Working out and training is an essential part of having a healthy lifestyle. Training in the gym might be affordable, but when you have all the equipment at your home, you will find that working out is that much easier and you will have the time to train just as you feel you should. The best Squat racks are ideal for helping you improve those quad muscles.
We have set out and done some legwork to find the ideal squat racks that will help you in your training regime. These squad racks are essential for training multiple muscle groups as well and they should offer you great value for your money. In this article, we also take a deeper look at some of the other aspects of choosing a squat rack.
Why Choose A Squat Rack?
If you are looking for a squat rack, we assume that you do have some experience in working out and doing squats are one of the best exercises that will target the entirety of the leg muscle. The quadriceps muscles are also some of the largest muscles in the body when targeted, they release more testosterone and this will help with building the smaller muscles and the recovery process.
Instead of training each muscle in the leg individually, you can use the squat rack to train all the leg muscles. Additionally, you can also use the bar and the rack for training other muscle groups and we have found the back muscle to be one of the other muscles that can be trained with different workouts. Any form of rows is also on the table with a decent squat rack.
Who Needs A Squat Rack?
It can be hard to determine the exact person who would use a squat rack. Since it offers a lot of versatility, the squat rack can be used by all people who are into training and those who love training will have fun adding it to their collection of training equipment.
If you are the owner of a gym club, the squat rack is an essential part to your club and having a functional squat rack will make the clients happy as well. You might even see a spike in sales if people find the squat rack working and your clients become ambassadors for your club. The squat rack is recommended for anyone who is into fitness.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Squat Rack:
When choosing any piece of training equipment, there are a couple of key features you need to keep in mind. We have done some of the legwork and consulted with a few experts to see which features are the most important that you need to look at. Here are the most important features to keep in mind when selecting a squat rack:
Materials:
The materials are one of the most important parts of the squat rack. It should be sturdy and durable and this means that solid steel will be the best option to consider. It might be a little more expensive, but with more durability, you will be using the rack a little longer and save some money in the long run as well.
Versatility:
One thing you should look for in the design is the ability to perform other workouts as well. Having a larger frame with bars at the top will mean that you could consider doing pull-ups as well as additional back exercises. Additionally, if you have hooks for the bars, it can be used for bench presses as well and you only need an additional bench.
Assembly:
While we recommend having an expert help you with the assembly of the rack, it can be a little more expensive. If you find something that is easy to assemble, it will save you some cash and you can have it up and running as soon as it is received. Most of these squat and power racks will only need a couple of basic tools for you to fully assemble it.
Additional Weights:
The weights and the bar can be rather expensive if it is not included in the deal. You should look for deals and combos with these weights and bars included as this could save you some more money. Having the right plates for your bar and your rack is also important to ensure that the rack is functional and you can work out.
Warranty:
Lastly, you should consider the warranty as this will give you a great indication of the overall quality of the power rack or squat rack. Most top squat racks will have decent warranties of around 10-years or more. However, we have also seen a couple of brands that offer lifetime warranties and will also help if any maintenance is required.
How to Select the Ideal Squat Rack in 4 Simple Steps:
With the knowledge of what is required to find a great squat rack, we have also decided to sum it up for you and this will enable you to easily see how to select the right squat rack. Follow these simple tips and you will never be left with a disappointment.
- Determine your workout routine:
If you understand your workout routine and what will be needed for you to complete it, it should be much easier for you to find the right rack. If you know the muscles in the back will be important, you should be focusing on something with this extra added. Those who only need it for legs can stick to something cheaper and more basic.
- Compare the racks:
Once you have a couple of squat racks in mind, you can start comparing them with one another. This also means you should keep the price in mind to find out which features are added and offer you the best value for your money.
- Make your decision:
Now you should make your decision and buy the rack. After this, the rack will be sent to you through shipping and this could take some time depending on the company and your location. Once it arrives, you will need to assemble it and you may even have a couple of friends over to help you with the assembly process. Additionally, you can consider an expert as well.
- Have a professional help you with your workout and enjoy:
If you are an avid fitness enthusiast, the professional or expert might not be needed. However, beginners should have an expert help and guide them through the workouts, as the squat racks can also be extremely dangerous. If you have no idea what you are doing, you might end up being seriously hurt and even out for a couple of months.
Top 10 Squat Racks On The Market Today:
Finally, you have made it through all the info and we can start with the fun part. We have selected 10 top squat racks and tested them to see how they work and which of them are the best.
These are also highly recommended by personal trainers and we believe you should get great value for your money.
Let’s have a look at what we have conjured up:
1. Cap Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand
Materials: Solid steel, powdered finish
Weight capacity: 700-pounds
Made from 12 and 14-gauge steel, the Cap Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand is extremely durable and features a sturdy and heavy base that will ensure you have durability and never have to deal with shakiness. It features a 3-step powder coat process that will add to the durability and make it rust and scratch resistant.
