Buying a Fitness Power Rack

The names squat rack or power rack are used interchangeably. There is a difference in the two. Like all equipment, each has its drawbacks and benefits. What you choose depends on your needs and your preference. A squat rack fits into a much smaller space and fits into a smaller floor area while a power rack offers more exercise options.

Squat Racks

Traditional squat racks are very simple in design. It has two uprights that have supports for a bar on top of each one. Some squat racks also have an independent stand on either side. Most squat racks come with two uprights that normally are attached at the bottom by a crossbar. Uprights are adjustable so you can put these supports at just the right height for you. These might or might not have safety bar extensions you can use for spotting. Extensions and accessories tend to be limited though there are attachments you can buy that will enhance the rack.

Squat racks are normally used for military presses, squats, and bench presses. You can do these on an incline or flat, if your supports go down low enough. You can do other lifts on a squat rack if it has safety bars that are adjustable. It is common to find dip bars on squat racks.

Power Racks

A power rack is simple but is more complex than a squat rack. A power rack has four uprights that are held together by a square frame on top and support on three sides at the bottom. It is designed for the lifter to be inside and to give a protective barrier to the lifter. Supports adjust to the lifter’s height and there are safety bars that adjust and stretch back to front on the rack. If a lifter should lose their balance, these provide additional safety. There are additional attachments you can get for more exercises to do.

The safety bars also offer additional exercises. They are a supports for weight at low levels and if you can raise them up high enough you can use them for pressing exercises you do overhead. Snatch, deadlifts, cleans, and many other weight and power lifting workout routines can be done in a power rack. It’s a great way to do squats too.

Both kinds of racks allow the lifter to get under weights and they both offer peace of mind since they give lifters safety bars. Using a rack gets rid of the need to take the weight off the ground or a very low support and getting to the right height, which helps a lifter’s back and avoids injuries. If space is a problem, the easy use, small, and adjustable squat racks make it easy to do bench presses, military presses, squats, and more in small spaces. There are more options for a power rack, which also has added safety features but takes a bit more room. Whichever you pick, a rack is a must for any home gym.

If you are looking to add to your home gym, check out the squat racks for sale at SquatRack.org.