Considered
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Interviewed
So you have a home gym and want a pull-up bar. You get confused with the different varieties available and numerous brands selling bars of varying quality with different sizes and grips.
As a certified fitness trainer, I teamed up with a few colleagues and reviewed 16 pull-up bar products for over 61 hours of research.
After trying them all and interviewing six experts, I’m revealing our insights about some of the best pull-up bars for your upper body and core exercises at home.
The Best Pull Up Bars for Your Doorway
- Best Overall Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: Perfect Fitness
- Cheapest Doorway Pull Up Bar: Sunny Health & Fitness
- Best Foldable Doorway Pull Up Bar: Estleys
- Best Multi-Grip Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: Docilaso
- Best Durable Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: AmazeFan Pull Up Bar
- Best Stainless Steel Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: AhfuLife Pull Up Bar
- Best Wall-Mounted Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: Yes4All Wall Mount Chin Up Bar
- Best Screwless Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: DEDAKJ Pull Up Bar
- Best Foam-Grip Pull Up Bar for Your Doorway: HAKENO Pull Up Bar
Our Best Pull up Bar Recommendations (December 2024)
1 - Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar (Best Overall)
- Dimensions : No
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Versatile for multiple grips
- Warranty : Yes
- Premium materials : No
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Padded handles to help with gripping the bar during exercise
- The thick foam pads offer protection to your door frames
- Easy to use and to install
Cons
- User reviews state that it does not fit all doorways
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Home gym enthusiasts
- Those seeking versatility in workouts
Who is it not for?
- People with non-standard door frames
Final Verdict
This bar is highly versatile and user-friendly, making it a great choice for home fitness enthusiasts. It may not fit all door types, which could be a limitation for some users.
The Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Door Pull-Up Bar is versatile, allowing you to do pull-ups, chin-ups, sit-ups, press-ups, and dips.
Its padded handles helped comfort our hands, ensuring we did not lose our grip while performing the exercises. It also helps to correct poor form.
This bar has a 300-pound weight limit, with patented door frame guards made using thick foam pads to protect your door frames.
It is compact and portable, stores easily, and is easy to install without requiring drilling.
2 - Estleys Foldable Pull-Up Bar (Best Foldable)
- Dimensions : Adjustable width 27” – 33”
- Maintenance : Easy, foldable for storage
- Design : Foldable, compact
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Alloy steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made from high-quality steel that holds 400 pounds
- Ultra-compact design that folds down to 2 inches
- Handles are padded for comfort and improved grip
Cons
- Reports that package arrived damaged
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Frequent travelers
- Those with limited storage space
Who is it not for?
- Buyers looking for a heavy-duty option
Final Verdict
Estleys offers a highly portable and easy-to-store solution, perfect for those on the go. However, it may not withstand the demands of advanced weight training.
The Estleys Foldable Pull-Up Bar is easily set up without screws or drilling. It comes pre-assembled, so hang it in your doorway and begin your workout.
We liked that this bar was pre-assembled and ready to go, making it perfect for those without DIY skills. Simply hang it in your doorway, prepared to start your home workout.
The bar is strong and made from high-quality steel that can take up to 440 pounds. It is also ultra-compact and can be carried around and stored with little effort.
The handles are padded with a soft foam that will give its users improved comfort and grip. Plus the safety hooks will offer protection against damage and extra stability while undertaking the exercises.
3 - Docilaso Multi-Gym Chin Up/Pull Up Bar (Best Multi-Grip)
- Dimensions : Fits door width 27.56” - 36.22”
- Maintenance : Easy, no screws needed
- Design : Ergonomic grip, multiple grips
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Metal
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Arrives already assembled ready for use
- Three grip options so that you can perform different exercises
- Grips are covered with foam to protect your hands
Cons
- May not fit narrow doorways
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users wanting multiple grip options
- Those needing a quick setup
Who is it not for?
- Those with narrow doorways
Final Verdict
This pull-up bar provides multiple grip options and easy installation, ideal for varied exercises. Its width, however, may not fit all doorways, limiting its usability for some.
Based on our testing, the Docilason Multi-Gym Chin-Up/Pull-Up Bar is convenient. Straight out of the box, it can be hooked onto your doorframe for an immediate workout.
You can even flip it over to use the pull-up bar for push-ups and dips. Its high-quality construction ensures maximum stability that can take up to 440 pounds. Plus, it can be folded away easily for storage purposes.
