“In your heart and at home, thou shalt make a place for the squat rack.”
If you're looking for a way to improve your strength training without taking up a lot of space, a squat rack is a great option. Squat racks are designed to provide support and stability while you're doing squats, deadlifts, and other exercises.
However, not all squat racks are created equal. If you're working out in a small space, you'll need to choose a squat rack or smith cage that's designed to be compact and easy to store. Here are our testers' opinions on the best squat racks for small space on the market, to help you make your choice.
Best Squat Rack for Small Space
- ULTRA FUEGO Power Cage: Best overall
- FITNESS REALITY Squat Rack Power Cage: Best Value
- FLYBIRD Squat Rack: Best Budget Compact & Adjustable Power Rack
- SUNHOME Power Cage: Best Multifunctional Squat Rack for Home
- MIKOLO 2.36” x 2.36”: Best Folding Wall-Mounted Squat Rack
- RITFIT PPC03 Squat Rack & Power Cage: Best All-in-one Package
- MIKOLO Power Rack With LAT Pulldown
- MAJOR LUTIE Power Cage PLM03: Best Adjustable Cable Crossover
1. ULTRA FUEGO Power Cage: Best Overall
ULTRA FUEGO Power Cage is built with strong and sturdy materials, featuring precise laser cutting and a powder coated finish for durability. It is made of 1.5mm thick steel with 50mm x 50mm uprights and an extra reinforcing tab, ensuring reliability and stability.
This power cage offers endless training possibilities with its adjustable features. You can adjust the height of the j-hooks, safety bar, and dip handles to suit your needs. The pulley system allows you to increase or decrease weights for customized workouts. It is a versatile and complete system for full-body training.
With a wide range of included attachments and accessories, the UF-896 power rack is the most versatile on the market. It comes with tricep rope, ankle strap, T-bar, lat pull-down bar, cable handles, J-Hooks, dip bars, safety bars, weight plate storage, landmine, pulley system, and band pegs. It has a 1000 Pound Capacity and provides a safe and compact space for various strength training exercises.
ULTRA FUEGO Power Cage is the ultimate solution for a full-body workout at home. It is designed with a large walk-in space for easy movement and can be combined with other fitness equipment like barbells and weight benches. Say goodbye to gym restrictions and train stress-free at your convenience.
Our Helpful review
In the summer, I finally decided to build a home gym. After thorough research, I found this compact power cage that met all my requirements. Despite its small size (opinion), it allows me to perform all the exercises I used to do at my previous gym. Once assembled, the power cage remains stable without any wobbling, even without being screwed into the floor.
Although I noticed some bending of the metal during assembly, it hasn't affected my workouts. The assembly process itself was time-consuming, taking around 3-4 hours, but I took my time and enjoyed a beer during breaks. Considering the price and quality, I believe this power cage is a worthwhile investment that will withstand heavy use for years to come.
2. FITNESS REALITY Squat Rack Power Cage: Best Value
CHECK PRICEEnsure your safety with the Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage. This rack has been ASTM tested at 2,000 pounds to guarantee a weight capacity of 800 pounds, giving you peace of mind during your workouts.
The solid steel long safety arms of this power cage are designed to handle heavy weights, providing you with a sturdy and reliable support system.
With multi-grip and reversible pull-up bars, you can perform a variety of pull-up exercises. The bars can also be reversed to accommodate lower ceiling heights. Additionally, the standard sized 1" holes make this squat rack compatible with various attachments, allowing you to customize your workouts.
Our Helpful review
I've been weightlifting on and off for most of my life, but at 73 years old, I haven't lifted in 20 years and I've noticed that I've become a bit out of shape. So, I decided it's time to start lifting again. I recently purchased this rack and was able to set it up in just 30 minutes. The assembly process was incredibly easy, and I managed to do it all by myself without any issues.
The rack was packaged really well and arrived in perfect condition. There were no scratches or damages to the paint, and all the metal parts were perfectly formed. I did buy upgraded J-Hooks separately because the ones that came with the rack didn't have rubber padding and I didn't like their design. However, this was only a minor drawback considering the affordable price of the rack.
I've always lifted weights without a spotter, even when I was 55 and felt confident doing so. However, now that I'm older, I think it's wise to have some sort of protection in case I can't complete a lift. The 1" spotting bars are exactly what I needed for this purpose. Now, I can push myself to do that last rep without worrying about injuring my ribs if I happen to lose strength.
3. FLYBIRD Squat Rack: Best Budget Compact & Adjustable Power Rack
Introducing the FLYBIRD Squat Rack with Pull-Up Bar, a versatile and reliable power rack suitable for both small home gyms and large-scale weight-training facilities. Made with commercial thickness, high-quality steel, this squat rack offers stability and comfort with its 22 adjustable height positions.
The unique width adjustment design allows for a perfect fit with most 6FT and 7FT barbell bars, while the semi-frame construction provides unlimited workout space. The comfortable pull-up bar, covered with soft foam, helps build back muscles and upper body strength. With strong spotter arms and standard 1-inch holes for extra attachments, this squat rack offers a diverse range of training options.
Our Helpful review
I purchased this squat rack because of its adjustability, which is perfect for my small garage space. The packaging was good, although a few screws were loose in the box. However, assembly was easy and I was able to put it together by myself in just one hour.
The powder coating is of high quality and seems durable, and the rack is very stable with minimal sway. While I wouldn't load it with over 300 pounds, it can easily handle that weight. It may not be suitable for professional powerlifters, but for a home gym, it is well-built and adjustable for different bar lengths. I highly recommend this squat rack for its sturdiness and value compared to other similar options.
4. SUNHOME Power Cage: Best Multifunctional Squat Rack for Home
The SunHome Power Cage Squat Rack is a versatile home gym equipment that allows you to perform a wide range of exercises. It supports various Olympic weight bars and offers multiple height options for added convenience.
