If you’re in the market to buy a squat rack, chances are you have used one before in the gym. But before purchasing one for your home, there are a few things you should think about ahead of time.
Measure the space: Determine if you’re placing the squat rack in your garage, basement, outside or another room in your home. Look up the dimensions of the squat rack to make sure it will fit well. If you’re using your garage to also store your car, tools or other pieces of equipment, make sure the squat rack clears enough space for these items.
Functionality: Although a standard squat rack usually has racks to place a barbell, there are styles that come with a pull up bar, dip bars or other accessories. Decide if you will only use the rack for leg day or if you’d also like it to have versatility to do bench pressing, pull ups or other exercises.
Additions you will need: Squat racks require a barbell, weight plates and storage for said weights, which come at an extra cost. Usually barbells can run you upwards of $100 and will vary depending on the bar length and style. Weight plates for squat racks usually consist of five, 10, 15, 25, 35 and 45 pounds — even 55 pounds in some cases. Prices for these vary and are based on weight, brand and if it’s sold individually or as a set. These can quickly add up, so it can be helpful to decide if your budget allows to purchase a set at a time or all at once. Additionally, if the squat rack you’re eyeing doesn’t have a rack for plate storage, you will need to buy one as well.