Planning to buy a set of parallel bars for your home gym but undecided on what to get? There are many different options on the market these days, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve put together this buying guide🔍- to help make your decision easier.
So, how do you choose the best parallel bars for your home gym?
There are a lot of things to consider when purchasing parallel bars for your home, including the budget, type of parallel bars, your available space, weight capacity of the bars, the types of exercises you want to do, and the overall construction of the parallel bars.
Parallel bars are one of the most versatile pieces of workout equipment that you can own. You can use it for a wide variety of exercises, including squats, lunges, and pull-ups. They are also a great way to add an extra challenge to your workout routine.
Photo source: The B-Bars
👇We will be covering the following topics that will help you make the best decision when choosing a parallel bar for your home gym:
- 👍 The Different Types of Parallel Bars
- 👍 The Benefits of Training with Parallel Bars
- 👍 How to Choose the Best Parallel Bar for Your Home Gym
- 👍 Our Top 8 Choices
- 👍 Parallel Bar Workout Exercises
- 👍 FAQ
🎯Basic Types of Parallel Bars
Before deciding what parallel bar to buy, it’s essential to understand the basic types of parallel bars available in the market. The three main types of parallel bars are fixed, mobile, and adjustable.
⭐️Fixed Parallel Bars
Fixed parallel bars are best for gyms and other commercial settings where they will see a lot of use. They are permanently affixed to the floor and ceiling, making them sturdy. However, they are not practical for home use.
⭐️Mobile Parallel Bars
Mobile parallel bars are most common for home gyms and personal training studios. They are easy to move and can be adjusted to different heights.
They’re usually made of metal or plastic, and they have wheels to move around. This makes them great for people who want to be able to use their parallel bars in different locations or who want to be able to move them out of the way when they’re not using them.
⭐️Adjustable Parallel Bars
Adjustable bars are the most versatile type of parallel bars. They can be adjusted to different heights, and they can also be moved around, making them great for both home and commercial use.
Adjustable parallel bars are often made of metal and usually have a knob or lever that you can use to adjust the height. This makes them very easy to use and means you can always find the perfect height for your needs.
⚡️The Benefits of Training With Parallel Bars
Parallel bars offer a unique training experience that can benefit you in some ways. Parallel bars can offer an excellent workout if you’re looking to improve your balance and coordination, strengthen your core, tone your muscles, or lose weight.
Here are a few benefits of training with parallel bars:
✊Parallel Bars Exercises Help Improve Your Balance and Coordination
Parallel bars can help improve your balance and coordination in a few ways. First, by using parallel bars, you are constantly working to maintain your balance, which helps improve your balance overall. Second, by using parallel bars for various exercises, you improve your coordination as you learn how to control your body in different positions.
✊Parallel Bars Exercises Help Strengthen Your Core and Improve Your Posture
By using parallel bars, you can focus on isolating your abdominal muscles to help improve your overall core strength, which according to Mayo Clinic, can improve your overall balance and coordination. Additionally, parallel bars can help prevent slouching and other bad posture habits that can affect your self-confidence as body posture affects confidence, according to a study conducted by Ohio State University.
✊Parallel Bars Exercises Help Tone Your Muscles and Burn Calories
If you’re looking to improve your muscle tone, then look no further – training with parallel bars can give you the desired results. Not only will working out with parallel bars help improve your muscle tone, but it can also help you burn calories.
Parallel bars Exercises are low impact and great for people with joint problems.
Additionally, because parallel bars are relatively stationary, they are perfect for those with joint pain who have difficulty with more dynamic exercises but be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
✊Parallel Bars are Versatile and Can be Used for a Wide Variety of Exercises
From pull-ups and dips to more complex exercises like the human flag, parallel bars offer a wide range of benefits for those looking to improve their overall fitness.
🧐How to Choose the Best Parallel Bar for Your Home Gym
Before adding a parallel bar to your home gym, there are a few things to consider. Here are our top tips for choosing the best parallel bar for your needs:
✅Decide on the Right Size
Getting the right size of a parallel bar is crucial for a number of reasons.
