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This versatility makes them a great option forsmaller personal fitness areastoo.
Courtesy the brands / Getty Images: South_agency / Catherine Clark
(Just note that these add-ons dont come cheap, inching into and well above four-digit prices.)
Artzi says this makes them a great option for beginner lifters.
Just so you know:Our testers say that the weight limits advertised are misleading.
Its made even more versatile by the fact that it can take both 1" and 58" attachments.
Still, our testers say the Manticore offers great value when compared to others in its category.
Titan also offers a wide range of attachments that fit its 2x2 uprightsa.k.a.
squat rack posts that are 2 inches wide by 2 inches deep.
So you end up spending more money on a nicer rack after some time.
For reference, two options with an 11-inch steel gauge are theBells of Steel Manticoreand theREP PR-5000 Power Rack.
She also notes that the compact size of this rack makes it ideal for smaller spaces.
Numbered holes on the upright posts are another great feature that arent often found on such budget-friendly equipment.
Artzi also points out the machines stabilitya surprising strong point, given its thinner 14-gauge steel.
The rack becomes very stable, especially when loaded with plates.
This rack is made for those who need space-saving equipment, our tester says.
[The] folding brackets are such a smart design.
I truly love this rack.
Our tester is also a fan of how stable this machine is when in use.
Instead, check out the options fromREP FitnessandForceUSA.
Convenience
You cant beat the convenience of a home gym that will actually get you fit.
you’re free to work out on your schedule without waiting for equipment to become available.
Which punch in you choose may depend on the amount of room you have in your home workout area.
Understanding certain squat rack specs can also help you pick the best option for your needs.
Upright dimensions
Uprights are the large steel posts on a squat rack.
Slightly smaller are 2x3 uprights, and then 2x2s, which are usually found on more inexpensive machines.
In contrast, larger gaps between holes can result in compromised form and increase the risk of injury.
The most common hole sizes are 58-inch and 1-inch.
How we tested these squat racks
Our experienced testers used SELFs fullfitness-testing methodologyto rate these squat racks.
Durability (and by extension, quality!)
is especially important when it comes to squat racks because heavy weight lifting can be dangerous.
The ACE factor
The ACE factor refers to adjustability, customization, and ergonomics.
So we looked for machines that were compatible with a number of attachments.
Footprint
If youre buying a squat rack for your home gym, space is probably a concern.
What is the best throw in of squat rack?
Power rack
Think of this like a squat rack, plus.
Folding wall-mounted rack
A wall-mounted rack can fold up when not in use, saving significant space.
It still provides strong stability when unfolded and can hold decent weight, says Artzi.
Wall-mounted racks are great for home gym setups in tight areas like garages or small rooms.
Squat stand
Squat stands are [often] the most affordable and compact option, says Artzi.
Theyre great for light to moderate lifting and can be moved around easily.
FAQs
Dont have time to read a novella on squat racks?
That said, they typically have lower weight capacities and fewer features.
Artzi says cheaper racks can be safe, but this depends on a few factors.
For starters, the rack needs to have the proper weight capacity to meet your needs.
Look for options that either bolt to the floor or have a wide, stable frame.