Yeah. We had our entire home gym order queued up in my wife's Amazon cart like 3 weeks ago. Had it down to the bands and clips we wanted. Fucked around and waited for another good paycheck to cover it all and boom...covid 🧟♂️ I have the cash now so just waiting for prices to stabilize.
I love my 6 post. The weight storage makes it so I don't have to bolt it down, and helps to keep the garage organized. The only thing I would change if I were to do it again is buy a shallower rack. Mine is 42" deep and I find that to be almost too much. Personally, I think about 30" would have been perfect.
I’m just sold my home gym all rogue ..squat stand power bar plate storage fat pad ..and all my plates , had no choice I am moving to Arizona and don’t own a car , would have cost me 2,000$ to ship from Illinois when I only paid around 1000$ for every thing
There's one more type of rack I'd consider for home use - a yoke. They're comparable to squat stands in many respects but have the advantage of obviously being usable for yoke walks. Being a strongman, that's a huge bonus for me, so it's my first choice when I eventually start building my home gym. Good video as always, Brandon.
I thought about it, but in my experience a yoke makes a great yoke, but often not a great squat/bench location. I reviewed one from StrengthShop a few years back.
Have had a home gym several years now and it’s great in this current climate. I’m not really into the plethora of machines at Commercial places but am well stocked. I have a full rack, pin loaded pull down/row, several specialty bars, jammer arms, 2 benches and iron master dumbbells. It’s tight fit in large single garage but I enjoy it.
Holy shit! Ortega did 2 reps and paused and I was thinking "ok, come on man, bang out at least 1 more. You got this! Fuck it, go for 2 more!" ...then he reps out 3 MORE! Waiting for him to rack it... and then he pops out another 2! 🤯 Good job man!
I bought an inexpensive half rack. It has allowed me to do a good deal and was really cheap. Didn't think about exceeding the capacity of it but it is happening. Yay. Well now I'm looking at spending more money on a full rack. Spending more money in the long run but I wasn't going to spend the big money right away.
If you buy a rogue squat stand (for example SML-2) you can later on upgrade/convert it to a RML-390F. If you have low ceiling, as what i have (200 cm height), i bought a SML-1 squat stand. When i wanted to upgrade to a full squat rack i just added a pair of crossmembers (30 inches), HR-2 HALF RACK CONVERSION KIT and a X-43M MULTI GRIP CROSSMEMBER. This is a perfect setup if you dont have the money for a full power rack and want to be able to upgrade later on.
Set up a garage gym last month. Have both a squat stand and Rogue Monster Rack. The kid and I use both. We actually squat with the stand more than the rack. Kid’s max is 305 lbs, but we’re usually doing sets between 225 and 275 lbs. in a month or so when he’s doing sets with 300 plus we’ll move to the rack. Like others have said, getting racks and weights is tough right now. I got the rack and bar from Rogue and used bumpers in the neighborhood. Still need a curl bar, a hex bar and some dumbbells. Regular squats kill my neck so I’ve been doing front squats. I am going to move to a hex bar. Get some!
I have a three quarter rack so you are still enclosed but the shorter front posts allow overhead pressing without hitting any cross members above and make it easier to get the bar in and out. For me it's the sweet spot for a home gym.
At this time, stock is extremely limited on bars, plates, and alot of racks. That and shipping is limited due to certain companies having to shut down. I have an order for a few things I hope gets on a truck soon otherwise its no gym for weeks on end.
I fold my wall mount Fray folding rack every day (open to begin; close when finished). There you go. Now you know me, and you can say you know someone who bought a folding rack for the space and functionality and uses it for the reason he purchased it.
A bar wont miss your safeties that easy. But. When missing, it can bounce off your safety catchers. For those of us who train alone I would always suggest a full rack unless there is no other option.
I just picked up a little squat stand, because of some present gym issues.....and it defiantly doesn't feel as nice as a half or full rack. The thing that is super appealing about the full rack is not just the real estate for accessories, but also the ability to have a someone squatting at one end, and another benching at the other end, with the right set up.
I have a foldable rack, and never folded it once, but does have a small footprint and accessories are sufficient for me. I never desire(d) a full rack as it takes up too much space and I like space in my garage which is why i only own 1 specialty machine, a calf machine.
My 2 cents is this. In general people nowadays take up a new activity and immediately want pro Calibre gear. It never used to be that way and it doesn't make any sense and it's extremely unnecessary. If your starting out in something get the starting out level because you do not know if your going to stick with it, and alot of people get into something because it's trendy not because of passion. If you stick with it get progressively better equipment as needed. You do not need SBD sleeves to go with your first gym membership.
Like any hobby, people like to invest in it. I agree you don't need to go all in right away, but you also risk certain issues by not buying quality up front, like having to spend additional money to upgrade or get what you want.
@@BasementBrandon in my opinion, investing in a hobby you will stick with makes sense, investing on something new is a waste of money. As well if someone can only squat 225 it doesn't make sense to get a rack that has a 1500 pound capacity. A little while back a kid in the gym was benching 185 pounds barely for a few reps then told me he could only use a competition bench. To me that's rediculous. Example, Right now I get a few reps on squat with 505 with band tension, so I have a rack with a 700 capacity. But it's ok if we have a difference of opinion.