Firstly, you must ensure the parallel bars are tall enough to grip and use comfortably. Check the height of the bars and ensure they will work for your space and needs. You may need to get a bar taller than average if you are tall.
Consider purchasing bars with height adjustment options if you are unsure about the right size. This way, you can constantly adjust the height of the bars to suit your needs.
Another thing to consider is the width of the bars. The standard width is usually between 18-24 inches, but you may need a wider or narrower bar depending on your build and size. Wider bars can be more difficult to grip, so if you have small hands, you may want to stick with the standard width. Buy bars that offer adjustable width if you are unsure.
Finally, think about the length of the bars. You will need to reach the end of the bars without overstretching comfortably. If you are taller, look for bars that are longer than average. Most bars range from four to eight feet in length.
✅Consider What Type of Exercises You’ll be Using the Bar For
You have a few things to consider if you’re mostly doing body weight and looking for the best parallel bar for your home gym. First, think about how you will be using the parallel bars. For example, if you use them primarily for chin-ups and pull-ups, you’ll want to look for a sturdy model to support your weight.
On the other hand, if you plan to use the bars for dips or other exercises that require more stability, you’ll want to look for a wider model with more support
✅Choose a Material that will Withstand Regular Use
We recommend powder-coated steel for its durability and weather resistance. This type of material is also easy to grip, even when your hands are sweaty.
If you want a more affordable option, look for bars made of solid wood. These bars are also durable and easy to grip but may not be as weather resistant as powder-coated steel bars.
Finally, avoid bars made of plastic as they are not as durable and can be slippery to grip.
able and can be slippery to grip.
✅Check the weight capacity
All parallel bars have a weight limit, so check this before making your purchase. You want to ensure the bars you buy can support your body weight and any additional weight you may use for exercise.
Most bars can support up to 250 pounds, but some can hold more weight. If you plan on using heavier weights, buy a bar to keep your desired weight.
✅Think About the Space You Have Available
Another important consideration is the amount of space you have available in your home gym. If you have a limited amount of space, then you’ll want to look for a parallel bar that is collapsible or foldable.
On the other hand, if you have plenty of space, you can opt for a more permanent solution, such as a wall-mounted parallel bar.
✅Consider Your Budget
As with anything, you get what you pay for. So if you’re looking for a high-quality parallel bar that will last for years, you should be prepared to invest a bit more money.
On the other hand, if you’re on a tight budget, there are still some good options available. Just be sure to read reviews before making your final decision.
✨Our Top 8 Choices
After reading everything you need to know about parallel bars, we’ve selected our top eight best bars for you that can serve as your guide.
Here is our guide for the best parallel bars for home use.
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| RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Dip Station
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| CALI SPORTS Push Up Bars
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| BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand Dip Station Dip bar
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| Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes
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| Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars
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| FuelPureformance Dip Station
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| The B-Bars
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💥Sportsroyals Dip Station Dip Parallel Bars
The Sportsroyals Dip Station Dip Bar Parallel Bars are our top pick for the best parallel bar for home use. It is a high-quality product that is built to last. It has a comfortable foam grip and adjustable width, making it perfect for people of all sizes. The dip station also folds down for easy storage when not in use.
👍Pros
- Excellent loading capacity up to 400LBS. up to 400 pounds
The dip station is heavy duty and can hold up to 400 pounds, making it perfect for people of all sizes.
- Outstanding stability
The base is made of two oval pipes, which have a wider contact area with the ground. This design increases the stability of the product and prevents wobbling.
- 3-level adjustable height
The bar can be adjusted within 30.07IN-34.64IN-38.58IN, allowing people of different builds to use meanwhile efficiently preventing the knees from hitting the floor.
- Adjustable foot covers
The adjustable foot cover will assist you in keeping the dip station in place if your floor is not level.
