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DIY Push-Up Handles for Pilates Stability
Lesley Logan shares essential tips on how to build your own push-up handles using easy-to-find materials. These can help you feel more stable and strong in your push-ups and other Pilates exercises. She will show you exactly what to buy, how to assemble them, and why they’re a great addition to your home setup. Whether you’re using a mat or equipment, these DIY handles can make a big difference!
Materials You’ll Need (for one pair):
- • 1 PVC pipe – 1-inch diameter, 5 feet long
• 8 end caps – 1-inch
• 4 T-connectors – 1-inch
• 4 elbow connectors – 1-inch
• PVC glue (optional but recommended for studio or shared use)
• Marker & measuring tape
• Saw (hand saw, table saw, or ask your hardware store to cut it for you)
• Safety glasses (if cutting yourself)
DIY Push-Up Handles for Pilates – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Measure & Mark Your Cuts
Using your measuring tape and marker, measure and mark the following segments on your PVC pipe:
- • 1 x 12-inch piece (handle)
• 2 x 10-inch pieces (legs/height)
• 4 x 5-inch pieces (base support)
These measurements make one push-up handle. To make a pair, double these:
- • 2 x 12-inch
• 4 x 10-inch
• 8 x 5-inch
Note: If you want a slightly lower height (closer to the original wooden ones), make the vertical legs 9 inches instead of 10.
Step 2: Cut the PVC
Cut your marked pipe using a saw. If you’re not comfortable with a saw, your local hardware store can likely cut it for you. Just bring your measurements!
Safety Tip: Wear safety glasses while cutting.
Step 3: Assemble the Handles
Each handle is built as follows:
- • Insert a 12-inch handle piece into two elbow joints (one at each end).
• Insert a 10-inch leg into each elbow joint’s open side.
• Attach a T-connector at the bottom of each 10-inch leg.
• Insert two 5-inch support pieces into the sides of each T-connector.
• Place end caps on the outer ends of all four 5-inch base pieces (2 per handle).
Now, repeat the process for the second handle.
Step 4: Glue for Stability (Optional)
If the handles will be used by others or in a studio, apply PVC glue at each connection point for safety and durability. If you’re using these at home and might want to adjust or disassemble them, you can skip this step.
Remember: Gluing makes the handles permanent.
Step 5: Use Your Push-Up Handles
Your DIY push-up handles are now ready! Use them for:
- • Push-ups
• Wrist-supported exercises
• Jump-throughs
• Handstands
• Leg pulls
• Beats and other upper-body strength work
These tools are especially beneficial for:
- • Clients with wrist issues
• Athletes needing grip-friendly options
• Anyone working on elevation-based progressions
Pro Tips:
- • Cost-efficient gift idea for dedicated clients.
• Customize dimensions if needed for height preferences.
• PVC handles are higher than traditional wood—test what feels best for you.
Bonus Insight:
Lesley asked Jay Grimes about the use of push-up devices—he emphasized their value for push-ups and support for performers, boxers, and dancers. Even if you’re not a circus performer, they’ll elevate your Pilates game!
Thank You for Joining Us!
Thanks so much for being here! If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments. I’ll be answering them during our next live session this Sunday at 9 am Pacific. Wishing you an amazing day!