I actually like having a mirror in front of the rack when doing squats. It sometimes helps me gauge my depth in training so when comp day comes I hit it no problem.
I have contacted Rep Fitness about creating a modular squat rack that can be upgraded piece by piece to become a full rack (Their Rep 5000v2) and they said they have plans to come out with one. So hopefully its sooner than later. This is where I think most "Rack" companies miss the mark.
I usually lift at my school. I just need a way to lift until we get back. Just got a $379 half rack on sale. I can squat, bench, and deadlift. Works with me.
I traded up from a folding squat rack with spotter arms to a 4 post rack. Exactly what you said, I never folded it up anyway and while it was extremely stable I never felt completely safe squatting with spotter arms. I just sold it a couple of weeks ago, would’ve easily got my asking price right now! Lol
I think it missed a point of comparison or differentiation, Overhead pressing and need for height there. I have an older 4 post rack and just two hours ago purchased the RepFitness Half Rack system. The reason -- I figured out I would need a 100+" rack height or still need to lift outside the rack and need front pedestal feet similar to what you have. I am a bit taller than most at 6'4" but that was what convinced me to go that way. On the topic of failing, I haven't had a problem with spotter arms as that is all my commercial now-closed gym had. Set them at the right height and fail forward to let the arms catch the weight. It might not be as simple above 450#, but so far it's worked well.
A lil trick to give yourself a extra 3.5 inches is to set the rack on some 4x6 timber and bolt the rack into it with some structual screws or lag bolts, or you can even give yourself 5.5 extra inches by getting a 5.5 inches. I learned this trick by placing a cheap rack outside and didnt want it to have direct contact with the gound to prevent rust so I bolted it on a 4x6 pressure treated wood and give me that extra reach too.
These times have me considering seriously putting together a rack and some extra accessories such as dumbells and kettlebells for sure. A 4 post rack is the way to go, even though I'd rather just drop the barbell. But I'll go insane with everything closed and curfew in place.
I use a cheapo combo rack for my home gym for less than $200, it claims it can hold 550 lbs and I only got 172 lbs in standerd weight plates (pandemic home gym, already had the CAP weights scattered and rusting, cleaned and painted them) It's a Kicode something something, if its your only other option I HIGHLY recomend it over the cheaper Walmart stuff with no real spotter arms
i always thought that squat stands were often primarily used by olympic weighlifters. since all they do is high-bar or front squat, and they always have bumpers, they can just drop the weight rather than rely on safety arms. squat stands also allow space to practice jerks and other overhead movements without interference from a cage.
I keep thinking about upgrading my RM3 to an RM6. I keep two plate trees behind the rack where the uprights of the RM6 would go, so no space lost, in fact I could probably store more stuff on the RM6 in the same amount of space.
If you are going to go with squat stands, I recommend the ones with plate pegs on the bottom. Putting a 35 on each one makes a huge difference in stability. As for safety bars, I use a pair of collpsible steel saw horses, rated at 1000 pounds each. It's just as safe as a power rack. Accessory-wise, I made a U-shaped dip bar that fits on the saw horses, and I do pullups on attachments hanging from a huge eye-bolt mounted in the top of a door frame. This enables me to work out in my kitchen, in a space that is about 6x8 ft, doing basically everything I would with a power rack except barbell bench press, with most of the stuff stored outside on the enclosed porch when not working out.
My squat rack is my brother stands on the bench press and lift the weight on my shoulders and when I'm done I back up so he can grab the bar and put it down.
I get around not having a pull up bar on my short rack buy putting the j-cups at the top and placing a bar on in then doing pullups from my knees. From a dead stop they are hard and I can just add a weight vest if needed.
The one thing I regret was not watching you or garage gym reviews before purchasing a rack. I bought the Rogue SML -2 squat rack but should've just paid a little more for the R3 power rack. I will prob use the SML-2 squat rack for the next few years and then sell it and maybe just full send for a PR-5000 from REP. I am still very happy with the SML 2 squat rack though.
@9:53 "Folding racks, I think they stand on their own" Doesn't requiring a wall anchor mean they do the exact opposite?! Keep up the good work. Love your content.
Have a monster lite squat rack and was thinking of upgrading to the half rack. Wanted straps to be able to do things like rack pulls and not rest the bar on pins. Rogue doesn’t offer straps in that length so would have to do something custom or perhaps spud version. Not sure if most other companies offer short straps either for half racks.
Hey Brandon big fan, I have one question since you've masterfully covered Power Racks; could you do something on Squat Stands specifically....some people such as myself don't have too much space to work with and I wanted your opinion and assessment on this matter.
If I could buy over again I would probably go for a powerrack. Got a ER combo rack atm, really like that too (especially for bench). But I think it would be more space efficient for me to have got a powerrack. Because atm I've got some pullup bar to the side of the comborack and that means I have to move the bar every time I do those or I will get my bar up my ass...