- Full wrapped top handle
The wrapped handles help in protecting your hands from slipping and make them more comfortable to grip.
👎Cons
- Slightly priced higher than other dip stations on the market.
The Sportsroyals Dip Station is a bit pricier than the other dip stations on our list, but it is worth the investment because of its durability and stability.
- Instructions are unclear.
Customers have a difficult time following the directions that come with this product.
In summary, Sportsroyals Dip Station is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable and stable product. It is also perfect for people of all sizes as it is adjustable and has a wide base. The only downside is that it is slightly more expensive than other dip stations on the market.
💥RELIFE REBUILD YOUR LIFE Dip Station
The Relife Dip Station is an excellent choice for a quality parallel bar for home use.
It is made of heavy-duty steel and has a weight capacity of 300 pounds to accommodate even the most robust users. It also has non-slip foot pads to keep you stable as you work out. The Relife Dip Station is an excellent choice for anyone looking to get a full-body workout at home.
👍Pros
- Weight capacity of 300 pounds
The Relife Dip Station can accommodate even the most robust users, with a weight capacity of 300 pounds. It also has non-slip foot pads to keep you stable as you work out.
- Easy installation
The Relife Dip Station comes with an easy-to-follow instruction manual that makes installation a breeze.
- Adjustable height
The Relife Dip Station also comes with an adjustable height. Height is 31.11-35.04 inches, and you can adjust it based on yourself. So you can customize your workout to fit your needs.
- Light and sturdy
The Relife Dip Station is also very light and sturdy, making it easy to move around and use. Additionally, its steel construction ensures that it will last long.
👎Cons
- Non-adjustable width
The Relife Dip Station does not have an adjustable width, making it challenging for some users to grip fully around the bar.
Overall the Relife Dip Station is an excellent choice for a quality parallel bar for home use. Its easy installation and adjustability make it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a full-body workout at home.
💥CALI SPORTS Push-Up Bars
Cali Sports push-up bars are solid wood push-up handles for floor use. The product is simple and easy to store. In addition, the Cali Sports handstand palette is excellent for people looking to improve their handstands, L-sits, and other floor exercises.
The bars are made of two pieces of wood that screw together.
The handles have a comfortable grip, and the hardware is hidden, so it doesn’t scratch your floor.
👍Pros
- Ergonomic grip
The ergonomic grip is a plus for the Cali sports push-up bar because it makes it more comfortable.
- Portable and easy to store
One of the significant advantages of CALI SPORTS Push-Up Bars is that they are very portable and easy to store. This makes them ideal for people who are always on the go, or for those who have limited storage space.
- Light but sturdy
A crafted parallettes bar that is both light and sturdy, using solid beech wood for a natural feel on the joints.
👎Cons
- Smaller distance to the floor
Taller people may find it challenging to use the parallettes bars properly. Additionally, those who have joint issues may also find it challenging to use the bars. However, the smaller distance to the floor will not be an issue for most people.
This option is excellent for those looking for a light, sturdy bar and easy to store. The natural feel of the wood will also be appealing to many people. If you are taller or have joint issues, you may want to consider another option. Otherwise, this is an excellent choice for most people.
💥Balance From Multi-Function Dip Stand Dip Station Dip bar
The BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand is a high-quality piece of equipment perfect for anyone looking to improve their strength, endurance, and overall fitness. This dip stand lets you perform various exercises, including dips, pull-ups, and even leg raises, making it an incredibly versatile option.
👍Pros
- Support up to 500 pounds with a sturdy design.
The powder-coated steel construction is durable and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for use in any home gym or garage. With a weight capacity of 500 pounds, this dip stand can accommodate even the largest and strongest athletes. The powder-coated steel construction is durable and corrosion-resistant, making it perfect for use in any home gym or garage.
- Adjustable height
This dip stand is also adjustable, so you can customize it to fit your needs. No matter what your height is, you can adjust this stand to suit you.
