2023: How to Select a Home Gym / Squat Rack

[RJ]

I am interested in purchasing a home gym / squat rack for personal development.

I have been moderately active using weight training for about 2 years. A calculation based on the US Navy method * indicates I'm currently at 21.6% body fat. I'd like to be leaner; if I had to use a number, it would be below 20%. I'm 64.

I'm currently tracking calories and macros daily, and weight, neck size, and abdomen (waist) circumference weekly. I'm moderately active, focusing on a 1 hour weight training program every other day. I recently joined, and have yesterday cancelled, membership in Planet Fitness. I cancelling because pf did not offer what I wanted out of a gym, namely free weights and a squat rack. Prior to this I was a member of Anytime Fitness.

But now I want to look for something I can do at home. My parameters are pretty simple:

Total budget between $500 and $750 for the squat rack / assembly (Barbell, weights, and bench will be a separate expense.)
Focus is on squat, bench, press, row, dead.

I have a limited exposure to home equipment. I'm not looking for suggestions on a training program, or using kettlebells, crossfit, gyms, etc. I want to focus on classic weight training. What I would appreciate is some guidance on what to look for in selecting a home gym / squat rack. Right now I don't know what I don't know. So, if there are features with significant benefits to look out for, or construction methods, or designs that are better, I'd appreciate any input.

As an example, I went online and found this Force USA $499 rack. The problem is, I don't know how to evaluate if it's a good choice.

https://www.forceusa.com/collections/best-sellers/products/myrack

I have no problem buying used, either, but that will depend on what's available to me locally or on the typical shopping services. New is fine, but if I can save a buck by acquiring something with some mileage on it, no problem.

So:

What are the good, solid, basic home gyms / squat racks out there in this price range?
Any companies to avoid?
Any companies to look at?
Best value for money?
Tips on what to look for in rack construction?
Do home gyms / squat racks have standard fittings for accessories?
Should one look out for certain features, specifically?

Thanks. Appreciate any input.




* https://rippedbody.com/how-calculate-body-fat-percentage/

[rd62]

I don't know Force USA but in your price range I think I'd be looking at one of the wall mount folding racks made by Rogue.

[breakingtime91]

I am interested in purchasing a home gym / squat rack for personal development.

I have been moderately active using weight training for about 2 years. A calculation based on the US Navy method * indicates I'm currently at 21.6% body fat. I'd like to be leaner; if I had to use a number, it would be below 20%. I'm 64.

I'm currently tracking calories and macros daily, and weight, neck size, and abdomen (waist) circumference weekly. I'm moderately active, focusing on a 1 hour weight training program every other day. I recently joined, and have yesterday cancelled, membership in Planet Fitness. I cancelling because pf did not offer what I wanted out of a gym, namely free weights and a squat rack. Prior to this I was a member of Anytime Fitness.

But now I want to look for something I can do at home. My parameters are pretty simple:

Total budget between $500 and $750 for the squat rack / assembly (Barbell, weights, and bench will be a separate expense.)
Focus is on squat, bench, press, row, dead.

I have a limited exposure to home equipment. I'm not looking for suggestions on a training program, or using kettlebells, crossfit, gyms, etc. I want to focus on classic weight training. What I would appreciate is some guidance on what to look for in selecting a home gym / squat rack. Right now I don't know what I don't know. So, if there are features with significant benefits to look out for, or construction methods, or designs that are better, I'd appreciate any input.

As an example, I went online and found this Force USA $499 rack. The problem is, I don't know how to evaluate if it's a good choice.

https://www.forceusa.com/collections/best-sellers/products/myrack

I have no problem buying used, either, but that will depend on what's available to me locally or on the typical shopping services. New is fine, but if I can save a buck by acquiring something with some mileage on it, no problem.

So:

What are the good, solid, basic home gyms / squat racks out there in this price range?
Any companies to avoid?
Any companies to look at?
Best value for money?
Tips on what to look for in rack construction?
Do home gyms / squat racks have standard fittings for accessories?
Should one look out for certain features, specifically?

Thanks. Appreciate any input.




* https://rippedbody.com/how-calculate-body-fat-percentage/

I have a lot of titan fitness equipment, affordable and so far so good with durability

[Jason M]

Ok... off topic but...

https://rippedbody.com/how-calculate...at-percentage/

Hot fitness model advertising a product called MyRack with a video titled "See MyRack in action"...

