Reddit mentions: The best strenght training weight racks

I assume you're in the USA for all of this. First, I recommend looking around your area for a farm/stable/tractor supplier. You can get a couple horse stall mats for cheap. These will be 5'X7' thick (3/4") rubber mats (warning, they're heavy. get help). This will make a great flooring for you gym and they're relatively inexpensive. Next, I highly recommend you determine now what you want out of a rack. Are you someone who is pulling a lot of weight? Will you be? Be honest. The reason I bring this up is something like the Titan T-2 is know for tipping when failing at larger weights. It's rated to 700 lbs but failing a 350 squat can nock the whole thing down. If you never plan to be pulling higher weights then something like that works great. Trust me, it's cheaper to save up for the system you need than replacing. Once you've determined your needs I highly recommend going over to the forums at bodybuilding(dot)com and searching for power racks and reading through the latest stuff. Many of the sellers of this equipment are there and throw up deals. Before you purchase your equipment, check your city or the nearest city's craigslist for the equipment. Often there is a crossfit gym going out of business or some person unloading their stuff and you can get things on the super cheap. When you decide where to put your money, don't skip on safety. Make sure the rack will support what you're doing and you get a decent bench. Those two items are expensive. Next, make sure your bar will support the weights you pull and much more. Also make sure the bar spins well. Last thing you want is sudden torque while lifting. Usually a bar and weights are the easiest to get on the cheap from craigslist. Just make sure you check the spinning and weight rating.

Now that I've given you some generic guidelines, here are some specific examples:

500 lbs rating for $237. This is 14 gauge steel.

This powerline for $342.61 is one of the best entry level racks. It is 12 gauge steel which makes it more durable to drops than the previous one or the Titan T2. It's rated to 600 lbs and has an overall good review and many years in service.

After the cheap ones recommended, you're going to head into the 11 gauge steel racks and better. The price of these start at ~$600 and go up. The list of brands to look at Body solid, Body Craft and Powertec. They all make very solid systems.

For home, avoid systems that need or should be bolted down. Also, avoid a system that is not at least 12 gauge steel. You really do not want soft steel. A final note, make sure the bench is rated for weights you're at and going too. Don't forget to add your body weight to this. Unlike the power rack, you are on the bench.

All I've been using is a basic 300lb Olympic weight lifting set: 1 bar, and 14 weight plates, like this. The only thing else I use is a bench, for bench presses.

Not necessarily cheap, but you can find sweet deals on Craigslist, or maybe just someone who doesn't want theirs that's been collecting dust in the garage. If you get a weight tree, it's easy to keep the weights organized and accessible.

I have no idea if this should be something to recommend to others, but I'll lay out my beginning system for you, just as an example. It is structured in a way that's really helped me get comfortable with the basic movements before moving on to a new plan. I've started with a simple, 3-day-a-week workout, picking one exercise from each of the following groups each day to practice with 1 set of 10 to warm up, with just the bar or light weight, then another set of 10 with a weight that is heavier, as my "official" set:

• Group 1
  Back Squat | Front Squat
  
  
• Group 2
  Power Clean | Clean (squat) | Deadlift
  
  
• Group 3
  Bench Press | Shoulder Press | Push Press
  
  So, on one workout day I might do a set of back squats, then do some power cleans, and then shoulder presses, and then rotate through the next workout day, etc. I keep a megadork spreadsheet on google docs to track my progress. Those numbers make me happy, and knowing I'm getting stronger feels awesome! I also like doing it at home; I have to clean the weight in order to do my presses and squats, so I feel more beastly, doing it "old school" without the "frills" (whether or not that's an accurate assessment, haha).

This is the ultimate in space saving for a home gym:

Yaheetech 2pcs Adjustable Rack Standard - $69.40 - Somehow this has spotter arms and can hold up to 480lbs... That is absurd, and I would love to try it out.

Elite FTS Pro Mini Bands $4.80x4=$19.20 These are normally $9.60. You can use them for basically any movement and double looping them is more than enough for most people. These are also a forever item for some people. When you decide to upgrade to a larger or better rack these can still be used.

Titan Adjustable Pull-Up Bar - $45.89 - You can use this with your bands for triceps and just for regular pull-ups. Multipurpose

Fitness Gear 300 lb. Olympic Weight Set - $168 - Coupon still good at the time of typing this.

Titan Gymnastic Rings with Straps - $17.99 Honestly, these are super versatile and can be used for dips, rows, hanging leg raises. Just a great item to have in your back pocket.

Titan Incline Bench 650 lb Capacity $111.60 - Another forever item right here. You can use this when you upgrade to a larger home gym if you feel like it.

If we aren't allowed to use out of stock items then this is my bench:

Rep FB-3000 Flat Bench - $93.99 Cheaper and just as long-lasting (if not more-so), however, it is not as versatile

Eye Hooks with Rings - $14.99 You get a 2 pack of these for this price. Attach them to the wall at your desired heights and you get a pretty convenient, easily storable cable row and chest fly system.

A2ZCARE Combo Tricep Press Down Cable Attachment | Multi-Option: Double D Handle, V-Shaped Bar, Tricep Rope, Rotating Straight Bar - $52.09 This is a four pack of different cable attachments that you can use with the bands. Another forever item. These are genuinely what gyms use.

Total - $499.16 - This gym was built with someone who does not have alot of room in mind. All of it is either fairly collapsable (Squat stand, bar and bench) or not in your visible eyeline. I could have chosen a few different accessories and made it a bit stronger overall, however for your average gym goer this is a pretty solid set-up.

There are a lot of ways you can go about this. If you are going to buy your pieces here and there you WILL be spending more money on shipping throughout this entire process.... I would avoid this as much as possible. I probably have spent about $600-700 on shipping throughout the years. I'd have been better off to have been patient and do a nice bulk order. Incidentally, in November a ton of companies have amazing black Friday sales.... something to keep in mind.

So.....if you are trying to get the bare minimum and start lifting NOW you could....
1.) Get a nice barbell.... Do NOT skimp on this. It may be tempting to pick up something cheap... but it just isn't worth it. <$500
2.) Get a squat stand. (Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Goplus-Adjustable-Standard-Barbell-Dumbbell/dp/B019EWU6U8/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1520808845&sr=8-13&keywords=squat+stand) You might be able to find these on Craigslist for cheap. You just need something to actually hold the weight. <$60
3.) Get some plates (ideally 2-4 pairs of 45s, 1 pair of 25s, 2 pairs of 10s, 1 pair of 5s, and 1 pair of 2.5s.... all in LBs). You can probably find cheap used plates on Craigslist as well!
4.) Get a bench.... or make one... Craigslist might be an option here.... <$50
5.) Get collars.... <$12

From there I would just save your money and prepare for a nice big purchase during the holidays this year or next year. Do your research and see what would make the most sense for you.

I would continue to do bodyweight exercises (pushups, pullups, dips, pistol squats) and just save your money and buy a nice rack. I wouldn't bother with dumbbells, personally... but it depends what your goals are.

I hope this helps steer you in the right direction.

Here's the details on the stuff:

Power Rack. Had this about 6 weeks and I'm extremely happy with it. Looks fine, feels very sturdy, no feeling of tipping or instability even when I hang from the bar at front. Paint scratches when you move and insert the spotter bars but what do you want for $350 shipped. It's held 215 on multiple occasions with no issues. If you lift significantly heavier than this (300+) you may want to read reviews first, or invest in a less-starter rack, but for many/most people this will be fine forever. It's dead easy to assemble if you have a socket set and if you don't, great opportunity to get one, they're cheap! Assembly can be done mostly solo but the final bits really need a second person to hold stuff in place while bolts are inserted. Rack comes shipped in 2 or 3 (can't remember) boxes which are pretty unwieldy and heavy.

