POWER RACK BUYERS GUIDE! Everything you need to know before buying your first squat rack!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.ค. 2024
- In this video I go over everything you need to know before buying your first power rack or upgrading an existing one. I cover all the common questions like what size, color, brand, type, width, depth and even what kind of safeties to buy. I go over brands like Rogue Fitness, Irwin Fitness, Rep Fitness, Ghost Strong, Sorinex, Oak Club, Fringe Sport, Fray fitness, Valor Fitness and Titan Fitness.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro
00:50 Why buy a Squat Rack?
02:53 Quality
06:23 Color and Finishes
08:45 Domestic vs Import Steel
11:25 5/8" vs 1" Holes
12:35 Types of Squat Racks
18:16 Depth
20:03 Width
22:32 Height
23:41 Safeties
25:00 Final Thoughts
let me know what you think in the comments below if you have any questions. Thanks for watching.
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00:00 Intro
00:50 Why buy a Squat Rack?
02:53 Quality
06:23 Color and Finishes
08:45 Domestic vs Import Steel
11:25 5/8" vs 1" Holes
12:35 Types of Squat Racks
18:16 Depth
20:03 Width
22:32 Height
23:41 Safeties
25:00 Final Thoughts
I would add that if you aren't certain about what style of rack you want, try to prioritize a system that has options for upgrading later. Just one example is Rogue's SML-2 squat stand which can later be converted to a half rack or a 4 post rack
Good point! worth mentioning you can't go between Rogue and Rep so pick on and stick to that system. Different upright hole spacing.
I’ve been watching a lot of equipment reviews. I want to applaud you on being so thorough and well spoken. Your entire delivery was perfect and inclusive to all level of fitness experience. Definitely helpful and in my opinion the best review I have come across.
thanks! youtube isn't my thing honestly Im not good at it. Just try to get the info out. cheers!
This is the best power rack explanation I've found yet. Thank you!
This is easily the best power rack information video I have watched. Thankyou, it help me a lot.
Appreciate it!!! Thanks for watching
This is by far the most informative video I’ve found on this.
Great content, brother. Keep it up. Squat/power rack decisions are huge. Space, $$$, accessories, training style …so many factors. I started my garage gym 1.0 with a Yoke and now GG 4.0 has a RM6 and a squat stand.
The only thing for certain is it's NEVER done. ha ha.. cheers!
This was very thorough and as an owner of 3*3 5/8 Rogue ML Squat stand, appreciate the love for squat stands earlier in your video! Also, your insight into 3*3ish import racks being able to accept 3*3 domestic attachments, but not the reverse was great. I've never considered the limitations. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent comprehensive overview for comparison of power racks!
thanks!
The best video on explaining the different types of racks and in what situation they're best used. Liked and subbed. 👍
Much thanks, boss.
You answered every question I had about Racks for the last month!!!! Thank you so much!!!!
your welcome
Outstanding video touching on all of the important considerations when buying a power rack….very well done!!! I’m currently building out the REP PR5000 along with the soon-to-be released Ares 2.0. I was a little torn on whether or not to go with the 16/41 build vs. the 16/30 build. My gym can accommodate both configurations but keeping the footprint smaller would allow me more room for my other equipment as well as body weight exercises and yoga. Your video has me leaning to the 16/30 build…..so thank you for that!
Good video fella! Very detailed and thorough.
Much appreciated!
Great video and super thorough! I’ve been hesitant to pull the trigger on my rack purchase and your video really helped me decide on some things! Am a new subscriber now! Thanks!
Thanks for the feedback. Appreciate it👍🏻
Just do it. Got mine in a month ago. I've used it daily several times a day. Let's just say I shower more often because after I shower. An hour later I want to do more exercises.
Awesome setup and great information and thoughts. Thank you
your welcome
Excellent video enjoyed each category in deep review.
Glad you enjoyed it! Appreciate the comment. cheers!
Thankyou so much ! This was so helpful! I m in process of buying my first rack and this is all I needed
Glad it was helpful!
which one did you end up getting? congrats on your new rack.
