5 of the Best Power Racks to Get You Ripped
Let’s face it, with our hectic schedules and long to-do lists, it’s not always possible to get to the gym. Or perhaps you want to work out but you have avoided a gym membership because it’s not practical to get to each day.
If you want a full-scale gym work out at home, a power rack may be just what you are looking for.
You may hear them referred to as a power cage or a squat rack. No matter what you call them, a power rack is a piece of steel equipment that allows you to complete a wide variety of barbell exercises. The added benefit of a power rack is the ability to provide sturdiness so you can perform other exercises–pull-ups, squats, etc.
Most people associate a power rack with their gym. While you will certainly find power racks at your local gym, they are becoming increasingly popular for home gyms too. You can find many versions to be very affordable–some which actually cost less than a 3-month gym membership.
Although power racks are typically used for weight lifting, you can design an entire full-body workout with the rack. By choosing models with accessories such as dip handles or pull-up bars, it will ensure you have plenty of options.
Whether you’re a power-lifter or just tired of going to the gym every day, a power rack could be the answer to solidifying your workout routine. Keep reading to find out which power racks could be the next addition to your home gym.
Our Pick: The Body Power Deluxe Rack Cage System
The Body Power Deluxe Rack Cage System is well-constructed with heavy gauge steel. It also features 15 different height levels for you to choose from.
Because this is a complete power rack system, it comes with multiple accessories. You will receive two dip bars and two pull-up bars. Not to mention the two full-length safety rods with j-hooks and 2 adjustable weight bar safety catch. For those of you who need additional sturdiness, it also includes four optional floor anchors.
The Body Power Deluxe Rack Cage System is well-rounded and versatile enough for your most demanding exercises. You are getting a complete system that will allow you to perform countless exercises.
The Runner Up: REP FITNESS PR-1100 Power Rack
The REP Fitness PR-1100 Power Rack will give you the ability to lift up to 1,000 pounds. Constructed of 14 gauge heavy steel, it’s sturdy enough for the most demanding power lift sessions. You also have the option to purchase a dip attachment and lat pull-down–which will certainly provide plenty of variety.
Other accessories included are two J-Cups and two full safety bars. You will be able to perform a long list of strength training and weight lifting exercises with this power rack. The J-Cups are numbered so you don’t have to guess where to line up your safety bar. The pull-up bar is designed with different thicknesses and spacing, which makes the number of exercises virtually limitless.
The REP Fitness PR-1100 does and at 7’ tall, so if space is a concern then you definitely want to confirm your requirements. This particular model can not be bolted to the ground either, which could be a concern for certain exercises. But if you can make the dimensions work within your space, then you could have a great addition to your home gym with the REP Fitness PR-1100.
More Power Racks to Consider
The CAP Barbell Full Cage Power Rack
If you consider yourself an intermediate lifter, then take a look at the CAP Barbell Full Cage Power Rack. The cage design holds up to 500 pounds for barbell catches and an impressive 750 pounds for the pull-up bar. The design of the catches (and safety bar) can help you add even more variety to your exercise routine.
The CAP Barbell Full Cage Power Rack is available in a 6 or 7-foot height, for those looking for a power rack with more options on height.
An added benefit with this particular power rack is the ability to purchase in multiple colors. If you’re looking for a way to add a little pizzazz to your home gym, then you can choose a fun color. Reviews of the power rack highlight how easy it is to assemble and add to a home gym. All of these features are available for around $229, making it budget-friendly as well.
The Marcy Home Gym Cage System Workout Station
The Marcy Home Gym Cage System is another power rack worth considering. It’s built with reinforced steel for a sturdy workout. There is a sliding post to help you easily change your barbells and exercises.
The Marcy Home Gym is more of a complete workout system. It comes with high and low pulleys so you can complete several different exercises. You can truly achieve a full-body workout because you will be able to utilize exercises for arms, legs, hips–whatever muscle group you need to work.
Another perk with this particular power rack is it’s backed by a 2-year warranty. The price tag may seem a little higher for this power rack, but when you look at the accessories which are included in it, then it makes it a great value for your home gym.
Our Value Pick: The CAP Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand
Choosing the right power rack may seem like it has to be a big financial investment. Fortunately, there are models available which cost very little but still help you achieve your workout dreams.
The CAP Barbell Power Rack Exercise Stand is fantastic option for those of you who want to invest in a basic power rack. Don’t let the price tag fool you though. You’ll still be able to perform your bench presses, pull-ups, shrugs, and squats but without the hefty price.
Questions to Consider as You Purchase Your Power Rack
How much space does the power rack use? No matter how big your budget may be, if your space is limited then you will have to carefully choose a power rack. You will want to measure your space available in your home and then confirm if the power rack can fit appropriately. Make sure you take into consideration all the measurements. Not only should be concerned with width and height but make sure your ceilings are tall enough too. These power racks may look slim, but they take up quite a bit of floor space.
How much weight does it hold? A power rack will be of no use to you if it doesn’t hold the amount of weight you need. Some power racks boast up to a 1,500-pound weight capacity. That’s quite a few barbells! If you are a serious lifter and need the weight, then look for higher capacity models.
How is the power rack constructed? Look for models with all-steel construction. You want to go with as heavy gauge as possible so you’ll have years of use. The last thing you want is your power rack to collapse due to a lack of sturdiness. Look for a rack with 12 and 14 gauge steel.
Do I want a Power Rack or a Squat Rack? Power racks typically feature a “cage” design. The intent of the cage design is to provide a greater range of exercises for you to perform. The cage means there are additional 4 vertical bars as opposed to only 2 vertical bars. However a squat rack will only have 2 vertical bars, so technically a squat rack is different than a power rack.
Which exercises am I most interested in? You won’t be able to perform every single exercise with just a power rack. Depending on how your power rack is configured, you may be able to perform specific exercises. For instance, if the power rack also includes a lat pull-down/rowing attachment.
Choosing the Perfect Power Rack
You put a lot of effort into your workouts. You want to pick a power rack that meets all of your needs and expectations. With all the options available today, you will be able to find one to check all of your boxes. Before you know it, you’ll be able to get the same quality workout from your gym but in the convenience of your own home.
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