11 Best Free Standing Pull-Up Bars {Buyers Guide}

Our team has taken on the task of purchasing and testing 14 different free-standing pull-up bars to provide you with the most thorough and unbiased review possible.

We understand that investing in fitness equipment is a significant decision, and we want to ensure you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your fitness journey.

Over the past few months, we’ve sweated, strained, and strength-trained on these pull-up bars, pushing each one to its limits to assess its performance. We’ve evaluated each model based on its durability, stability, versatility, ease of assembly, and overall value for money.

In this review, we’ll share our first-hand experiences, detailing the pros and cons of each pull-up station. We’ll delve into the specifics, such as height, width, adjustability, material, and warranty.

We aim to provide a clear picture of what you can expect from each model, helping you find the perfect pull-up bar that suits your needs, fits your space, and aligns with your workout equipment budget.

So, we’ve got you covered whether you’re looking to amp up your upper body workouts, train for a Spartan race, or add variety to your fitness routine. Let’s dive into the world of free-standing pull-up bars and find the perfect fit for you.

In A Hurry? Here Are The Top 5 Free Standing Pull Up Bars

Sportsroyals Pull-Up Bar Stand (Best Overall)

As someone who has spent time using the Sportsroyals Power Tower Dip Station, I can say it’s a versatile piece of home gym equipment. It’s designed to provide many bodyweight exercises, including pull-ups, dips, knee raises, and more.

The sturdy steel frame ensures stability and durability, supporting up to 400 lbs of weight. The multi-function armrests and backrests are adjustable, allowing for a customized workout experience.

The non-slip handles and padded backrests and armrests provide comfort during intense workouts. It’s a great investment for anyone looking to strengthen their upper body and core at home.

Pros:

• Versatile, offering a range of exercises
• Sturdy steel construction
• Supports up to 400lbs
• Adjustable armrests and backrests
• Non-slip handles for secure grip
• Padded backrest and armrests for comfort

Cons:

• Assembly instructions could be clearer
• It might be too tall for rooms with low ceilings.
• Distance between uprights is not specified, which could affect fit in some spaces
• Warranty information is not provided

Specifications:

RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Pull Up Rack Best Adjustable Pull-Up Bar)

I can confidently say that this product has exceeded my expectations. The secure frame could easily support someone weighing far more than I do.

The assembly was straightforward, with all the bolts nicely packaged and almost all the same size, making the process easier. The instructions are printed on a cardboard box and are quite small, but the details provided on the ordering page help resolve any issues.

The pull-up station comes with several backup parts, which is a bonus. Two wrenches are included; all parts can be assembled with just those tools.

The “stretching” bar is silly and must be removed for pull-ups, but the leg lift and dip extras are very good. The push-up bars are also silly since you can do a push-up any place, but I use the little braces for standing on between exercises.

In summary, I’m pleased with this product. It’s pretty nice and could easily be used in a nice gym.

Pros:

• Secure and sturdy frame
• Easy assembly with all necessary tools included
• Comes with several backup parts
• Leg lift and dip extras are very good to have

Cons:

• Assembly instructions are printed on a cardboard box and are quite small
• The “stretching” bar needs to be removed for pull-ups
• Push-up bars are a little unnecessary.

leikefitness Multifunction Power Rack (Best MultiFunction Pull Up Bar)

This versatile piece of equipment will significantly enhance any home gym.

It is an all-in-one station that supports a variety of exercises, including vertical knee raises, push-ups, dips, and pull-ups.

These exercises will help you tone and target your arms, core, shoulders, chest, and back, resulting in a stronger upper body.

One of the standout features is its solid build. It’s made from heavy-duty powder-coated steel, ensuring stability during workouts.

The non-slip foot sets further enhance this, preventing wobbling during intense sessions. The power tower also features a gym-level construction with foam rollers, providing real comfort during workouts.

The Leikefitness is also designed with ergonomics in mind. The removable weight bench and backrest offer flexibility during strength training workouts.

The sit-up bench can be adjusted to decline, flat, and collapsible positions, making it easy to customize my workouts based on my fitness goals.

Despite its robust construction and versatility, this compact pull uo bar can be conveniently stored in any room or garage. It has four adjustable height settings, ranging from 70.47 to 88.19 inches, and can support over 500 lbs.