This was excellent. And ive seen many. Thank you.
your welcome
Fantastic video. Great content. Well presented.
Much appreciated! I need to work on more videos like this.
Great content, I hope you keep it coming. Just put together my PR5000 (as sturdy as any rack I have ever used) and am eagerly awaiting the Ares attachment.
The PR5000 impressed me the first time I opened up the box to see the uprights. The fit and finish is nicer than some of my Rogue uprights honestly! I've been very happy with it.
Best power rack video on You Tube. This is exactly the information a buyer needs to understand the best choice for purchase.
I really appreciate it!! cheers, Rylan
Я😂
This channel deserves more subscribers!!
appreciate that!
I have a buddy getting into home gyms and sent him this as a great overview. Well done!
right on. thanks for doing that!
Mac....by far THE best video I've seen as I'm currently collecting information before purchasing my first Rack. I'm going with REP just uncertain, 4000 or 5000.
Thank you.
Bravo Zulu
LHD-1 Plankowner
Go Navy!
Glad I could help!
Thank you so much for the help brother!
Happy to help!
Thank you for this vid, very informative.
Your welcome
You answer questions that coop doesnt. Great Job.
great pointers!!! thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video. Thanks!
Thanks!
I’ve been more than happy with my Rep Fitness PR 4000 rack. I’ve had it for over two years now, 30 inch depth 4 post rack with the high/low pulley attachment upgrade this year. Kinda wish I’d gone with the PR 5000 but this rack will last me the rest of my life. Lol
Thanks for the in depth review, you didn’t leave anything out!💪
That’s an awesome rack!! Cheers!
The only bummer I'm finding is that not as many companies make attachments with 5/8" hardware (on 3x3 racks)
Why do you wish you had gone PR5000 instead? I just ordered my PR4000 last night (lat pulldown included), and I saw 1" holes as a disadvantage due to bench area hole spacing. Seems like most attachments come in either 5/8" or 1" holes.
No reason other than looks. Lol
Functionality is going to be identical, you’re going to love the PR 4000.
I got the 4000 because smaller holes means more metal in the uprights (at least that was my thinking then). I also didn't see much advantage of a 5000 other than that cool cross beam of the 5000 that probably would have just gotten in the way (looks cool, though). I went with a 6-post 4000, with 41" depth on the cage and 16" depth on the extended plate storage portion. My only regret is sticking with the short upright posts. Doing toes-to-bar with 80" uprights is fine (I'm 5'8"), but a little more clearance would be nice. Otherwise, I love my 4000 and am super happy with my choices every day.
PRX Performance has a great (hinge-able, up & down style) variety of 3x3 racks similar to Rogue’s (left to right) folding racks for those who are limited on space like myself who has a single car garage (I also park in it too) that still want to have a “garage gym”. Great reviews on all products. Keep up the amazing work!
Thanks for the tips!
I think PRx only has a 2 by 2 14 gauge steel full rack
Thank you for the info great video .
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for the wealth of information. I think I will build my gym like yours. 👍
Any time!
Excellent help! Thank you
You bet
Grea guide keep up the good work!
Glad it helped!
Very thorough. That Tar Heels rack looks awesome.
Thanks! Appreciate it.
Sick garage/home gym you have there💪👍
Looking to put a power rack in the barn and doing research on which would be the best option that also has attachments/cable hookups.
Thanks for the video
you bet!
Subbed. Another excellent video. Overall, great content
Appreciate it. 🤙🏼
Excellent video. Thanks.
happy to help
Such a helpful video holy shit, I really appreciate it
10 post rack FTW, if you have the space. Keep all plates on the center posts, and have a fully functional, no interference, fully enclosed rack on each side. Also, for safety if there are multiple people using the space at the same time without good coordination and/or gym organization/layout, make the racks tall enough to press overhead in. Big, tall, strong guys momentarily getting dizzy while maxing out on overhead lifts, are not safe to be around unless they are enclosed on all sides..... Most newer racks allow pullup bars to a bit down on uprights, instead of right at the top. If so, no need for the old headroom above the rack advice for pull-ups.