This is a great video. I would like your recommendation regarding building a home gym of the first floor of a new house. What additional safety features should one look our for? Thanks.
Brandon Campbell Diamond right! I’m stuck between getting the Rogue RM-3 Monster Rack 2.0 or the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0... which do you recommend considering I don’t have an issue with the $150.00 difference or space in my garage?
Bryan Gutierrez really personally preference at that point, if you’re looking for more space to do stuff inside the rack the rm4 makes sense. I’ve had both depths and find the 30” of a RM3 to be fine.
I signed up for notices from Rogue and REP Fitness and hounded them the month of April. First notice a rack was available I responded 3 days later and it was gone. The next time I responded immediately and got one. In the meantime I had purchased a Rogue squat stand I found on NextDoor. So now I have and use both. The point is stay after it stuff still comes available. Good luck from an old guy who can still bench & squat his weight.
I was wondering about the folding racks. I am willing to store it when not in use bc I do park my car in the garage. Is there one would you consider for the budget gym build series
I just sold my RML-3WC to get an RM-3, but I would highly recommend it. Like everything else Rogue, it’s extremely well built and has much heftier mounting arms than other folding racks. And for around $500 depending on color/stringer options, it’s a great deal. Others like PRx get a lot more expensive when you get beefier racks and their hole spacing/sizing differs, as well. Also, the 21.5” version was so low profile, I could park my car in the garage without folding it, but putting it up took about 60 seconds when I did. I know I’m not the Brandon you were asking, but from my experience, I can’t recommend another folding rack more.
@@brandonstout9402 first thank you for the information. I posted on this channel bc I know there are people that are more knowledgeable then me about this subject area then I am that follows Brandon as well as him his self.
Hello! Super rookie over here. 112 lbs female just trying to build muscle / definition with not tons of experience . I definitely prioritize safety and something versatile. Looking into the R-3 power rack Or RML-390F Monster Lite Rack. Would love your feedback , suggestion!
I think the R-3 is the better rack overall, but you HAVE to bold it down. That being said the 390f will offer a similar experience and doesn't need to be bolted.
Hey Brandon, just got back to regularly catching your channel rly great stuff. You might have covered this in older videos - How long have you started lifting? & Have you always done powerlifting or did you used to do more bodybuilding workouts? Have a good one mate
Been training since the mid to late 90's for basketball initially, then got into bodybuilding style training, but have been doing mostly powerlifting for the past 8 years.
Is the paint on Rogue's colored racks more durable than their matte black powder coated racks in terms of which one is expected to scuff up more? Does the colored paint go on top of black powder coat or in place of black powder coat?
Well if someone has a room that uses for gym but for more things like gatherings,the first option is king in my opinion,but you need a spotter or 2 for PR.If you are able to lift >250kgs,you should also be grown enough to have a job to afford the cages 🤓
With the squat racks and power racks, what do you think about putting them outside? I guess if I covered it with a tarp it would be ok, but is there a way to “weather proof” it?
Any thoughts on flooring? I'm thinking about getting a rogue 6 post rack, but it would be indoors on fake hardwood so I want to make sure I don't mess up my house. Should I buy rubber mats to put it on? A platform?
What are your thoughts on the Rogue Fortis racks? Why do they cost a similar price as the RML racks? Do you think they would be a better option than the RML?
Great video! Great channel! Just curious on your opinion of the racks offered by Archon. Looks like they have some well priced options and offer some added accessories for the racks that are not offered by other manufacturers.
Thanks for doing these. I'm moving later this year and will be putting together a new home gym in my garage. What model rack do you own right now is it an R3?
Would a four post rack without plat storage realistically need to be bolted down? I can’t envision it tipping or sliding anymore than a typical squat stand would
Depends on the footprint. A lot of squat stands have legs that extend to help brace. I had a garage set up where the main piece as a 30" depth power rack that was not bolted down, but I had half rack feet on it to keep it stable.
Do you think a car could park just right above the squat stand legs. I want to get a rack for the garage but still would like to park the cars after I’m done
You feel comfortable squatting in a stand or do you think a cage would make more sense? Sounds like Brandon things a cage makes more sense. I can’t really make up my mind
Great video Brandon! Coming from an outside gym user, i find the content you have incredibly helpful with the layout i have ahead of me. I had just started investing in a home gym & have to start from scratch =(. The footprint of the room it will be in; inside a home on the first floor with the dimensions of 130x113x94. The options i am considering are Rep Fitness PR5000v2 or Rogue Monster RM3 OR RM4 and until recently Titan X3. I currently do not have any weight storage either. I know this is going to get pricey, and thought it out, and the mentality of the buy once cry once is where i'am leaning towards. I would like to try and build a deadlift platform inside the rack, but iam not sure which size depth would be the better option. Brandon, any thoughts you have would be extremely helpful.
It's tough to say, those gauges usually have weight ratings of under 1000 lbs and while you won't necessarily hit the "max" it's a sign of cheaper steel that could break under load still.