I went with this CAP barbell. This suits my needs very well with great knurling and came without bend, and I'm unlikely to put a bend in it with my sub-300 deadlifts. The barbell ships in a fun 7 foot cylindrical tube which caused the dude at the mail place to nearly topple over because he expected it to be light for some reason.

I also got this plate tree which holds 2x 45# bumpers, 2x 45# plates, and 2x 25#, 2x 10#, 4x 5#, and 2x 2.5#. Does the trick but paint scratches off the pegs like crazy but is easily cleaned up. Single box, about 30 pounds.

The bench is this one by Marcy. I wanted a simple bench and that's what I got. Great bench for the price and I haven't had any instability problems. Had this for a year and used up to 70# dumbbells and 215# barbell with it (I'm 215). Most weight total that's been on it was a 270# friend benching 185# for sets and he found it fine.

Assorted stuff: got these puzzle mats which do the trick for the right price and are stowable unlike a permanent mat. As I mentioned elsewhere the 45# bumpers are meant to mitigate any floor impact, and I'm not terribly concerned with keeping this floor perfect anyway (it's 10 year old laminate on top of concrete, and the "path" is linoleum). The plates were from a sale at the local FitnessDerp store (not its real name) and were 85 cents a pound -- I never saw any on Craigslist for less than that in the month I looked. Finally just some collars.

The cat in the picture highly recommends this crinkle tunnel.

If you're going to be working out with someone else I suggest

• A rack that will let you use either side (R-3, T-3, etc...)
  
  
• Two sets of spotter arms
  
  
• Second set of j-hooks
  
  
• Two barbells (which you'd have to do anyway with the setup you mention above)
  
  I've got this setup at home so I can lift with my wife, daughter or friend. We can each have our own J-hook height, don't have to swap weights to work-in, I can squat while my buddy benches, etc...
  The only sharing that has to happen is if we're both benching, and then we just slide the bench back and forth a couple feet.
  
  With the spotter arms you'll have to bolt the rack down well (as the leverage of a bar dropped (or even sitting) on the end of the arm will create a lot of lifting force on the far side of the rack.
  
  You likely won't be able to store weights on the rack (weight could hit stored weight when benching) so you'll need to come up with a different storage solution. A free standing rack would obviously work but due to lack of space I have toaster racks on either side of my R-3 in what would otherwise be unused space. This is what I have (currently at $53.99 which is about $15 cheaper than I paid dang it). I'm not a fan of the brown but the quality is absolutely fine and the price is MUCH cheaper than other solutions.
  
  Because of room dimensions if I had it to do over I'd see how much floor space might be freed up by having two squat stands or two shallow wall mounted racks, but the setup works really well.
  
  
  Something like this would also work as a rack if you have the space for it and if safety bars/straps will fit the unused space and not interfere with the other persons safety bar/strap. This would allow each person to lift inside the rack (facing outwards) and might allow for some weights to be stored up high or down low on the center support.

I'm not sure what would be too expensive, but I bought this metal rack with wheels to I can store my nicer plates at the gym I train at and be able to move them around easily. The slots are wide enough to hold slightly thicker plates also, and it seems pretty well built and easy to move around. I keep all of my change plates on a separate sleeve since the rack doesn't have space built in for them.

In terms of a cheaper option for storing plates, I've seen a few different things done.

My gym has most of their bumpers and change plates built like the rack in the background of this photo. Pretty simple design framed with 2x6s all around (I think Catalyst has plans for them somewhere), and the width of each slot is wide enough to fit both bumpers of each weight within it.

The other solution that I like a bit more is the bench version, where the weight rack is essentially a bench you can sit on with space for the plates to be stored beneath the seat.

He's 16 and 6'1, as long as the gym has a squat rack and a bench press area, he should be able to do a very good workout uninterrupted. He doesn't need a trainer.

Have him look into some programs, like Starting Strength, Westside for Skinny bastards (excuse the name, it's a really good program) or something like that.

Depending on cost, you could probably buy a decent squat rack

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_3?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1367956247&sr=1-3&keywords=power+cage

And used weights online (~50c per pound of plates).

Add a bench to that and he can bench in the power cage without needing a spotter.

It may end up being cheaper than a years subscription to a franchise gym, and he won't have to worry about feeling embarrassed. (Although going to a gym regularly is a good way for him to eventually feel comfortable with his body).


He's 16, and pumping with testosterone, he can really take advantage of it, and even if he won't be "amazing" looking by the time high school is over, if he keeps up with it he can start college fresh with a body he will love. And the confidence that comes with being happy with your body.

Awesome feedback so far, really appreciated everyone! I have been checking craigslist and the marketplace on facebook for a few weeks and haven't really seen anything, though will keep my eyes open.

I was really leaning towards just buying the cheap fitness gear 300 lb set (https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/fitness-gear-300-lbolympic-weight-set-16fgeu300lbstwth7brb/16fgeu300lbstwth7brb) to start off. This will give me at least something to be able to lift. It is $190, but maybe i'll convince the wife to give me some of her "gift." :)

I think after getting this, getting a decent squat stand would be a good next step. https://www.amazon.com/Goplus-Adjustable-Standard-Barbell-Dumbbell/dp/B019EWU6U8/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1520808845&sr=8-13&keywords=squat+stand looks like it would allow for both squatting and benching, so after that I would just need to find a bench and I would have the big 3 covered.

What I'm going to get is going to be for short term, 8-12 months probably. Would much rather throw ~$400 at a home gym than the gym around me. After the 8-12 months, debt should be gone and will have lots more money freed up to invest in long term equipment.

Thanks again everyone and please keep it coming with the thoughts if you have them!

First off, the beer belly will be one of the last things to go, but adding additional workouts will help to tone muscle as well as to burn additional calories.

Assuming the 8kg barbell is similar to that link where the length is approximately 6ft (2meters).

There is a couple of pieces of equipment you would need to have to make full use of the barbell:

A rack of some sort to hold the barbell, and for an easy place to put the barbell when ending a set. You don't need one this extensive, it is mainly that you need something to put the weight on when done with sets if you want to add bench/incline/decline press. Which leads to the next piece of equipment:

An adjustable bench so that it can be useful for multiple exercises, including, but not limited to bench/incline/decline press.

Probably more weights to add to the barbell as well, since 8kg (~17lbs) is not that much weight once you start lifting for a lot of workouts.

Some basic upper body workouts I would focus on (given that you are running a good bit so I am assuming you are doing both distance and sprints).

If i am not mistaken you are looking for reps of 12-12-10 while trying to increase weights on each set. Generally doing that is for more endurance muscle, while doing less reps is for more explosive muscle if i am not mistaken.

Bench press

Decline press

Incline press

Barbell shurgs

Barbell curls

Close Grip Barbell curls

Standing Military Press

I would probably workout 2-3 days a week, doing all that you can. If you want to slightly lower the number of workouts you can alternate one of the curls, and alternate only doing two of the bench/decline/incline presses.

But barring having more weights/a rack I would probably recommend adding burpees in addition to push-ups.

I've always hated going to the gym fighting with other people for equipment and altering my exercises around what is available. I also let the distance from my house creep in as an excuse. It resulted in a lot of fuckarounditis and quitting for long periods of time. Best thing I have done was get some proper equipment for my garage. I am addicted now.

I had some weights, a bench, a short olympic bar, and two olympic dumbell bars I got off of classifieds awhile ago. The bar sucked since it was so small. I never got into using it for years. I decided to finally get a real bar and a power rack. I also supplemented my olympic weights a bit. It has made a HUGE difference in the quality of my workouts. The power rack allows me to push myself a lot without the use of a spotter.

Below is the equipment I got and can absolutely recommend all of it. The bar has the perfect amount of knurling to not rip your hands up. The weights are not works of art, but cheap and perfectly suitable.

PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack

Body Solid 7-Feet Olympic Bar

Cap Barbell Free Weights

Lockjaw Olympic Barbell Collar

My bench is kind of a shitty bench that came with all the other junk I purchased earlier. Not sure what would be good if I was in the market right now. You can modify the power rack to hold some of your plates, but a weight tree isn't expensive and laying weights on the floor isn't a problem at first. A pad is pretty much necessary for dead lifts and you can pick up 3/4 inch rubber horse stall mats at those farm feed store for about $45. Get on a program like SS and this is all you need until you decide to move to splits, giving you plenty of time to slowly add more equipment as you find it.

When I finish SS I will pickup the Ironmaster 75 lb Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System and I already ordered the Powerline PLA200X Lat Attachment, both of which get great reviews.

Overall you will save a ton of money on membership fees in the long run and it's really hard to make excuses to not workout. The equipment is a joy to use.

I'm looking for a SOLID bench to use for bench pressing inside my power rack. Both flat and incline presses will be the primary use, but wouldn't mind being able to decline press as well. I like the look of the X-mark Xm-7472. Seems pretty beefy, and I like that it has the option to add various attachments. Of course you can't research far in this forum without finding the Rep AB-3100 to be pretty highly regarded. Curious if anyone has experience with both, and if so what they would recommend?

Xmark: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0127KK3I4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8i9UCbA206M40

Rep: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07L39HRC3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_nq9UCbTFEWHBP

Nah, avoid that. Pulley-type systems are not the way to go. And for that cost you can pretty easily find a used powerrack plus weights or even potentially buy new.

A basic powerrack with bench will suit you much better. Something like this.

You really only need a powerrack + adjustable bench + Olympic weight set. There are bound to be a bunch of benches / weight sets on craigslist. I might buy the power rack new but if you see a good used one I'd look into it.

An enterprising individual could aquire all those things for $400 or less. All depends on what you're willing to buy used vs. new. I definitely wouldn't waste $600 on that one in your link - if anything it's limiting the amount of stuff you can do. A plain power rack is extremely versatile and a vital component of a strength training program.

Hey! I know this is old now, but:

As others have said, it depends on your goals. But it also depends on your mindset and habits.

Minus a two year period in college where I went to the university gym I've always had a home gym and I love it. I don't have to worry about "getting motivated" to jump in the car and go to the gym. It's right there! And what if it's the middle of the day and I feel like doing power cleans for no reason? Hey, my barbell and bumper plates are in the next room.

But that's what works for my mentality. Other people think, "Well, the weights are right there, I can go any time, I might as well lift tomorrow". Then there are also people who can't stand working out alone for whatever reason. If you're one of these people a home gym is probably a terrible idea for you, and a gym membership would be better.

Oh, and I recommend scrounging up some cash or getting a part time job and buying a power rack (like this one, try to get it on sale. It's a decent but very basic rack. I don't know if it's available outside the U.S.). A power rack is more versatile, you'll outgrow just a bench press very quickly (I sure did when I was a teen and got one) and a power rack is much safer (especially if you bench at home without a training partner).

Have you checked out /r/homegym?

Nothing is a "waste". It is good to do squat variations.

Do barbell until you're unable to safely clean the bar raise it to your back. Like others mentioned doing squats with the bar up front are great alternatives after. When that becomes too challenging because you're unable to clean the bar... Then do single leg variations with dumb bells, or goblet squats.


Formally speak to your condo/apartment management for a squat rack. They usually have some sort of annual budget for the fitness room.

If you really really love back squats and don't want to give them up and your building won't buy one, look into bringing your own rack to the gym.


Soozier Adjustable Stable Power Squat Stand Portable 2 Bars Barbell Holder Weight Rack (Black/White) https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MG8IMS6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_DotDDb630RE58

A lot of stuff like dumbbells, bars and benches come cheap on craigslist/gumtree (like $100-$200 range).

I got this: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Solid-GPR378-Body-Solid-Power/dp/B00HAVB0DI/ref=sr_1_1/157-5537512-5667824?ie=UTF8&qid=1484614355&sr=8-1&keywords=body+solid+pro+power+rack

Ordered directly from the company and they were really cool and gave like a 10% discount when I mentioned it was for basement gym. Great because I can use it for pullups too.

Then I went ahead and got like $1000 worth of these: https://www.fringesport.com/products/onefitwonder-black-bumper-plates-pairs?variant=33088118084 because like... it's a one-time purchase that'll last for forever so it was worth it.

I got a Texas Power Bar on sale on Amazon for $100 during Cyber Monday a couple of years ago. Just keep an eye on sales and you can kit it all out for pretty cheap.

I have the SuperBench. It is great. It is a little pricey, but I love the space-saving attachments that you can buy for it. I have the situp, dip and GHD extension.

I have the PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack, which may be better suited to your needs. I know you said that space is a concern, but you get a lot out of this piece of equipment. It comes with a pullup bar and the safety bars adjust easily for squats and bench-related activities. The weight limit is a bit low, but that won't be a problem for a while (in my case, at least). I built a rack plate holder last weekend and now my weights hang conveniently from the back of the rack.

Typically a bench's max weight includes the user. If you're already 270lbs and you're lifting even relatively light weights for your body weight (130+ lbs) you're already at 400 total lbs. Even cheap flat benches can accommodate that weight, but a lot of the integrated bench plus racks can't.

You'll also need to decide between 1" and 2" (Olympic) bars. I've found that cheap 1" bars can even deform dealing with 135 lbs of total weight, so if you're lifting even half your body weight you'll probably want to go towards Olympic if you want stuff that's going to hold up.

So really I think you have some options:

1. Screw the ratings, get whatever's cheapest and use it with some care. Not recommended by your doctor or insurance company, but will probably work. I used some terribly ghetto shit for years in my parents basement when I was a kid (which is how I know how easy it is to bend a 1" bar.
   
   
2. Get the cheap stuff but don't lift too much weight. Plenty of things are rated for 400 lbs, so a light BP would still work.
   
   
3. Shop around and find a very specific heavy duty rated integrated bench and rack, if you can
   
   
4. Get that cheap flat bench and a relatively cheap rack, you can find plenty of discussions on deals around here. This Powerline is popular and often goes cheaper than $320. One huge benefit here is that the rack isn't supporting your body weight plus weights, so the total it needs to be rated for is lower than those integrated BP devices. You can also do a full great workout on it.
   
   
5. Do one of the above via Craigslist or your local variant. You might be able to save a lot of money and/or get way nicer stuff. I accidentally have a gym grade adjustable bench and rack that are like $3K MSP for $750 from a patient craigslist find.
   
   TL;DR Benches max weights describe your weight plus the weight you're benching, so a lot of cheap benches aren't as safe as you might think they are

I got my attachments off of Amazon /u/_kc_mo_nster . Any 2x2 rack attachment should work. I got these padded j hooks They work well, but not a fan of the glue holding the pads on.

Also, got these Titan Fitness weight holders. Got 4 of those and use a set for dips as well. Works very well highly recommend if in need of plate storage

You can also try out Valor Fitness BD-7 attachment since those are all 2x2's too.

This is probably overkill, but since I started the Starting Strength lifting program, I decided to go ahead and buy a squat rack, barbell, etc. so I wouldn't have to drag myself to the gym. This is the rack I went with, and it's absolutely fantastic. It's $350 on Amazon right now, which I think is a great price: http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1405384139&sr=8-2&keywords=powerline+squat+rack

Body-Solid Powerline Power Rack (PPR200X) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_VrFvDbXQW3M4D


Titan 6' Technique Olympic Bar https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0791NWM3N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_gsFvDbDJH4MXE


Titan X-2 Power Rack Dip Bars https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078WGS73S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Plate Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013SZC8S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_rUDvDb4QKP220


PROCIRCLE Wood Gymnastic Rings -... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0129IIMZA?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


Harbinger Polypropylene Weight... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001P0S3XU?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share


PowerBlock Elite Dumbbell 70lb Set https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UG4GFA4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_OsFvDb4T80D8Z


About 500lbs of random plates I got cheap. Most of it was bought used but in good condition. Took me a while because I was really patient so I’d find what I wanted.


