Best squat stand buying guide
Squats are one of the best exercises that you can do in the gym. However, you can’t always access the gym, and it’s probably best to work out at home. However, even if you work out from home, you shouldn’t neglect one of the best compound, full-body exercises in the world.
The squat is a good well-known leg exercise, but it targets not only your legs. Your whole body is engaged during a squat. Also, movements like the squat have proven to boost testosterone and burn the most calories compared to any other resistance exercise. They also promote joint and bone health.
If you are exercising at home, then you need to incorporate squats into your routine. Fortunately, you can set up your squat rack at home, and stop losing your gains. Today, we will take a look at the best squat stands and racks that you can buy.
back to menu ↑What are the best squat racks?
You need to pick the correct squat rack according to your needs, preferences, and customer reviews. Fortunately, we’ll sort it out for you!
back to menu ↑What are the types of squat stands?
Below are the 5 main types of squat stands that you can buy today.
back to menu ↑The Standard Squat Stand
This is the most simple and basic type of squat rack. These don’t take up too much space and aren’t too complex, but they are usually strong enough for any weight. They do have very little support which can potentially make it more dangerous than the others on the list, but if you want a simple and cheap option, you can’t go wrong with the standard squat stand.
back to menu ↑The Power Rack
These are perfect if you have lots of space, want lots of support, and want it to be very high quality. These are the most expensive, but this is the safest and sturdiest kind of squat stand. These are the highest quality ones on the list.
back to menu ↑The Half Rack
The half-rack is essentially a more affordable and lightweight version of the power rack. It has less support but is still quite safe. It is essentially the midrange squat rack. It usually has space to put the weights, as well as a pull-up bar at the top. It is good for a home gym for a semi-expert in fitness.
back to menu ↑The Combo Rack
This is more of a specialty piece of equipment. The combo rack allows you to do multiple different weight training exercises with one piece of equipment. It usually allows you to perform a bench press and a squat on it. The bench is removable, rendering it a standard squat rack. This is usually appropriate for people who are low on both space and cash. If you are on a budget and you need to buy both a bench press and a squat rack, this is perfect for you.
back to menu ↑The Fold Away Stand
The fold-away stand is pretty self-explanatory. It folds away when you aren’t using it. It is usually wall-mounted. This stand is also quite focused on a specific niche. If you are low on space and/or want your home gym to look clean and tidy, this definitely wouldn’t be a bad option. However, I wouldn’t recommend this to any of you that are on a tight budget.
back to menu ↑How to choose the best weighted vest for you
Choosing the best one relies on lots of factors, but it’s important to choose the one that fits your situation perfectly.
back to menu ↑Features
Make sure that the one you get has the features that you like. If you need a weight hanger, make sure that you get a half-rack or better. If you need one with a pull-up bar above it, then make sure the one you order has one. If you need it to fold, then obviously go for a fold-away squat stand.
back to menu ↑Reliability
Read the reviews! If you are ordering your stand from an external source, make sure there are legit, positive reviews. Make sure that the reviews confirm that the rack won’t break. Also, read the specifications about how much weight it can hold. If you are already incredibly strong, then make sure you get a very sturdy squat stand.
back to menu ↑Size
This is quite simple. Before purchasing, make sure that it can fit where you want to put it. No matter which type you get, if it doesn’t fit, you are most likely going to return it. Trust us, it’s not worth the hassle.
back to menu ↑Budget
Don’t overpay! All of the types of squat stands are professional and legit. If you are on a very tight budget, you can’t get a super high-quality stand. Getting a standard squat stand is fine and isn’t a safety risk. If you can afford it, you can get a high-end power rack, but it is by no means necessary. Before buying, make sure that the squat rack is affordable enough for your budget.
back to menu ↑What can you do with a squat rack?
You are purchasing a squat rack to do squats, but that isn’t all you can do on them. You can also do exercises like:
- Pull-ups (If the stand has a bar above it)
- Chin-ups
- Bench press (Even if you don’t order a combo rack, you can still mount a bench underneath)
- Different variations of squats (Like the back squat and the front squat)
- Lunges (If the piece of equipment supports it)
Benefits of using a squat stand
Some benefits of squats include:
- Muscle growth in your entire legs, core, and back
- Increased strength and endurance
- Weight loss (if eating in a calorie deficit)
- Improved stamina
- Boost mental health
- Promotes testosterone production and use (mainly in men)
Tips for using your squat rack
- Take it slow and steady
- Practice your form
- Stay hydrated when working out
- Follow a workout routine
- Set realistic goals
- Stop if any pain
- Have fun
Conclusion
In conclusion, a squat rack is necessary to build your legs, strengthen your whole body, and get maximum gains. Squats have tons of benefits that are easy to miss out on. You must get a squat stand that fits all of your needs and preferences. It must also fit your budget. Out of the 5 types of squat racks, it is your job to pick the perfect one for you!
Happy training!
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.