The device itself offers a wide curved ergonomic grip with three grip options, one for wide, one for close, and one for hammer grip. These grips are covered in a durable and non-slip foam that will help protect your hands.
Each order comes with free bonus resistance straps, and if you are not happy with this product for any reason then you can send it back within 60 days.
4 - AmazeFan Pull Up Bar (Best Durable)
- Dimensions : 26" - 39" adjustable
- Maintenance : Easy
- Design : Extended hand grips
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Foam handles
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made with highly durable iron that can resist weight up to 300 pounds
- Anti-slip grips
- Comfort handle to minimize hand fatigue
- Two wrist straps provided free of charge
Cons
- Reports that it wasn’t as robust as expected
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People needing a robust build
- Those engaging in frequent, intense workouts
Who is it not for?
- Users seeking a lightweight design
Final Verdict
AmazeFan's pull-up bar is built to last, perfect for intense and frequent workouts. It's not the best option for those who prefer a more portable, less robust design.
After hands-on testing, we found the AmazeFan Pull-Up Bar to be versatile. It easily fits between a doorframe or parallel walls, facilitating various upper-body exercises.
To install this device, you must rotate each side in alternate directions. We found that this causes the device to extend into the doorframe. Therefore, you should turn until the device is secure.
The device will fit a standard door frame between 26 inches and 39 inches wide.
This doorway pull-up bar is made using highly durable iron resistant to breaking. It states that it can take up to 300 pounds in weight. It also has anti-slip grips for a strong grip that won’t cause damage to your door frames once installed.
The bar has comfort foam grips to help protect your hands and minimize hand fatigue. This will ensure you can grip the bar without slipping. This bar has two professional-quality wrist straps to protect your wrists from injury during workouts.
5 - AhfuLife Pull Up Bar (Best Stainless Steel)
- Dimensions : Adjustable 28.3''-37.8''
- Maintenance : Easy, no screws installation
- Design : Safety locking mechanism
- Warranty : No
- Premium materials : Stainless Steel
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality stainless steel construction that can hold 400 pounds
- A unique locking mechanism that prevents the device from loosening
- Unfixed grips that can be moved
Cons
- There are reports that it is not as secure as hoped
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those preferring durable materials
- Users looking for a secure fit with locking mechanism
Who is it not for?
- Those cautious about door frame damage
Final Verdict
AhfuLife's stainless steel bar offers exceptional durability and a reliable locking mechanism for a secure workout. However, it may not be suitable for fragile door frames.
The AhfuLife Pull Up Bar, made of stainless steel, features silicone mats on each side to ensure stability and protect your door frame.
With a patented design, once installed into place and the lock mechanism is applied, it should be able to take as much as 400 pounds. This locking mechanism stops the pull-up bar from loosening and spinning, a common complaint about this type of bar.
We liked that the grips were unfixed, meaning they could be moved to any position along the pull-up bar to suit your needs.
The grips themselves are made with soft foam, covered in nylon, that is designed to offer comfort and a better grip while working on your upper body.
6 - Yes4All Wall Mount Chin Up Bar (Best Wall-Mounted)
- Dimensions: 39"L x 1.25"W x 1.25"H; Maintenance: Easy; Design: Gym quality; Warranty: 1 year
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Made from solid heavyweight steel that can take up to 500 pounds
- 30 inches of wall clearance
- Non-slip powder coating
Cons
- Reports that the welding is poor
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Serious athletes
- Those with a dedicated workout space
Who is it not for?
- Renters or those who cannot drill into walls
Final Verdict
Yes4All's wall-mounted bar is ideal for dedicated fitness enthusiasts with a permanent space. Not suitable for temporary setups or rental properties.
The Yes4All Wall Mount Chin Up Bar, crafted from 1.25-inch thick heavyweight steel, can support up to 500 pounds, catering to beginners and seasoned athletes.
With 30 inches of wall clearance, you can use this bar for various exercises, including pull-ups, chin-ups, ring dips, and kipping.
Unlike pull-up bars finished in chrome or other glossy surfaces, we noticed that this bar has a hard-wearing powder-coated finish that won’t become slippery during use.
This device can be installed quickly and easily either to the wall or ceiling using the fixings provided.
7 - DEDAKJ Pull Up Bar (Best Screwless)
- Dimensions: 37.8" to 47.2" adjustable width; Design: No screw
- padded grip; Max Weight : 660 lbs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stainless steel pull ups bar that supports a 660-pound weight
- Locking mechanism prevents loosening of the device
- Extra-long non-slip foam grips used
Cons
- May cause damage to your doorways and walls
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Renters and temporary setups
- Those needing easy install without drilling
Who is it not for?