I’m pretty happy with all of it. I was most concerned with saving space and getting stuff that had high enough weight capacities. I’m not lifting really heavy weights, so it’s all good for me but might not work for everyone.


I’m considering getting a stand or some matts, or maybe a few kettlebells.

Steeper bends are generally more flexible because you can always go to a shallower angle by moving your hand towards the tip of the bump whereas you can't make a shallow one deeper with hand placement. Another neat thing with the EZ bar is you can change the difficulty dynamically by how deep in the divot you hold because it changes the lever length, and a steeper one will give you a longer lever and overall it just feels smoother.

The one I have is the the troy rackable ez bar. It's slightly shallower than I like but it's so damn convenient to be able to rack it like a barbell that I'd definitely choose it again. In addition to curls it's also great for close grip bench press, going heavy with lying triceps pullovers (using a rack), zercher squats, etc because of the rackability.

Squat racks are useful for so many things other than squats. Deadlifts, lunges, hip thrusts, and I'm sure people have more. It's always good to learn to adapt to a gyms limitations, as you will change gyms intermittently and sometimes work out at a mates gym. I recommend becoming good mates with the owner and maybe convincing him to get at least a basic rack like this http://www.amazon.com/Squat-Rack-H-D-Adjustable-Racks/dp/B004GFK1YU/

thanks guys. going with http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VLRVSC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&m=A1L9NKXDNACY0J but just found http://www.amazon.com/Valor-Athletics-Inc-BD-Power/product-reviews/B002EJC990/ref=dp_top_cm_cr_acr_txt?ie=UTF8&showViewpoints=1
I feel the 2nd is much better quality. Any reason not to go with the second one? any recommendations on where to buy weights? Im excited to join this reddit. I finally feel motivated!

I was looking at this one and this one myself. I haven't looked too closely yet, just saw good reviews so tagged them for a closer look at a later date.


Good luck with Prime Two-Day shipping on an inexpensive power rack. The cheapest Prime eligible power rack (like above, full cage, not half racks) that I saw was just over $650 from Amazon with free Prime. It was available for almost $200 less w/ free shipping from other vendors.

That's a more flexible setup than the one you linked above, though I can't comment directly on the quality of the equipment. If you go for that setup I would definitely try to talk the guy down a bit.

Ideally I would recommend more of a squat cage if you can find one. The safety bars are highly recommended, especially as you progress.

There's a price floor that you can't really go below. It just costs a certain number of dollars for the raw materials and shipping, even if labor and complexity are minimized.

Here are the best deals I know of:

Bench:

• Adidas flat bench - $100
  
• Pure Fitness flat bench - $85
  
• Rogue flat bench - ~$205 shipped
  
  Power rack: PPR200X - $300
  
  Barbell: Troy/USA Sports GOB-86 - about $100 shipped (search around for best deal)
  
  Iron plates: Craigslist or local fitness stores (shipping makes online stores not very competitive, although occasionally you can find a deal). Don't pay more than $1/lb. Brand doesn't really matter. They're just heavy round things.
  
  Bumper plates: Troy VTX or Hi-Temp at fringesport.com, or Pendlay Econ V2 at pendlay.com

Well, you need to make a decision. How scalable do you want this to be? This is fine for a beginner, but you'll eventually have to ditch it.

Gold's Gym is a kind of lower end brand. It's sold at walmart. In addition, I wouldn't really recommend this kind of equipment. If you're working out alone, the safest, best bet is a power rack (that particular one is a great beginner's rack).

His price on the weights + bar is good though. But same story here - you'll eventually have to buy another bar once you go above 300lbs.

$250-350 is general price range I found for starting NEW power racks. Used isn't much cheaper from what I saw.

I settled on this one and it's been awesome:
https://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/

Has pullup bar on it as well, then I just got 2 4x6 horse stall mats for to lay down underneath and an addidas flat bench to go with 300lbs olympic weight set I had gotten earlier and boom, home gym!

The bench was like 80 bucks, and I had paid ~$200 some for the weights + bar. From scouring reviews and different sites I felt like these were the 'best bang for the buck' purchases for a full setup.

I was in the same boat as you. When I was in high school I was 135 at 6'2". I tried going to the gym but i felt way too self conscious and discouraged because everyone was so damn big. I ended up buying a couple dumbbells and did push ups, curls, chair dips, and air squats every other day while eating a lot. I gained a good amount of strength, then I had a roommate move in and he had a power rack . I did flat bench, overhead press, lunges, squats, incline bench, dips, etc in my garage 4 days a week until I finally built up the strength to not feel so bad at a gym. Finally I got a gym membership and at first I only went late at night to avoid the large crowds. Now I'm 6'2" and 195 and look way more natural for my height. It took me two and a half years altogether

Can you store a power rack? Not recommending that particular model, just found the first one on Amazon. If you need it smaller, you can probably build one.

The benefit of the power rack is that you can safely get out of a squat and you can put your bench inside so that the safety rods keep you from getting caught underneath. If you can't store that, then you could do use a regular squat stand and practice safely dumping the weight off your back, preferably with a platform and bumper plates.

If you don't have protection for your bench press, I'd recommend that you not bench by yourself.

My initial set up when I didn't want to spend a huge amount, but wanted the capability to do any major lift was as follows:

Bench and Rack


Barbell and weights


Plate Rack


Mats


Plate compatible dumbbells



I highly recommend buying a few extra plates if you plan to go heavier, I picked up 2 more 45's, 2 25's, 2 10's on top of what that set comes with. I was happy with it until I upgraded the rack and bench as my gym grew.

Depends on what you're using everything for. If you're looking to just continue working on strength then I suggest these, which I've owned in the last year or so:

I bought this squat rack and its more than good enough. Rack

This bench is solid if you're not looking for an adjustable one: Bench

And I have this set I bought at Dick's. Note: the bar sucks because it's a lower quality metal so it's thicker to maintain strength. The plates are still good, though. [Weights] (http://t.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10793623)

If you want a better bar and bumpers just go with the cheapest you can find. If you're working out by yourself and without heavy, heavy weights even the cheapest bumpers should work IMO.

I have the Body-Solid Multi Press rack and it is extremely sturdy and well-made. Definitely recommend. It also has built-in plate storage, and strong 17" safety rods that could catch the bar if you drop it, so it's a great all-in-one solution.

The only downside is that you don't have as much protection from accidents as a full power rack, where you're essentially lifting inside a cage and it's virtually impossible to drop the weights on yourself. Body-Solid also makes one of those, and it also looks very sturdy. It's larger and more expensive, and doesn't have plate storage, but if you have the space and money it looks like a great choice.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: troy rackable ez bar


|Country|Link|Charity Links|
|:-----------|:------------|:------------|
|USA|smile.amazon.com|EFF|
|UK|www.amazon.co.uk|Macmillan|




To help donate money to charity, please have a look at this thread.

This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

Sure. If it helps, here are the exact ones I bought:

• Bench
  
• Barbell set
  
• Squat rack
  
• Weight tree
  
  All are about the cheapest I was able to find. If you have some extra money, I'd definitely suggest a better barbell, or a power rack or at least a 1 piece squat rack instead of the 2 piece that I got. But that works fine for me.

Sure!
Here Is the squat rack, brand is Golds Gym
And here is the bench! :)
edit: Editing to say that I reeeeally enjoy both of these pieces of equipment even though they are on the 'cheaper' side. I have zero complaints about the quality or effectiveness of both! Home gym doesnt always have to be super expensive!