Pros:

• Multifunctional, supporting a variety of exercises
• Solid and stable construction
• Ergonomic design with a removable and adjustable weight bench
• Compact and easy to store

Cons:

• Assembly instructions could be clearer
• Adjusting the height could be smoother

Stamina Products Outdoor Fitness Multi-Use Strength Training Power Tower (Best For Outdoor Gyms)

This power tower is designed for outdoor use to enjoy your workout in the fresh air. It’s built to withstand the elements, so you don’t have to worry about it rusting or deteriorating over time.

The Stamina 65-1460 Outdoor Fitness offers a variety of workout options. You can do pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, and dips on this single piece of equipment.

It’s a great way to work out different muscle groups and add variety to your fitness routine.

One of the things I appreciate is its sturdy construction. It’s made of solid steel, which gives it a robust and durable feel. The paint is also chip-resistant, so it maintains its good looks even after extensive use.

However, it’s worth noting that the assembly process can be a bit challenging. The instructions are unclear as possible, and assembling them might take some time.

But once assembled, it’s a solid and stable piece of equipment that can support a good amount of weight.

Pros:

• Versatile: Offers a variety of workout options.
• Durable: Made of solid steel and designed to withstand the elements.
• Outdoor use: Allows you to enjoy your workout in the fresh air.
• It can be bolted to the ground.

Cons:

• Assembly: The instructions could be clearer, and assembling them might take time.

CANPA Multifunction Power Rack with Pull up Bar, Adjustable Squat Rack

This squat rack with a pull-up bar is well-made and offers a variety of exercise options.

The sturdy steel construction provides a high weight capacity, making it suitable for individuals of different body weights.

The adjustable bar allows you to set it comfortably for your workouts and makes it easier if more than one person uses it within the household.

The black color gives it a sleek look that fits well in any home gym. The distance between the uprights is wide enough to perform various exercises comfortably.

The product comes with a warranty, which gives you peace of mind knowing that the manufacturer stands behind their product.

Pros:

• High weight capacity, suitable for individuals of different body weights
• Adjustable height, offering flexibility for different exercises
• Sturdy steel construction, ensuring durability and stability
• Sleek black color, adding a professional look to my home gym
• It comes with a warranty, assuring quality.

Cons:

• The assembly process can be a bit challenging
• The size might be too large for smaller workout spaces

Product Details:

ZENOVA Power Tower Pull-Up Bar Station

Everything about this machine resembles a product that you would think costs a lot more, the only fault was there is no mention of a warranty and customer service did not reply when I asked.

This is the only reason it is this low on our list; if not for this, we would’ve placed it in the top 3.

The assembly was straightforward and didn’t take much time. The tower is sturdy and can handle my weight without any issues. I’m about 6′ and 230 lbs, and I’ve used it for pull-ups and squats with a 35lb bar and 200 lbs in weights.

The safety hooks are a great feature that I appreciate.

However, there are a few things to note. Some team members thought the tower was narrow, which can be problematic when squatting or doing pull-ups.

The pull-up bar handles also feel a bit short due to the narrowness of the tower. Despite these minor issues, the ZENOVA is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their home gym.

Pros:

• Sturdy and can handle heavy weights
• Versatile with multiple exercise options
• Safety hooks are a great feature
• Good value for the price

Cons:

• The tower is a bit narrow, which can be an issue for some exercises.
• Pull-up bar handles feel a bit short

Product Specifications:

CAP Barbell Exercise Stand, Blue

The assembly was straightforward, and I could assemble it in a couple of hours. The instructions could have been clearer, but I figured it out patiently.

The pull-up bar is a bit wobbly, but it’s nothing to worry about. It’s sturdy enough for my pull-ups, and I feel safe using it. The J-hooks are a great feature, allowing me to adjust the height for my squats and bench presses easily.

The rack is lightweight enough to move around but also very sturdy. I’ve been using it for several months, and it’s held up well, even with regular use. The quality is pretty decent for the price, and it’s a great addition to my home gym.

However, I noticed that the welds on some parts of the rack had gaps, and steel shavings were coming out of one of the rack mounts. Despite these minor issues, the rack is still strong and functional.

Overall, I’m pleased with this purchase. It’s a great value for the price, and it gets the job done. Just be careful when using it, especially lifting heavy weights.”

Pros:

• Easy to assemble
• Sturdy and safe for pull-ups
• Adjustable J-hooks for squats and bench presses
• Lightweight and easy to move around anywhere
• Good value for the price

Cons:

• Instructions could be clearer
• The pull-up bar is a bit wobbly
• Some gaps in the welds
• Steel shavings are coming out of one of the rack mounts.

