The 5 Best Compact Squat Racks For Home Gym
April 04, 2024
If you’ve got the luxury of having your own gym, likely, you haven’t got masses of space for a huge power cage squat rack. We, therefore, need to make use of every inch we have available and source a compact squat rack that takes up as little space as possible, leaving space for our other essential gym equipment.
To get the most out of our compact squat racks, we must ensure they have a few key features; space-saving design, stability, and enough safety catches to help us perform different exercises. That's precisely what we are here to guide you through.
Here, we list the 5 best compact squat racks for home gyms that fulfil all of our criteria. We’ve broken down what makes each squat rack great and compared them to ensure you can make the best decision for your home gym. At the end, we’ll share our overall top pick for the best squat rack for small spaces.
Just a heads-up – we've tested all these products and looked at the customer feedback available online. So, whatever you read here is based on our own experience and that of other gym owners.
Let's dig in and find out which is the most compact squat rack available.
Compact Squat Racks at a Glance
Before we get into the specifics of each rack, let's start with a summary. The table below represents the key features of each rack and how they compare. This should help you quickly identify which could be most suitable for your home gym.
|
Product Name |
Price |
Size (WxHxD) |
Weight Capacity |
Weight of Product |
Other Information |
|
$452.00 |
57.5 x 78.5 x 24 inches (146.05 x 199.39 x 60.96 centimeters) |
1000 pounds (453.59 kilograms) |
150 pounds (68.04 kilograms) |
Wall-mounted, foldable, made of alloy steel, safety spotters. Space saving. |
|
|
$239.99-$319.99 |
42 x 82/91 x 12/18/24 inches (107 x 208/231 x 30/46/61 centimeters) |
1000 pounds (453.59 kilograms) |
145 pounds (66 kilograms) |
Left and right-handed reinforced J-Hooks, 3 depth options (12, 18, or 24-inches), made from heavy-duty steel | |
|
$224.00 |
53 x 87 x 38 inches (96.52 x 220.98 134.62 centimeters) |
805 pounds (365.14 kilograms) |
83 pounds (37.65 kilograms) |
Adjustable pull-up bar, 18-point adjustable J-hooks, adjustable spotter arms |
|
|
$269.99 |
30-48 x 47-68 x 26 inches (76-122 x 120-173 x 66 centimeters) |
480 pounds (217.72 kilograms) |
48 pounds (21.77 kilograms) |
Made with carbon steel, adjustable, non-slip foot cover. Adjustable width and height |
|
|
$390.00 |
49 x 90.4 x 15 inches (124 x 230 x 38 centimeters) |
Dependent on fixing type. |
165 pounds (75 kilograms) |
Minimal footprint utilising 3x3in steel for optimal support. |
Note: The prices mentioned here are approximate and may vary. It's always recommended to check the current prices on the respective manufacturer's website or authorized retailers.
The Best Compact Squat Racks for Home Gym in 2023
Now, let's dive into the details of each squat rack. We'll look at the features, pros and cons, and what makes them stand out from the other compact squat racks on the market.
1. Best Foldable Squat Rack: Signature Fitness 3” x 3” Wall Mounted Squat Rack
- Price: $452.00
- Brand: Signature Fitness
- Material: Alloy steel
- Weight limit: 1000 pounds (453.59 kilograms)
|
What We Liked |
What We Didn’t Like |
|
● Space-saving folding design ● Versatile and adjustable ● Sturdy and durable construction ● Enhanced safety features ● Adjustable height pull-up bar |
● Does not come with additional accessories such as weight plate holders or dip bars. These cost extra
|
To kick things off, we've got the Signature Fitness Wall Mounted Squat Rack. We can start by saying this is a great folding squat rack that offers maximum space savings. Think of it as an all-in-one system, ideal for those of us with a limited amount of floor space. Here's what makes it great:
Ease of Installation and Space Efficiency:
One of the standout features of the Signature Fitness Squat Rack is its easy installation process. Mounting it onto any wall is a breeze, and once secured, it can be fully collapsed against the wall, making efficient use of your available space. This collapsible design allows you to optimize your workout area, especially if you have limited room to spare.
Adjustability for Various Exercises:
The rack's fully adjustable J-Hook system provides excellent versatility. The 47 vertical holes and the 1-inch (2.5 centimetres) spacing at the bottom of each upright pole allows for an infinite range of adjustments. This adaptability ensures optimal safety and comfort during your workouts, regardless of your stature or exercise preferences.
Sturdy Construction for Maximum Stability:
Crafted from 3x3" 11-gauge steel, the Signature Fitness Squat Rack is built to last. This heavy-duty construction ensures maximum stability during even the most intense workouts and allows the rack to hold an impressive weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds (453.59 kilograms). Whether you're squatting, bench pressing, or performing other exercises, you can have peace of mind knowing that this rack will provide the necessary support.
