Jumping Fit – The Best Plyo Boxes in 2024

Plyometric boxes have found their way into just about every modern commercial gym. This relatively inexpensive bit of kit opens up a lot of training options for your body. In this guide, we’re looking at some of the best home-based plyo boxes you can buy online today.

What we look for when reviewing plyo boxes

Things we’re looking at when picking the perfect jump-box

1. How tough are you? – The main thing with any plyo box is how well it’s made. Whatever it’s built from, it needs to be able to take some serious punishment and a good user weight. With modern jump boxes being able to take up to 250 kg, there’s no excuse.
2. Is it sturdy? – Super important is how much stability you’ll get when you jump up on your box. And something that caries a great deal between products. The last thing you want is a box you have to worry whether or not it’s going to tip over. This is always at the top of the checklist when we’re reviewing these bits of gym gear.
3. Construction – Some of the better boxes use physics to their advantage and have tough, interlocking edges, or an internal skeletal frame. Better yet, both of these. Things like the thickness of the plywood used are also super important.
4. Handling and comfort – Sometimes it’s the little things that make a huge difference. One of the things we look at is how smooth and refined the surface of the plyo box is, and whether or not they’ve rounded off the corners. Boxes that are kind to miss-timed jumps are always appreciated!
5. Versatility – There’s one thing for sure – these boxes take up a lot of space. Sure, you can stack ’em, but you’re going to be giving up a fair chunk of your home gym space to storing them. As such, the more one box does, the better. Normally one box will have at least 3 different heights. And some frame-style jump boxes will allow stacking.
6. Is it easy to put together – Most plyo boxes do require some assembly and, while we’re not talking the realms of multi-gym assembly hell, some are definitely more tricky than others. So we always make note of how painful or easy putting your box together will be. The main thing you’ll face on the wooden boxes is the sheer amount of screws.
7. Is it a pain in the butt to move around– Unless you’ve got a massive gym, you’re going to have to get your plyo box out and put it away when you’re done. We’ve seen a few problems with some boxes that make them harder to move about than we’d have liked. We always check things like handles, how comfortable they are, weight and size.
8. Labelling – Some boxes do this better than others. If you’re new to these exercise boxes, they normally have (or should have!) markings on each side to show the height you’ll be jumping up to.

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So, what are the best Plyo Boxes?

Before the buyer’s guide, let’s go over the current top plyo boxes for 2020. Here are the ones we found were actually worth the money, starting with the top pick first.

What we liked:

The Plyo Box is a sturdy and durable piece of gym equipment, built to last and withstand intense workouts. Its easy assembly process, versatile usage, and spacious design make it suitable for various exercises and routines.

Furthermore, the Plyo Box offers great value for its price and is highly recommended by satisfied customers. Its attractive design and supportive nature, capable of handling significant weight, make it a desirable addition to any home gym.

What we didn't like:

However, some users experienced difficulties with uneven edges and found the assembly instructions to be confusing. Additionally, smaller sizes may lack expected internal support braces, leading to potential assembly issues and limited usage for specific exercises.

How does it compare to similar gym equipment?

Compared to similar plyo boxes in the market, this product stands out for its durability, versatility, and customer support. While it may have some assembly challenges, its overall value and performance make it a competitive choice for home workouts.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Plyo Box is a reliable and versatile piece of gym equipment suitable for various exercises and routines. Despite some assembly challenges, it offers great value and durability, making it a worthwhile investment for individuals looking to enhance their home workout space.

The Mirafit 3 In 1 Soft Plyo Box is a versatile and durable piece of gym equipment suitable for various plyometric exercises and skill levels. Its sturdy construction ensures longevity, while the non-slip surface reduces the risk of injuries during workouts. The compact design makes it convenient for storage and use, offering multiple height options for progressive training.

What we liked:

This plyo box offers exceptional durability and versatility for plyometric training. Its sturdy and durable construction ensures longevity, while the non-slip surface reduces the risk of injuries during workouts. The compact design makes it convenient for storage and use, offering multiple height options for progressive training.

What we didn't like:

However, the weight of the plyo box may be cumbersome for some users to move or reposition, and some users may find the surface slightly slick during intense workouts.

How does it compare to similar plyo boxes?