I tried a 8 post rack for 3 months and just found it didn't work for our gym. Trust me I wanted it to work. 10 post just won't work in our space but It's not to say I don't agree with you. It offers some great training stations.
Awesome video, thanks.
Your welcome
Thank you, helpful information
Thanks for the comment and watch!! Appreciate you.
If rogues 3x3 are 1mm thicker than reps 76mm then I would choose rogue for strength lol jk. 3 years ago I went with a rogue hr2 monsterlite rack in my 2 car garage where I still park both cars in the gym. I didn't have any room for a 4 or 6 post power rack. This year I stabilized my halfrack with 3x3 cross members from top to bottom with extended rear uprights to match the front upright height. Now my half rack doesn't shake at all. I also modified and installed monster lite slinger with 300lb weight stack to save space. My half rack is a beast that can now do multiple things even hold my punching bag. I stacked 1000lbs of weight on it and it doesn't budge.
I'm glad I didn't upgrade to a full rack because tons of people don't know the full compatibilities of a half rack are almost the same as a 4 post power rack. I have seen people bench, squat around 500lbs on rogue hr2 and no issues. 90% of the people online don't give monsterlite half-racks enough credit for it's strength in a compact size to be honest. Thank you for your thorough review. 👍
You did well on that build out. Your right about overkill home gym racks! Westside was using 2” racks with 1000 lb plus on them for years.😂 monster lite is great and my buddy has a entire gym 3-4 racks in monster lite. 🤘🏼🤘🏼
Buying a REP Rack now this helped me so much thank you!
great. you won't go wrong with it.
Agree lost about 35lbs, got my strength back, sleep better, drinking a lot less. I got dual athenas, kabukki transformer bar and squat max md from titan also. i do wish Rep racks were 2 inches wider I hit my elbows on spotter arms a lot.@@MacStrengthCo
Great video. Thank you
Fantastic video!
Thank you very much!
Fitness Gear from Dicks is by far and away the best half rack bang for buck $$$$ their half rack is a true 3x3 with 1 inch holes made of super high quality steel which comes with weight plate holders for like $399.00 !!! I’ve owned mine for a couple years and the J hooks are stout and spotter arms are amazing !! All of which comes with it at that price ! But no one ever talks about fitness gear brand :/ not sure why
hard to beat that.
Awesome video! I’ve got the exact same rack as you and love it. The only thing I’m curious to see is how it is adjusting an attachment up and down, like the Ares, if I ever would get it. If it was in stock I would’ve got a white/black rack or the clear grind
I agree. I think the adjustment will be ok but the colors are smoother for sure. cheers!
Great vid! I bought a half rack about 6 years ago due to limited space and very low basement ceiling at only 83". There was pretty much nothing out there at that time that could fit except Titans short squat stands which I converted to a half rack. Its been fine. Ive learned to do everything outside the rack and Im cool with that. But Im considering an upgrade. I think my only choice might be Reps 80" half rack. I have a few other Reps products and they are a solid company. Thanks again for the great info.
Good luck with your build.
I started with a Craigslist Tuff Stuff bench press that was able to do squats and fold up with wheels. Then a Craigslist body solid 4 post rack which I sold to get a Titan x3 squat stand which was nice. Then during covid I upgraded to my Rep PR-5000, super happy with the choice I have low ceilings so I went short rack otherwise I would have paid an arm and leg for Rogue Monster rack.
Well you got a Pr5000! Which is an awesome rack. cheers!
Solid video man! Super super helpful. Wish I knew more of this when I bought mine. Lol
Glad you liked it!
I 100% agree with the buy once cry once method. I went straight to the PR 5000 V2 and have not regretted it at all. A cheaper rack MIGHT hold the weight you can lift, but is it going to inspire much confidence in your safety if it is wobbling with that weight? I would rather have a rack that does not flinch holding that weight. Great video man.
Thanks. Ya we did the same thing and went straight to the PR5000! cheers
Excellent guide for first squat rack!! What high end USA made brands and models do you recommend and why? I am looking at Sorinex, Legend Fitness, Straydog, and Hammer Strength.