- Those preferring a fixed, more permanent fixture
Final Verdict
DEDAKJ's screwless design is perfect for those who need a temporary or non-permanent setup without damaging walls. It's not for those who want a fixed, immovable workout station.
The DEDAKJ Pull Up Bar is made from stainless steel and is designed to be installed without using any screws.
Simply place it between your doorway or two parallel walls and tighten.
We liked that it comes with two anti-skid devices on both sides, which when installed properly will stick firmly in place.
When installed it is claimed that it can support a 660-pound weight, with the bar becoming more stable as it is being used.
A common complaint with some pull-ups bars is that they become loose over time, this can cause embarrassing falls and injury. This pull-up bar has a sturdy locking mechanism that prevents this from occurring. Once applied the bar will not rotate, nor will it become loose.
To prevent hand fatigue and pain while working out, this bar has non-slip extra-long foam grips in place. This pull-up bar has a three-month money-back guarantee, so if you encounter any issues you can get a refund in full.
8 - Sunny Health & Fitness Door Way Pull Up Bar (Cheapest Option)
- Dimensions: 24.5" to 36" adjustable; Design: Chrome with padded grips; Max Weight: 220 lbs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Sturdy chrome-plated steel bar that can take 220 pounds
- Can be set up in seconds
- Easily adjusted
Cons
- Reports that the screws provided were poor quality
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Beginners to bodyweight exercises
Who is it not for?
- Advanced athletes needing higher weight capacity
Final Verdict
Sunny Health & Fitness offers an affordable option for beginners, making it accessible to new users. It might not be suitable for more advanced athletes due to its lower weight capacity.
The Sunny Health & Fitness Door Way Pull Up Bar is a sturdy chrome-plated steel bar that when mounted between your doorway is designed to take up to 220 pounds.
You can set this device up in seconds in almost any doorway. It has weight-bearing brackets included, which are designed for maximum stability when working out.
We liked the fact that the bar itself can be adjusted, going from 25.5 inches wide to 36 inches.
It also has comfort grips, which are claimed to reduce calluses and hand cramping.
9 - HAKENO Pull Up Bar (Best Foam-Grip)
- Dimensions: 28.7" to 38" adjustable; Material: Stainless Steel; Max Weight: 500 lbs; Portable
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Easy to install with no drilling or screws
- Locking device used to prevent the device from spinning
- Foam grips prevent slipping
Cons
- May be difficult to lock into place during exercise
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Users with grip concerns
- Those seeking easy installation
Who is it not for?
- Users needing a more robust bar
Final Verdict
HAKENO's bar with foam grips is ideal for comfortable use and easy setup. It may not satisfy those looking for a bar to support heavier weight training.
The HAKENO Pull Up Bar is made from a thickened chrome-plated stainless steel pipe that can be set up in minutes without even needing any screws or drilling.
As no screws are used, this piece of equipment can be readjusted and moved quickly and easily. We also noticed that its width can go from 28 inches wide to 38 inches.
To install all you need to do is rotate the pole to press the two anti-skid devices against the doorframe. Once in place, pulling on the bar will tighten making it even more secure. It is claimed to be able to support 660 pounds.
To make the device even more secure there is a sturdy locking device in place to prevent it from spinning and becoming loose during use. Like many of the devices on this list, there are foam grips used to prevent slipping during exercise.
10 - Uflyy Fitness Pull Up Bar
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Thickened steel pipe used that can hold 440 pounds
- Locking mechanism prevents the bar from loosening
- Foam grip prevents slippage during use
Cons
- May cause damage to fragile door frames
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing quick setup
- Users wanting portability
Who is it not for?
- Those seeking a heavy-duty workout solution
Final Verdict
Uflyy provides a portable option with a simple setup, great for casual users. It's not designed for heavy-duty use, which might limit its appeal to serious lifters.
The Uflyy Fitness Pull Up Bar is made from thickened steel pipe that has been chrome-plated.
It can be installed in your doorway quickly and easily, simply by twisting the bar.
Once fully extended you can then use the locking mechanism to prevent the bar from becoming loose during use.
It is claimed that when securely fastened in place that this bar can take up to 440 pounds.
We liked that the bar came with a hand protecting grip made from elastic foam to prevent slipping during use. This foam does not deform easily and will help prevent hand fatigue while working out.
