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Which Pit Is the Right Fit? Choosing Between Resi, Foam, and Air Pits for Your Gym

Which Pit Is the Right Fit? Choosing Between Resi, Foam, and Air Pits for Your Gym

Posted by DGS on Dec 16th 2025

Every gym needs a safe space for athletes to go big, fall safely, and build confidence—and that’s where pits come in. Whether it’s learning a new bar release, flipping off the beam, or testing out a new tumbling pass, the right pit setup makes all the difference.

At DGS, we carry Resi Pits, Foam Pits, and Air (Bag) Pits, each designed to meet different training needs. Here’s how to decide which one is the right fit for your space and your athletes.


Resi Pits: Soft Landings with a Stable Feel

Resi Pits—short for “resilite”—are built with dense foam layers wrapped in a durable vinyl cover, offering a controlled, cushioned landing that mimics competition firmness. They’re soft enough to absorb impact but stable enough to let gymnasts focus on proper body position and landings.

These are ideal for dismounts, tumbling passes, and skill progressions that are nearly ready for a harder surface. Resi pits come in a range of sizes and depths, making them a versatile choice for any setup.

Best for:

  • Dismounts and tumbling nearing competition readiness
  • Progressions needing feedback from a firmer surface
  • Low-maintenance, easy-to-clean landing areas

Why gyms love them: Resi pits stay consistent over time and don’t require constant upkeep. They’re a smart choice for programs wanting dependable cushioning without the mess of loose foam.

Foam Pits: The Classic Choice for Maximum Cushion

Foam Pits are the gold standard for learning high-risk or unfamiliar skills. Filled with foam cubes, they create a soft, forgiving landing zone perfect for safely bailing out of new releases, dismounts, or aerial skills.

At DGS, we offer both covered and uncovered foam cubes in multiple sizes to fit your pit setup:

  • Uncovered: 6" or 8" square cubes
  • Covered: 8" square and 6" x 6" x 18" rectangular cubes

Covered foam cubes are a great option for gyms focused on cleanliness and maintenance. The vinyl covers prevent chalk, dust, and debris from settling into the foam, extending the life of the cubes and making the pit easier to clean. Uncovered cubes, on the other hand, provide the traditional feel and bounce that many athletes love, though they require more frequent upkeep.

Best for:

  • Learning new or high-risk skills
  • Bar releases, vault drills, or tumbling into new progressions
  • Gyms prioritizing safety and softest possible landings

Why gyms love them: Nothing builds confidence like the security of a foam pit—it lets gymnasts commit to new skills without fear of a hard fall.

Air (Bag) Pits: Adjustable, Clean, and Customizable

Air Pits, also known as Air Bags, are the modern alternative to foam pits and resi pits. They use air-filled chambers to create a customizable, shock-absorbing surface that can be adjusted for different athletes or training types.

DGS offers both inground and above-ground Air Pits, giving gyms flexibility in how they set up their space. Inground systems provide a sleek, permanent setup, while above-ground air pits are perfect for portable or temporary configurations.

One of the biggest benefits of air pits is cleanliness—unlike foam pits, they don’t collect chalk, dust, or debris. They’re also easy to maintain: just adjust the air pressure for the desired firmness and you’re ready to go.

Best for:

  • Gyms needing flexible, easy-to-clean landing systems
  • Adjustable cushioning for different training needs
  • Portable or shared training spaces

Why gyms love them: Air pits are lightweight, hygienic, and easy to maintain. They provide reliable protection without the constant maintenance that foam pits require.


Choosing the Right Pit for Your Gym

Each pit type brings something different to the table:

  • Resi Pits – Great for stable, controlled landings and low maintenance.
  • Foam Pits – Perfect for learning new or risky skills with maximum safety.
  • Air Pits – Clean, adjustable, and versatile for modern gyms.

Many facilities combine these options: a foam pit for big skills, a resi pit for controlled progressions, and an air pit for flexible setups. Whichever you choose, investing in the right pit ensures your athletes can train safely, confidently, and to their fullest potential.