I would still buy Rogue's equivalent product but that brand gets the nod for innuendo laden marketing goodness.

[RJ]

I have a lot of titan fitness equipment, affordable and so far so good with durability

Thanks. I found a T2 Series Power Rack $399. Free shipping, which is a plus.

https://www.titan.fitness/racks/power-racks/t-2-series/t-2-series-power-rack/T2-SERIES-RACK.html

[breakingtime91]

Thanks. I found a T2 Series Power Rack $399. Free shipping, which is a plus.

https://www.titan.fitness/racks/power-racks/t-2-series/t-2-series-power-rack/T2-SERIES-RACK.html

That is the exact same one I've had for 7 years.

[RJ]

I don't know Force USA but in your price range I think I'd be looking at one of the wall mount folding racks made by Rogue.

I looked at Rogue, thanks. A wall mount is not an option because: reasons. A low-end rack that's free standing such as the HR-2 seems to start around $810, which is probably over budget. Looks like nice stuff though.

https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-hr-2-half-rack

What are "Westside spacing" holes?

I am assuming this is in reference to Westside Barbell?

[Jason M]

The Rogue products are really sturdy. We just bought a cage for our department gym. More expensive but it will stand up to hard use. The westside spacing = more holes. That allows for greater adjustment of where you place hooks etc.

[okie john]

https://giantlifting.com/ is local to me and I've been in their showrooms several times to coon-finger the goods. Everything they have is rock solid.

I know you don't want a folder, but I bought one of these: https://giantlifting.com/products/giant-wall-rack-2-0

Burly as all get-out.


Okie John

[RJ]

https://giantlifting.com/ is local to me and I've been in their showrooms several times to coon-finger the goods. Everything they have is rock solid.

I know you don't want a folder, but I bought one of these: https://giantlifting.com/products/giant-wall-rack-2-0

Burly as all get-out.


Okie John

Thanks, that's a good lead. They have a "best seller" 2.0 2X at $329. I would guess that does not include shipping. From Seattle to Florida, phew, that's not going to be cheap. Shame we aren't headed out West this summer; before we sold the RV, we had sketched out a visit to Sequim WA.

https://giantlifting.com/products/garage-gym-power-rack-ggpr700

EDIT: Shipping is quoted as $122, so total around $452. In the ball park.

[okie john]

Happy to help. For me, it came down to Giant or Sorinex, which is located in South Carolina. Pat McNamara has said good things about Sorinex, and based on my experience he's not a bullshitter.

Buy either with confidence.


Okie John

[RJ]

Happy to help. For me, it came down to Giant or Sorinex, which is located in South Carolina. Pat McNamara has said good things about Sorinex, and based on my experience he's not a bullshitter.

Buy either with confidence.


Okie John

Thanks, I looked up Sorinex. Their "Dark Horse" is featured as the most affordable rack, at $1,018, probably over my budget. I'm sure if Pat Mac uses one it is probably indestructible. It looks like pretty nice stuff.

https://www.sorinex.com/products/dark-horse-power-rack

[RJ]

I'm staring at these options from a mechanical / rigidity perspective (naturally, being an engineer). One thing that strikes me is the number of cross-members used to connect the side sections.

For instance, the GIANT Garage Gym Power Rack 2.0 - 2X Series has both upper and lower connectors, as well as a third, braced dual beam connector across the top.

https://giantlifting.com/products/garage-gym-power-rack-ggpr700

The Titan T-2 also has three cross members. I am mentally comparing with say the Force USA Myrack, that only has two, an upper and a lower connector.

In general would you guys say that more connectors equates to a more rigid structure? I really don't want this thing moving around, especially since it's going to be most likely not bolted down.

[Norville]

I looked at Rogue, thanks. A wall mount is not an option because: reasons. A low-end rack that's free standing such as the HR-2 seems to start around $810, which is probably over budget. Looks like nice stuff though.

https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-hr-2-half-rack

What are "Westside spacing" holes?

I am assuming this is in reference to Westside Barbell?


I have this one, with the added safety arms:


https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-s2-squat-stand-2-0

It has been solid and no issues.

[Doc_Glock]

Rich:

This definitely pertains to my interest. Good on you. If I had to pick the most life changing and useful piece of exercise equipment I have ever bought it would be my squat rack purchased probably a decade ago.

