Artistic Gymnastics Parallel bars

Parallel Bars

The bars are 3.5 meters long and 2 meters high. They are made of wood or fiberglass with a wooden coating to provide grip and flexibility. The bars are 42–52 cm apart, depending on the gymnast’s preference. The parallel bars demand a mix of strength, coordination, and controlled swings. Gymnasts must smoothly transition between holds, swings, and high-flying release moves.

The Most Difficult Skills

Some of the hardest moves include:The Tippelt – a transition from an upper arm support to a handstand.The Bhavsar – a high-flying move where the gymnast jumps from one bar to the other in a straddle position.The Belle – a front somersault over both bars with re-catch.

Unique Grips, Techniques & the Dismount

Gymnasts use both overhand and underhand grips while performing skills.Unlike the high bar, where gymnasts rely on grips (handguards), most parallel bar gymnasts compete barehanded or with minimal wristbands for support. Gymnasts often finish with a double backflip or twisting layout dismount, aiming for a stuck landing.