The rack weighs around 61-pounds and offers different bars at the top that can be used for working out different muscle groups. This versatility is important for the avid fitness enthusiast and should offer you more value for your money. Unfortunately, no bars or plates are included and you need to buy these additionally.
Pros:
- Excellent durability
- Sturdy design
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- The brand does lack some customer service
The entire rack is really affordable if you buy it on its own and it is compatible with most Olympic bars and plates. However, a bundle package can be found and this will act as the ideal starter kit for someone looking to expand the home gym. We would highly recommend it for these quality features and additions.
2.Best Fitness Power Rack
Materials: Solid steel
Weight capacity: 500-pounds
Having a power rack instead of only having a squat rack is one of the best ways to ensure versatility. The Best Fitness Power Rack is one of the top racks that has been constructed from solid steel and it features a powder coating finish that will ensure it is rust and scratch resistant. This all adds up to more long-term durability.
The rack feature 23 adjustable height slots and these have all been spread around 3-inches apart. This means that your length will not make any difference and you could train multiple different muscles once you have the bar ready to use. While the 500-pound weight limit is not much, it is ideal for fitness lovers to get started.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Easy to assemble
- Reasonably priced
- Great versatility
Cons:
- Weight capacity is only 500-pounds
While the Best Fitness Power Rack is not one of the best on the market for the elite bodybuilders, it will be ideal for those in the world of fitness. The versatility means you can train most body parts and the durable construction makes it easier to maintain. We would highly recommend this to advanced and entry-level fitness lovers.
3. Titan T-2 Series Short Power Rack Squat
Materials: Solid Steel
Weight capacity: 700-pounds
Titan Fitness is one of the top brands when it comes to designing and producing fitness equipment. The Titan T-2 Series Short Power Rack Squat is heavy and made from solid steel with a powdered coating to keep it protected from anything that could be damaging and cost you extra in terms of fixing it up or using the warranty.
The rack is quite large and sturdy when it has been set up correctly. It features multiple rods and bars for working out different muscles and it can be fully adjusted to the height needed for you to train correctly. It also features a weight capacity of 700-pounds and this will ensure you could add as much weight as needed to grow and bulk.
Pros:
- Good durability
- 700-pound weight capacity
- Great versatility
- Fully adjustable
Cons:
- Expensive
- Tough to assemble alone
The rack is quite expensive when looking at the price, but since it is constructed from premium steel and one of the most recognized brands in the fitness world, you will definitely get great value for your money. The assembly might be one of the only things you will have to quarrel with and might need some assistance.
4. Valor Fitness BD-9 Power Squat Stand
Materials: Solid Steel, chrome
Weight capacity: 500-pounds
The Valor Fitness BD-9 Power Squat Stand is a little different and it is one of the lightest and easiest to use racks on the market. It is constructed from powerful steel materials and it has been chrome plates as well. This will help preserve the steel and ensure that your rack does not rust or feature any scratches from other users.
One of the best features of this rack is the fact that it can be pulled out if you need to squat, but can also work as a holding unit for your bar if you are doing bench presses or training shoulders. It is lightweight and can be used to travel and with a weight capacity of 500-pounds, fitness lovers will get a decent workout anywhere.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Excellent durability
- Easy to assemble
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Weight capacity is only 500-pounds
The rack is also affordable compared to some of the more elite power racks and this will make it the ideal investment for you for your home gym. It does not take up too much space and we would definitely recommend it for any fitness lover.
5. PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack
Materials: 12-gauge solid steel
Weight capacity: 600-pounds
The PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack is another one of the top squat racks on the market today. It is constructed from solid steel and has been heat-tempered to ensure some extra strength and durability all around. Chrome is used for the finish and this makes it resistant to rust or any potential scratches that may occur.
It features 18 different adjustment levels and these are low enough for you to train shoulders and bench presses if needed. The lift-offs have been included for extra stability on the bar. It features a 600-pound weight capacity and this is perfect for anyone looking to gain some size, but you will need to purchase the benches and bars separately.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Great versatility
- Easy to assemble
- Includes a 10-year frame warranty
Cons:
- Quite expensive
This bar is quite expensive when compared to some of the others on our list. However, it is extremely durable and sturdy. It includes a 10-year frame warranty and this gives you some peace of mind, but we have never seen it break. This rack is recommended for the avid fitness lovers and for gym clubs thanks to its immense versatility.
6. Merax Athletics Fitness Power Rack Olympic Squat Cage
Materials: Solid steel, chrome
Weight capacity: 800-pounds
If you are looking for the complete all-in-one home gym, the Merax Athletics Fitness Power Rack Olympic Squat Cage is one of the best you could find. It is made from durable steel and includes multiple adjustments for different workouts. The rack also comes with a squat bar included and this will save you some cash.