I don't own any of those brands but like Sorinex alot.
As some in the early stages of a garage gym this was the BEST and most informative video I’ve seen. I wanted to know if a PR-4000 30inch depth rack would be okay without being bolted down? I’ll never go beyond 350lbs.
yes the rack will be fine but best to store some plates on it. REP's racks are really heavy duty.
Since I go wide placing my hands outside the J Cups for a squat, a Rep rack seems to be the one for me. Great video thanks for sharing 👍🏽
yes REP or Sorinex will be narrower racks.
Great video!
Thanks!
This was awesome. I have some brand half rack in my apartment. Some staff refer to my apartment as "the control center", partially due to this.
Lately things have gotten questionable and spicy so I think it's time for a up grade.
right on!
Thank you so much for all great details. You covered everything that needs to be considered when buying a squat rack. I am looking for a rack which also have functional trainer and came across Bodycraft RFT rack functional trainer. Can you please let me know if I should buy this. How safe this is and how good it is for long run use
Looks like a all in one machine but you will have some limitations on expanding it in the future. If that's not an issue by all means try it. Most if not all of these all in one machines are drop shipped from China and very similar. I think Costco might even sell one. All the best on your home gym journey!
Excellent video. I'm looking hard at the Rep PR-5000 80 inch. I'm in a basement and need more clearance for the low ceiling and lat row attachment that runs over top.
I'm just hoping I can get a full extension for lat pull downs being 6'3".
I’m 6.2” and haven’t had any issue with my Titan lat tower which is built off an 80” height five or take.
You might have to lean back a bit to get full extension or set your seat lower but I think it’s possible for sure.
@@MacStrengthCo thanks for the quick reply!
Great in depth video, I'm looking at buying the same rack you have in the video. I love the color scheme of the PR-5000. Can you tell me how you got the strap handles red and the REP sign red and the ends of the spotter arms? One other thing, where did you purchase the wall glass from in your gym? Thanks
I have a video on painting stuff red. Mirrors from home depot
@@MacStrengthCo Thanks for the update. I will look at the painting video. And what sizes are the mirrors you purchased at Home Depot? Thanks
Great review! I bought my 4-post rack so I can do squat, bench and pull-ups. My rack is 2.5"x2.5" and 12 gauge steel which I think is more than sufficient compared to 3x3 11 gauge which is definitely overkill and way more expensive. You forgot to mention for height if training in a basement, 80-85" works best for most people
Great point. I agree that most gear is way over built for what we need.
I briefly touch on ceiling height and mention the limited heights you might want to look into a 80" rack like REP sells. Thanks again for watching and the awesome feedback! cheers
Overbuilt...Yes, but the additional girth also provides additional stability for those of us who can't bolt the rack down.
@Mac Strength, have you used Rogue’s Monster lever arms on a Rep PR5000? What about Rogue’s Monster Lat/Low row attachment and slinger on the PR5000?
I haven’t tried either one. The thing to watch is if there’s 2 bolt up locations the hole spacing is different so the space between can be different but I’ve rarely found anything with that. The lever arms should be fine.
Your gym is amazing! Where did you get the mirrors?
Great overview
thanks!
Great video, thanks for covering basically everything!
Glad you liked it!
Thank you! This my next purchase for my gym. There's so many options. It can get overwhelming. What kind of j cups do you use?
The rep flat J-cups work great and don't cost much.
Super helpful
happy to help
Well Said !!!
Thanks!
The new transition music is very nostalgic 😂🤙🏼.
I’m not even sure how I did that!😂
My brother, I'm looking at purchasing one of these setups and your video helped me out a great deal. Would it be possible for you to share the exact configuration of the setup right behind you? From the accessories to the weights, to the roller J cups? Thank you!!
instagram.com/macallisterstrengthco/?hl=en
Hit me up on IG and I can send you some info.
Great content in my opinion I put rogue ahead of rep. Not to say rep is bad but I’ve used both, American made beats China made, better welds better attatchments more option’s especially with monster series. I would put sorinex maybe a little ahead of Rogue and williams ahead of them from personal experience.