Enhanced Safety Features:
Safety should always be a top priority in any strength training regimen, and the Signature Fitness Squat Rack doesn't disappoint. It has the option to purchase safety spotter arm positions, further adding to its functionality. These spots allow you to find the ideal height and position to support your movements, minimizing the risk of injury. You can confidently push your limits, knowing you have a reliable safety system.
Thoughtful Additions:
The inclusion of UHMW-coated J-Hooks is a welcome addition to this squat rack. These hooks not only protect your barbell from scratches and damage but also provide a secure and smooth surface for easy racking and unracking. Additionally, the adjustable height pull-up bar adds another dimension to your workout possibilities, allowing you to engage in effective upper-body exercises without the need for additional equipment.
2. Best Wall Mounted Squat Rack: T-3 Series Space Saving Racks
- Price: $239.99 - $319.99
- Brand: Titan Fitness
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
- Weight limit: 1000 pounds (453.59 kilograms)
|
What We Liked |
What We Didn’t Like |
|
● Made from 11-gauge steel ● Versatility at its best ● Excellent weight capacity ● Compact footprint ● Easy assembly ● Three different rack depths |
● Does not include bolts to bolt it to the wall or floor. Have to source your own. |
If you're looking for a versatile and robust power rack that fits perfectly in your home gym, the T-3 Series Space Saving Racks from Titan Fitness are worth every penny. These racks offer an exceptional combination of durability, functionality, and space-saving design, making them an excellent addition to any fitness enthusiast's setup. Here's our experience using the T-3 Series Space Saving Racks.
Durability and Construction:
One of the standout features of the T-3 Series Space Saving Racks is their construction from tough, heavy-duty steel. From the moment we unpacked the racks, it was evident that they were built to last. The sturdy steel uprights and top-side braces provide the necessary support and stability for intense workouts. The racks also offer a generous weight capacity of 1000 pounds (453.59 kilograms), allowing us to push our limits without any concerns about the rack's structural integrity.
Versatility and Exercise Options:
The T-3 Series racks offer various exercise options thanks to their thoughtful design. The convenience of the wide-space walk-in design also guarantees that we can move around freely during our lifts. Additionally, we could perform various exercises such as pull-ups, chin-ups, and deadlifts with this setup. The high pull-up bar is also perfect for those of us over 6ft tall!
Space-saving Design:
As the name suggests, the T-3 Series Space Saving Racks excel in optimizing space in your home gym. The racks are available in two models, short and tall, with three different depth options of 12, 18, and 24 inches (30.48 cm, 45.72 cm, and 60.96 cm). This means we can choose a rack size that best suits our space and workout requirements. We opted for the 18-inch (45.72 cm) model, and it fits perfectly in our home gym without taking up too much space.
Assembly:
The T-3 Series Space Saving Racks come with all the necessary assembly hardware and instructions to make the setup process smooth and hassle-free. While putting everything together may take some time and effort, the end result is well worth it. The included skinny pull-up bar adds another dimension to your workouts, allowing you to target different muscle groups effectively.
3. Best Moveable Power Rack for Home Gym: Sunny Health & Fitness Power Zone Squat Stand
- Price: $224.00
- Brand: Sunny Health & Fitness
- Material: Alloy steel
- Weight limit: 805 pounds (365.14 kilograms)
|
What We Liked |
What We Didn’t Like |
|
● Sturdy construction ● Adjustable and reversible pull-up bar ● Safety with spotter's arms ● Convenient Olympic plate storage ● Versatility with resistance band posts ● 6 Resistance band points |
● Weight plates not included ● Potential tipping as it’s not fixed to a wall |
As fitness enthusiasts, we understand the importance of having reliable and functional equipment in our home gym, and this affordable squat stand certainly lives up to our expectations. Constructed with premium quality steel, it provides a solid foundation for our workouts. Here's our firsthand experience using this remarkable power squat stand:
Sturdy Construction and Impressive Weight Capacity:
One of the standout features of the Power Zone Squat Stand is its exceptional strength (especially for a free-standing squat rack!). Built with high-quality steel construction, it offers a remarkable maximum weight capacity of up to 805 lbs. This impressive capacity allows us to confidently push our limits and lift heavier weights. Whether you're a seasoned lifter or just starting your fitness journey, this squat stand can accommodate your needs.
Adjustable and Reversible Angled Pull-Up Bar:
The pull-up bar on the Power Zone Squat Stand is a game-changer. With eight adjustable positions and an angled design, it caters to wide and narrow grip pull-ups. This versatility enables us to target various muscle groups and switch up our workout routines. Additionally, the reversible feature allows us to position the bar according to our preference, adding even more flexibility to our workouts.