When your squat rack doesn't have a pull up bar you can put the bar on the highest level of your rack and you can use that as a pull up bar. It's definitely not ideal because you have to keep your feet of the ground by pulling your heels to your but and especially when you're tall it still might be too low but it's worth a try! And you can also attach a (DIY) pulley system to the bar. I'm even thinking of putting a thick board or something on my spotters so I can lay on it and have a chest supported row.
I definitely need some home stuff in these times
Yeah it's getting crazy!
You're not alone. I've been tracking prices at Amazon and some stuff went up nearly 100%. Insane times...
Yeah. We had our entire home gym order queued up in my wife's Amazon cart like 3 weeks ago. Had it down to the bands and clips we wanted. Fucked around and waited for another good paycheck to cover it all and boom...covid 🧟♂️ I have the cash now so just waiting for prices to stabilize.
@@Tilmann5138 People knew it was coming, so they bought a bunch to sell to victims who didn't plan things out from the getgo
This video came out at the perfect time. I'm building a home gym and trust your judgement more than any other youtuber
Good luck finding stuff in stock!
What did you end up buying?
I love my 6 post. The weight storage makes it so I don't have to bolt it down, and helps to keep the garage organized. The only thing I would change if I were to do it again is buy a shallower rack. Mine is 42" deep and I find that to be almost too much. Personally, I think about 30" would have been perfect.
I think i'll likely build my 30" one out to 6 posts when I move.
@@BasementBrandon the return of the 6 post :^)
I’m just sold my home gym all rogue ..squat stand power bar plate storage fat pad ..and all my plates , had no choice I am moving to Arizona and don’t own a car , would have cost me 2,000$ to ship from Illinois when I only paid around 1000$ for every thing
So it gives me a chance to upgrade to maybe a monster lite or r3 bolt together..can’t wait
@@BasementBrandon 👍 hell yeah. Power racks are probably one of the only things where you can say bigger is not always better 😂
I love my rack but I can't shake the feeling of filling my garage with every color! Great video with some great options!
You and me both!
I have my squat stand from rogue since 2016 and I still love it. It was tested with 450kg and I won't ever be able to put that on my back.
Nice!!
There's one more type of rack I'd consider for home use - a yoke. They're comparable to squat stands in many respects but have the advantage of obviously being usable for yoke walks. Being a strongman, that's a huge bonus for me, so it's my first choice when I eventually start building my home gym. Good video as always, Brandon.
I thought about it, but in my experience a yoke makes a great yoke, but often not a great squat/bench location. I reviewed one from StrengthShop a few years back.
@@BasementBrandon the new yokes are ultra luxury you should do a review
Why am I even watching this I can't afford the flimsy squat stands that are the two individual pieces oly lifters use.
Haha I hear ya!
really glad I ordered a power cage when lockdowns were announced, almost everything is out of stock.
Smart thinking
Have had a home gym several years now and it’s great in this current climate. I’m not really into the plethora of machines at Commercial places but am well stocked. I have a full rack, pin loaded pull down/row, several specialty bars, jammer arms, 2 benches and iron master dumbbells. It’s tight fit in large single garage but I enjoy it.
Sounds like a pretty sweet set up to me.
Holy shit! Ortega did 2 reps and paused and I was thinking "ok, come on man, bang out at least 1 more. You got this! Fuck it, go for 2 more!" ...then he reps out 3 MORE! Waiting for him to rack it... and then he pops out another 2! 🤯 Good job man!
Haha
I'm using a stack of ten chairs with a brick on each one for my rack, and a branch for my bar and rebar concrete for plates.
Nice!
I bought an inexpensive half rack. It has allowed me to do a good deal and was really cheap. Didn't think about exceeding the capacity of it but it is happening. Yay. Well now I'm looking at spending more money on a full rack. Spending more money in the long run but I wasn't going to spend the big money right away.
Yeah really tough to decide, some train at home and hate it so wouldn't make sense to over invest.
If you buy a rogue squat stand (for example SML-2) you can later on upgrade/convert it to a RML-390F. If you have low ceiling, as what i have (200 cm height), i bought a SML-1 squat stand. When i wanted to upgrade to a full squat rack i just added a pair of crossmembers (30 inches), HR-2 HALF RACK CONVERSION KIT and a X-43M MULTI GRIP CROSSMEMBER. This is a perfect setup if you dont have the money for a full power rack and want to be able to upgrade later on.
Nice tip man.
Awesome video Brandon, I’ve learned so much over the years from watching your videos.
I appreciate that!
What have you ended up buying?
Set up a garage gym last month. Have both a squat stand and Rogue Monster Rack. The kid and I use both. We actually squat with the stand more than the rack. Kid’s max is 305 lbs, but we’re usually doing sets between 225 and 275 lbs. in a month or so when he’s doing sets with 300 plus we’ll move to the rack. Like others have said, getting racks and weights is tough right now. I got the rack and bar from Rogue and used bumpers in the neighborhood. Still need a curl bar, a hex bar and some dumbbells. Regular squats kill my neck so I’ve been doing front squats. I am going to move to a hex bar. Get some!
That's awesome, keep kicking ass.