- Non-slip food pads
The BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand offers safety with its anti-slip foot pads that keep it in place while you’re working out. There’s no need to worry about the stand tipping over or sliding around, as the pads will keep it firmly in place.
- Foam handle for better grip
The BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand comes with a foam handle for easy grip. This makes it more comfortable and easier to hold onto while working out. Whether you’re doing dips, pull-ups, or leg raises, the foam handle will provide a more comfortable grip and help you stay in control.
- Multi-function
The BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand lets you perform various exercises, including dips, pull-ups, and even leg raises, making it an incredibly versatile option. You can use this stand to work out your arms, chest, back, and legs in one convenient piece of equipment.
👎Cons
- Not adjustable width
The BalanceFrom Multi-Function Dip Stand is a great tool, but it has one downside – the width is not adjustable. This can make it challenging to use for people of different sizes, as it may not be wide enough for some or too wide for others. However, this stand offers a great range of motion and is still a good option for many people.
💥Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes
Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes allow you to perform various exercises targeting all the major muscle groups in your body. In addition, it is a great way to increase your range of motion and flexibility.
👍Pros
- Durable and can load higher than 2200 pounds
The Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes are highly durable and can withstand loads high than 2200 pounds. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone looking for a versatile piece of equipment that can handle a lot of abuse. In addition, the high weight capacity also makes them an excellent choice for athletes looking to increase their strength and power.
- Easy to store
The Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes are easy to store, making them an excellent choice for anyone short on space. The size is reasonable, and it is easy for you can take them and keep them anywhere.
- Comfortable grips
The abrasion-resistant TPR handle covers provide a steady, soft and comfortable grip, and widening of the handle better matches your hand’s curves. The result is excellent comfort and control that reduces fatigue during extended use.
👎Cons
- Not tall enough
One downside of Juperbsky Push-Up Stands Bars Parallettes is that they are not ideal for bigger people because they find them too short.
Juperbsky Push-up Stand Bars Paralletes is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and steady grip. However, they may not be tall enough for some people.
💥Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars are great home workout equipment for anyone interested in calisthenics training. 
The parallettes are ideal for doing push-ups, dips, L-sits, and handstands. They are also great for developing core strength and stability.
👍Pros
- Comfortable hand pads
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars have comfortable hand pads that make them easy and comfortable to grip. This is a great feature, especially if you are new to using parallettes.
- Stable non-skid feet
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars have stable non-skid feet that make them easy and safe to use. In addition, the non-skid feet can prevent the parallettes from slipping, which is a great safety feature.
- Lightweight and sturdy
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars are both lightweight and sturdy, making them an excellent choice for home workouts. It is made of industrial-grade steel with a solid design for maximum durability.
- Easy to assemble
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars require less time to assemble and take apart. This is an excellent feature for anyone who wants to work out at home but doesn’t have much time to set up equipment.
👎Cons
- Unstable
Although some customers have found the Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars to be lightweight and sturdy, others have found that they are unstable. This can make them dangerous to use, especially for beginners.
The Rubberbanditz Parallettes Push Up & Dip Bars are a great choice if you’re looking for a challenging workout. They are perfect for calisthenics training and help you develop strength, stability, and coordination.
💥Fuel Pureformance Dip Station
The Fuel Pureformance Dip Station is the perfect tool for building strength and muscle in your upper body. This station allows you to perform various exercises, including dips, chin-ups, and pull-ups. In addition, it targets the chest and triceps muscles during your workout routine.
👍Pros
- Highly durable and heavy-duty
Fuel Pureformance Dip Station is a heavy-duty station that can support up to 300 lbs. This makes it perfect for those looking for a durable and reliable station that can handle even the most strenuous workouts.
The Fuel Pureformance Dip Station is made with durable steel construction, ensuring it will last through even the most strenuous workouts. Additionally, the powder-coated finish protects the metal from corrosion and wear, meaning that this station will look great and function flawlessly for years to come.