Safety and Peace of Mind with Spotter Arms:
Safety is paramount when performing squats and heavy lifts. Including spotter arms in the Power Zone Squat Stand ensures that we always have reliable safety measures in place. The safety lock latches offer ease of mind and assurance when handling heavier weights. We appreciate the attention to detail and the commitment to keeping us safe during our intense training sessions.
Convenient Olympic Plate Storage:
An organized workout space is crucial for a seamless training experience, and the Power Zone Squat Stand delivers on this front. It features Olympic plate storage with safety clips, allowing us to neatly organize our weights while adding extra stability to the machine. It's worth noting that the weights themselves are not included with the squat stand, but having designated storage space is a valuable addition.
Versatility with Resistance Band Posts:
To enhance the versatility of our workouts, the Power Zone Squat Stand incorporates resistance band posts. We can easily add extra resistance to our lifts and squats with six resistance band pins, three on each side. This feature adds a new dimension to our training, enabling us to target specific muscle groups and customize our workout routines according to our goals.
4. Best Adjustable Squat Rack: Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack
- Price: $269.99
- Brand: Ollieroo
- Material: Carbon steel
- Weight limit: 480 pounds (217.72 kilograms)
|
What We Liked |
What We Didn’t Like |
|
● Solid construction and durable steel build ● Adjustable height and width for versatile training ● Bottom connecting bar for quick width adjustments ● Non-slip foot covers for safety ● Easy assembly with understandable instructions |
● The weight capacity is relatively low compared to other racks ● A free-standing squat rack may not be as sturdy as a squat rack fixed to the wall |
Last but certainly not least, let me share our experience with the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack. As fitness enthusiasts who value both quality and versatility, we were excited to put the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack to the test. This adjustable steel rack impressed us from the start, designed with a range of features to enhance your workout experience.
Quality Construction:
First and foremost, the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack is built to last. Crafted from high-quality steel, it exudes durability and provides a stable foundation for your workouts. We appreciated the solid construction, which instilled confidence during heavy lifts and intense training sessions. It's clear that the manufacturers took pride in creating a product that could withstand the demands of various exercises.
Impressive Weight Capacity:
With a remarkable weight capacity of up to 480 pounds, this rack is a reliable companion for strength training enthusiasts. Whether you're performing squats, deadlifts, bench presses, curls, rows, shoulder presses, or countless other exercises, the Ollieroo rack ensures stability and security throughout your routine. We pushed the limits of this rack, and it effortlessly supported heavy loads without any signs of strain.
Although the weight capacity isn’t as high as some of the other racks on our list, it should be an issue for 99% of our readers (Unless you are Brian Shaw!).
Adjustability for Versatility:
One standout feature of the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack is its adjustable design. With the ability to modify both the height and width, this rack caters to diverse training needs. You can easily adjust the height from 46 to 68 inches (118 to 173 centimetres) and the width from 30 to 48 inches (76.96 to 121.92 cm). Whether you're short or tall, this rack has you covered.
Bottom Connecting Bar:
What really sets the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack apart from the competition is the position of the connecting bar. Instead of having it on top, this rack has its bar at the bottom. So when you want to adjust the width, you have to slide the bar in or out - no need to mess around with screws or bolts. And the best part is that this feature won't interfere with any bench you place on top.
Convenience and Safety:
Assembling the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack is easier than ever. The clear instructions and thoughtful design make the process quick and hassle-free. And for added safety, the rack also comes with non-slip foot covers, so you don't have to worry about slipping or tipping when performing lifts.
5. Best Shallow Squat Rack for Home Gym: Rogue RML-90 SLIM Rack
- Price: $390.00
- Brand: Rogue Fitness
- Material: 3x3” 11-gauge steel
- Weight limit: N/A
|
What We Liked |
What We Didn’t Like |
|
● Compact design and slim frame depth ● Built with strong and durable materials ● Limited lifetime warranty ● Sleek design ● Versatile attachment options |
● May not be the most budget-friendly option for some individuals ● Rackable capacity not mentioned |
After extensively researching and comparing various options, we finally settled on the Rogue RML-90 SLIM Rack as our favourite pick out of the five options on this list. Here's why we love it:
Quality Construction:
Just like all other Rogue Fitness products, this slim rack is built to last. The frame is made from two Monster Lite uprights and 3x3 inch 11-gauge steel, offering strength and stability for intense workouts. The construction is so solid that you don't have to worry about shaking or tipping, even when using heavy weights.
Minimal Footprint:
One of the biggest selling points for the Rogue RML-90 SLIM Rack is its compact design. The 15 inches frame depth makes it ideal for small spaces, like apartments or garages. You can easily fit this rack into the corner of any room and begin training without taking up too much space.
Suitable for Home Gyms:
With a height of 90.4 inches (229.61 cm) and the crossmount bracket option, this rack is designed to fit most home and garage gyms comfortably. It's perfect for powerlifters, crossfitters, and anyone looking to get fit in the comfort of their own home.
