Buying guide for best dip stations
In order to make a true impact on your life, working out needs to be fully integrated into your lifestyle, not just relegated to an occasional pursuit. The best way for many people to make that happen is by having workout equipment at home. If you're looking to build up your triceps, chest, and other upper body muscles, you'll want to consider purchasing a dip station.
With a dip station, you can increase your strength and build muscle mass by hoisting your own body weight. In order to do that safely, you need a durable dip station that is stable and strong enough to support your full weight, and then some, for when you take your exercises to the next level.
Learn more about the features you can expect to find in the best dip stations, as well as gain a solid foundation on how to use one.
Key considerations
When shopping for a dip station, there are many elements to consider, but two aspects stand above all others: weight capacity and stability.
Weight capacity
First and foremost, when considering which dip station is best suited for your needs, you want to look at the unit's weight capacity. Since you will be depending on your equipment to safely support you while working out, it needs to be solidly constructed of durable materials, preferably steel, and strong enough to support your full body weight (at the very least). Ideally, you want a model that can support far more than your weight so you can add a weighted vest or dip belt as you get stronger.
Stability
A dip station needs to have a sturdy base. If the unit wobbles, not only will that make it much harder to use, but it will also make it unsafe. For example, once you mount the apparatus, your center of gravity is above the dip station. If the dip station isn't stable, it could create a tipping hazard. Also, it’s much easier to work out harder when you have confidence in your workout equipment.
For your safety
Dips can place a great deal of strain on your shoulders and elbows. It’s advisable to only do them one to three times each week, allowing yourself sufficient recovery time in between.
STAFF
BestReviews
Features
Besides weight capacity and stability, there are a few other points you need to consider before purchasing a dip station. As with any exercise equipment, the better the build quality, the longer your dip station will last. Seek a model that’s constructed using only quality materials so it can be enjoyed for years rather than months. A model that features rubber feet will minimize slipping, scuffing, and scratching. And look for one that features comfortable grips to encourage working out. If it hurts when you use your dip station, eventually you’ll stop using it.
Base
Two-piece: At the lower end of the price range, you can find a pair of rails that can be positioned wherever you'd like.
One-piece: Although a two-piece model may seem the most versatile, it isn’t as sturdy and stable as a one-piece dip station.
Wall mounted: Alternatively, you can find a dip stations that mount to your wall and have no base. This option requires permanent installation, and it will limit the range of exercises that you can perform, making it a less versatile piece of equipment.
Versatility
Adjustable height: If more than one person will be using the dip station, it would be wise to consider a model that has an adjustable height. This isn’t a necessity because the user has the ability to modify their body position, but it can increase the ease and comfort level of using the equipment.
Other exercises: If you want a full-body workout, look for a dip station that can be modified to perform a wide variety of exercises. Some of the higher-end dip stations also have a high bar to allow for chin-ups and pull-ups, but even the less expensive models may feature options that let you reposition the unit for push-ups or add accessories such as gymnastic rings for stability training.
Storage
If you’re considering buying a dip station, chances are good that you have a designated room in your home so this item can remain available at all times. If space is tight, you might prefer a model that can be quickly disassembled for easier storage. Some dip stations are lightweight enough to be portable. Only you know which is best for your situation.
For your safety
It’s important to keep your elbows close to your body. Angling them away from your body could cause you to injure your shoulders.
STAFF
BestReviews
Accessories
If you're serious about your training, you want to have all the gear you need. Here are a few other items you might want to consider.
Workout gloves: Fit Active Sports Weightlifting Gloves
Supporting your full body weight with your hands can be painful. These Fit Active Sports weightlifting gloves not only offer padding that can help prevent blisters and calluses, but the textured surface also helps you achieve a better, more secure grip. Additionally, the wrist straps add support, and the open design increases comfort and breathability.
Dip belt: Harbinger Dip Belt
When you need to level up your routine, one of the ways you can accomplish that is by adding a dip belt. Harbinger's is manufactured utilizing durable polypropylene and features heavy-duty steel grommets that secure the 30-inch steel chain to the belt, making it a good choice for those who want to safely add a substantial amount of weight. Additionally, this belt is adjustable, so one size truly fits all.
Weighted vest: ZFOsports Weighted Vest
If you don’t like using a dip belt, a good alternative is a weighted vest. ZFOsports has offerings that range from 20 to 80 pounds, and the inventive design features pockets for your water bottle and smaller devices such as your smartphone and MP3 player. The vest comes in one convenient size that fits most individuals.
For your safety
Trying to do too many dips too soon or using improper form can injure your shoulders and rotator cuffs.
STAFF
BestReviews
Dip station prices
Inexpensive: At the lower end of the price scale, you can purchase an affordable, compact dip station for $35 to $50. These models are smaller and very basic, and they might not be as sturdy as higher-end models, but because many are two-piece units, they can be easier to store.
Mid-range: In the $60 to $80 price range, the dip stations are one-piece units that feature a larger, more stable base. The height may be adjustable, and the stations are designed to support more weight and be durable enough to accommodate more frequent use.
Expensive: From $90 to $150, the dip stations are typically taller units that also incorporate bars for doing chin-ups or pull-ups. These models can handle the hardest workouts and offer the most stable and versatile designs. If you want to do more than dips, this is the price range to consider. The downside to these larger models is you need a designated space in your home for one because they aren’t easily storable.
Premium: Professional-quality dip stations cost up to $500. If you need equipment that can take a beating, you might need to consider one of these high-end models.
Tips
Dips aren’t easy. If you've never done them before, you could find that you can't! It can take a while to build up your muscles before you can accomplish as few as five reps. The following are four progressive exercises that can take you from novice to dip master.
- Hold: While standing, grab both handles of the dip station. Steady yourself and pull your feet up toward your buttocks. Hold this position for 20 seconds. Once you can easily hold yourself steady for 20 seconds, it's time to go to the next step.
- Dip negative: While supporting yourself with your knees bent, slowly lower your body until your shoulders are slightly lower than your elbows. Then place your feet on the floor, stand up, and start again. Once you can easily lower yourself while maintaining control several times in a row, you can try a full dip.
- Full dip: Start from the suspended position with your feet off the floor. Lower yourself until your shoulders are slightly lower than your elbows. Then push yourself back up until your arms are straight. Once you've mastered the motion and built up your muscles to the point where you can easily do 10 or 12 reps, you can increase the difficulty.
- Add weight: To increase the difficulty, add more weight. Adding either a dip belt or a weighted vest is the best and safest way you can accomplish this. The main concern at this stage is to be certain you never exceed the weight capacity of your dip station.
FAQ
Q. What are the benefits of doing dips?
A. Dips are tough exercises that can provide a grueling workout for your triceps, shoulders, chest, and back. Dips can also strengthen your core, especially if you incorporate different leg positions into your workout. Additionally, dips can help strengthen your grip and arm muscles.
Q. Are dips good for weight loss?
A. If you’re interested in burning calories, dips are not the best exercise choice. Yes, you’ll burn some calories, but that is more of a side benefit than a main focus. Dips are best suited for individuals who are interested in muscle definition and tone.
Q. What is shoulder impingement?
A. When your shoulder blade presses on your rotator cuff, the resulting pain and inflammation can make it difficult to move your arms. If you have a previous injury, you’re trying to use too much weight, or you aren’t using proper form (elbows angled away from your body), you can injure yourself doing dips. In most instances, the injury won’t require surgery, but it can result in a considerable amount of downtime. To help avoid injuries, be sure you’re properly trained on form and take your time, allowing yourself to progress gradually.
