If I had to choose one piece of equipment to train with for the rest of my life, gymnastics rings would be high on the list. They are simple, portable, and brutally effective. Rings force you to control your body in space while adding a level of instability that activates muscles most fixed equipment never touches.
In calisthenics, rings are a game changer. Whether you want to build raw pushing and pulling strength or work on dynamic skills and static holds, rings give you the freedom to train it all.
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Top pick: Gornation calisthenics rings
After using several types over the years, my go-to rings are the Gornation Wooden Rings. They come with durable straps, laser-engraved length markings, a strong buckle system, and a carry bag for easy transport.
The grip on the wood feels perfect. The rings are smooth but never slippery, and the strap markings save a ton of time when setting up. I use them both at home and when training outdoors (especially when I go on holidays) and they have held up extremely well through all kinds of sessions.
I will write a full review on these rings soon, but if you are looking for a reliable and well-built pair, these are the ones I recommend.
Why use rings for calisthenics
The main advantage of rings is instability. Unlike a pull-up bar or dip station, rings move freely. That means your body has to constantly stabilize itself during every rep. This not only builds strength, but also improves coordination, control, and tendon health.
Rings are also joint-friendly. Because your hands are not fixed to a bar, your wrists and shoulders can move more naturally through each range of motion. That makes ring training ideal if you want to build strength without the wear and tear that often comes from straight bar training.
You can use them for a huge variety of exercises. Pull-ups, dips, rows, push-ups, L-sits, archer movements, muscle-ups, skin-the-cat, support holds, and even front or back lever progressions. All of them become more challenging and more effective on rings.
What to look for in calisthenics rings
There are a few things that really matter when choosing rings for calisthenics.
The first is the material. I always go for wooden rings. They feel better in the hands, offer more grip, and work great even if your hands are slightly sweaty. Plastic rings tend to feel slippery and cheap in comparison. If you want more grip, you can even add a layer of grip tape, which works perfect with the wooden rigns.
Strap quality is the second thing I look at. Long, durable straps with clear markings make setup way easier. Markings help you adjust both sides to the exact same height, which is essential for balance. A good buckle system is also important. You want something that feels secure and is quick to set up, especially if you move between indoor and outdoor training spots.
Lastly, check the ring diameter. Standard gymnastics rings are usually around 28 millimeters, which feels good in the hand and gives you full control. Thicker rings are harder to grip and not ideal for most calisthenics exercises. For example crossfit rings are generally around 32 millimeters, which are a bit too large for my liking, especially whenever you’re doing a false-grip for muscle-ups or similar exercises.
If your rings check these boxes, you are good to go.
FAQ – gymnastics rings for calisthenics
What size rings are best for calisthenics?
Standard rings with a 28 millimeter diameter are ideal. They offer the best balance of grip and control for most movements.
Are wooden rings better than plastic?
Yes. Wooden rings provide better grip, feel more natural, and perform well even with sweaty hands. They are also more durable over time.
Can beginners use rings?
Absolutely. While rings are more challenging than fixed bars, beginners can still use them effectively. Start with support holds, ring rows, and assisted dips or push-ups.
What exercises can I do with rings?
You can train pull-ups, dips, push-ups, rows, L-sits, archer movements, muscle-ups, levers, and more. Rings are one of the most versatile tools in calisthenics.
Are rings worth it for home training?
Yes. Rings take up almost no space, can be mounted easily, and give you a full upper-body workout wherever you are. If you train at home, they are one of the best investments you can make.