Everything is SOLD OUT! 😬
Yeah tough time to be a buyer :(
🤦🏽♀️ I know
Looking to transition from commercial gyms to building a home gym in the next couple of years. Really appreciate your videos!
Awesome! Thank you!
I have a three quarter rack so you are still enclosed but the shorter front posts allow overhead pressing without hitting any cross members above and make it easier to get the bar in and out. For me it's the sweet spot for a home gym.
Nice!
At this time, stock is extremely limited on bars, plates, and alot of racks. That and shipping is limited due to certain companies having to shut down. I have an order for a few things I hope gets on a truck soon otherwise its no gym for weeks on end.
Yeah it's wild out there right now for availability!
I fold my wall mount Fray folding rack every day (open to begin; close when finished). There you go. Now you know me, and you can say you know someone who bought a folding rack for the space and functionality and uses it for the reason he purchased it.
lol
I should have brought a rack 1 month before everything is out of stock now
It's def a tough time to buy
A bar wont miss your safeties that easy. But. When missing, it can bounce off your safety catchers. For those of us who train alone I would always suggest a full rack unless there is no other option.
I think for some it can if you have a regular workout and/or short spotter arms!
I just picked up a little squat stand, because of some present gym issues.....and it defiantly doesn't feel as nice as a half or full rack.
The thing that is super appealing about the full rack is not just the real estate for accessories, but also the ability to have a someone squatting at one end, and another benching at the other end, with the right set up.
Not if you don't have any friends :)
This is exactly what I expect out of comparison reviews! Awesome info brother. This is a golden nugget 👍
Thanks for taking a look!
I have a foldable rack, and never folded it once, but does have a small footprint and accessories are sufficient for me.
I never desire(d) a full rack as it takes up too much space and I like space in my garage which is why i only own 1 specialty machine, a calf machine.
Right on!
My 2 cents is this. In general people nowadays take up a new activity and immediately want pro Calibre gear. It never used to be that way and it doesn't make any sense and it's extremely unnecessary. If your starting out in something get the starting out level because you do not know if your going to stick with it, and alot of people get into something because it's trendy not because of passion. If you stick with it get progressively better equipment as needed. You do not need SBD sleeves to go with your first gym membership.
Like any hobby, people like to invest in it. I agree you don't need to go all in right away, but you also risk certain issues by not buying quality up front, like having to spend additional money to upgrade or get what you want.
@@BasementBrandon in my opinion, investing in a hobby you will stick with makes sense, investing on something new is a waste of money. As well if someone can only squat 225 it doesn't make sense to get a rack that has a 1500 pound capacity. A little while back a kid in the gym was benching 185 pounds barely for a few reps then told me he could only use a competition bench. To me that's rediculous. Example, Right now I get a few reps on squat with 505 with band tension, so I have a rack with a 700 capacity. But it's ok if we have a difference of opinion.
I really like my rogue s-3 squat rack. I even use it with the spud pulley system for versatile workout.
Awesome to hear!
I actually like having a mirror in front of the rack when doing squats. It sometimes helps me gauge my depth in training so when comp day comes I hit it no problem.
And if it's a big problem just turn your rack around lmao no one is forcing you to point it at a wall
Tane again, it’s the most space efficient to do so
@@monkeyxpwner sure, I mean for the cost restricted
I've def done it, I just feel like for most it's not the best idea, engrains some bad habits, but glad it's working for you!
I have contacted Rep Fitness about creating a modular squat rack that can be upgraded piece by piece to become a full rack (Their Rep 5000v2) and they said they have plans to come out with one. So hopefully its sooner than later. This is where I think most "Rack" companies miss the mark.
Rep has a lot of interesting things on their roadmap!
Brought back memories..haven't seen the gym @3:08 in a loooooooong time!! Was here is when i first started watching/following.
Haha had to dig it up
I usually lift at my school. I just need a way to lift until we get back. Just got a $379 half rack on sale. I can squat, bench, and deadlift. Works with me.
Nice.
Glad I watched this, almost picked a bench one.
Lots of options!
anyone that has ever been iffy on buying their home gym is now so glad they did.. including me... god i fucking love my home gym.
100%
just got my stuff last black friday/ christmas. cant be happier.....
Good timing!
@@BasementBrandon yes. and good deals too!! good video.
I traded up from a folding squat rack with spotter arms to a 4 post rack. Exactly what you said, I never folded it up anyway and while it was extremely stable I never felt completely safe squatting with spotter arms. I just sold it a couple of weeks ago, would’ve easily got my asking price right now! Lol
My man moving on up!
It’s from watching your videos!🤣
I think it missed a point of comparison or differentiation, Overhead pressing and need for height there. I have an older 4 post rack and just two hours ago purchased the RepFitness Half Rack system. The reason -- I figured out I would need a 100+" rack height or still need to lift outside the rack and need front pedestal feet similar to what you have. I am a bit taller than most at 6'4" but that was what convinced me to go that way.
On the topic of failing, I haven't had a problem with spotter arms as that is all my commercial now-closed gym had. Set them at the right height and fail forward to let the arms catch the weight. It might not be as simple above 450#, but so far it's worked well.