Not quite a squat rack. Something like [these](Yaheetech 2pcs Adjustable Rack Standard Solid Steel Squat Stands Barbell Free Press Bench (44"-70") https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01855EGXI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_It3mybS7GDJNR). I admit, they are rather bulky and you may look like a knob bringing them into your work gym. But if you're looking to heavy back squat, you'll need something like these.

It looks like a good deal, I have that rack, I like it, it gets the job done. With the money saved you can buy the lat attachment for it.

The Power Rack

The BowFlex Dumbbells and Bench

The weight set with Bar

Cool, I like that it is good for pretty much everything that might be on the ground. That got me hunting for more ground based racks, and well, I just pulled the trigger on this for my bars: http://www.amazon.com/Body-Solid-GOBH5-Olympic-Holder/dp/B000FOIGXE?ie=UTF8&psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

What's the reasoning for the all-in-one? Nothing wrong with it, I just want to make sure you're not pre-maturely dismissing the notion of something else though.

You could definitely get most of what you want with a cage like that from Titan, an FID bench for about $200 (I'd suggest the Rep fitness FID bench), a barbell in the $150-200 range), and a high/low pulley system for ($200-400).




So this BodySolid unit is somewhere around 85" (but that may be too tall as well):

http://www.bodysolid.com/Home/PSM1442XS/Powerline_Smith_Gym/DIMENSIONS

https://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PSM1442XS-Smith-Machine-Package/dp/B000WKNMF8

This one is 80"-83" (dimensions vary by site a little) and if you were going to do this, I'd seriously consider just buying a rack and a lat machine separately though:

http://www.bodysolid.com/Home/GPR378/Body-Solid_Pro_Power_Rack/DIMENSIONS

https://www.amazon.com/Body-Solid-GPR378-Body-Solid-Power/dp/B00HAVB0DI

https://www.amazon.com/Body-Solid-Lat-Attachment-GPR378/dp/B004LCZAZI

But there is no smith-machine on that (which is better, imo). The unit you linked in the OP has a smith-machine, but the bar-path on the unit you linked appears to be angled backward. That wouldn't be ideal for squat, bench press, or overhead press. The three main lifts you'd probably want spotting on. If you don't care about those lifts, well, then there's really no need for that smith-machine anyhow. If you do care about those lifts, than that's a really odd bar-path. And honestly, even an upright smith-machine isn't ideal usually.

This one is 84" (but also $3,500):

http://www.bodysolid.com/Home/GS348QP4/Body-Solid_Series_7_Smith_Gym


Edit: Somebody was asking about this one in another thread. It's 82" high:

https://www.bodycraft.com/f430-power-rack.html

But again, at that price range (after you add the attachments), you'd probably be better off buying separate pieces.

I have this one:

https://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1469721847&sr=8-4&keywords=power+cage

It is really sturdy and has spotter bars. Also it allows you to do L-Sit pullups et al, without tipping, as long as you put some weights on the back. Stations with smaller footprints always tip. It is also wide enough that you can do all sorts of ring work. So if you really want a power cage, this might be a good investement. If you don't want to do a lot of barbell work it is probably not worth it.

Get an olympic bar right away. The cheaper bars will probably hold up during private use but they have a different diameter since they don't have sleeves.

Get good rings - the cheap ones don't hold their height setting - they slip over time. Rogue rings are supposed to have really good belts.

Will you be doing any other forms of weightlifting? Buying a used power rack, or building one yourself from the many plans online, is totally worthwhile if you get into any barbell training at all. Plus you have an awesome free standing pull up bar.

Nice job with your fitness journey so far! I put together my home gym back in April and absolutely love it. I dont have to wait to use the bench, squat rack or any of the weights because it's just me. Also it saves me the monthly payments for the gym, even if I did splurge a little with buying the equipment.

I dont have a ton of space, I just bought a bench and 300lb Olympic barbell set from dicks. The squat rack/stands I bought off of amazon. It's cheap, but it holds up to 450lbs so it works for me.

Weightlifting bench:

https://m.dickssportinggoods.com/p/fitness-gear-pro-utility-weight-bench-16fgeufgprtltybncwgha/16fgeufgprtltybncwgha


300lb olympic barbell set:

https://m.dickssportinggoods.com/p/fitness-gear-300-lbolympic-weight-set-16fgeu300lbstwth7brb/16fgeu300lbstwth7brb?enteredSearchTerm=300lb%20olympic%20barbell%20set

Squat rack stands:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01855EGXI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kJoJDb9QM3FXJ

Hope this helps!

Thanks for the review. I been eyeing this for the soul purpose of basic compound lifts. Im not looking to do any power lifting or cross fit. So this has it all for me. I probably wont go any heavier than 300lbs for any my lifts if and when I can build up the strengths then.

Does the rack wobble if you do pull ups?

I also been looking at this cause it has a land mind attachment o this.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F7LVRS4/?coliid=I3F5Y4R30FO8AQ&colid=2LK00D8NENA4P&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Edit: I just placed my order, and decided to switch to an adjustable bench instead.

I'm about to buy some things off from amazon to start doing stronglifts. I would be really thankful for any input before I place my order:

1. Olympic plate rack
   
2. Adjustable bench (1,000 lbs)
   
3. Power rack (1,000 lbs)
   
4. Barbell clamps
   
   I already bought a 300 lbs olympic barbell + weight combo from Dicks. And I also plan on buying a better barbell, and more weight in the future.

A set of Olympic weights, a power cage, a bench and a copy of Starting Strength by Mark Rippetoe. I got all but the book second-hand, so it can be pretty affordable and safe. (All links except book are for illustrative purposes only, not necessarily recommending those specific units)

I have the steelbody horizontal storage and it is actually quite nice for $71. Just make sure your thick plates fit because the slots can be a bit narrow for some types of bumper.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00OJS4EPG.

If you want a cheaper solution then consider the DIY route with 2x6 lumbers.

I bought this one a couple of years ago and recommend it enthusiastically. We have a couple at our gym, too, and they've held up to some big guys, big squats, and rack pulls. It says free shipping even though it's not prime eligible...that sounds right, because I remember not paying shipping.

This is what I have: PowerLine PowerRack

I bought it based on price and the favorable reviews. I also got the Lat Pull down attachment. I've had it for almost 4 years. My husband and I assembled it in a couple hours. We did have one screw hole that was slightly out of alignment so we drilled it a little bit larger. The biggest challenge I had with this was that one of the boxes was missing. A few phone calls with Amazon and it eventually arrived. Rack has held up great!

I found squat stands like these cheap on Craigslist and used them for awhile as a landmine stand.

They were serviceable, but not the sturdiest with any significant weight on it or at any real heights higher than the base height of the stands.

I ended up selling them and getting the Titan one and it's much sturdier. Plus the angle of the stand makes it much easier on the barbell. I find that it's worth it having something made specifically as a landmine stand than anything I tried to DIY.

Also thought about using a weight tree, but never actually did.

Well, you can build your own I guess?

But it doesn't cost $500+ for a decent one. How much are you squatting?

Assuming you're in the U.S. (not sure about elsewhere)...

You could get this cage, http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

I'm guessing you want something that will allow you to fail without smashing yourself into the ground. So that cage is a good option. Alternatively http://www.amazon.com/Champion-Barbell-Step-Squat-Equipment/dp/B0000BYSM8 could be a good option.

They aren't cheap but they aren't $500+ either.

Also, craigslist. Might luck out.

You need a rack for Squats. Get one with safety bars like this one http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1347115235&sr=1-2&keywords=squat+rack.

That way if you are squating by yourself and fail the weight, you done have it fall on top of you. Good luck!

I have this one which appears similar. It is perfect, never had an issue with it and very solid. Highly recommend.

This is a good rack for a good price 1/2 off @ $300 is a really good deal: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=gb1h_tit_c-2_7102_72841a17?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1W21612ADFRJ1RM5T2F9&pf_rd_i=9017820011&pf_rd_p=1990147102 Not sure if they ship to Mexico or not.

