7 Next-Level Plyo Boxes to Step Up Your Fitness Game

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CHANCES ARE, when you think of a box jump or step-up, an image of those trusty platforms known as plyo boxes pops into your mind. These bad boys are primarily designed for plyometric exercises—quick, explosive movements that engage your muscles and get your heart pumping. But don't be fooled by the temptation to transform even the very best plyo boxes into a Swiss Army knife of fitness. As MH Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., wisely advises, "Plyo boxes really are best for plyometric concepts, and if you’re doing anything else on them beyond that, there’s likely a better tool that’ll help you get more out of the workout," explains Samuel.

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For the optimal plyo experience, we'll steer you toward soft plyo boxes rather than their wooden counterparts. Not only are they generally safer, offering a cushioned landing for those high-flying box jumps, but they also spare your shins from potential scratches if you misjudge a leap. If you're outfitting a commercial gym or organizing group classes, Juan Guadarrama, C.S.C.S., one of the creators of Men’s Health’s 7-Minute Workouts for Fat Burn, suggests opting for soft padding boxes. Not only do they minimize injuries, but they also provide positive reinforcement for your jumping endeavors. However, as Samuel warns, soft plyo boxes can come with a trade-off: durability. If it isn't your first rodeo with plyo boxes and longevity is a priority, the sturdy wooden plyo box can be a good option. But keep an eye out for any shoddy construction when it comes to wooden boxes—a potential pitfall to avoid.

Our team of Men's Health fitness editors, along with experts including Strength in Diversity member Guadarrama, have put numerous plyo boxes to the test throughout the past several years. We've scrutinized factors like size, durability, stability, and value to bring you the very best recommendations. Throughout our process testing and comparing notes, we've gained invaluable insights with one goal in mind: To recommended only the very best plyo boxes to our readers.

But before you rush off to purchase a new plyo box, be sure you consider all the essentials. Below, our list of the 8 best plyo box options for your explosive training needs, plus tips for finding the right one for you.

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3-in-1 Soft Plyo Boxes

These soft boxes from Rogue are some of the most widely-tested by our team of fitness editors and experts. It comes in three sizes, each of which offer three different heights depending on what side you place it, making it incredibly versatile for any home gym.

It's crafted with a wooden core and a cushioned foam layer, which makes for a great balance of stability, protection, and shock absorption. Your shins will appreciate the soft foam covering, too.

The box arrives fully assembled, and despite their sturdy construction (each size can support up to 400-pounds), they remain relatively lightweight. It's worth noting, though, that the larger size may be slightly challenging to move due to the lack of handles.

Considering the pricing, starting at $110 for the smallest option, these boxes are reasonably priced and offer exceptional durability (and therefore, value) in the long-term.

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Foam Plyo Boxes

The pull of these foam boxes by Rogue is that they harness the quality and durability of the brand's foam soft boxes in an innovative, stackable design. Meaning you can mix and match different heights for a ton of added versatility. The secure large hook-and-loop straps ensure the boxes stay in place when stacked, which creates a stable platform for various exercises, including stacked jumps.

Unlike some foam boxes that have wood underneath, this box features a dense foam core with a softer foam outer layer, which we found offers a good balance of stability and comfort.

It's important to note that these boxes are not recommended for use on smooth flooring such as wood or smooth concrete, as the smooth vinyl upholstery may cause slipping. However, they work perfectly on textured rubber gym flooring.

Although the Rogue Foam Plyo Boxes come at a higher price point, starting at a whopping $190 for the smallest, 6" option, their stackable feature adds a ton of value and versatility to your plyometric training routine without compromising safety or durability.

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20-in Portable Soft Foam Plyometric Box

This versatile plyobox takes your box jumps, push-ups, dips, step-ups, and other exercises to the next level.

What impressed me most is the durable foam construction of this box. It's built to last, allowing you to push through intense workouts without worrying about wear and tear. The compact design makes it convenient for both home and gym use.

One standout feature is the soft and slip-free surface, which sets it apart from traditional wooden boxes. This design ensures a safer workout experience, protecting you from potential shin injuries. The stability provided by the slip-free surface allows you to focus on your jumps and movements with confidence.

The Titan Fitness® Portable Foam Plyometric Box offers multiple sizes, allowing you to gradually increase the challenge as your fitness level improves. This adaptability keeps your workouts fresh and challenging.

From my firsthand experience, I can attest that this plyobox is versatile and well-suited for cross-training, aerobic exercises, and even physical therapy. Whether it's box jumps, push-ups, dips, or step-ups, this box has you covered.

While it's important to note that this box is a standalone purchase and does not include additional models shown in some product images, the Titan Fitness commitment to quality and customer satisfaction shines through. With a one-year warranty and everyday free shipping, they prioritize your experience.

he Titan Fitness® Portable Foam Plyometric Box is a solid investment for those looking to enhance their aerobic workouts. Its durable foam construction, slip-free surface, and versatility make it a reliable fitness tool. Step up your training and experience the difference firsthand.

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Plush Plyo Box

Similar to some other soft boxes we've tested, the Grind Plush Plyo-Box consists of a sturdy plywood interior frame, covered in high-density foam, soft foam, and a vinyl coating. This box, however, is slightly more accessible in height for those new to plyometric box work (or new to fitness, in general). Three sides offer 16", 18", and 24" of elevation.

With a weight of 30 pounds and weight distribution toward the bottom, this box offers impressive stability that outperforms some lighter weight foam alternatives. Meaning no worries about wobbling or tipping during intense workouts.