I would tend to agree on all those points. Well said.
@@MacStrengthCo and Hammer Strength as well as Legend Fitness!
Very thorough, thanks for every detail!!! Great video, now I have choices to stay away from
Love my Rogue RML-690C blue rack. When we build our next house, I might sell so I don’t need to move it and then buy a 1” hole rack.
All these decisions to make! They can't make it easy can they. cheers Mark!
Another question. Any comments on true 3" attachments having too much play on import uprights? ie: Rogue attachments on REP uprights.
I haven't found that to be an issue. They do make UMHW tape to help fill the gap if you needed but I've never used it.
Thankyou this helped me narrow down to pr 4000 vs rouge rml 490 .. any recommendation
buy what makes you happy. No difference really other than name brand and made in america.
I'm buying my first rack soon. I have a 120 inch ceiling indoors. I'd prefer a half rack. My main concern is most racks being too short. 96-100 inch height would be perfect for me but that's pretty hard to find. I'm 6'3 and enjoy doing pullups, but would rather not have to bend my knees. I like the look of the Rep Apollo, but it only goes to 93 inches. Another option is the Rogue HR2 108 inch version. Have you had any issues doing pullups on your 93 inch rack at your height?
I’m buying a cheap Titan squat rack for now just to get me lifting and squatting then I’m planning on upgrading when I have the extra money and space
hell ya brother!! I'm all about getting what you can to start training. I've seen some killer deals on Rogue racks lately on marketplace cheaper than Titan. Keep an eye out.
Great info. I'm upgrading from SML2. Looking at 4 post w/ strap safety. Bench inside on back uprights. Squat opposite side still inside rack. Would you recommend 43" over 30" depth (RM4/3)? Or is 30" still fine. I have rogue trolley arms waiting that will go on front as well. Thoughts are if take a step back on squats that there's no chance to interfere with bench j-cups. I plan on having two sets always mounted. Other thoughts are Irwin Fitness P41.
30" has been more than enough depth for most people. You will notice it's the most common power rack depth in a home gym. I've tried both and like the 30" better.
@@MacStrengthCo thanks for the response. 30" would help me out on floor space too. thanks again
Ended up getting a mint used RM3. With the trolley arms installed the size is perfect. Thanks again for the recommendation!!!
@@keremphoto5901 perfect!!👍🏻
Love your vibe, brother.
Good stuff…
…unfortunately, we don’t have many options in the country I live in. (Hungary)
Powertec has a reseller (not fully convinced)
Rogue will ship from Belgium, but not the same items as stateside.
Really want a good rack…😊
Not many options in europe yet but hopefully Rogue or Rep can get over your way.
Legend Fitness and Hammer Strength make my favorite squat racks but expensive! Rogue Fitness is decent too.
true!
How about safety? Is a full rack safer than a half when squatting? If you tip backwards or forwards you will be stopped before going all the way over, no?
I always recommend squatting inside the rack
New sub as I’m interested in your whole gym for street parking.
Welcome aboard!
great video
thanks
I baught the 14 post rack from Williams , and pro series from legend for my facility. Jus curious if money wasn’t an issue what brand would u recommend to anyone ?
14 post rack! That's gotta be awesome. I would stick to the companies I suggested for high end custom racks. Sorinex, Oak, Irwin, Ghost, Williams etc. Comes down to shipping and what's near you really.
What were the people who said they regretted buying cheaper racks unhappy with? Which parameters suffered?
Bells of steel made their racks and other amazon cheap racks in 2.5" widths that didn't work with any of the modern attachments was a big complaint. Hole spacing was terrible and wobbly racks. Personally if your a weekend warrior it will do you just fine but anyone looking to replace a commercial gym membership like we did might want to look at REP or better in terms of quality.
@@MacStrengthCo Thank you so much for taking the time to respond. This wasn't made obvious to me at all through GarageGym's (Cooper) review of the amazon basic rack.
@@MacStrengthCo Hammer Strength and Legend Fitness would be my top picks of high end American made squat racks followed by Straydog and Surplus Strength maybe add in Sorinex but Sorinex charges a lot for shipping!