Compared to similar plyo boxes, the Mirafit 3 In 1 Soft Plyo Box stands out for its exceptional durability and versatility, offering multiple height options for progressive training. However, the heavy weight and limited grip may pose challenges for some users.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Mirafit 3 In 1 Soft Plyo Box is a high-quality and versatile piece of gym equipment suitable for various plyometric exercises and skill levels. While it may not be suitable for everyone due to its weight and grip limitations, it is a solid choice for those looking for long-lasting durability and versatile training options.

The FunctionalFitness 3 in 1 Black Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box is a highly versatile piece of equipment that offers three jump heights from just one piece of equipment. With landing heights of 20", 24", and 30", it enables a variety of new exercises. Constructed from robust 18mm plywood with an internal support structure, it ensures durability and stability during workouts. The box features a textured, black, non-slip coating, making it suitable for any floor surface, while also being easy to clean and maintain. This plyo box is ideal for schools, gyms, health clubs, and homes, as it is rigorously tested to withstand harsh environments. Its aesthetically pleasing design makes it a statement piece for commercial settings and an essential piece of equipment for home workouts. Additionally, it offers exceptional value for money compared to similar products on the market.

What we liked:

We appreciated the versatility of this plyo box, offering multiple jump heights from one piece of equipment, making it suitable for various exercises. The durable construction and non-slip coating ensure safety and stability during workouts.

What we didn't like:

Although the initial postage issue was quickly resolved, it posed a minor inconvenience for users.

How does it compare to similar plyo boxes?

Compared to other plyo boxes, the FunctionalFitness 3 in 1 Black Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box stands out for its exceptional value for money, versatile jump heights, and durable construction.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The FunctionalFitness 3 in 1 Black Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box is a highly recommended piece of equipment for gym workouts, offering exceptional value for money and versatility for a wide range of exercises.

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What we liked:

The FunctionalFitness Stacking Soft Plyometric Box Set offers durability, versatility, and stability, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of exercises. Constructed from high-quality materials, it provides multiple height options to cater to various fitness levels, ensuring a secure base for jumps and other movements. The non-slip surfaces and shock-absorbing foam core enhance safety and comfort during workouts. Additionally, its compact design allows for easy storage and portability, making it suitable for different workout areas. The affordability and suitability for all fitness levels make it a great value option for improving overall performance.

What we didn't like:

However, the box set may be considered bulky and time-consuming to assemble, especially when using multiple boxes. Some models may have weight limitations, and users need to be cautious to avoid potential missteps or falls. Additionally, it may not be suitable for certain advanced plyometric movements, limiting the range of exercises.

How does it compare to similar plyo boxes?

Compared to similar plyo boxes, the FunctionalFitness Stacking Soft Plyometric Box Set stands out for its high-quality, shock-absorbing foam core and non-slip PVC cover, providing added safety and durability. While it may have some limitations in terms of bulkiness and assembly, its versatility and affordability make it a competitive choice for various fitness levels.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The FunctionalFitness Stacking Soft Plyometric Box Set offers durability, versatility, and stability, making it a valuable addition to any fitness regimen. Suitable for beginners and advanced athletes, it provides an effective, affordable option for improving overall performance and strength. However, users should consider the potential bulkiness and exercise limitations when making their purchase decision.

The Holleyweb 3 in 1 Wood Plyo Box is a versatile piece of gym equipment designed to enhance workouts with its three different height options. Made of professional wood, this jump box is sturdy, stable, and can support up to 330 pounds, providing confidence during exercise. The frosted surface and non-slip effect ensure a secure workout, while the polished edges prevent scratching during jumps.

What we liked:

We appreciated the sturdiness, easy assembly, and secure design, making it suitable for various fitness activities. The ability to adjust the height and the smooth edges were particularly impressive, adding to the overall safety and functionality of the box.

What we didn't like:

However, the unclear instructions and unsuitable screws led to minor issues during assembly, requiring extra caution at higher settings. This could be improved to enhance the user experience.

How does it compare to similar gym equipment?

Compared to other plyo boxes, the Holleyweb 3 in 1 Wood Plyo Box stands out for its multifunctionality, smooth edges, and adjustable heights. While it offers great features, the assembly process could be more user-friendly.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Holleyweb 3 in 1 Wood Plyo Box is a sturdy and versatile piece of gym equipment suitable for various fitness activities. It offers secure design and adjustable height options, making it ideal for users looking to enhance their workout routines with a reliable plyo box.

