Choose a squat rack that suits your needs: “Focus your time and energy on researching the racks that will be a perfect fit for your space and the size of the people who will be using the rack,” says Steve Stonehouse, VP of education and programming at Body Fit Training. You’ll also want to check the quality of the machine. “There’s a different quality and standard for commercial racks than there is for personal racks,” he explains. When determining the quality of the rack, you’ll want to consider the type and thickness of steel used in its manufacture. You’ll also want to consider the weight and frequency of use the squat rack will see.
Decide if you’re going to use it for other exercises: You’ll find that some squat racks are marketed as squat racks with two steel bars that are meant to hold a barbell and the bare bones. On the other hand, many power cages function as a squat rack, a bench rack, a spotter, and more, all of which are more versatile than a basic squat rack. Depending on what you’re using it for, you may want to consider a power cage if you want a rack that can be used for squats, bench presses, or other exercises.
Use the safety bars: Squat racks come with “safety arms” that are supposed to help you out if you fail a lift. Stonehouse also recommends choosing a squat rack with a wide base or platform that will prevent the rack from moving during use. He also advises making sure the thickness or “gauge” of the steel is sufficient.
“Size can often be a key indicator of price and quality,” he explained, noting that commercial gyms typically use racks that utilize 7-gauge steel, while home-friendly racks use 11-gauge steel. “This is strong enough for almost any home gym scenario and will likely last a lifetime,” he said.
Attach the squat rack: Whenever possible, to provide additional safety measures, try to bolt the rack down. If you cannot bolt the rack down, make sure the footprint is wide enough to provide proper stability, even when using heavy weight.
Make sure it can hold a lot of weight: It’s important to make sure the squat rack you choose can hold a lot of weight, especially if multiple people in your home plan on using it. Stonehouse says most standard home gym squat racks have a weight capacity that can handle loads ranging from 300 to 1,000 pounds.