After testing this squat rack, we found that it can be used with more than 24 different exercises and this includes the entire lower and upper body. The rack includes 17 variable positions and this means that you can train just about any part of the body without any real hassle.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Good for more than 24 exercises
- Sturdy construction
- Fast shipping
Cons:
- Really expensive
- Tough to assemble
If you are an avid fitness lover and you are serious about working out, the Merax Athletics Fitness Power Rack Olympic Squat Cage is perfect for you. We know it is rather expensive, but this rack will be recommended to serious bodybuilders and to be used in fitness clubs.
7. Ollieroo Multi-function Barbell Rack
Materials: Solid steel and rubber
Weight capacity: 480-pounds
The Ollieroo Multi-function Barbell Rack is another small and portable barbell rack that can be used for traveling. It consists of 2 different pieces, which has been constructed from solid steel and covered with rubber to keep it protected from abrasions and damage.
The rack is fully adjustable and features a weight capacity of 480-pounds. While this might not be the best for squatting if you are a bodybuilder, it is ideal for those looking to train on the go. It can be easily assembled and disassembled.
Pros:
- Durable design
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
- Really affordable
Cons:
- Low weight capacity
The Ollieroo Multi-function Barbell Rack is the perfect barbell rack for you if you are on the go and travel often. It might not fit into your boot, but will be ideal to be moved via your pickup. The rack is really affordable and this will make it the ideal beginner investment.
8. Body-Solid Pro Power Rack
Materials: 11-gauge Solid steel, powder coat finish
Weight capacity: 800-pounds
The Body-Solid Pro Power Rack one of the squat or power racks that you will be looking for if you are the owner of a club and when you are serious about fitness. The rack is constructed of solid steel with a chrome finish and since it is rather heavy, it offers good sturdiness as well. It should feel like a solid object when working out.
This rack is designed for versatility and with the right bar, you could be doing any workout that you desire. This also means that the rack is ideal for all fitness lovers and whether you are a beginner or an expert, you should get some use out of it.
Pros:
- Extremely durable
- Look stylish
- Solid and sturdy
- Offer great versatility
Cons:
- Really expensive
The Body-Solid Pro Power Rack is not something that you will be using in your home. It is designed for professional fitness lovers and bodybuilders training for Mr. Olympia might find this ideal for them. We would highly recommend it for fitness club lovers and owners.
9. Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial High Capacity Olympic Power Cage
Materials: Solid Steel
Weight capacity: 1500-pounds
The Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial High Capacity Olympic Power Cage is designed for the advanced fitness enthusiast. The cage is made from solid steel and features dual-density rubber for keeping you safe and the frame from being harmed in any way.
This cage is not only designed for squat and with the addition of a lat pulldown attachment, your back workouts should be a little easier as well. It features multiple height adjustments and works perfectly with 7-inch Olympic bars if you are into free weight exercises. The cable attachments are some of the highlight features and enable you to do a full body workout.
Pros:
- Excellent durability
- Great stability
- Includes a cable attachments
- Multiple chin-up grips
Cons:
- Expensive
While the Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial High Capacity Olympic Power Cage is one of the more expensive workout machines, it features everything needed for a complete workout. The frame is durable and with a decent warranty, you have some peace of mind as well. We would highly recommend this apparatus for gym clubs and advanced trainers.
10. Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage
Materials: Solid steel, chrome finish
Weight capacity: 800-pounds
Last but certainly not least, we have the Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage and compared to the previous cage, this one is a little more basic. It is still constructed from the same top quality materials and features a stylish chrome finish to keep it protected and rust or scratch resistant.
The bar features 19 different adjustments and this means more exercises for you to train with. With a bar and a bench, you can easily complete a full body workout and the 800-pound weight capacity means it will be perfect for advanced bodybuilders as well.
Pros:
- Solid construction
- Sturdy
- Includes 19 adjustment levels
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- You need to drill your own holes and insert bolts for installation
Fitness Reality is one of the top brands and while they might be a little expensive, the Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage comes in at an affordable price. This rack features multiple adjustments for more exercises and we would recommend it for anyone looking to get into the world of fitness. It makes the perfect home gym.
Which One Will You Choose?
Having a squat rack or a power rack is a great way to start building your own home gym. Whilst you save up for more equipment, these racks enable you to get started and train most muscles in the body. We would definitely recommend all of the racks on the list and they should offer you decent value and help you to grow those muscles.
We would like to thank you for reading this article and we would like you to share your thoughts on these racks. Let us know in the comment section which one you would choose and if we might have missed any of your favorite brands.