Mine was some budget, no name Amazon model for around $400 and it has served just fine.

Mine also looks almost identical to that Titan fitness unit.

Rogue and Sorinex are Porsche and Mercedes level equipment. Very good stuff and not for the price conscious.

Things to consider:

1. Hole spacing. Smaller is generally better to allow for fine adjustment.
2. Free standing or bolted down. I am very happy mine is free standing especially when I had to move it last year. If you want to do rubber band work probably best to have it bolted to concrete.
3. Safety bars for bench. Should be standard.
4. Places to hook giant rubber bands: higher end will have these. Mine lacks them. I haven’t missed them as I don’t do much of that sort of work.
5. What sort of pull up bar?
6. Attachments for plate storage. I had to buy extra and find them really useful.
7. Extra pins so you don’t have to constantly move pins up and down for various exercises. I like three: one for squat. One outside cage for OHP and one for bench.
8. Do you want to add things like a dip station in the future that attaches to rack?

All in all, as much as I have used mine I sort of wish I had gone all in for a more expensive unit. But then I realize I am utterly content with the capabilities of this one for my minuscule squat numbers.

Here are some photos to help with ideas:

103374103375103376

I am happy to answer any and all questions.

Also scour Craigslist and you may score everything you need cheap. It really isn’t rocket science with these things.

[BobM]

I’m posting between sets in my mostly Rogue equipped garage gym. There’s a shipping promo available, if you buy certain racks, your entire order ships for $75, which could be a factor depending upon what else you buy. I’m about an hour from Columbus but for $75 I couldn’t have borrowed a truck and trailer and got it myself (my initial order was the rack, plates, bars, rower—about 1200 lbs). I went with Rogue in part due to the shipping deal and the fact that the vast majority of my order including rack and plates is US made.

That being said I’ve heard good things about some of the Titan racks. There is a YouTube channel called Garage Gym Reviews that seems pretty good, I’ve found it helpful.

[Chance]

I'm staring at these options from a mechanical / rigidity perspective (naturally, being an engineer).

I wouldn't overthink it. Many of these companies are selling kit intended for places like collegiate football gyms, where it'll have to survive abuse from multiple generations of rabid meat heads. Unless you plan on hitting the thing with your car, I doubt you'll beat yours up that much. I have seen the racks from Titan and they seem very solid - that's probably the option I would go with if I were doing it over again.

I have multiple pieces of equipment from Sorinex, including a power rack, and it's all phenomenal, but definitely more than I need. I couldn't break it if I were trying.

[luckyman]

I'm staring at these options from a mechanical / rigidity perspective (naturally, being an engineer). One thing that strikes me is the number of cross-members used to connect the side sections.

For instance, the GIANT Garage Gym Power Rack 2.0 - 2X Series has both upper and lower connectors, as well as a third, braced dual beam connector across the top.

https://giantlifting.com/products/garage-gym-power-rack-ggpr700

The Titan T-2 also has three cross members. I am mentally comparing with say the Force USA Myrack, that only has two, an upper and a lower connector.

In general would you guys say that more connectors equates to a more rigid structure? I really don't want this thing moving around, especially since it's going to be most likely not bolted down.

I have a rep fitness 4000-series rack. It only has 2 cross members but I got spotter arms and a front foot extension so my wife and I can both have bars loaded up at the same time for squatting, and I got some sort of bottom rear crossbar thing that was available that let me avoid bolting it to the garage floor. We love it and the thing is a fucking tank.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230408/4e38e56cb4fb411fbf254392c826032e.jpg

[Wake27]

I have expensive tastes with most things but I bought some CAP (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I04Z52G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) home gym stuff off of Amazon back in 2014 and its all still kicking just fine. I assumed I'd upgrade to Rogue after a few years but I haven't needed to. A basic squat rack, barbell, almost 300 pounds of bumper plates, and other items have moved to four different states now. I usually have a few options for gyms so it hasn't been used close to every single day since then, but I've used it plenty and its been more than worth the money.

[BobM]

I’ve got a couple good deals at Play It Again Sports, like an Elite FTS Prowler for $80, but that could take a while to find everything you want

[bofe954]

I have the titan T3. I have no issues with it and will never replace it.

I bought this:
https://www.titan.fitness/racks/rack-accessories/t-2%252C-t-3%252C-or-x-3-series-multi-grip-pull-up-bar/401360.html

Stiffens it up, the pull ups are easier on my elbows, and now I have one of the included pull up bars on the back bottom and back top of the rack.

