Here’s what to look for when you want to buy a power rack:
Most of the power racks available will allow you to perform a similar set of movements, of which presses and barbell squats, are considered to be the most important. Different racks offer different kinds of accessories or different features. Depending on what you require, here are some of the features you should consider when buying a rack.
The half rack only has one set of uprights, so you have to separately develop the muscles of each side. This is more complicated that having a full rack, but sometimes financial and spatial concerns make this a more viable option. This half rack usually has an overhead bar for band attachments and for pull-ups and it should also feature safety bars. It does not form a cage around you like a full power rack. It is lighter and less stable, and needs to be safely bolted down, as heavy barbells, when stashed on the safety arms, could cause it to move. This rack though, being open down the front, does give you a great deal of freedom when you are lifting.
There are increments on the front columns which allow you precisely position your safety bars and J-hooks and many will have a place for plate and weight bar storage at the back of the rack.
The full power rack provides more stability and safety due to the fact that it is designed to be a cage, having dual columns at the front and the back which are supported by top and bottom horizontal bars. Due to this added stability it can handle heavier weights than a half-rack.
Having a dual lay-out also enables the full rack to be used by two people simultaneously, with one working on the outside and one on the inside of the rack. Extra J-hooks and safety bars are easily available to enable this option. Make sure that your rack is strongly built and has storage place for weights and options for an additional pull-up bar. Also check that it has many increments to enable precision accessory placement and training.
The multi-rack is a heavy duty hybrid which offers most of the features of a power rack, but does not have the overhead bars thus enabling the user to perform the overhead movements which are difficult to do inside a cage.
The squat rack or stand is a simple version of the rack. It is usually portable and light-weight while still allowing you to keep the bar at shoulder height. It is adjustable as the arms can move up and down to allow for various placements of the J-hook or power bar. This is the most affordable option.
The Smith machine is a complement to a power rack. It enables beginners or people training on their own to practice free weight movements. It looks similar to a half or power rack, except that the barbell is fixed on vertical runners. Some machines do also allow forward and backward movements.
When looking to buy your own rack, give special consideration to these features:
Storage:
You will need space on your rack to store your weight plates and weights, so make sure there is enough space for the amount you wish to store. Many racks have specialized hooks and arms for this purpose. Many racks have outward storage space, but you will have to remember that this will increase the amount of space required to house your rack.
Check that your rack has short vertical shafts at the back where you can store your bars safely, while having them easily accessible when you want to use them.
Increments:
These are important as the more increments you have, the more accurate your workout will be. Numbered increments are important as they allow you to easily match your attachments on either side and to repeat your training position without trial and error.
Band pegs:
These small pegs are helpful when you are wanting to attach power bands. This allows you incredible options in making the most of your resistance work from various positions.
J-hooks:
These hooks are important and you should look at them carefully. They are inclusive to many racks and need to be of high quality to enable you to safely drop a bar. There are different types of J-hooks and some, which have plastic inserts, have been found to more protective of your bar.
Pull-up bars:
Ensure that your gym has enough head-space for you to be able to use these pull-up bars or handles safely and effectively. Most racks include either bar or handles. When the rack comes with handles, make sure that they have enough variety in grip positions.
Safety bars:
Check that the safety bar is strong so that it will support a heavy bar when it is dropped. A plastic insert on the top is desirable as it will protect your bar when it is dropped.
Possible attachments:
Choose a rack which will allow you to add some attachments to enable you to extend your work-out routine.
Multi-adjustable benches
Step platform
Lifting platform
Inlaid platform
Dip attachment
Consider where you wish to go with your training in the future and choose wisely and carefully. There is a huge amount of equipment available these days and not all suppliers are reputable. If possible, visit an actual store and have a look at the type of equipment you are wanting to buy. A power rack is a large and heavy piece of equipment. It requires safe and strong flooring and enough space to move around your machine comfortably. Plan the equipment you may wish to add at a later stage and make sure that there is adequate space available for you to add the extras like benches, etc.
Good quality gym equipment is an investment, and careful planning will ensure that you, and your family or friends, can enjoy the benefits of healthy exercise for many years to come.