The parallel bars are made of wooden or fiberglass poles, and they are toatally parallel to each other. They are 5 feet and 9 inches off the ground, and 11 feet lengthwise. A routine on the parallel bars could consist of handstands, many swings, and flips or somersaults, as well as a mount, and a dismount. The parallel bars is one event that men can show their upper body strength.