It's interesting to me how many people want to OHP inside a rack, never made much sense to me as it's probably one of the safest lifts to fail.
Have a 72 inch squat stand only wish was taller for that sweet pullup bar. Never liked lifting inside a rack for some reason.
Appreciate the feedback!
A lil trick to give yourself a extra 3.5 inches is to set the rack on some 4x6 timber and bolt the rack into it with some structual screws or lag bolts, or you can even give yourself 5.5 extra inches by getting a 5.5 inches. I learned this trick by placing a cheap rack outside and didnt want it to have direct contact with the gound to prevent rust so I bolted it on a 4x6 pressure treated wood and give me that extra reach too.
Snatched up a squat stand (and a few other things online) - assembling isn't fun but a small price to pay nowadays.
Yeah it's wild on how many people are buying right now.
These times have me considering seriously putting together a rack and some extra accessories such as dumbells and kettlebells for sure. A 4 post rack is the way to go, even though I'd rather just drop the barbell. But I'll go insane with everything closed and curfew in place.
Its crazy to see the shift to home gyms
@@BasementBrandon I was on the fence for one and the whole pandemic is the final push that I needed. Stock seems kinda low though 😂
I use a cheapo combo rack for my home gym for less than $200, it claims it can hold 550 lbs and I only got 172 lbs in standerd weight plates (pandemic home gym, already had the CAP weights scattered and rusting, cleaned and painted them)
It's a Kicode something something, if its your only other option I HIGHLY recomend it over the cheaper Walmart stuff with no real spotter arms
right on
Good thing I make my own, already built a bunch of home gyms for family and friends lol
nice!
oh god that man's spine is begging of relief at 3:08
no
i always thought that squat stands were often primarily used by olympic weighlifters. since all they do is high-bar or front squat, and they always have bumpers, they can just drop the weight rather than rely on safety arms. squat stands also allow space to practice jerks and other overhead movements without interference from a cage.
Just depends on what kind of set up you want/need!
Thanks for featuring our gym Brandon! Also super informative video for those just getting into building a home gym.
You bet!
I keep thinking about upgrading my RM3 to an RM6.
I keep two plate trees behind the rack where the uprights of the RM6 would go, so no space lost, in fact I could probably store more stuff on the RM6 in the same amount of space.
I think that's my move (buy 2 uprights) when I move.
If you are going to go with squat stands, I recommend the ones with plate pegs on the bottom. Putting a 35 on each one makes a huge difference in stability. As for safety bars, I use a pair of collpsible steel saw horses, rated at 1000 pounds each. It's just as safe as a power rack. Accessory-wise, I made a U-shaped dip bar that fits on the saw horses, and I do pullups on attachments hanging from a huge eye-bolt mounted in the top of a door frame. This enables me to work out in my kitchen, in a space that is about 6x8 ft, doing basically everything I would with a power rack except barbell bench press, with most of the stuff stored outside on the enclosed porch when not working out.
appreciate the detailed insight.
My squat rack is my brother stands on the bench press and lift the weight on my shoulders and when I'm done I back up so he can grab the bar and put it down.
lol
Still waiting for my squat rack to arrive
fingers crossed
6 post, never have to upgrade and always have plate storage. If you have the room and budget, there's no better option.
They are def nice
I get around not having a pull up bar on my short rack buy putting the j-cups at the top and placing a bar on in then doing pullups from my knees. From a dead stop they are hard and I can just add a weight vest if needed.
Right on, can also do rack chins!
I use my a multi grip bar too
The one thing I regret was not watching you or garage gym reviews before purchasing a rack. I bought the Rogue SML -2 squat rack but should've just paid a little more for the R3 power rack. I will prob use the SML-2 squat rack for the next few years and then sell it and maybe just full send for a PR-5000 from REP. I am still very happy with the SML 2 squat rack though.
you could prob sell it now for what you paid (or even more)!
@@BasementBrandon Now is absolutely the time!
Trying to decide between Rep HR5000 and PR4000 for my garage gym. The plate storage on the HR5000 would really help me save space.
You can add plate storage to a PR4000
I am super excited to see this! Thanks Brandon 🤩
Hope you like it!
Brandon Campbell Diamond could you do one for Smith machine/power racks and even show some that have the cable crossover attachment?
The best looking DIY rack that I've seen. Can you post plans?
Not mine :(
I bought the SML-2 Monster Lite with the pull up bar. I hope it gets to my house in the next two weeks
Fingers crossed, I know everyone is slammed right now.
The one that isn't stuck together.. Is it really stable and safe. Seems like a, great space saver
Those are the worst IMO
Do you have any advice for benching safely alone with a squat stand?
Get spotter arms and set them to a level where it can’t crush your neck/face
Brandon Campbell Diamond Thank you so much for the reply. I have ordered spotter arms and I’m going to take extra precaution. 🤙🏻
@9:53 "Folding racks, I think they stand on their own" Doesn't requiring a wall anchor mean they do the exact opposite?! Keep up the good work. Love your content.