BangTong&Li, Pull-Up Bar Dip Station

The sturdy construction and adjustable height make it suitable for various exercises and users of different heights. The multi-function design allows various exercises, including pull-ups, dips, and leg raises.

The padded backrest and armrests provide comfort during workouts, while the non-slip foot pads ensure stability and variation of grip options.

The assembly process is straightforward, with clear instructions. However, it’s worth noting that the equipment is quite heavy, which could be a challenge for some people during assembly.

Pros:

• The multi-function design allows for a variety of exercises.
• Adjustable height accommodates different users.
• Sturdy steel construction for durability
• Padded backrest and armrests for comfort
• Non-slip foot pads for stability

Cons:

• Heavyweight can make assembly challenging.
• Distance between uprights not specified
• Warranty information not provided

SogesPower Pull-Up Bar Training Station(Best Budget Choice)

The assembly process was straightforward, and I could quickly get it up and running. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, which was a big plus.

It is quite sturdy and feels safe to use. I’ve been using it for pull-ups, dips, and other exercises, and it’s been holding up well. The adjustable height feature is a big plus, allowing me to customize the setup to my preference.

It is made of alloy steel, which gives it a solid and durable feel. The black color gives it a sleek and professional look, which I like.

However, I did notice that it tends to wobble a bit when I’m doing intense workouts, CrossFit, or kipping. It’s not a deal-breaker, but something to remember if you plan heavy workouts.

Overall, I think anyone would be satisfied with this power tower. It’s a great piece of equipment for home workouts that offers good value for the price.

Pros:

• Easy to assemble with clear instructions
• Sturdy and safe for various exercises
• Adjustable height feature
• Made of durable alloy steel
• Sleek and professional look

Cons:

• Tends to wobble during intense workouts

Power Tower Adjustable Height Pull-Up & Dip Station

The assembly process was a breeze, and the instructions were clear and concise. It is made of tough steel and has a heavy-duty metal frame, which gives it a solid and sturdy feel. It can hold up to 338 lbs, which is impressive.

The power tower is adjustable with six levels, making it suitable for everyone in my family. The anti-skid comfort handles are a nice touch, ensuring a secure grip during workouts.

The multi-function design is one of the best features. It supports vertical knee raises, push-ups, dips, and pull-ups with comfortable foam grips. This will help tone your arms, core, shoulders, and chest.

The soft leather backrest and comfortable elbow pads add to the overall comfort during workouts. Despite its sturdy construction, It doesn’t take up too much space, which is a big plus.

However, I did notice that I had to tighten the screws again after installing all parts. It’s not a big deal, but something to remember during assembly.

Pros:

• Easy to assemble with clear instructions
• Sturdy and durable construction
• Adjustable height with six levels
• Multi-function design for various exercises
• Comfortable backrest and elbow pads

Cons:

• Need to tighten the screws again after the assembly

Leasbar Power Tower Dip Bar Station Pull Up Bar Stand

The training station is a sturdy and reliable equipment that allows for various exercises, including pull-ups, chin-ups, push-ups, dips, and leg raises. It’s a great addition to any home gym, offering a full-body workout in a compact space.

The pull-up rack is adjustable, which means it can be customized to fit your height and the type of exercise you’re doing. This adjustability makes it suitable for people of different heights and fitness levels.

The sturdy steel frame ensures the equipment is stable and durable, providing a safe and comfortable workout experience.

The Leasbar is easy to assemble and has clear instructions. It’s also easy to adjust and use, making it suitable for beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts.

The padded backrest and armrests provide comfort during workouts, while the non-slip foot pads ensure stability.

However, like any product, it has its downsides. The power rack is quite heavy, making it difficult to move around.

Pros:

• Versatile, allowing for a variety of exercises
• Adjustable height
• Sturdy steel frame
• Easy to assemble and use
• Comfortable padded backrest and armrests
• Non-slip foot pads for stability

Cons:

• Heavy and difficult to move
• Assembly instructions could be clearer

What Type Of Pull-Up Bar Stand Should You Buy

This will depend on how you choose to use it.

There are different types for different uses, like…

• Portable
• Foldable
• Adjustable
• Fixed
• Outdoor
• Non-portable

If you plan to put it in your home gym and never move it, you’ll want to buy a non-portable heavy-duty brand with a steel frame.