This plyo box, an essential piece of gym equipment, is designed for plyometric exercises, offering durability, versatility, and safety. Constructed with high-quality materials, it provides stability and a secure non-slip surface, ensuring safe and effective workouts. The box is also compact, easily stacked for convenient storage, and offers quick and easy height adjustments, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

What we liked:

We found that the plyo box is durable, versatile, and safe, with a non-slip surface for secure footing. Its compact and adjustable design makes it suitable for all fitness levels, offering stability and convenience for various exercises.

What we didn't like:

However, some users may find the surface to be slick, affecting their grip during exercises, and the larger sizes may be challenging to move and store in smaller spaces. Caution is also required to avoid potential injuries during use.

How does it compare to similar gym equipment?

Compared to traditional jump boxes, the plyo box offers enhanced durability, versatility, and safety features. It provides a stable and adjustable platform, suitable for all fitness levels, yet may pose challenges with grip and storage.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

This plyo box offers durability, versatility, and safety for various exercises but may pose challenges with grip and storage. It provides a stable and adjustable platform, suitable for all fitness levels, yet may require caution to prevent potential injuries.

As professional gym gear reviewers, we found that the Power Systems Premium Power-Plyo Box offers a sturdy and well-made construction, with a non-slip rubber top that provides excellent traction for various exercises. The large platform allows ample space for workouts, and its durable finish resists scratching, ensuring long-lasting use. Additionally, the box is well-built and sturdy at an affordable price, making it a great value for fitness enthusiasts.

What we liked:

This plyo box's sturdy and well-made design, non-slip rubber top, and ample exercise space are commendable features. Its durable finish and affordability make it a great value for fitness enthusiasts.

What we didn't like:

Some users may find the welds and minor imperfections less appealing. Additionally, the fact that it is made in China may not be preferable for those who prioritize domestically manufactured products.

How does it compare to similar plyo boxes?

Compared to similar plyo boxes, the Power Systems Premium Power-Plyo Box stands out for its sturdy construction, non-slip platform, and affordability. While some aesthetic imperfections exist, its functionality and durability make it a competitive choice for various workouts.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Power Systems Premium Power-Plyo Box offers a sturdy, non-slip platform with ample space for exercises. Despite some aesthetic imperfections, its durability and affordability make it a great choice for various workouts.

What we liked:

This plyo boxes from Retrospec are exceptionally sturdy and well-crafted, offering durability and reliability for daily use. With no assembly required, these boxes arrive fully assembled, ensuring no potential loosening over time. The scratch-free delivery, thanks to bubble-wrapped legs, makes them suitable for various exercises. Additionally, the secure packaging, including sturdy cardboard box, bubble wrap, and foam, ensures protection during shipping. The quality construction, featuring welded joints and a smooth finish, ensures a reliable and sturdy product.

What we didn't like:

However, some units may have quality control issues, as they could arrive with scratches, defective corners, and dust on the legs. There have also been reports of potential shipping damage, with some boxes arriving scratched or damaged.

How does it compare to similar plyo boxes?

Compared to similar plyo boxes, Retrospec's offering stands out for its sturdy construction, no-assembly-required feature, and secure packaging. While it excels in these aspects, there are some quality control and potential shipping damage issues that should be carefully considered.

Verdict: Is it worth a buy?

The Retrospec plyo boxes offer sturdiness and convenience with minimal assembly, making them ideal for various exercises. However, potential quality control issues and shipping damage warrant careful inspection upon arrival. Overall, these boxes are suitable for those seeking durable and reliable plyo boxes for their fitness routines.

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Plyo Box Buyer’s Guide

Plyo boxes are a simple way to train hard using a completely natural movement. If you’ve been to a gym recently, especially one that heavily features Crossfit, you’ve probably seen people leaping up on top of precariously stacked boxes.

You might have wondered why they’re doing this, or what the benefits are.

Welcome to the wonderful world of plyometric exercise.

What’s the point of a plyo box?

Plyo boxes are one of the most popular forms of plyometric exercise, which are exercises where you’re looking to train explosive strength and power, by putting out the most force in the shortest time possible.

The most common exercise done with a plyo box are box jumps, which are a relatively simple exercise in operation:

You stand in front of the box. You jump on top of the box. You jump off of the box. Repeat.

But even though this seems overly specific, and perhaps a little bit silly, there’s a huge amount of benefits that come from training with a plyo box.

What is the point in a plyo box?