So glad I have a garage and one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/

Bonus: I can lift heavy on bench by myself and not risk crushing my trachea and I can do pullups without a janky door frame bar.

If you've got $500 and the space, you can probably get a cheap power cage/rack from amazon, and a barbell set and weights (and maybe a bench too) off of craigslist.

This power rack for $300 if you can't find one on craigslist

And then, $200 should pretty easily get you a barbell and weights (about 300 pounds total worth), and possibly a bench as well.

A squat stand (from as cheap as this to as nice as this) would make for a smaller/lighter option. Definitely get a safety arm setup of some sort.

Sound is going to be harder to dampen.

I bought the same one. So far I'm very pleased with it, and if you have Amazon Prime, it ships for free. : http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1408596465&sr=8-1&keywords=powerline+rack

You haven't mentioned what country which means you're probably American.

If the $550-$600 is meant to include weights, bar & bench then you're going to have to go second hand to get a decent set.

If not then this one for ~$350 is great value. 1000lb capacity so you'll be able to work with it long after you're past Stronglifts. There isn't a big advantage to getting a more expensive one than this.

Take a look around. There are good racks in the $300-$400 range. Amazon sells almost all of them which means free shipping.

Here are a few examples:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VLRVSC/ref=oss_product
http://www.amazon.com/TDS-C-92563-W-Power-Rack/dp/B0002U2U1K/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1288794645&sr=8-3

that looks like it would be wobbly. look for something with corner braces and if you're buying off amazon get something shipped and sold by amazon (i.e. not marketplace) so you can take advantage of amazon customer service if something goes wrong. this one is priced less after free shipping:

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_6?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1464361201&sr=1-6&keywords=power+rack
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=54&v=ipc4pR4rkks

Do you think its a good idea to build one yourself when you can get stuff like this for a bit cheaper? Perhaps its more for the experience and self creation aspect of it. Maybe your materials are more high quality than the ones used on the commercial racks that they sell. Materials seem expensive at 400.

My personal opinion: you're better off getting a cheap cage; it's not that much more expensive than these uprights, it's more versatile and if you upgrade later, you won't have to worry about selling your old equipment. This one is good and you may be able to find cheaper ones or get them used through Craigslist: http://smile.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1450670200&sr=8-3&keywords=weight+power+rack

Great idea! Here's the revised list:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00615748000P?sid=IDx01192011x000001&srccode=cii_17588969&cpncode=31-32092008-2 (best deal I could find)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006JJM38S/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (bench)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0041FQZMW/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (mat)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VLRVSC/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER (Power cage)

I'm thinking about not getting the mat because it's getting kind of expensive.

Used would be a great way to go if you can find something you like. This PowerLine rack plus lat attachment would also be within your budget. I'm guessing most people on this sub will recommend a "clean" rack for basic barbell lifts rather than something like that Weider with all the gizmos, but it really comes down what you want to use it for.

Sorry, didn't notice this till now, but if you're still interested: Titan Fitness Olympic Weight Plate Holder for T-2 Power Rack 2"x2" Tube 1" Holes https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EBAT7AS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_HauTnjTFOwIYU

https://www.amazon.com/Titan-Fitness-Olympic-Weight-Holder/dp/B01EBAT7AS/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=Titan+2x2+weight&qid=1564143012&s=gateway&sr=8-8

They work like a champ

I lift weights in my basement. I got a bench and some squat stands. The squat stands I have feature a "safety bar" of sorts that I can position for bench press or squats to add a level of safety.

https://www.amazon.com/F2C-Adjustable-Barbell-Portable-Dumbbell/dp/B018XDH17K/ref=sr_1_5?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1493843453&sr=1-5&keywords=squat+stand

If you want to go all-out, you can get a power rack.

This is actually a good deal if looking for a cage: https://smile.amazon.com/CAP-Barbell-Full-Cage-Power/dp/B071DR5LC5/ref=sr_1_7?s=prime-day&psr=PDAY&ie=UTF8&qid=1499802089&sr=1-7&keywords=barbell&th=1

Other than that there was a 1 deal on resistance bands/pullup aid bands that was almost a 2 for 1 deal pricewise but it ended earlier today.

Might be a few scattered good deals but for the most part nothing spectacular. And always, use https://camelcamelcamel.com/.

amazon has something.

I bought it, and it holds up great. I have at least 250lbs on it

http://www.amazon.com/CAP-Barbell-Olympic-2-Inch-Plate/dp/B0013SZC8S/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1458778180&sr=8-3&keywords=plate+rack

I've been a gym-goer since I graduated high school (more than a decade ago). Finally decided to build out a home gym in my tiny, one-car garage. Black Friday was the day to pull the trigger after about two months of research.

Profile® Folding Squat Rack

X-Training Premium Black Bumper Plate Solid Rubber with Steel Insert

Steelbody Horizontal Plate Rack

Titan Fitness 7' Olympic Weight Bar Chrome Plated 2" Diameter

Clout Fitness Quick Release Pair of Locking 2" Olympic Size Barbell Clamp Collar

Rep FB-3000 Flat Bench

We'll see how all this stuff turns out!

I agree with Tikke. Cool idea, but I would not spend that much on something so simple that could be made easily from items at your local lumber store.

Plus, this is only $35.

I ended buying a few things because my work schedule doesn't allow me to go to a gym. I wake up at 3:30 am so I can work out. Luckily I have a detached garage so that's where I work out.

Bought this about it the same price from Dick's. I read the reviews that they bar may bend as you get closer to 300 lbs. I have only put 255lbs on it to test DL max.

https://m.dickssportinggoods.com/p/fitness-gear-300-lbolympic-weight-set-16fgeu300lbstwth7brb/16fgeu300lbstwth7brb


I bought this rack for the bench and squat double features. Works great so far no issues. Will be wobbly if you are throwing the weight around but otherwise no issues.

F2C Pair of Adjustable Rack Sturdy Steel Squat Barbell Free Bench Press Stands GYM/Home Gym Portable Dumbbell Racks Stand (one pair/two pcs) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018XDH17K?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf


This works as a bench. Nothing fancy.

Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench for Weight Training and Abs Exercises SB-315 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00G44X9D6?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf


I just bought this 3 months later because my weights were starting to rust a bit. Damn Texas and humidity.
Fitness Reality Olympic Weight Tree/Plate Rack/Bar Holders/Chrome Storage Posts, 1000 lb https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MZBELJ7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_n5a6TLPDAevXq

So total cost is $400 all together. Not bad for a home gym. Simple and just what I need. I know in the future I will beat more weights and a new bar but at least this works for now.

I'm going to make the assumption you want to start lifting. It may be wrong, but I'm building off that. So here's the setup I made for about $700. All the racks hold way more than I ever plan to lift, so I should only ever have to buy a few more weights as they wear out over the years.

Powerrack: http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

This thing is wonderful. Sturdy as hell, cheap for what it is, and has a pullup bar!

Flat bench: http://www.amazon.com/adidas-Performance-ADI-416-Flat-Bench/dp/B006JJM38S

Least expensive flat bench I could find. It's a little short, but really you only use like 2 feet of it anyways.

Weights: http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10793623

300lbs with an olympic bar. You could easily get your deadlift past that as a novice, but most everything else will probably stall out well below that. The weights are kind of cheap, but 45 lbs is 45 lbs.

That's literally everything you really need to get started doing some nice big lifts. The next thing I'd look at is a cable machine for some iso stuff, but really you can sub in most of those for barbell exercises and such. These 3 items basically make up a whole gym and will last you're whole lifting life unless you get fairly intense about it.

IMPORTANT: The bar you get with the Dick's weight set is kind of crap. It'll hold the 300 lbs probably, but some of the reviews claim it fails around that weight. If you hit the 300 lbs, I would go ahead and buy a nicer bar for about $100 somewhere and use the weights on that. It's a bit of a pain, but it's better than the bar bending and breaking during a 350 lb deadlift on your floor.

