Best Gymnastic Rings 2025 - Complete Review & Training Guide

Why Gymnastic Rings are the Ultimate Bodyweight Training Tool

Gymnastic rings represent the pinnacle of bodyweight training equipment. Used by Olympic gymnasts and calisthenics athletes worldwide, rings provide an unstable training environment that challenges your entire body while building incredible functional strength, stability, and control.

Benefits of Gymnastic Rings Training

• Complete Upper Body Development: Target every muscle from multiple angles
• Core Stability: Unstable surface forces constant core engagement
• Functional Strength: Builds real-world applicable strength patterns
• Progressive Training: Infinite scalability from beginner to elite level
• Portable Convenience: Train anywhere with minimal equipment
• Joint-Friendly: Natural movement patterns reduce injury risk

Our Testing Methodology

We evaluated each gymnastic ring set based on the following criteria:

Detailed Gymnastic Rings Reviews

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Gymnastic Rings

Consider Your Experience Level

• Beginners: Start with LIFERUN or BeMaxx sets that include comprehensive training materials
• Intermediate: BeMaxx offers excellent balance of features and value with door anchor
• Advanced: GRAVITY FITNESS provides premium quality with app support for serious athletes

Think About Your Training Environment

• Home Training: BeMaxx set includes door anchor for indoor convenience
• Gym Use: GRAVITY FITNESS offers professional-grade construction
• Outdoor Training: All options work well for park and outdoor workouts
• Travel: LIFERUN is the lightest option for portability

Gymnastic Rings Training Guide

Beginner Progression

Start with these fundamental exercises to build the strength and stability needed for advanced ring work:

Phase 1: Support and Stability (Weeks 1-4)

1. Ring Support Hold: 3 sets of 10-30 seconds
2. Ring Rows: 3 sets of 5-12 reps
3. Ring Push-ups (feet on ground): 3 sets of 5-10 reps
4. Ring Assisted Squats: 3 sets of 8-15 reps

Phase 2: Basic Movements (Weeks 5-8)

1. Ring Dips (assisted): 3 sets of 3-8 reps
2. Ring Pull-ups (assisted): 3 sets of 3-8 reps
3. Ring Push-ups (elevated feet): 3 sets of 5-10 reps
4. Ring L-Sit Progression: 3 sets of 5-15 seconds

Intermediate Exercises

• Ring Dips: Full range of motion without assistance
• Ring Pull-ups: Chest to rings
• Ring Muscle-ups: Transition from pull-up to dip
• Ring L-Sit: 30+ second holds
• Ring Archer Push-ups: Unilateral strength development

Advanced Movements

• Iron Cross: Ultimate display of strength and control
• Front Lever: Horizontal body position
• Back Lever: Inverted horizontal hold
• Ring Handstand Push-ups: Inverted pressing strength
• Maltese: Advanced static strength position

Ring Size Guide: 28mm vs 32mm

28mm Rings

Advantages:

• Competition standard size
• Better for smaller hands
• Lighter weight
• More challenging grip training

Best For:

Competitive gymnasts, those with smaller hands, and athletes prioritizing grip strength development

32mm Rings

Advantages:

• More comfortable grip
• Better for larger hands
• Reduced wrist strain
• Easier for beginners

Best For:

Beginners, those with larger hands, and athletes prioritizing comfort during longer training sessions

Setup and Safety Guidelines

Proper Ring Setup

1. Choose a sturdy anchor point (pull-up bar, tree branch, ceiling mount)
2. Ensure anchor point can support 3x your body weight
3. Adjust rings to appropriate height for your exercise
4. Check strap markings to ensure even height
5. Test stability before beginning workout

Safety Considerations

• Always inspect rings and straps before use
• Start with basic exercises before progressing
• Use proper warm-up and progression
• Train on soft surface when possible
• Never exceed manufacturer weight limits

Our Verdict

🏆 Overall Winner: GRAVITY FITNESS Wooden Rings

The GRAVITY FITNESS rings earn our top recommendation for their premium birch construction, 350kg weight capacity, and comprehensive app support. The investment in quality pays off in superior performance and durability.

💰 Best Value: BeMaxx Gymnastic Rings Set

The BeMaxx set offers exceptional value with high-quality birch construction, door anchor, and comprehensive training eBook. Perfect for home fitness enthusiasts seeking a complete package.

🎯 Budget Champion: LIFERUN Wooden Rings

At £22.09, the LIFERUN rings provide excellent quality birch construction with essential features. Ideal for budget-conscious athletes who want quality without premium pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gymnastic rings suitable for beginners?

Yes! Rings are highly scalable. Beginners can start with assisted exercises and basic holds, gradually progressing to more advanced movements as strength and stability improve.

What's the difference between wooden and plastic rings?

Wooden rings provide better grip, are more comfortable for extended use, and offer superior durability. Plastic rings are cheaper but can become slippery and uncomfortable during longer workouts.

How high should I hang my gymnastic rings?

Ring height depends on the exercise. For support holds and dips, rings should be at chest height. For pull-ups and muscle-ups, hang them high enough that you can fully extend without touching the ground.

Can I build muscle with just gymnastic rings?

Absolutely! Rings provide a complete upper body workout and can build significant muscle mass. Many calisthenics athletes have impressive physiques built primarily through ring training.

How do I progress in ring training?

Progress by increasing hold times, adding repetitions, advancing to harder exercise variations, or adding external weight. The key is consistent practice and gradual progression.

Ready to Master Bodyweight Training?

Choose the gymnastic rings that best fit your goals and start your journey toward incredible functional strength and control.

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