First off, plyometric exercise is great for training overall athletic strength and explosive power. Almost every sport uses jumps, and even if you’re not specifically leaping as high as possible, training plyometric jumps is a fantastic way to increase lower body strength and power.

Second, your lower half contains the largest muscle groups in the entire body. It’s massively important to train your legs and glutes, because they’re used in almost every movement you do throughout the day. Plus, the intensity of box jumps also helps to train the rest of your body, especially your core and lower back.

Types of plyometric boxes

#1 – Plain wood boxes

One of the more common plyo boxes is the regular wooden box. Typically each side will be a different height, allowing for 3 different jump distances depending on which side it’s resting on. They’re easy to use, you only need one box and they’re extremely stable.

#2 – Stackable boxes

Another variation is a collection of boxes at a different height. Combining the boxes can give you a huge range of possible sizes to leap up. And the other main advantage here is the starting height is often tiny – often 6 inches – so it’s a great way to build up to the more challenging heights.

#3 – Metal frame boxes

These super-sturdy frames are another popular option for those looking for some gym equipment that’s safe to jump on to.

#4 – Adjustable plyo boxes

Lastly, the other kind of box you’ll find is often the metal adjustable boxes. Using a pin or screw of some kind, you slide the upper part up and down to get a certain height. These are great because they take up less space and let you gradually increase the height.

Are jump boxes just a fad?

Finally, even though plyometric boxes seem like a simple piece of gear, they’re not. You can perform a lot more exercises than simple box jumps on a plyo box, including:

• Step-ups
• Split lunges
• Elevated push-up
• Calf raises
• Dips
• Burpee jumps
• Knee tucks
• Single leg exercises, and more
• Box squats

Hopefully, now you’re at the end of our guide you’ve got a better idea about the differences between plyo boxes and know what product you’re going to buy.

Screw this

One problem you might hit with assembling your new plyo box is that there’s an overwhelming amount of screws. If you haven’t got an electronic screwdriver, and you’re getting a wooden ply box, borrow one from somewhere. Your wrists will thank you for it.

Have we missed anything? Do you have experience with plyometric exercises or any of the boxes on our list? Make sure to leave us a comment and share that knowledge with us and our readers!

Plyo Boxes FAQs

Got questions about these fitness blocks? Good! Here’s some frequently asked questions that might help you.

Can’t you just build these boxes yourself?

If you’re like me, the idea of hammering together a Plyo box might give you nightmares. For the more DIY savvy, you can absolutely save some money and build your own box rather than buying one. If you’ve got the tools and a bit of know-how, you can make a plyometric box from a single sheet of plywood.

Check out this simple guide if you’re up for the challenge. The sheet of wood should cost no more than £30. You can get a decent plyo box for under £60 on places like Amazon. Is it worth it to make your own? It depends. At least you can tell you’re mates ‘I made this bad boy!’

Should I get a foam one, or a plain wood one?

If you’re stuck picking between a wooden jump box and a padded one, here’s some things to think about.

If you’re new, padded boxes give you a bit more confidence – Those hard edges on the wood boxes are unforgiving to shins. Although you’ll likely never hurt yourself on a plyo box, the padded ones are a good safety net in case you trip or don’t make that jump.

Foam boxes can cost more – Depending on which brand of jump box you go for, the padded ones tend to be more pricey. A good bit more in some cases.

Wood jump boxes are a bit louder – While jumping up onto any hollow box isn’t exactly the most stealthy of training activities, the cushioned boxes are normally way quieter than the plain wood ones. Something to think about if you’re in a house with other people or want to keep the noise down on your crossfit.

Foam ones can be easier to flip over – while both kinds of boxes are structurally sound, it’s easier to flip a foam one towards you if you land closer to the edge on one of your leaps. This can happen more often when you’re tired. A good way around this is to place the box closer to a wall, or in the corner.

Either way, both are equally sturdy and you’ll be able to use them for your home crossfit jumping routines easily. Chris Fish has a great Youtube video on some of the key differences between the two kinds of boxes along with some great tips.

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References & Further Reading

• The Effect of 8-Week Plyometric Training on Leg Power, Jump and Sprint Performance
• Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research – Effect Of 10 Repetitions Of Box Jumps And Depth Jumps
• NCBI – Effectiveness of resistance training or jumping-exercise to increase bone mineral density
• NHS – How to improve your strength and flexibility
• American Association for Health – Comparison of Rope Skipping and Jogging as Methods of Improving Cardiovascular Efficiency