Squat rack buyers guide
If you are weight lifting in your home gym and looking to get stronger by increasing the weights that you are using, you will need a squat rack to assist you. Squat racks present a safe and convenient way to keep your numbers improving in various exercises such as back squats, front squats, overhead squats, bench press and military press. They come at a fraction of the cost of a gym membership and take up minimal space.
With so many squat racks to choose from, it can seem like an overwhelming task to find a rack that meets your need. Not to worry! Here we will take a look at some of the best squat racks and what to look for if you are in the market for a rack to go in your home gym.
back to menu ↑What are the best squat racks?
Here we will take a look at our best squat racks from the hundreds of squat rack reviews that we have researched and analysed in great detail.
back to menu ↑What are squat racks?
The main purpose of a squat rack is to assist you in progressing your squats, bench press, shoulder press and other lifts, by way of adding increments of weight. The best squat racks will let you add amounts of weight that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to lift without assistance (spotter).
You can just lift the weight off the rack when you are starting your exercise and place it back on once finished. It could be dangerous or near impossible to get into a suitable squatting position when trying to manoeuvre heavy weights from the floor into place. This is the problem that squat racks solve.
Power racks are also great for performing a vast range of muscle building exercises that target all muscle groups in the body.
back to menu ↑What are the benefits of squat racks?
The main benefit of a squat rack is that it can hold the barbell for you whilst you get into position. It gives you a safe place to put the barbell should it get too heavy or when you have finished your set. This means that you can try and lift more weight and don’t need a spotter. You can target your personal records with confidence and peace of mind. If you are consistently lifting heavier weights, your muscles will have to adapt, by getting bigger and stronger.
back to menu ↑How to choose the best squat rack for you
With so many squat racks to choose from, it can get confusing. Here we will take a look at some of the key features you should look out for when shopping for the best squat racks.
back to menu ↑Size
You should check the dimensions of the squat rack to make sure it will fit in your home gym. There should be ample space to put the racks, perform your exercises and store them away when not in use.
back to menu ↑Height
You will want to see how short or tall the squat racks can be adjusted to. If you are on the taller size, you should make sure that the racks will go high enough to hold the barbell for your squats without losing stability. The shorter users should make sure they can reach the barbell if they are laying down on a weight bench to do a bench press.
back to menu ↑Weight
Check what the weight capacity of the squat rack is. Consider how far away from your current best lifts the weight capacity is. The more weight it can hold, the better it will be for the long term.
back to menu ↑Materials
The best squat racks should be made of solid materials to ensure that they are sturdy, safe and stable. You wouldn’t want the stands wobbling under heavier weights.
back to menu ↑Budget
At the end of the day, a big part of your decision will depend on your budget. In order to save wasting time looking at squat racks that do not fit within your budget, you can narrow down the search according to price range and take it from there. Thankfully, there are squat racks to suit a range of different budgets – just make sure you wont regret trying to save some pocket change a few years down the link.
back to menu ↑Conclusion
If you are looking to increase strength and build muscle from your home gym, a squat rack is an essential tool. They offer convenience and safety, in one compact and inexpensive package.
Happy lifting!
Rich
Rich is an avid bodybuilder who has dedicated over 20 years of his life to the sport. He has a strong passion for health and fitness, living a clean lifestyle with a commitment to helping others educate themselves and fulfil their true potential.
