What Makes a Good Squat Rack?

A good squat rack is essential to any leg workout. They are there for your safety, as well as making sure you get the maximum workout possible from your squats. How do you know when you have a good squat rack, though? Do you go for a cheap squat rack or an Olympic squat rack? What should you look for when purchasing or using one?

Well, the first key to a squat rack is the level base. Before using the rack, make sure the base rests smoothly along the floor. If the base is ever so slightly off, the weights can easily slip off of the studs holding them up. After using the weights, check for the rack to wobble while placing the weights on it. When there is a noticeable shake, it's time to find a new rack. This is especially essential as you get heavier weights, ones that you really can't afford to have landing on your legs.

Next, you need to make sure there are plenty of height options. The studs on the rack should be separated by about six inches. The only exception should be if you are using an extra wide bar for added support. On the thought of height, the studs should never be slanted. If they are slanted up, you might not be able to place the bar above them at the end of a workout. If the studs are slanted down, well, you understand why that may be a problem. The final height concern should be where the brace bar of the rack is. This brace bar is the two horizontal bars, parallel on both sides of you. The brace bar (the two bars are still referred to as one bar) is to make sure your squat does not go to deep, just in case you lose your balance. The flip side though is you might not be able to go deep enough. When looking around at squat racks, you should look for a brace bar at about waist height.

All of these comments are on free weight squat racks, but there is still the possibility of a squat machine rack. Honestly, for squats in particular, you are much better off using free weights. Your muscles work the hardest by working on your balance. The machine will not let these essential muscles work (much like running on a treadmill compared to running outside). If you are very concerned about safety or for some health reason, machines are still an alternative. It's far better to use the machine than do nothing. For a machine squat rack, you need to look for much the same things you do on a free weight rack. The only difference is the brace bar's height should be able to be changed. This usually can be done by two small stoppers on each side.

So, now you should be well prepared to use a home squat rack with confidence. Remember to look for the main points: level base, height options (and horizontal studs), and a good height for the brace bar. If the squat rack you want to use does not have these things, do not use it! This is for your safety. Work hard and you will find what a great aid a high quality power squat rack can be.

If you enjoyed this article and found it helpful or interesting, be sure to check out my home gym machines, electric treadmill, and Pilates machine articles.