There's also this stand for a bit more. A bit taller, super sturdy, and little holes for the cylinder weights.

Looks awesome, I just found this one rated at 1500lbs https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0127KK3I4?psc=1&smid=A3SQ9YFE6CSCS0&th=1

I'm getting a plate tree off craigslist for like $75. [Amazon has decent ones for like $50-$100,] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VLNUPK/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_YMcVub1ZJPMZW) depending on how fancy you wanna be

Thanks for responding, so I looked a little more, so I can get this rack with the fitness bench it suggests, and the barbell set and that would be a good start? I also looked at this power rack, but I don't need to be dealing with serious weight, as I'm just starting out, and going for muscular endurance.

In this order (more or less)

1. Squat rack (or go for a full power rack)
   
2. Adjustable bench
   
3. Quality 7' barbell
   
4. Weights, bumper or otherwise
   
5. Caps
   
6. More weights as needed
   
7. Adjustable Dumbbells
   
   Get some horse stall mat as well to put down. Thick stuff (3/4" or thicker) - like this

I thought the squat rack was the "cage". While of course he could buy something like that (it is expensive), what I meant was something like this: https://www.amazon.com/F2C-Adjustable-Barbell-Portable-Dumbbell/dp/B018XDH17K/ref=sr_1_4?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1480146512&sr=1-4

Not sure if you can call this a traditional squat rack though...

I have this rack, and I use Titan assessories. Anything 2x2 and 1inch holes will fit it


-----

Plate holders: Titan Fitness Olympic Weight Plate Holder for T-2 Power Rack 2"x2" Tube 1" Holes
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EBAT7AS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_2wFFfVLwGCHsu

J Hooks: Yes4All Pair of J Hooks for Power Rack, Squat Rack – J Hook Weight Rack (2 inch Square Tube)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071YP4VPN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_gWLJAbPPBMCFG

I like the set just fine. I weighed the plates when I got them, and they weigh evenly to one another and within an acceptable range, e.g. the 45's both weighed in at 44.25, and the 25's both weighed in at 23.75. The sizes are fine, although something is a little off - possibly with the tree I have and not the weights themselves. I have this tree and I haven't been able to get all of the plates on the side pegs without one set butting up against another. Right now I just have the 5's on the bottom crossbar peg, and it's fine that way. Until I worked up to more weight, I bought a set of these 10lb bumpers to raise the bar up to the right height when doing deadlifts etc. The clips that come with the bar work, but are very bare bones, so I upgraded to these.

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452027128&sr=8-1&keywords=ppr200x

Fantastic squat rack for $329 shipped.

I just purchased myself a starter home gym for around 1500 after lurking here for a while. I stayed away from Titan because of all of the shipping issues and shitty welds posted here recently. Here’s what I got:

• Rep Fitness PR 1000 Power Rack with Dip Attachment and Pull-Up Bars and an AB-3000 Adjustable Bench ($649.99)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B016AUC9KC/
  
  
• Rep Fitness 260 lb Bumper Plate Set with 20kg Sabre Barbell ($689.00)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C475RMJ/
  
  
• Rep Fitness 5 lb and 2.5 lb Iron Plate Pairs ($19.99 and $12.99)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076H9GCHM/
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076HCQZW8/
  
  
• Clout Fitness 2” Quick Release Clamps ($8.98)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014JJGCDQ/
  
  
• CAP Barbell 2” Plate Rack ($40.89)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0013SZC8S/
  
  
• CAP Barbell Floor Mats ($29.99x3)
  
  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CHS8ZCN/
  
  For a total of $1512.80 before tax.
  
  All of this was free shipping.

About 3 months ago I built a home gym consisting of a power tower, dumbbells, bench, and Olympic weight set.

This is the tower I went with. Very happy with the quality and sturdiness. Wish it was a bit taller, but that's about it.

I'm pretty happy with my Powerline PPR200X.

I bought this bench. Although it does it's job, there is a bit of a gap right where your ass should be when in the flat position, which also happens to be the only position I use it in. My solution was to stick a couple of rolled up magazines in the gap, but I would maybe try out a few before buying if I had to do it again.

try craigslist. In my area there is usually a good selection of second hand gear to be found there. If you are lifting alone you might want to consider a power rack also.

Example power rack (I had no idea what one was until someone told me about it): https://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1321647514&sr=8-1 Power rack for $350. I found A barbell with 300# of weights for $210 at a local store. I already had a bench so yeah I forgot to include that but you can easily get a basic bench for cheap or there are tons on craigslist. So thats $560 + a bench.

Power rack:
http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1333825008&sr=8-1

barbell:
http://www.amazon.com/Cap-Barbell-Chrome-Olympic-Weight/dp/B000F5E0OM/ref=sr_1_2?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1333825051&sr=1-2

weights:
http://www.amazon.com/USA-300lb-Olympic-Weight-Set/dp/B000LJL3SI/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1333825080&sr=1-1

motivation:
http://chztotsandgiggles.files.wordpress.com/2011/02/funny-kids-pictures-can-i-get-a-spotter-over-here.jpg

This one is a good starter rack

You can buy a squat rack that's really basic like this and doesn't take too much space: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004GFK1YU/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?pc_redir=T1

This is the one I got:

PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_crcvxbPSBXXAR

I really like it. It's very sturdy and doesn't seem to shift or sway at all. I'm a big guy (6'5" 260#) and it doesn't move much at all even when I'm doing pull ups.

I bought this one and like it.

I just bought some pads to put under it. If you have the money get one with a dip station.

I was looking into something like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01855EGXI/?coliid=I3TBU4R3PAFGKW&colid=3AGNSU3WLIK7C&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

If you watch for a sale you don't have to spend $400. I got this one for a touch under $250 on sale. Aside from a crap paint job it's great. In fact I spent under $600 my entire home gym.

I have the large one here https://www.amazon.com/PowerBlock-Compact-Weight-Stand-Black/dp/B01A9981M0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1506565015&sr=8-1&keywords=powerblock%2Bstand&th=1&psc=1 : Mostly holds my powerblock U-90s when expanded to 90 lbs, but it slightly hangs off the edge. Probably holds non urethane versions fine.

Selling - Body Solid Weight Tree. $50.

Like this one but used...

I just recently bought this one:

Gold's Gym GGBE20615 XRS 20 Squat Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01B4970QC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_W8.IAbZ2R8A59

Very satisfied with my purchase, but keep in mind you will have to buy the bar separately

CAP barbell full cage power rack

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DR5LC5/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I'd say is a good starter rack, but I've had it for not long and im already looking at upgrading it

For the price of the material, you're better off just getting the CAP weight tree; it goes on sale every now and then for around $25. If you really wanted it to be mobile, just buy the dolly from HF and mount it on that, but if you have all the materials already, then you'd come out ahead.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0013SZC8S/ref=od_aui_detailpages00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Thanks, I expanded my craiglist search and found this rack+ 400 lbs of weights, dip tower+barbell+adjustable bench for 300 dollars, downside is I gotta drive acrossed the state. (about 4 hours round trip)

If you can do without safeties, they're rather cheap.

(To be fair, I'm probably going to be getting some sort of sawhorse set up to deal with that lack.)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VLRVSC

This squat rack is actually really small while being big enough.

If you combine this with 1.8m bar, it doesn't use that much space.

Maybe get some rubber bumber plates so you don't damage the floor.

Oh no.

Stay away from that junk.

This: http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1346194322&sr=8-3&keywords=squat+rack

Plus a bench, a bar, and some weights. Good to go.

The PowerLine PPR200X Power Rack is often under $300 shipped on Amazon.

this is mine: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VLRVSC/ Solid and rated to 500lbs or so. $339 shipped

Get one of these. You won't have to worry about spotters for a long time that way.