If you are not happy with your purchase then you won’t need to worry. Incredibly there is a 100% money-back guarantee available with your order.
How We Tested the Best Pull Up Bars
To define the best pull up bars, my team and I:
- Collaborated with fitness professionals. Utilized their expertise to assess the effectiveness and quality of the pull-up bars.
- Focused on various features. Examined aspects like strength, weight capacity, ease of installation, and grip comfort.
- Personal testing and observation. Noted the ease of setup, stability during use, and the overall workout experience.
- Assessed specific benefits for targeted exercises. Looked at products that offered benefits for upper body and core exercises, including different grip options.
- Monitored real-world impacts. Tracked improvements in upper-body strength and overall fitness among users of the pull-up bars.
- Evaluated user feedback. Incorporated user reviews and feedback to gauge overall satisfaction and effectiveness of the pull-up bars.
Buyers Guide - How to Pick the Best Pull Up Bar?
The Different Types Of Pull Up Bar
There are 5 main varieties of pull-up bar. Each one has its own benefits and negatives, so make sure that you think about your own needs before making the decision.
- Doorway pull-up bars - There are 2 types of doorway pull-up bar, those that are telescopic and those that can be hung on the doorframe. The main benefit of these is that they can be installed quickly, and easily, without any need to drill. They also don’t take up much space and can be attached to either the upper or lower part of your doorframe.
- Wall pull-up bars - These are attached to the wall with screws and are usually more robust than door pull-up bars. They also usually have a higher weight limit. When choosing one you should take into account the distance between the grips and the overall width of the bar.There are many different varieties available, each with multiple grip angles and widths. Therefore when looking, you will need to choose one that suits your needs.
- Ceiling pull-up bars - These are affixed to the ceiling and can be used as an anchor for a punch bag or suspension system, such as TRX. You will need to make sure that your ceiling is high enough, and that the bar itself is fixed securely, this is to ensure you do not suffer any unnecessary accidents or injuries while performing your workouts.
- Free Standing pull-up bars - These free standing pull-up bars are made from a strong frame that is able to take your entire weight without being bolted to the floor. Many of them will have a padded backrest or foam grips for better comfort while you are training.You can opt to get the power rack variety of this to allow you to get more bang for your buck.The biggest issue with them is their size. They take up a lot of space so you need to be careful where you put it. Before you even buy a bar like this you will need to consider if you even have enough room for it.
- Parallel bars - If you are familiar with gymnastics, then you will surely have heard about parallel bars. They are two bars placed parallel to each other, some are connected while others are not. You can buy freestanding parallel bars, but they can take up a lot of space, or you can buy ones that can be attached to the wall.If you are considering buying one of these you should choose ones that are connected, this is because they are significantly stronger.
How To Choose The Best Pull Up Bar?
When selecting a pull-up bar, consider its design, grip positions, and installation method.
Design
The design of the bars will vary, with many offering a no-frills look, with others more complex. It will come down to personal preference which one you choose.
Many pull-up bars will require a little construction, while others will already be welded together.
Those that are welded may be a more expensive choice, but they will benefit you as there is less assembly time and a stronger product that is able to take more weight.
Where you wish to use your pull-up bar should have an impact on which bar you choose. Certain types can be used between your door frames, while others can be mounted to your wall or ceiling.
There are other freestanding varieties too, but these are only suitable for those with the room as they can be bulky.
Grip positions
Grip positions are important when looking at pull-ups bars. All pull up bars will have a long main bar that will be used for pull-ups and chin-ups, but there are plenty of other varied grips too.
You may think that having multiple grip positions would be a good idea, however, this is not always the case. In some cases, these extra grips only add more weight to the bar and will make assembly more complicated.
How the bars are mounted
How the bar is mounted and installed may not seem interesting, but it is certainly something you need to keep in mind before buying a pull-up bar.
Pull up bars that can be placed between your doorway will be easy to install, however, those that attach to your wall or ceiling will be more complicated.
You will certainly need to drill some holes, which will mean that you will have to find the studs in your wall unless you have a solid brick or concrete wall to drill into.
Finding the studs may be difficult if they are not spaced evenly apart. Some bars will be able to accommodate this problem, while others won’t.
In the majority of cases, you will be able to fit your bar wherever there is free space. You will need to pay attention to the height when installing. Make sure not to install it too low as it will make some movements difficult to perform.
In addition to the stated features, there are other secondary features to look at too.