Versatile Attachment Options:
You can choose between the 4 bracket or cross member mounts for attaching the uprights to the wall, offering flexibility in your workout routine. Westside Hole Spacing allows for precise adjustments and customization, while the Monster Lite J cups and UHMW plastic feet protect your gym floor. Plus, you can enhance it with a 43" single pull-up bar and Rogue stringers.
Sleek Design:
The Rogue RML-90 SLIM Rack features a sleek black finish that adds to its aesthetic appeal. We also love the laser-cut logo that makes this rack look stylish and modern in any home gym.
Warranty:
Rogue offers a limited lifetime warranty with this rack. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use for the lifetime of the original owner. So, you can be assured that your purchase is protected.
What To Consider When Buying Compact Squat Rack
Before investing in a compact squat rack, you need to take a few factors into consideration. Here are a few key points to consider when searching for the best compact squat rack for your home gym:
Size
Since you're looking for a compact option, you'll want to ensure that the rack can fit comfortably within the available space in your home gym or workout area.
Measure the dimensions of the space where you plan to place the squat rack and compare it with the dimensions provided by the manufacturer. Pay attention to the rack's height, width, and depth to ensure it fits appropriately and allows for proper movement during exercises.
If you're short on space, consider opting for a foldable model that can be stored away when not in use. Models 1, 3, and 4 on this list are all foldable options that can be quickly and easily compressed when not in use.
Weight Capacity
You should also consider the weight capacity of the squat rack. You may want a higher or lower maximum weight capacity depending on your needs. If you plan on performing heavy lifts, opt for a squat rack with a higher weight capacity and sturdier construction. On the other hand, if you plan on using lighter weights or just need a rack for callisthenics and bodyweight exercises, you can opt for a model with a lower weight capacity.
Also, if you decide to go with a wall-mounted squat rack, make sure you check whether your wall can support the weight of the rack and any weights you plan to use.
Location of Use
You also need to think about where the squat rack will be placed. If you have limited space, opting for a squat rack that can be installed over a doorway, like the Ollieroo Multi-Function Barbell Rack, can be a great space-saving solution. This type of rack utilizes vertical space and doesn't take up valuable floor space, allowing you to maximize the usability of your area.
Stability
The stability of the squat rack is paramount for safe and effective workouts. Consider both the weight capacity of the rack and the materials it is made from to determine how stable it will be. For maximum stability, look for models with a wider base or ones that are mounted to the wall.
Stability is also important when considering exercises you may want to perform on the rack. Certain exercises, like pull-ups and bench presses, require additional stability. Ensure the squat rack you choose can comfortably and safely accommodate these exercises.
Adjustability
Finally, you should consider the adjustability of the squat rack. If you plan on using it for different exercises, look for a model that can be adjusted to different heights. This way, you can easily switch between exercises without having to readjust the height each time. The Signature Fitness 3” x 3” Wall Mounted Squat Rack is a great example of an adjustable rack, as it comes with 47 vertical holes for easy height adjustment.
Our Favourite Compact Squat Rack Foldable Squat Rack: Signature Fitness 3” x 3” Wall Mounted Squat Rack
Our favourite has got to be the foldable Signature fitness wall-mounted power cage. If you're looking for a reliable and versatile squat rack that won't take up too much space in your home gym, the foldable Signature fitness rack is the one for you.
The fact that you can easily fold it away when you’re not using it was the deciding factor for us. It means you can win back some floor space when you’re not using the rack so you can utilise other equipment even in the smallest of spaces.
Get yours today and start working out with confidence! Happy lifting!
FAQs
Is It Worth Getting a Squat Rack at Home?
Absolutely! Squat racks are incredibly versatile pieces of gym equipment that can provide various exercises for your workouts. With a squat rack, you can perform squats, presses, pull-ups, and many other exercises. It’s an essential piece of equipment for any home gym.
Is a Folding Squat Rack Worth It?
Yes, a folding squat rack is worth it if you have limited space in your home gym. The main benefit of a folding rack is that it can be folded away when not in use, saving you valuable space. Additionally, folding racks are usually more affordable than your standard squat rack.
Leave a comment
© 2024 Robor Fitness. The content provided by Robor Fitness is solely for informational and educational purposes only. It should not be considered as a replacement for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please note that we may earn commissions when you click on our links and make purchases. However, this does not influence the information we provide. Affiliate links are added after an article is written and help us to continue providing free content.
Thomas D
Author
Thomas is a dedicated fitness enthusiast with over 12 years of experience in the gym. As a level 2 qualified gym instructor, he combines his passion for working out and nutrition to help others achieve their fitness goals. Thomas stays up to date with the latest fitness research and follows the work of top experts in the field. With a balance of textbook knowledge and real-life experience, he provides practical guidance to help others reach their full potential.