Let’s talk about the wooden design of your barbell gun rack 🔥
Type of Paint/Dimensions/etc.
I want one like that!
All hand made my friend!
How is 2.5"×2.5" 11 guage upright in terms of stability? Is its stability similar to 3×3 11guage racks?
Avoid 2.5" at all costs. 3" is my recommendation
Quesysir I’m I the market for an overbuilt rack. If money isn’t an issue which is better to get between rogue monster 6 or sorinex base camp. Both r 3x3 11 gauge steel American made. The rogue one is cheaper n seem very similar plus I am making a huge order with rogue. What are your thoughts ?
I would go all Sorinex gear if money is not an issue. American made and professional grade quality that pro sports teams use.
If your in Canada Irwin Fitness is similar to Sorinex in quality.
@@MacStrengthCo cool thanks for reply I hav a Williams rack n lots of there equipment too just like that rogue one goes to 108” height
@@alexstein1522 williams is top quality also!!
@@MacStrengthCo oh absolutely jus wanted a rogue one too since I have lots of rogue it goes w the gym brand theme
My gym is mainly rogue, Williams and legend
@@MacStrengthCo why over Legend Fitness and Hammer Strength for same price would you choose Sorinex?
Hi:
I’m looking to upgrade my RogueSM-2. I contacted Rogue to get a quote on a Rogue RM-3. I was asked if I intended to bolt the rack to the floor. I told the sales person that was not possible. Rogue said they would not sell me that rack 5:44. That it was dangerous.
I was looking for a rack with 30” depth. All my accessories are 1” compatible with 3x3.
Do you have any suggestions?
There's thousands of racks not bolted down and doing fine. The liability for Rogue to tell you not to do it is the problem. If you load up on the outside cups it could fall over in theory. If you did all your lifts inside the rack it would be stable.
If Rogue is out of the question the answer is look at REP FITNESS rack. Both are made with robotic welding and processes so there's little difference between them in quality.
What are your thoughts about Rogue RM-390F. Depth is 24”. Like you I will bench outside rack and squat inside rack. I am not loyal to Rogue, but am concerned that some of the multi holed accessories will not line up with the hole. I think Rogue is inches and Rep is millimeters.
I am seeking a rack with 1 inch diameter pegs for plate storage. Any ideas ?
1" plate pegs... umm Good question. I haven't seen that honestly.
I love my Rep PR4000 6 post rack. This rack will last me past my lift time.
Great power rack!!
@@MacStrengthCo yeah man I love it. I’ll be adding the lat pull down/low row attachment to it real soon.
Do titan have a European distributor? Or ship to uk ? Shipping costs might be high tho
I would suggest going with Rogue or REP over Titan if your going to pay huge shipping costs.
@@MacStrengthCo yeah , good call
Rep stuff is available in the uk and rogue have a European site
Is synergy a good squat rack because I have that one
Never heard of it. Hard to say my friend. If it works for you that's all that matters. cheers!
What do you think of ethos power rack 1.0 thats available at Dicks?
The cheaapest ones are the highest quality one!😊
That's always good. :)
1st thing: Where can we can we get that shirt? Link to order form. Great vid, covered everything and worth the listen. Tomorrow makes 20 days waiting on the PR5000 to be delivered. I know REP is in the middle of a move but man waiting 3 weeks is a buzzkill.
Shirts are coming soon. Man I feel you on the waiting game! I've waited so long for equipment I literally forgot I had it on order and it showed up. lol My longest was the Titan Pulldown machine took 4 months to finally deliver. Hang in there because it's worth the wait. cheers, Rylan
@@MacStrengthCo "Babe, why is there a freight truck backing down road?" Don't worry! It's been paid for since February. I'll take you to Olive Garden.
Where did you get your red chains from??
I made them. Custom
Could you maybe do a video on how you did that? I’d love to make some like that for myself
My ceiling is 98 inches would a 93 inch rack be ok or is it too close for comfort?
chin ups might be an issue but that should work.
We were there
thanks for watching