Parallettes vs Push-Up Bars: M1 vs M2

Short answer: pick by how complex your moves are. For push-ups, dips and static holds, the Push Up Bars M2 (8.7 in bars) are all you need. For balance skills where your weight shifts during the move, such as lowering from a handstand into an L-sit, tuck and straddle planches, or pressing up to a handstand, pick the Parallettes M1 (16.8 in bars). The longer bar gives your hands room to correct your balance and keeps the bar steady under you, so you stay on it instead of falling off.

Height, wood, legs and load rating are the same on both: 4 in (10 cm) high, oval beech bars, steel legs on rubber feet, 550 lb (250 kg) per handle.

Which model for which move

Who each one is for

Parallettes M1: for skill work. Complex moves shift your weight forward, back and between positions within one rep: a handstand lowered into an L-sit, a planche lean, a press back up. On the 16.8 in (43 cm) bar your hands can move to where your balance is, and the legs stand further apart, so the bar stays planted while your weight travels along it. That support lets you train the transition instead of bailing out of it. The M1 works for push-ups and dips too.

Push Up Bars M2: for push-ups and static holds. The 8.7 in (22 cm) bar is compact and sized for one hand. It raises your hands 4 in, so your chest goes lower than it can on the floor, and you grip the bar with a straight wrist instead of pressing on a bent one. It holds a steady L-sit, but it leaves little room to correct your balance, so moves that travel, like handstand to L-sit or planche work, are more stable on the M1.

What both share

• Height: 4 in (10 cm).
• Bar: oval beech wood, varnished.
• Legs and feet: steel legs on non-slip rubber bumpers that keep the metal off the floor.
• Load: 550 lb (250 kg) per handle.
• In the box: a pair, 2 parallettes (M1) or 2 push-up bars (M2).