Lol was an interesting choice of words, but I meant stand alone in their own category :)
Good job. Now even more stuff will be sold out 👌
You got that right!
Have a monster lite squat rack and was thinking of upgrading to the half rack. Wanted straps to be able to do things like rack pulls and not rest the bar on pins. Rogue doesn’t offer straps in that length so would have to do something custom or perhaps spud version. Not sure if most other companies offer short straps either for half racks.
Might be able to DIY with tow straps
I think for me the ideal set up would be a 30” rack with safety straps. And then go from there.
I'm loving my current set up like that.
Brandon Campbell Diamond 30inch is mint. Anything bigger is a waste of space imo.
Hey Brandon big fan, I have one question since you've masterfully covered Power Racks; could you do something on Squat Stands specifically....some people such as myself don't have too much space to work with and I wanted your opinion and assessment on this matter.
I will put it on my list.
what is the name of the rack matthewsword09 is using?
I think it's the Titan X-3 Half Rack (or the T-3)
@@BasementBrandon thank you i got the rogue half rack as the titan was out of stock.
If I could buy over again I would probably go for a powerrack. Got a ER combo rack atm, really like that too (especially for bench). But I think it would be more space efficient for me to have got a powerrack. Because atm I've got some pullup bar to the side of the comborack and that means I have to move the bar every time I do those or I will get my bar up my ass...
Still a sweet set up! Are you still using the metal rollers? Any issues wearing down knurling over time?
@@BasementBrandon seems like the knurling om some parts of the bar has worn down. Been thinking about getting made some custom ones.
This is a great video. I would like your recommendation regarding building a home gym of the first floor of a new house. What additional safety features should one look our for? Thanks.
Just make sure you put it near the main supports if you'll be doing heavy lifting.
Been watching a lot of these rack videos u have. Looking to buy some equipment for a home gym this week 👍🏽
Go for it! Assuming anyone has any stock left!
Brandon Campbell Diamond right! I’m stuck between getting the Rogue RM-3 Monster Rack 2.0 or the Rogue RM-4 Monster Rack 2.0... which do you recommend considering I don’t have an issue with the $150.00 difference or space in my garage?
Bryan Gutierrez really personally preference at that point, if you’re looking for more space to do stuff inside the rack the rm4 makes sense. I’ve had both depths and find the 30” of a RM3 to be fine.
I signed up for notices from Rogue and REP Fitness and hounded them the month of April. First notice a rack was available I responded 3 days later and it was gone. The next time I responded immediately and got one. In the meantime I had purchased a Rogue squat stand I found on NextDoor. So now I have and use both. The point is stay after it stuff still comes available. Good luck from an old guy who can still bench & squat his weight.
I was wondering about the folding racks. I am willing to store it when not in use bc I do park my car in the garage. Is there one would you consider for the budget gym build series
I just sold my RML-3WC to get an RM-3, but I would highly recommend it. Like everything else Rogue, it’s extremely well built and has much heftier mounting arms than other folding racks. And for around $500 depending on color/stringer options, it’s a great deal. Others like PRx get a lot more expensive when you get beefier racks and their hole spacing/sizing differs, as well. Also, the 21.5” version was so low profile, I could park my car in the garage without folding it, but putting it up took about 60 seconds when I did. I know I’m not the Brandon you were asking, but from my experience, I can’t recommend another folding rack more.
TBH if you want something budget I'd look at one of the clones, like the one from Titan.
@@brandonstout9402 first thank you for the information. I posted on this channel bc I know there are people that are more knowledgeable then me about this subject area then I am that follows Brandon as well as him his self.
@@BasementBrandon thank you for your advice I would definitely take it to an account. And thank you for replying so fast
Did you buy a folding rack? Are you happy with it? Which one did you buy and do you actually fold it up when not in use?
Hello! Super rookie over here. 112 lbs female just trying to build muscle / definition with not tons of experience . I definitely prioritize safety and something versatile. Looking into the R-3 power rack Or RML-390F Monster Lite Rack. Would love your feedback , suggestion!
I think the R-3 is the better rack overall, but you HAVE to bold it down. That being said the 390f will offer a similar experience and doesn't need to be bolted.
Good video mate 👍
Thanks 👍
Hey Brandon, just got back to regularly catching your channel rly great stuff. You might have covered this in older videos - How long have you started lifting? & Have you always done powerlifting or did you used to do more bodybuilding workouts?
Have a good one mate
Been training since the mid to late 90's for basketball initially, then got into bodybuilding style training, but have been doing mostly powerlifting for the past 8 years.
Snagged some Squat stands due to lack of space ftw
Right on!
i bought my squat rack and i cant be happier , i bought for a store in my country spain , cause everything else is fucking sold out ...
Nice!!
Is the paint on Rogue's colored racks more durable than their matte black powder coated racks in terms of which one is expected to scuff up more? Does the colored paint go on top of black powder coat or in place of black powder coat?
Holds up a little better IMO b/c of the gloss vs matte finish, but both with get scuffs over time.
Excellent work Brotha. Thanks! Namaste
Much appreciated
My gym is getting shut again, think im gonna get a squat stand just for the hell of it.
nice!