- Angled padded grips
The angled padded grips on the Fuel Pureformance Dip Station are a great feature that provides extra comfort and support during your workout. The angle of the grips allows you to keep your wrists in a neutral position, which can help prevent injuries. Additionally, the padding helps to prevent discomfort and chafing during long workouts.
- Highly functional
The multi-station design allows it to perform multiple exercises, such as chest dips, pull-ups, hanging leg and knee raises, and more.
👎Cons
- A bit low for 6’0″ feet and taller
The Fuel Pureformance Dip Station is an excellent tool for building strength and muscle in your upper body, but it does have one downside – it is a bit low for those who are 6 feet or taller. As a result, taller people might find it challenging to get a full range of motion when performing dips or other exercises on the station. Additionally, the station might not be tall enough for those looking to do chin-ups or pull-ups.
Overall, the Fuel Pureformance Dip Station is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable and reliable station that can handle even the most strenuous workouts.
💥The B-Bars
The B-Bars are parallel bars designed for your living room. It has a maximum load of 990 pounds and is made of powder-coated steel. These are the perfect tool for home workouts and can be stored easily.
👍Pros
- Durable
The B-Bars are made of powder-coated steel, which makes them durable and long-lasting. It has a capacity limit of 990 pounds, making them sturdy and safe for your home workouts. Many customers find the metal finish to be resistant to chipping and scratching.
- Adjustable height
The B-Bars can be adjusted to fit users of different heights. The height adjustment is available in two ways. The lower height is 33″ and the higher height is 52″ can cater to users ranging from approximately four and a half feet to six and a half feet.
- Adjustable width
The B-Bars can also be adjusted to fit users of different widths. The width between bars is 16.5″-24″, available in 6 widths.
The B-Bars’ height and width are adjustable, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
- Easy to store
The B-Bars can be stored easily. They are lightweight and can be dismantled into two pieces for easy storage.
👎Cons
- It’s a bit pricey
Some reviewers thought that the B-Bars were a bit pricey. However, considering the features and quality of the product, many felt that the price was justified.
- Hard to adjust height
The B-Bars are not suitable for everyone. Some users may find the height adjustment to be a bit too difficult.
The B-bars have many features that make them a great addition to any home gym. They are versatile, can be used for a wide range of exercises, and are adjustable to fit users of different heights and widths.
💯Parallel Bars Workout Exercises
In calisthenics, you can use parallel bars for pull-ups, chin-ups, dips, l-sits, and more.
The great thing about the parallel bars is that they offer tremendous versatility for workout routines. You can use them to target different muscle groups and work on your upper body strength, core stability, and more.
Here are some of our favorite exercises that you can do with the parallel bars:
💪Pull-ups and Dips:
Difficulty: Easy to medium
Dips are an excellent exercise for your triceps, but they also work your pecs and shoulders. You can find more information about dips progression in this article.
Pull-ups work your back, biceps, and forearms. They also help to strengthen your grip. They are a great way to build muscle mass and strength. You can do these exercises with your body weight or add weight to make them more challenging.
If you are starting with dips and pull-ups, starting with your body weight is best. Once you have mastered the exercises with your body weight, you can add weight to make them more challenging. Learn one arm pull-up progression here.
🔥L-Sits:
Difficulty: Medium
L-sits are an excellent exercise for your core and leg muscles. They also work your back and shoulders.
You will need to support your weight on your hands and feet to do an L-sit. When doing L-sit exercises, keeping your back straight and your core engaged is vital.
Grab the bars with your hands and lift your feet off the ground. Hold this position for as long as you can.
Progression with L-sits is crucial because it helps you build muscle and strength. The first progression is to start with your legs tucked into your chest and work your way up through a 1-leg extended l-sit, a normal l-sit, and then the v-sit, which entails elevating the legs even higher.
🤸Handstands:
Difficulty: Hard
Handstands are a great way to build strength in your arms and shoulders. They also work your core muscles and improve your balance.
Bar handstands are a bit more challenging than free-standing handstands. Doing so will help to build more muscle and strength.