Let's take the typical 24 Hour Fitness membership. $30 initiation, $30/mo.

30x12 = 360 + 30 = 390 for one year.

30x24 = 720 + 30 = 750 for two years.



Power rack [$350] + Weight set + barbell + clips [$210] + Bench [$175] + mat for deadlift [$40] = 775.


So for just a little more than a 2 year membership, you get a home gym with no one to tell you what to do, no waiting for racks or bench presses, no going around searching for weights, and the convenience of working out whenever you want without taking a step outside your home. Plus this equipment is all new. You can bring down the cost even more by buying the equipment used or even just the weights.


Definitely worth it if you're serious about the gym and are not stopping any time soon.

The cheapest rack would probably be this one for $320, although it is def. not my first choice due to its size. If I had to get something, I would probably get the Rougue RML-3 w/ arms for the height, arms, and the westside hole pattern. Pretty damn expensive, but high quality.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Powerline-PPR200X-Power-Rack-Grey/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_8?ie=UTF8&qid=1383244724&sr=8-8&keywords=power+rack

This power rack is £299.00. If you can save up a little bit more it would be very much worth it, especially if you plan to be working out long term. They don't take much space, they look deeper and wider in the photo. It's not the size of the commercial ones in the gym. If you get dizzy and need to dump the weight, you can fall asleep mid rep and wake up on the floor fine. If the bar slips for a freak reason above your head during a heavy bench, your face is safe. All that protection for not much more money. You'll lift harder too mentally knowing you can go to failure and be fine.

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

Power Rack


http://www.amazon.com/adidas-ADI-416-Adidas-Flat-Bench/dp/B006JJM38S

Flat Bench

http://www.walmart.com/ip/CAP-Barbell-7-Olympic-Weight-Bar/16541563?findingMethod=rr
Weight Bar

Buy the weight off Craigslist, don't pay more than .50 cents a pound.

That Titan rack appears to only be $289 right now. Looks exactly like the Atlas Power Rack people seem to rave about as the Powerline PPR200X killer. That rack tends to sell out and I'm thinking this might be the same manufacturer by a different name. Atlas -> Titan ...
Atlas Rack
Powerline Rack

This Titan rack sells on Amazon for more.
Titan Rack on Amazon

Seems to be really good reviews by people who put it together correctly. I wish I had personal experience but I'm shopping this right now too.
Main complaints seem to be people having trouble putting safety bars in. If you don't put the vertical posts all the same direction the holes won't line up, according to reviews on Amazon.

get one of these and then pick up a used olympic bar with the accompanying 255lbs and a bench and you're set for your sets

You need to get yourself a power rack.
http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1405700269&sr=8-1&keywords=power+rack

shop the craigslists.

Body-Solid Pro Power Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HAVB0DI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_vFqEAb9HX9Z4B

I bought more lift-offs. Comes with 2.

https://www.amazon.com/F2C-Adjustable-Barbell-Portable-Dumbbell/dp/B018XDH17K/ref=sr_1_4?s=exercise-and-fitness&ie=UTF8&qid=1496547084&sr=1-4&keywords=bench+press

I believe it is this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

http://smile.amazon.com/Valor-Fitness-BD-17-Combo-Squat/dp/B0031Q1XN8?sa-no-redirect=1

http://smile.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC?sa-no-redirect=1

These ship to my zip(96814). Just add a bunch of different ones to the cart then proceed to checkout to see the ones that do(and do not) ship here.

You dont need to be a billionaire for a home gym, the golds gym squat rack is $80..

https://www.amazon.com/Golds-Gym-GGBE20615-Squat-Rack/dp/B01B4970QC/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?hvadid=78615132048611&hvbmt=be&hvdev=m&hvqmt=e&keywords=gold+gym+squat+rack&qid=1555262594&s=gateway&sr=8-2

For that kind of money why not buy a power rack? http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

Here you go

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01855EGXI/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here are the links for the products:

floor mats

barbell

255 lb weight set

power cage

clip collars

bench

weight tree

I just setup my own home 5x5 gym in my garage. This is the list of items I bought.

• Weights and bar set $275
  
• Power Rack with Bench $290
  
• Floor mat $21
  
• 2.5 lbs plates $12
  
• Plate Holder $50
  
  I spent about $650 and I have everything I need for this routine. 305lbs of weight should last me a long time and when I need to get more plates I can buy matching plates at Walmart.
  
  Edit: I just saw your other post saying you are in EU. Sorry these links may be irrelevant to you. I'm leaving them in case anyone from the US is here snooping around.

Power rack: $350
Example

Adjustable bench: $50
Example

300lb Olympic set: $125
Example

One thing I found is that weight sets skyrocketed in price since I last bought any weights. My 300lb set cost a little over $100 back in 1993-94, and dumbbells were about $.50/lb.

This is pretty reasonably priced and doesn't take up a ton of space. You could combine it with this to keep your plates and bars organized. I'll wager that these two together take up less space than some dumbass home gym thing.

Unfortunately, that is pretty far out of my price range for now. I believe my basement height (from joists) is 84", so I'm looking at the Powerline PPR200x which comes in at 82". It's a small margin of error, I'm trying to find out whether assembly would be difficult/impossible.

to piggyback off of /u/HomegymFriend

This is my setup and a little less expensive option:

Necessities

• Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage - 214 (seen as low as 160)
  
  
• Fitness Gear 300 lb. Olympic Weight Set - 200
  
  
• adidas Performance Flat Training Bench - 80
  
  Accessories
  
  
• CAP Barbell 2 in. Plate Rack - 30
  
• 4 ft. x 6 ft. x 3/4 in. Thick Rubber Stall Mat - 43
  
• Valor Fitness MB-A BD-7 Dip Handle Accessory Set - 40
  
  
• Cap Barbell - 112 for future reference
  
  
• Total without tax and accessories 494 with accessories 607 w/o upgraded bar
  
  Google around for promo codes and check camelcamelcamel for additional discounts.
  
  
  If I'm understanding you correctly, you plan on carrying your weights from inside your spare bedroom to outside in order to do OHP? Sounds like a pain in the ass to me but to each his own.

Power Rack, oly bar, weights, bench. All you need right there.

Basically the same power rack my gym has.

Decent bench

Quality bar and enough weight to keep you busy for a couple months.

You can probably find some of this on CL for dirt cheap though. Especially the bar and weights since they are a PIA to move.

I don't see what is wrong with this one. It is <$400.

http://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

buy now idiot

So jealous of people who have ceilings with that type of clearance. Mine are barely 80, which is very limiting.

ETA: Apparently there is an answer for me. And a cheap one!

https://www.amazon.com/Powerline-PPR200X-PowerLine-Power-Rack/dp/B000VLRVSC

I had the same problem. My solution was to empty a room in my house and buy a squat cage, a bench, and a set of weights. I then started doing a 5x5 workout on my own. Fuck the gyms.

If you've got the room, the best thing I ever did was ditch my LA membership and purchase a power rack, bench and 300lb Olympic weight set.

I've added a couple accessory items, but that was enough to get going on a power lifting routine and hit the big compound lifts (squat, dead, bench, overhead) for ~$700 or about 2 years of gym memberships as I saw it.

No problem. I think it's a decent deal, according to camelcamelcamel.com this is the lowest price it's ever been on Amazon at least: http://camelcamelcamel.com/CAP-Barbell-Olympic-2-Inch-Plate/product/B0013SZC8S

Since you have the entire outside and no longer need to worry about damaging your floor or fail reps I would get a squat Squat Rack
H.D. Adjustable Racks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GFK1YU/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_Az4.ub1YD1BKM
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004GFK1YU/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_Az4.ub1YD1BKM

This is $140 shipped. And can easily be picked up and taken inside or outside. You can add spotter stands as a separate item for safety if you feel so inclined.