 10 seconds. As you get stronger, you can try extending your legs out behind you for a full planche.

Dips

Dips are a classic parallettes exercise that work your triceps, chest, and shoulders. Start by placing your hands on the parallettes and lifting your feet off the ground, keeping your arms straight. Lower your body down towards the ground, bending your elbows and keeping your shoulders down and back. Push back up to the starting position, keeping your core engaged and your elbows close to your body. Aim for 3 sets of 10-12 reps, gradually increasing the difficulty by adding weight or increasing the range of motion.

Handstand Hold

The handstand hold is a challenging but rewarding exercise that will improve your balance and upper body strength. Start by placing the parallettes shoulder-width apart and facing away from them. Place your hands on the parallettes and kick up into a handstand, keeping your arms straight and your core engaged. Hold the position for as long as you can, aiming for at least 10 seconds. Gradually increase the duration of the hold as you improve your strength and balance. Remember to keep your shoulders down and your gaze focused on the ground to maintain proper form.