The T3 at the time came with the safety bars and plate holders, looks like it doesn't anymore.

I'm an older guy and not lifting that much, I think any of them are fine. I'm sure the rogue is a better product. The paint and welds on mine aren't the greatest, but I don't mind.

My only advice would be to look at accessory availability and if they come with anything you''re interested in, and make sure you are factoring that into the cost.

[Rocket20_Ginsu]

In your price range hard to beat titan. I went with a rogue wall mounted folder and love it

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230408/c963286f0b39e242207b44e1b18e5605.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[DMF13]

I went with this in my garage gym: https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-rml-3w-fold-back-wall-mount-rack

However, you said you don't want a wall mount, so you might want to look at this: https://www.garagegymreviews.com/best-squat-racks

The info from that site seems pretty good.

[DMF13]

BTW, I know this thread is about racks, but I just noticed your location.

You may want to consider some of the stainless steel barbells from Rep Fitness. They are truly all stainless, both the shaft, and the sleeves. Most of the other stainless bars on the market have chrome sleeves, or if they have stainless sleeves are a lot more expensive.

Rep has several bars that are all stainless, at good prices. I have this one: https://repfitness.com/collections/barbells/products/stainless-steel-power-bar

I got that because I don't do Olympic lifts. However, if you want an all stainless Oly bar they offer this: https://repfitness.com/products/gladiator-olympic-barbell?variant=41562643595422 (has center knurling)

and this: https://repfitness.com/products/excalibur-barbell?variant=41067600380062 (no center knurling)

[DDTSGM]

I have expensive tastes with most things but I bought some CAP (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I04Z52G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1) home gym stuff off of Amazon back in 2014 and its all still kicking just fine. I assumed I'd upgrade to Rogue after a few years but I haven't needed to. A basic squat rack, barbell, almost 300 pounds of bumper plates, and other items have moved to four different states now. I usually have a few options for gyms so it hasn't been used close to every single day since then, but I've used it plenty and its been more than worth the money.

I bought that one's twin at Ollie's for 99.00 about four months ago. I'm 68 and don't figure to outgrow it.

[luckyman]

BTW, I know this thread is about racks, but I just noticed your location.

You may want to consider some of the stainless steel barbells from Rep Fitness. They are truly all stainless, both the shaft, and the sleeves. Most of the other stainless bars on the market have chrome sleeves, or if they have stainless sleeves are a lot more expensive.

Rep has several bars that are all stainless, at good prices. I have this one: https://repfitness.com/collections/barbells/products/stainless-steel-power-bar

I got that because I don't do Olympic lifts. However, if you want an all stainless Oly bar they offer this: https://repfitness.com/products/gladiator-olympic-barbell?variant=41562643595422 (has center knurling)

and this: https://repfitness.com/products/excalibur-barbell?variant=41067600380062 (no center knurling)

I have that exact center knurled (gladiator) bar. It’s perfect for me. The center kneeling keeps it in place for back squats better, it’s still easy on the shins for deadlifts, and with my smallish hands I appreciate the reduced diameter bar.

[Cory]

Timely thread for me. Bottom line, I just spent a little over $2k to redo my garage gym with a new rack, bar, and bumper plates. I went with Rogue, and I'm thrilled.

In 2019 (this was obviously before the home gym covid craze) I went on FB market place and bought a rack, bench, bar, tree 2x45#, 2x35#, 2x25#, 2x10#, 4x5#, 2x2.5# for $250.

October '19
p/B3hWRkngm5W

In April of '20 I added two rubber mats from Rural King ($20 each) and two free mirrors from a bathroom remodel. Mutliple pictures here:
p/B_JFZK-JOIU

That was my set up until the Rogue purchase. I'm really just focused on getting to the Larry Lindeman standards. So squat, bench, dead, OHP (seated because of space), and bent over row. I do accessory stuff too but just regular lifting is the real bread and butter for me. No oly lifts, and I don't see myself moving towards them.

The rack had some downsides. The J cups were not moveable, which meant I had to keep the rack further off the wall so I could bench the opposite way. The rack also was bent on one foot and left rust on the floor ocassionally. The floor cross member prevented me from putting my bench exactly where I wanted it. Using bands for shoulder rehab sometimes pulled the rack because it wasnt bolted.