This is a good article from The Movement Athlete Academy to read if you’re interested in learning more about advanced handstand variations.
💥Planches:
Difficulty: Medium to hard
Planches is a great way to build muscle and strength in your arms and shoulders. They also work your core muscles and improve your balance.
A progression you can do with planches is tucked planche. The tucked planche is a great way to build muscle and strength in your arms and shoulders. They also work your core muscles and improve your balance. Read more about planche progression here.
✨Frequently Ask Questions
🔎What sport uses parallel bars?
Gymnastics. The parallel bars are a piece of gymnastics equipment that consists of two bars, typically made of wood or metal, that are parallel to each other and are supported by posts. Gymnasts use parallel bars to perform a variety of skills, including swings, balances, and release moves.
🔎What are the parallel bars called?
The parallel bars are called gymnastics parallel bars. They are also commonly referred to as simply “the parallel bars.” The parallel bars are one of the six pieces of equipment used in men’s artistic gymnastics.
🔎What are the advantages of parallel bars?
Parallel bars provide a stable surface for performing a variety of calisthenics exercises. In addition, compared to other pieces of home calisthenics equipment, parallel bars are relatively inexpensive and can be easily assembled or disassembled for storage.
Additionally, parallel bars offer a more fantastic range of motion than many other types of equipment, making them ideal for developing upper body strength.
Finally, you can use parallel bars for various other exercises such as dips, chin-ups, and leg raises.
🔎Are parallel bars worth it?
Whether or not it is worth buying and owning parallel bars depends on several factors. If you regularly work out at home, then the purchase may be a wise one, as you can use the parallel bars for various exercises.
Additionally, the price of parallel bars can vary, so it is essential to do your research before making a purchase. Ultimately, whether or not parallel bars are worth it depends on your individual fitness goals and needs.
If you want to add some variety to your home workouts, purchasing parallel bars may be a good idea.
🔎What material are the parallel bars made of?
Durable parallel bars are made of metal, but they can also be made of other materials. Some manufacturers make metal parallel bars that are powdered coated to resist rust.
You can find powder-coated metal parallel bars, but they may be more expensive than ones made of other materials. If you plan on using your parallel bars outdoors, you may want to consider getting a weather-resistant coating applied to them.
Some companies make parallel bars out of wood. Wood parallel bars can be a good choice if you want something more aesthetically pleasing than metal bars. However, wood parallel bars may not be as durable as metal ones. If you choose to get wooden parallel bars, make sure they are made of durable wood such as oak or maple.
🔎How wide are the parallel bars?
The average width of a set of parallel bars is between 24 and 26 inches. However, some manufacturers make sets that are as wide as 32 inches. The width of the bars may also vary depending on how they will be used. If you plan on using the parallel bars for exercises requiring a lot of movement, you may want to get wider bars. On the other hand, if you are only planning on using the parallel bars for stability training, you can get away with narrower bars.
🔎What is the proper maintenance of parallel bars?
Performing basic maintenance is crucial if you want your parallel bars to last for a long time. The first thing you should do is to make sure that the parallel bars are clean. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris. If there is any built-up gunk on the bars, you can use a mild soap to clean it off.
Inspecting the parallel bars regularly for any signs of damage is also essential. Look for cracks, chips, or any other type of damage. Getting it fixed as soon as possible is crucial if you find any damage. Failure to do so could result in the bars breaking during use, leading to serious injury.
If you are using your parallel bars outdoors, it is vital to ensure they are protected from the elements. If possible, store them in a shed or garage when they are not in use. Doing so will help to prolong their lifespan.
📌Final Thoughts
The best parallel bar for your home gym will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, all the options we have reviewed are great choices that will help you build muscle, improve your strength, and get in shape.
The Movement Athlete Academy can help you get in excellent condition, build muscle, and gain real-life strength. It is the most effective at-home bodyweight strength training on the planet that offers a personalized and progressive approach that would be the best option for you. So make the first step to a stronger, healthier you; take the assessment now.