Comparison between Styles of Pullup Bars
Pullup bars are essential equipment for back muscle groups. This section provides an overview on different kinds of pullup bars, and compare their advantages/disadvantages against one another.
＊Kipping means you using a jerking motion to increase to momentum (while performing a pullup in this case)
What others say about different types of pullup bars：
Doorframe Pullup Bar
Doorframe pullup bars are typically in-expensive and can be mounted and dismounted within seconds. However, since there are many different designs on the market, shopping for them could be a bewildering task. The list below identifies the most important aspects to consider for selecting a doorframe lever pullup bar.
Fit for Location
Why is it important?
You can’t use the pullup bar if it doesn’t fit your door
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
Does the doorframe have standard width?
Do you have enough clearance by your doorframe?
Do you have space to exercise on the side of the door that you can mount the pull up bar?
This link provides a detailed information on whether a doorframe lever pullup bar is for you.
What’s on the market?
Most doorframe pull up bars have the same installation requirement
Some pullup bars have adjustable fit
Max Allowable Weight
Why is it important?
You want to be safe while working out
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
A solid metal frame is always a good way to go
The force loading on the bar will be more if there are movements, e.g. moving up and down, than static weight, e.g. hanging from the bar.
However, the manufacturer’s specifications usually do not specify whether the max weight is for static or dynamic loading.
Therefore, a good rule of thumb is “body weight x 1.5 < max allowable weight from manufacturer”. If you are lifting extra weight while doing pull up, make sure you add the extra weight to the formula above
What’s on the market?
Usually >250 is standard
Workout Space
Why is it important?
You want to make sure there is enough room for proper range of motion and not feel restricted
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
Consider your height as well. You can usually mount doorframe lever pullup bars higher than telescopic pullup bars
For a doorframe lever pullup bar, you will have greater comfort if the pullup bar extends away from the door frame (so you don’t feel like your face is going to smash against the wall.)
What’s on the market?
Telescopic Pullup Bars： workout space is limited to the width of the door
Lever Pullup Bars： not limited to the width of the door
Door Protection
Why is it important?
You don’t want to damage your living quarter, especially if you are renting, you might have to pay a big safety deposit.
What’s the trade off?
Better design = more $ (usually)
Consideration?
You can always add your own padding to the pull up bar
From our experience, there is almost always some type of damage after long term use.
What’s on the market?
Various degree of padding for doorframe protection
Grip Positions
Why is it important?
Different grip positions target different muscles
What’s the trade off?
More positions = more $
Consideration?
Pay attention to the comfort of the handles as well. Some pullup bars have multiple grip positions, but not all of them are padded.
What’s on the market?
From only 1 straight bar to many positions on 1 bar.
Some pullup bars offer adjustable grip positions
Warranty
Why is it important?
You want your equipment to last.
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
There is usually a reason why a manufacturer doesn’t offer warranty
Customer service is also very important
What’s on the market?
Different lengths of warranty are offered by different manufacturers
Note：
When you purchase a doorframe pullup bar, also consider where you can store it when you are not using it. You won’t be able to close the door if you leave the pullup bar installed at the door. Telescopic pullup bars are easier to store because it’s just a straight bar. However, doorframe pullup bars are a bit more difficult to store away due to its irregular L shape.
What other people say about doorframe pullup bars：
Free Standing Pullup Bar
A free standing pullup bar is a great option when you have the space and budget for it. It is also great because you do not need to drill holes or risk damaging your door. Besides the typical pullup variations, you can typically perform other exercises on the pullup bar as well. However, since it is more expensive than other types of pullup bar, it is also more important to find one that is the most suitable for you.
Sturdiness
Why is it important?
Safety first!
What’s the trade off?
Better construction = more $, but it’s worth it!
Larger base = more stability
Consideration?
Since a free standing pullup bar is not bolted to the floor, explosive movements are still not recommended
What’s on the market?
Many different designs & constructions
Ease of Assembly
Why is it important?
You need to assemble first before you can use it
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
Some models require two people during assembly. If you don’t have anyone to help you, some delivery company also offer assembly services
Most of the models provide tools for assembly, however, it is essential to use the right tool and achieve the specified tightness for safety.
What’s on the market?
Typically, assembly can be done within 1 hour between 1-2 people
Size & Storage
Why is it important?
You want to make sure you have room for this equipment
What’s the trade off?
Larger Size = more stable, more versatile, more $
Larger Size = less space for your other activities
Consideration?
If you need to move the pullup bar on a regular basis, check to see if it damages your floor.
You also need some room to maneuver around the pullup bar, especially, if the pullup bar has additional functions.
Pay attention to the height of the pull up bar as well! You want to reserve at least 40cm on top of the height of the pullup bar for your head.
What’s on the market?
Variety of sizes
Versatility (Grip Positions & Other Functions)
Why is it important?
Different grip positions target different muscles
What’s the trade off?
More positions = more $
Additional functions = more $
Consideration?
Pay attention to the comfort of the handles as well. Some pullup bars have multiple grip positions, but not all of them are padded.
Some additional functions are not really necessary, e.g. pushup bars at the bottom. Make sure you know what you need, and what you don’t.
What’s on the market?
Variety of designs
Warranty
Why is it important?
You want your fitness equipment to last.
What’s the trade off?
N/A
Consideration?
There is usually a reason why a manufacturer doesn’t offer warranty
Customer service is also very important
What’s on the market?
Different lengths of warranty are offered by different manufacturers