How to Build a Salmon Ladder: 5 Design Ideas You Can Build Yourself
Do you want to challenge yourself with an American Ninja Warrior-style workout? Then, you need the right equipment!
A salmon ladder is a great addition to any home gym. Although the ladder might look simple, this piece of equipment offers a grueling workout. By moving your way up the rungs, you will test your upper body strength, endurance, and explosive power.
Building your own salmon ladder is easier than you might think. With the right materials, you can construct a salmon ladder in just a few hours. Plus, by using galvanized pipe and Kee Klamp fittings you can save a lot of money on the overall cost of this project.
Ready to get started? Let’s look at a few salmon ladder examples for inspiration. Then, we will dive into the step-by-step instructions. Soon you will be ready to train on your very own salmon ladder.
DIY Salmon Ladder Ideas
Let’s look at a few salmon ladders for inspiration. Keep in mind that any of the ladders could also easily be constructed with Kee Klamp fittings and galvanized pipe.
Kenny built this salmon ladder for his American Ninja Warrior Training Facility. He decided to use galvanized pipe, Side Outlet Elbow fittings, and Rail Support fittings in his design. Kenny chose these materials because they were easy to use, strong, and “appeared to be the cleanest, simplest route.”
This salmon ladder was created for an obstacle gym. To make a similar project at home, you could use galvanized pipe for the frame and wood for the angled rungs. Use Flange fittings to attach the ladder to the wall and floor for additional stability.
It is very important to think about safety when you design your own salmon ladder. Make sure you place a cushioned mat, like the one in this image, near the base of your ladder in case you slip and fall during your workout.
If you want to make a similar salmon ladder with cheaper materials, consider using angled Kee Klamp fittings, like 11° to 30° Single Socket Tee fittings or Angle Elbow fittings, to construct the rungs.
Galvanized pipe also works well for the frame and for the bar you will be moving up the salmon ladder.
This project shows that a salmon ladder doesn’t have to be complex to be effective. All you have to do is build a simple frame and add rungs. A salmon ladder can also be incorporated into a larger piece of workout equipment.
When you build a salmon ladder, you need to make sure it is stable. You will be moving quickly up the ladder and you don’t want to worry about it falling apart mid-workout. Use a Ground Socket fitting to firmly attach the frame into the ground.
In contrast to the last project, this project looks very complex. But, this salmon ladder is easier to construct than it might seem. The frame is made with industrial pipe and the rungs are painted pieces of wood. Use Side Outlet Elbow fittings and 90° Side Outlet Tee fittings to help construct the vertical supports that make up both sides of the ladder.
Things to Consider Before Building a Salmon Ladder
Feeling inspired? Keep these 4 things to in mind as you start designing your own salmon ladder:
- Materials: Industrial pipe, wood, and Kee Klamp fittings are the best options for a salmon ladder. You can use pipe and Kee Klamp fittings for the frame and wood for the rungs. Or, use pipe and Kee Klamp fittings for the entire project. These materials are strong but can also be broken down and reassembled as needed. This is a great option if you often need to transport your gym equipment.
- Budget: Buying a salmon ladder can be expensive. To save money, build your own with affordable materials. Using Kee Klamp and pipe for your salmon ladder can keep your project under $100.
- Location: Where do you plan to install your salmon ladder? Will it be inside a gym or in your backyard? Does it need to be mobile? The answers to these questions will help you determine how to design your salmon ladder.
- Other Gym Equipment: Will you incorporate other gym equipment into the design of your ladder? There are many other American Ninja Warrior-style pieces of workout equipment you can design along with your salmon ladder.
How to Build a Salmon Ladder
Now that you know more about DIY salmon ladders, its time to build your own!
Step 1: Create Your Design
First, decide where you want your salmon ladder. This is also the time to decide if you want to use wooden rungs or stick to a design of pipe and Kee Klamp fittings. If you need help deciding, feel free to reach out to our design team for more ideas!
Step 2: Gather Your Materials
Once you’ve designed your ladder, gather the materials you need for construction. The materials will vary depending on where you want to place the ladder. But, the main components are sturdy materials for the frame, rungs, and bar.
Step 3: Assemble and Mount the Frame
Now it’s time to build your ladder. Stary by constructing the frame. Then, attach the rungs. Make sure these are even and firmly attached on both sides of the ladder. Finally, mount the frame. If you are building this outside, dig holes, plant the legs, and fill the holes with concrete. If you plan to build this inside, you can attach the ladder to the ground and wall with Flange fittings.
Step 4: Try it Out!
Your ladder is now ready to go! Add a safety mat near the base and then channel your inner American Ninja Warrior as you work your way up the ladder.
Build Your Own Salmon Ladder Today
Are you ready to build your own salmon ladder? We hope this post helped inspire you to create your own DIY gym equipment!
If you need some additional help, don’t worry. Our design team is ready to help! We offer free design assistance to help you get your project started. Once you are finished, feel free to submit pictures of your project on our site. We would love to see the salmon ladder you create!
