The power rack is the ultimate piece of strength training equipment.
However, there are a number of different power rack designs and therefore being able to differentiate between an effective and a poor design can be challenging.
In this article, we’ll review the top 5 power racks that will allow you to bring your training to the next level.
Our top pick: Force USA Home Power Rack Combo
Force USA home power rack combination is the perfect choice for a home gym and for beginners.
It comes with a variety of different attachments – including a lat pulldown – to allow for many different exercises to be performed.
Finally, it is extremely well priced, especially considering its quality and functionality.
PROS
- Perfect for a home gym
- Reasonable price
- Highly versatile
CONS
- 150kg max weight rating
Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage
With hundreds of positive reviews, this power rack from Fitness Reality is one of the best on the market.
The design and solid steel construct of the cage allows for a max capacity of over 800lbs (over 350kg!).
The cage is noticeably wide as well which provides a lot of space while in the cage to exercise safely.
PROS
- Strong construct
- Large walk-in space
- 19 safety bar increments available
CONS
- No plastic protection on safety bars
Force USA Half Rack Combo
The half rack combo is another excellent product from Force USA which is specifically useful for a home gym.
This product is a half rack which means that it doesn’t take up as much space as a full rack.
It is very simple, yet effective in design and will allow for a range of barbell and bodyweight exercises to be performed on it.
PROS
- Versatile
- Space efficient
- Best budget option
CONS
- No safety bars
Powerline Power Rack
Another power rack with excellent reviews is the Powerline power rack.
This rack has heat-tempered bars and rods to add strength and protect the rack from potential damage.
The height and width this rack also provide a large walk-in space to promote safe and effective exercise.
PROS
- Strong, heat tempered construct
- Wide dimensions
- 10 year warranty
CONS
- Fewer attachments than rivals
Force USA Commercial Power Rack
For those looking for something more heavy duty, we have the huge commercial power rack from Force USA.
This station is a dual-entry rack, which means that two individuals can use it simultaneously.
PROS
- Huge dual-entry rack
- Large variety of exercises
- Great storage capacity
CONS
- Highly expensive
How To Choose a Power Rack
There are as many as 7 different types of power rack – from the very basic squat stands to the rig.
It is imperative that you take time to consider the uses of each and select a rack that reflects your needs, preferences and helps to advance your training.
The Benefits Of Using A Power Rack
The power rack is a very functional piece of gym equipment which allows you to perform an array of free-weight barbell strengthening exercises such as the squat, rack pull, bench press, row, and overhead press.
When it comes to free weight training and developing pure strength, barbells are unrivaled.
They allow you pull and push a substantial amount of weight which will place a great stress on the working muscles.
As a result, these muscles will be forced to adapt and consequently increase in overall strength.
Power racks may also serve as a mechanical spotter to allow you to lift heavy while promoting safety.
When performing squats in the squat rack, safety bars can be placed just below the end of your squat range. If you happen to fail, the bars will catch the barbell and allow you to get out safely thus reducing the chances of sustaining injury.
Some power racks also have a number of attachments, such as dip bars and pull up bars, which allow you to perform a selection of functional bodyweight exercises.
Furthermore, some racks also include a band peg to allow for a range of resistance band exercises.
Power Rack Considerations
When selecting the perfect power rack, there are a number key features to pay attention to which will determine which rack you purchase.
Firstly, the rack must be sturdy and strong enough in order to deal with the heavy loads and forces that it will be subjected to.
Look for a rack of steel construction as these will provide ample strength and stability. In addition, pay attention to the J-hooks and safety bars too and ensure that they are also of high quality.
In terms of functionality, there are racks which allow for barbell and weight plate storage.
For plate storage, short bars protrude from the sides of many racks while for barbell storage, vertical shafts may be found inbuilt into the base of the rack.
Finally, it is essential that you consider the space that you have.
If you have a limited space to work with, picking something high versatile like squat stands may be a wise move whereas full power cages are fixed and immovable and do take up a substantial amount of space.
Verdict
When it comes to developing strength, the power rack is a highly effective piece of fitness equipment allowing you to build strength through barbell and bodyweight training.
While there are a number of great power rack options, Force USA’s Home Power Rack Combo is the stand-out product considering its quality, functionality and affordability.