This cut up video shows how I had to face different directions:
reel/CpYakDIArDI

Then my barbell broke. The screw in collar sheared at the threads. Not because I'm so damn strong, but because this was someones rusty outdoor equipment when I got it. I no longer felt safe benching or squatting with the barbell. I couldnt get it to stay together.

So why all new?

I needed a new barbell, but didnt want to put rusty old plates on it. Or put it into a bent, rusty rack.

I knew Rogue was name brand and offered westside spacing. Saftey during bench can be a matter of inches, and so I wanted the extra holes. I also knew their bars were considered a standard (ala 6920, G19). I'm a sucker for matching so I went with their echo bumper plates too. The same exact weights and numbers I had because I'm used to working with those numbers. I did opt to spend a little more for color plates because it wasnt much extra. Other brands were going to be more cost on the bumpers (which I wanted for sound dampening. Between bumpers and mats my wife isn't going to hear the rusty iron clang she used to) or the rack was too tall. Or it just totalled way more cost to get everything matching.

I would look at your space first. I'm in a garage, and my space is under the overhead door. That means I need a shorter than standard rack. Rogue's only rack that fit my needs is the R3 shorty. An older rack that has 2x3 verticals and isnt going to get any new accessories but still has a good selection of accessories. Most racks are 90+ inches tall. Make sure you have space. If you have the height, and might want more accessories the 3x3 monster lite series may be better.

Next I wanted to ensure that the J cups could be moved from front verticals to rear. Most racks will do this without issue if the J cups are removable. Club Weider will not. As a result you have to bench facing the other way, and set your rack further from the wall.

I didn't want a floor cross member. My old rack had one that blocked my bench leg occassionally for different lifts. Not having a cross member does mean you have to bolt to the floor though.

With everything it cost me a lot. But I'll never have to buy it again and I use it. I have so much more floor space with the rack closer to the wall, I love it. Plus the smooth feeling on lifts vs the grittiness before is awesome. It all feels bombproof. I know you're around my area. If you want to check it out in person and see your likes/dislikes about lifting on it give me a shout.

reel/CqLdBDxA5oi

[Cheap Shot]

https://repfitness.com/collections/power-racks/products/pr-1100-power-rack



Very happy with rep fitness power rack, I've also purchased one of their benches

[Crawls]

My basement gym is a mix of Rep and Titan stuff. The $200 I spent on the Rep squat rack was one of my best purchases ever.

[Doc_Glock]

I have that exact center knurled (gladiator) bar. It’s perfect for me. The center kneeling keeps it in place for back squats better, it’s still easy on the shins for deadlifts, and with my smallish hands I appreciate the reduced diameter bar.


I have been super happy with my B&R bar for squats.

Agree center knurling is a “must have” for me for squats.

I have a Rogue bar I am less happy with and I use that for deadlifts.

Edit: interesting. My version of the B&R bar is no longer made. Pity.

https://www.garage-gyms.com/weightlifting-bar-review-burgener-rippetoe/

[BobM]

I have been super happy with my B&R bar for squats.

Agree center knurling is a “must have” for me for squats.

I have a Rogue bar I am less happy with and I use that for deadlifts.

Edit: interesting. My version of the B&R bar is no longer made. Pity.

https://www.garage-gyms.com/weightlifting-bar-review-burgener-rippetoe/

I have one from Rogue, a second from the Boneyard.

[Doc_Glock]

I have one from Rogue, a second from the Boneyard.

I went back down the barbell rabbit hole again with Rogue. After all that I think I would get either the B&R 2.0 or Ohio Power Bar if I needed another.

I love the unfinished steel feel and 29.0mm stiffness.

[Doc_Glock]

I have one from Rogue, a second from the Boneyard.


Well I never heard of the Boneyard til this thread. And Pistol Forum has cost me some money again.

I have a Boneyard Ohio Power Bar on the way and am stoked. I have been using a Rogue 2.0 in Black Zinc for years. It’s okay, but I have never been happy with the knurl, the whip, or the 28.5mm size. The Zinc finish looks terrible at this point, not that it matters functionally and the 2.0 is really more of an Olympic lift bar anyway.

Anyway I love my B&R in raw steel and it still looks new. I am excited to try the OPB in raw since it apparently has even more aggressive knurling. And it’s nice to get a little off for a cosmetic second bar from the boneyard.