One of the differences we have noticed in gymnastics programs is the use and/or extent of use of strap bars.  Too many gym programs do not have or use strap bars at all and many do not use them extensively in their bar training programs. 

Strap Bar Training Works
While we do not believe that it is impossible to create great bar workers without the use of strap bars, we do believe that most high successful level gymnastics use strap bar training extensively in teaching the entire gamut of circling skills.

Why Not Use Them?
We are not sure what the reason for lack of use of strap bars is.  Perhaps in a system of coach training where coaches coach like they were taught themselves or how the other coaches in their gym coach, the lack of use is simply being transferred to newer less experienced coaches.

Strap Bars are Space and Cost Efficient
We do know what reasons are not stopping the use of strap bars – availability of space and cost.  Strap bars are one of the most efficient training tools, both in terms of space and cost.  There are almost no other training tools that fit into less area that standard equipment takes. 

Half the Square Footage of Regulation Bars
Strap bars do not need dismount space and can use space saver cabling systems to save square footage, so a set of strap bars can require less than 200 square feet.  This is less than half the square footage of a regulation set of bars.  This means that you could put two sets of strap bars (one high and one low) in the same space you can put only one regulation bar set-up.

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