Weight capacity
The weight capacity of the bar should be considered. This is to ensure you do not hurt yourself when performing the exercises and also to prevent damage to your home.
Most pull-up bars will be able to handle bodyweight exercises like calisthenics with no issue. If you're just starting with calisthenic, then make sure you read our calisthenics guide for beginners.
However, if you wanted to attach other accessories to the bar, such as rings and resistance bands, then weaker bars won’t be suitable as they may not be able to deal with the added pressure applied.
Related: The difference between calisthenics and free weights
Padding
Some bars will have padding, which will be useful for those who have delicate hands or are new to these types of bodyweight exercises. This padding can also help to remind you of your hand placement when performing the movements.
Other Resources You May Like:
- The Best Weighted Vest For CrossFit
- The Best Weighted Vest For Running
- Equipment to Start Calisthenics
Maintenance & Care
Follow these four tips to take care of your pull-up bars:
- Regular Cleaning: Wipe with a damp cloth after each use to prevent grime buildup and maintain grip integrity.
- Check the Screws: Inspect regularly to ensure all fixtures are securely fastened, preventing potential equipment failure.
- Avoid Prolonged Sun Exposure: Relocate bars from direct sunlight or use protective covers to prevent material degradation.
- Storage: Store in a dry, cool place when not in use to deter corrosion and maintain structural integrity.
FAQs
Do Pull Up Bars Damage Doors?
Pull-up bars have the potential to damage doors. Even though they are designed to handle a significant amount of force being applied to them, there are certain circumstances where they may cause damage.
For example:
- If the door frame is in poor condition - How your door frame is constructed will have a major bearing on how well it can handle the pressure of your body weight. If the door trim has been glued, rather than nailed in place then this could prove to be problematic. Also, if the wood has started to rot or already has visible damage then it may be advisable not to try and attach a pull-up bar to it.
- The material of your door trim - If your door trim is anything but wood then it may be a good idea not to try and attach a bar to it. Plastic or composite door trims are a much weaker material that is easily broken.
- Misusing your pull-up bar - There is less risk of damage to your door and its frame if you use the bar properly. If you are using proper technique when performing any exercise then it is unlikely that you will cause any damage.
Pull yourself up slowly and deliberately, and lower yourself in the same fashion. If you swing wildly or swing using a back and forth motion you run the risk of pulling the trim out of place. You could also end up on your back like so many YouTube examples when your bar breaks.
How Do You Keep A Pull-Up Bar From Damaging The Door Frame?
To keep a pull-up bar from damaging the door frame, you must ensure that it fits properly. If you need to add bits for it to fit, it is probably not suitable for that area.
Also, make sure that you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations for use, so make sure to read the instruction leaflet that comes with the bar. It will state any weight limits and safety measures that should be adhered to.
Improper use of equipment is the main cause of damage and injury at home, so make sure to follow any safety instructions carefully.
When using a bar that slots between your door frame you may want to place a towel or rag between the frame and the bar. Even when you are performing the exercise correctly there is still a risk of the bar jarring, which may cause the bar to rub and for damage to occur.
Are Telescopic Pull-Up Bars Safe?
Telescopic pull-up bars are safe as long as you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
If you weigh less than the weight limit and the bar has been secured between two sturdy surfaces, there is very little chance of the bar coming loose.
I would suggest that you recheck that the bar is secure each time you use it, so make sure you twist it before putting your full weight onto the bar.
How Much Weight Can A Pull-Up Bar Hold?
A typical pull-up bar can hold 300 lbs (roughly 136 kg), although you will find some that can take more weight and some that can take less.
You should always check how much weight the bar can take before purchasing to ensure it meets your needs. If you wish to use a good weighted vest, consider its weight too.
What Is The Best Pull Up Bar?
Having tried and tested numerous pull-up bars, I've come to a conclusion.
The Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar stands out for me. It's not just about its durable iron construction or ability to support up to 300 pounds.
I genuinely appreciate its anti-slip grips, ensuring a firm hold without damaging my door frame. And let's not forget those comfort foam grips – they're a game-changer, ensuring I don't lose my grip mid-exercise.
If you're searching for a reliable pull-up bar for your home workouts, this one's a keeper. It's a simple yet effective tool that's worth every penny.
Our #1 Recommendation
Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Padded handles to help with gripping the bar during exercise
- The thick foam pads offer protection to your door frames
- Easy to use and to install
- User reviews state that it does not fit all doorways
About The Author
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