If you’re into working out in groups and changing where you like to exercise, you’ll want to look into a portable or outdoor version.

If you don’t have enough room to keep it out all the time, you’ll need to buy a foldable type to store it when you’re not using it.

How High Should My Pull-Up Bar Be

Since everyone is a different height, the best method to see how high it should be is to stand against a wall on your tiptoes, reach your arms above your head, mark the top of your fingers on your one hand, and add 5 inches.

This will give you enough height that you’ll be able to perform a pull-up without having to worry about your feet hitting the floor.

To alleviate this worry, buy an adjustable model; many are on this list.

What Should I Look For In A Free-Standing Pull-Up Bar Stand

• Weight Limit- You need to ensure that the equipment you’re training on can support your weight for obvious reasons; you don’t want to end up on your ass in the middle of training. As a good rule of thumb, you should look for a stand that can hold at least 100 more pounds than the heaviest person using it.
• Footprint- You’d be surprised how many people buy a piece of equipment without looking at the product specs and then realize once they get it that they can’t fit it in their home gym. I will place the measurements of every piece in this article for easy reference. Always double-check your floor space to make sure you can do the exercise with the proper form.
• Stability- Some types will be more stable than others due to how they are made, for example, folding and portable stands, since they have hinges that will always move a little. No matter how well they’re made, these types can’t be as stable as a fixed stand or power towers.
• Height- The height of your stand must be considered for how high your ceilings are and how high the tallest person will be using it.
• Adjustability- This comes into play when more than one person will be using it; if one of these people is shorter than the others, they will want to adjust the height or use a stool. Just make sure to think of this when purchasing.
• Is It Multi-Functional- Some pull-up stands are only meant for pull-ups, while others allow you to do leg lifts, dips, or even attach a bench. You’ll have to consider what equipment you already own and determine if you need an all-in-one model.
• Price- Unfortunately, many decisions come down to how much a certain item cost, so we included options for all sorts of budgets.
• Warranty- It’s always comforting to buy equipment that has at least a 1-year warranty.

Key Benefits

Pull-ups are, hands down (no pun intended), one of the best exercises you can do for yourself, it builds muscle and helps with cardiovascular endurance. This makes a stand-alone pull-up bar a great piece of calisthenics equipment.

Build your back muscles

• Trapezius muscle: Start at your neck and flanks out to your shoulders
• Spinal erectors: These are the muscles that run along your thoracic spine
• Infraspinatus: Located on the shoulder blade, it’s one of 4 muscles that make up the rotator cuff
• Latissimus dorsi: Lats are the largest muscles in your upper body. They are the large flat muscles that reach out to your sides, under your arms, and up to your armpits.

Strengthens your arm and shoulders

Both of your heads in your shoulders and your forearms will be targeted during a pull-up, a lot of people can’t do multiple pull-ups or can’t do even a full one, but that’s okay.

Even going as high as you can or just hanging from the bar will help strengthen these muscles to get you started.

You can add resistance bands to the workout to create even more resistance and work your arms and shoulders.

Makes Your Overall Health Better

Pull-ups are considered strength training, and many studies have shown the health benefits of any strength training workout routine.

You can install trapeze rigging for flexibility exercises if you want a challenge.

• Build up of lean muscle mass
• Increased strength levels
• Lower levels of body fat
• Lowers your blood pressure
• Increases your bone density
• Help deter type 2 diabetes
• Help fight pain from arthritis
• Reduces anxiety
• Increases energy
• Reduces depression
• Improves confidence

It’s funny how Dr’s still prescribed medicine for almost every ailment I just listed, but in many cases, we have to be more active and fix our health ailments by becoming healthier and exercising more.

How Safe Are Pull-Up Bars For Home

Pull-up bars for home use are generally safe, provided they are installed correctly and used appropriately. Here are some factors that contribute to their safety:

1. Proper Installation: This is crucial for any pull-up bar. Whether it’s a door-mounted, wall-mounted, or free-standing model, it needs to be assembled and installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure it can support your weight without the risk of collapsing or coming loose. Ensure your doorway is strong enough to hold you if you use that type.
2. Weight Capacity: Each pull-up bar comes with a maximum weight limit. It’s important to choose a bar that can comfortably support your weight. Overloading the bar can lead to breakage and injury.
3. Quality of Materials: High-quality, durable materials add to the safety of pull-up bars. Look for bars made from sturdy metals, and avoid those with cheap plastic parts that could break under strain.
4. Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your pull-up bar for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws or material weakening. Regular maintenance can prevent accidents caused by sudden breakage.
5. Correct Use: Using the pull-up bar correctly is also important. Avoid swinging or using excessive force, as this can destabilize the bar and lead to falls.
6. Flooring: If using a free-standing pull-up bar, ensure it’s on a flat, non-slip surface to prevent it from tipping over.
7. Space: Ensure enough space around the pull-up bar to avoid hitting furniture or other objects while exercising.