We especially love the sweat-proof grippy vinyl wrapping on the outside, which helps to slip-proof the landing surface.

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Steel Plyo Box

One-inch steel tube construction and a powder-coated surface makes for a plyo box that looks a little different, but can handle intense workouts for years to come. With a weight capacity of up to 550 pounds, this box provides a solid and stable foundation for step-ups, push-up variations and more.

It's not as foolproof as a soft foam box (meaning it can still bang you up if you land the wrong way on it), but the anti-slip design is a major win. Four rubber cushions on the base and a textured rubber surface on top make for excellent grip, helping to prevent slips and fall. allowing you to focus on your workout without any distractions. Though it is a durable option, we don't recommend this type of box for jumps because of its shape.

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Exobox

We're speaking from experience when we say that, more often than not, it's smart to go with a soft plyo box. That's because, whether you're a veteran box jumper or new to the move, chances are you'll miss the box and go shin first into a corner at one time or another. Which not only hurts like hell, but makes going back for your next set of box jumps (minutes or weeks later) way more intimidating.

Enter: the Exobox from RPM. This patent-pending design employs the durability and longevity of a wood box with the protection and risk-reduction of a soft box, taking the edge off both figuratively and literally. The corners are rounded and topped with non-slip rubber, so even if your jump falls short, your shins will be spared.

The Exobox's exoskeleton is made from glass-filled nylon, meaning it's incredibly strong, though no weight capacity rating is provided by the brand. The box also features a built-in hatch panel for convenient storage of smaller gym equipment inside the box, as well as rubber-lined built-in handles to make moving it a breeze.

While the price point of $275 may seem high for a plyo box (and, comparatively, it is), the Exobox's quality and thoughtful design make it a worthy investment for anyone wanting the reliability of a wood box without the potential pitfalls of getting banged up by it.

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Games Box

Having personally used the Rogue Games Box in hundreds of workouts throughout the years, there's no question that this box from Rogue is the crème de la crème of wood varietals. But don't just take my word for it, this box is widely recognized as one of the best, having been the official plyo box used in CrossFit Games competitions for years.

At 56-pounds, it isn't the most portable option on this list. However, that weight provides a feeling of stability and sturdiness that most lighter options just can't compete with. With height options of 20, 24, and 30-inches, it caters to athletes of most skill levels and heights, and can be used for a range of exercises. That being said, the entirely-wood build is not forgiving to missteps or fumbles, so we don't recommend this box to non-experts.

Made from 3/4-inch thick Pine with plywood, it stands up well to wear and tear, too. We don't love that assembly is required, but, thanks to precision corner joints, it's pretty easy.

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What to Consider When Choosing a Plyo Box

Let's dive into the factors you should consider when choosing the best plyo box (for YOU). Here's what you need to know:

Materials: Plyo boxes are typically constructed using wood, foam, or metal. Each material has its own advantages and considerations. Wooden boxes are known for their durability and classic look, while foam boxes offer a softer landing surface (meaning less potential for injury). Metal boxes are often lightweight and provide excellent stability, but they, too, will scrape you up if you land wrong. Consider your preferences, fitness level, and the specific needs of your workouts when choosing the material that suits you best.

Size: First things first, make sure you select a plyo box with the right size for your needs. Consider the available space you have for your workouts and choose a box that fits comfortably within that area. You want to ensure you have enough room to perform your exercises without any restrictions.

Adjustability: Opting for a plyo box that offers adjustable height is a smart move. This feature allows you to customize the box to match your fitness level and exercise requirements. Look for boxes with multiple height options so you can progress and challenge yourself as you get stronger or as you perform a variety of exercises.

Durability: A sturdy and long-lasting plyo box is a must. You want a box that can withstand your intense workouts without showing signs of wear and tear. Look for models made from high-quality materials and well-built with a weight capacity of around double your weight to account for the force exerted when jumping.

Stability: Safety should be a top priority, so choose a plyo box that provides excellent stability in terms of construction and balance. Look for boxes that have a wide base, non-slip surface, solid joinery and reinforced corners to ensure a secure and balanced platform for your exercises.

How to Use a Plyo Box

"Plyo boxes are good for metabolic conditioning. Think AMRAPs, assisting in vertical jump capacity (max height jumps), scaling push ups," says Guadarrama.

Most classically, the plyo box is associated with box jumps. To perform a box jump using a plyo box is straightforward, but not always easy (depending on the box height). Start by standing facing the plyo box with your feet hip-width apart. Bend your knees slightly, engage your core, and get ready to explode off the ground. Swing your arms back as you prepare to jump. Then, using the power from your legs, propel yourself upward and forward, driving your knees towards your chest. As you reach the peak of your jump, aim to land softly on the box with both feet fully planted. Make sure to extend your hips and knees to stand to complete the movement. Ta-da! You've conquered the box jump.

Plyo boxes aren't the most versatile piece of equipment in any gym (or at least, they shouldn't be). But they can be used for a variety of exercises beyond the box jump, too. Read more on the best plyo box exercises to do when you're box jumped-out here.

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations. Our writers and editors thoughtfully select experts for collaboration on product recommendations, and are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality.

Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage. Which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected the Best Plyo Boxes

Men's Health fitness editors and experts spent countless hours researching dozens of the top plyo boxes to compile a list of those worthy of a spot in your training routine. We paid close attention to evaluate the most important features, such as durability, safety, size, and price. We also recruited the help of MH Strength in Diversity member Juan Gudarrama, C.S.C.S., to gather diverse perspectives on the topic. The list above represents our carefully chosen picks of the best plyo boxes to shop in 2023.

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