Well if someone has a room that uses for gym but for more things like gatherings,the first option is king in my opinion,but you need a spotter or 2 for PR.If you are able to lift >250kgs,you should also be grown enough to have a job to afford the cages 🤓
Right on
With the squat racks and power racks, what do you think about putting them outside? I guess if I covered it with a tarp it would be ok, but is there a way to “weather proof” it?
I don't think so. Steel oxidizes, however it shouldn't impact usability much.
Which rack would be good for heavy rack pulls, but takes up less space? I have a 1 car garage, so not much space.
Something that's like 30" deep or so would be fine, just bolt it to the floor and it'll be super solid.
what does the "depth" of a rack represent? I've been looking at racks and see there's options for different depths but idk what it means.
Distance from front to back. Some people prefer deeper racks b/c it gives them more room to do stuff, the downside is it takes up more footprint.
awesome video- thank you!!
Glad you liked it!
Wow, ERINLIFTS rack made it to the video. His rack looks amazing.
Right?!
Great video
Thanks!
Any thoughts on flooring? I'm thinking about getting a rogue 6 post rack, but it would be indoors on fake hardwood so I want to make sure I don't mess up my house. Should I buy rubber mats to put it on? A platform?
I would pick up a few stall mats from tractor supply!
How long do you think gyms will be closed?
Prob until summer.
What are your thoughts on the Rogue Fortis racks? Why do they cost a similar price as the RML racks? Do you think they would be a better option than the RML?
Welded panels, so less material. They're great options.
Great video! Great channel! Just curious on your opinion of the racks offered by Archon. Looks like they have some well priced options and offer some added accessories for the racks that are not offered by other manufacturers.
They basically just import from China and rebrand, so similar to some of the other budget options.
Brandon Campbell Diamond Appreciate the info. I’ll stick with Rogue or may consider going REP for a new rack. Stay healthy and BIG out there!
Think I may be getting a squat stand here soon
Prob best for those not wanting to invest a lot in a set up!
Thoughts on the Marcy Smith Machine 4008.
no first hand experience. Personally not a fan of smith machines for the fixed ROM
I live in Canada and buying from the US is crazy shipping, any suggestions on good Canadian brands for racks?
StrongArm, Bells of Steel, Tytax
Atlantis strength in Mtl! Build like tanks
northern lights
Thanks for doing these. I'm moving later this year and will be putting together a new home gym in my garage. What model rack do you own right now is it an R3?
It's a RM3, so Rogue's heaviest duty rack, but a R3 for most will be more than enough rack!
I built a wooden one for less than 100$ , works great for now. Damn near impossible to find one online.
Nice
Would a four post rack without plat storage realistically need to be bolted down? I can’t envision it tipping or sliding anymore than a typical squat stand would
Depends on the footprint. A lot of squat stands have legs that extend to help brace. I had a garage set up where the main piece as a 30" depth power rack that was not bolted down, but I had half rack feet on it to keep it stable.
Do you think a car could park just right above the squat stand legs. I want to get a rack for the garage but still would like to park the cars after I’m done
above? yes. assuming that they aren't as wide as the car.
Hey, that's me! If you have questions about squat stands feel free to ask here or on IG! :)
oh hey
You feel comfortable squatting in a stand or do you think a cage would make more sense? Sounds like Brandon things a cage makes more sense. I can’t really make up my mind
Great video Brandon! Coming from an outside gym user, i find the content you have incredibly helpful with the layout i have ahead of me. I had just started investing in a home gym & have to start from scratch =(.
The footprint of the room it will be in; inside a home on the first floor with the dimensions of 130x113x94. The options i am considering are Rep Fitness PR5000v2 or Rogue Monster RM3 OR RM4 and until recently Titan X3. I currently do not have any weight storage either. I know this is going to get pricey, and thought it out, and the mentality of the buy once cry once is where i'am leaning towards.
I would like to try and build a deadlift platform inside the rack, but iam not sure which size depth would be the better option.
Brandon, any thoughts you have would be extremely helpful.
I think the Rep option will likely give you the most for your money.
What about using a yoke as a squat stand?
You can, but I find it's still a yoke that you're using to do other things in. I have a review on the strengthshop yoke.
Do you have a recommendation on where to look at/buy racks?
New or used?
my question is will a half-rack allow me to overhead press/bench press?
It can.
What are your thoughts on 14 gauge squat racks/power racks when squatting 400-500 regularly? I don’t feel like I need 11 or 12 gauge .
It's tough to say, those gauges usually have weight ratings of under 1000 lbs and while you won't necessarily hit the "max" it's a sign of cheaper steel that could break under load still.
When your squat rack doesn't have a pull up bar you can put the bar on the highest level of your rack and you can use that as a pull up bar. It's definitely not ideal because you have to keep your feet of the ground by pulling your heels to your but and especially when you're tall it still might be too low but it's worth a try! And you can also attach a (DIY) pulley system to the bar. I'm even thinking of putting a thick board or something on my spotters so I can lay on it and have a chest supported row.
Not a bad tip, thanks for sharing!