Are Free Standing Pull-Up Bars Good

A Free standing bar can be a great addition to your home gym, offering a range of benefits:

1. Versatility: Free-standing pull-up bars often come with multiple grip positions, allowing you to perform various exercises beyond just pull-ups. These include chin-ups, dips, push-ups, and leg raises, providing a full-body workout.
2. No Installation Required: Unlike door or wall-mounted pull-up bars, free-standing bars don’t require any installation. This means you don’t have to worry about damaging your walls or door frames and can easily move the bar around as needed.
3. Stability: Free-standing pull-up bars are typically quite stable due to their design and weight. They’re built to support your weight without wobbling or tipping over.
4. Adjustability: Many free-standing pull-up bars are adjustable, allowing you to change the height to suit different exercises or users.
5. No Weight Limit: While all pull-up bars have a weight limit, free-standing models often have a higher limit than door or wall-mounted options. This makes them a good choice for heavier individuals. This will be especially true if you are looking to do ring dips, bar dips, or muscle ups.

However, there are a few potential downsides to consider:

1. Space: Free-standing pull-up bars can take up quite a bit of space, which might be problematic if you have a smaller home or apartment.
2. Price: These models can be more expensive than other pull-up bars due to their size and materials.
3. Assembly: While they don’t require installation, free-standing pull-up bars require assembly, which can be complex for some models.

Whether a free-standing pull-up bar is “good” depends on your needs, available space, and budget. They offer many benefits, but it’s important to consider the potential downsides before purchasing.

How Do You Make A Free Standing Pull-Up Bar At Home

Building Diy free-standing pull-up bar can be a rewarding project. Here’s a simple guide on how you can do it using wood. Please note that you should have some basic woodworking skills and tools for this project.

You could also use PVC for some parts if that’s easier.

Materials:

1. Four 8-foot 4×4 pressure-treated posts
2. Two 4-foot 1-inch diameter metal pipes
3. Eight 1-inch floor flanges
4. Sixteen 1/2-inch lag bolts
5. Concrete mix
6. Two 5-gallon buckets

Tools:

1. Saw
2. Drill
3. Wrench
4. Level
5. Shovel

Steps:

1. Cut the Posts: Cut two of the wood 4×4 posts in half. These will be the legs of your pull-up bar. The remaining two posts will be the top bar.
2. Attach the Flanges: Attach a floor flange to each end of the two 4-foot metal pipes. These will be used to connect the pipes to the wooden posts.
3. Drill Holes: Drill holes in the top of the 4×4 posts to match the holes in the flanges. Make sure the holes are centered and straight.
4. Attach the Pipes: Screw the pipes into the flanges and the holes in the posts. Use the lag bolts to secure everything together. You should have two pieces, each with a 4×4 post and a metal pipe attached.
5. Dig Holes: Dig four holes in the ground where you want your pull-up bar to be. The holes should be about 2 feet deep and wide enough to fit the 4×4 posts.
6. Install the Posts: Place the posts in the holes and use a level to ensure they are straight. Fill the holes with concrete and set it according to the package instructions.
7. Attach the Top Bar: Once the concrete has set, attach the remaining two 4×4 posts to the top of the structure using the metal pipes. Make sure everything is secure and level.
8. Finish: You can finish the wood with a sealant or paint. This can help protect it from the elements and extend the life of your pull-up bar.
9. This completes your DIY pull-up bar.

Conclusion

Free-standing pull-up bars are a versatile and valuable addition to any home gym. They offer a range of benefits, from their flexibility in accommodating various exercises to their potential for customization based on personal fitness levels and goals.

Our comprehensive review of 14 different models highlighted the diversity in design, materials, and features available in the market.

While each model has its strengths and weaknesses, the key is finding a pull-up bar that best suits your needs, space, and budget.

Remember, the best pull-up bar is not necessarily the most expensive one but the one that motivates you to keep reaching for new fitness heights.