From squats to bench presses, this power rack cage has got you covered with its 28 adjustable positions for J hooks and spotter arms. With a maximum weight capacity of 1500 lbs, it is built to handle heavy loads. Plus, it comes with built-in storage space to keep your weights and barbells organized, ensuring a clutter-free workout area and reducing the risk of accidents.
Get a full-body workout at home with the SunHome Power Cage Squat Rack. This multi-functional power rack is designed to accommodate different exercises, including squat, bench press, pull up/chin up, and dip station. Made from durable 2*2'' steel tubes, it boasts excellent load-bearing capacity, with a maximum weight capacity of 1500 lbs. The adjustable J hooks and spotter arms offer 28 different positions to suit your workout needs. Additionally, the built-in storage space provides a convenient solution for keeping your weight plates and barbells organized, ensuring a safe and clutter-free fitness area.
Our Helpful review
The SunHome Half Power Rack offers great value for its price, with a sturdy build and convenient storage for weight plates and barbells. Its pull-up and dip attachments enhance its versatility. I couldn't find another rack with similar features in this price range. The customer service was exceptional, promptly addressing and resolving an issue with missing parts. They quickly shipped the missing piece and I received it within a few days. Overall, everything seems to be in order and I am satisfied with my purchase.
5. MIKOLO 2.36” x 2.36”: Best Folding Wall-Mounted Squat Rack
CHECK PRICETransform any empty wall into a space-saving world-class power rack with the Mikolo 2.36'' x 2.36'' Folding Wall Mounted Squat Rack. In just 15 seconds, you can switch between storage and use, maximizing your space. With folded dimensions of 47''×2''×85.8'' and open dimensions of 47''×19.7''×85.8'', this rack is perfect for home gyms.
Built with 60x60mm 13 gauge steel uprights and a textured powder coat paint for a secure grip, the Mikolo Folding Squat Rack can handle up to 1000 lbs of weight. Whether you're doing squats, deadlifts, or bench presses, this heavy-duty rack won't let anything hold you back.
Take your workout to the next level with the upgraded accessories included with the Mikolo Folding Squat Rack. The quick-attach pull-up bar, J-cups with UHMW plastic inserts, and 360° Dual Size T-bar row attachment with pin provide versatility and convenience. Plus, installation is a breeze with the included stringer and metal studs.
Our Helpful review
The rack is sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, so we decided to install it indoors instead of the garage. I made sure to center it on the wall and anchor it to the wall studs using 2x4s. This placement worked well with the height of the baseboards and wall outlet.
Installing the rack by myself was not too difficult. I assembled it on the ground and then flipped it up into place, marking the wall for level placement. The rack is highly functional, with a pull-up bar and the ability to fold up when not in use. I plan to keep it unfolded most of the time since the room is dedicated to working out. The pulley system doesn't interfere with squats or bench workouts.
The rubber-wrapped j-hooks are durable, quiet, and visually appealing. I'm reaching out to Mikolo to inquire about getting a second set for quicker position changes between my wife and me.
6. RITFIT PPC03 Squat Rack & Power Cage: Best All-in-one System
CHECK PRICEThe RitFit Multi-function Squat Rack Power Cage PPC03 with Cable Crossover System is a comprehensive home gym package that includes everything you need for a fully-functioning fitness space.
The package includes the RitFit PPC03 Power Cage with Cable Crossover System, an adjustable weight bench, a 2 inch Olympic barbell, a set of colorful Olympic bumper plates, and free collars. The home gym system is made with a sturdy steel frame, ensuring stability and durability. With the multi-function gym rack and extra accessories, you can perform a wide range of exercises for a full body workout.
Our Helpful review
This is probably the ideal full cage rack for a home gym.
Pros
- Small enough footprint for limited space
- Can perform all essential lifting motions
- Durable frame, quality attachments
- Well packed and protected, no visible dents or scuffs
- Easy to follow assembly with hardware separated for each step to avoid confusion
- A few pulleys were missing bearing covers, emailed support and received replacements in less than a week.
Cons
- My only criticism is that the rear pulley guides (and cross bar base) should be extended another 6 inches to the rear. You can bench from inside the rack with the top of your bench touching those guides. But you cannot squat from within the rack (to get under the bar, your head is going between the pulley guides).
Not a huge problem, squat from the front outside of the rack. You just have to remove the J Hooks on the outer rack to move the pulley handles up and down the front posts.
Overall, perfect for what I need. I also purchased the Rit Fit Bench Press and the Rit Fit Preach Curl seat. They are of the same high-quality material and construction, and super easy to assemble.
7. MIKOLO Power Rack With LAT Pulldown
CHECK PRICEThe Mikolo Power Cage, F4 version, is the home gym equipment that combines a power rack, lat pulldown, low row, dip station, and chin-up bar, providing a wide range of exercises in a compact space. Made from heavy-duty 2x2-inch commercial steel tubing with eight stabilizing gusset plates, this machine is built to last.
With a maximum capacity of 1200 lbs, it can handle intense workouts. It comes fully equipped with various attachments, including handle attachments, safety spotter pins, dip bars, j hooks, and T-bar row attachment, allowing for versatile workouts. Additionally, it offers ample storage space to keep your gym organized.
Made from durable commercial steel tubing, this space-saving power rack offers stability and can support up to 1200 lbs. It comes with a range of attachments, including handle attachments, safety spotter pins, dip bars, j hooks, and T-bar row attachment, allowing for a variety of exercises. With storage racks, weight storage pins, barbell holders, and handle storage hooks, it provides ample storage space while occupying only 29.67 square feet. The adjustable heights and reinforced dip bars ensure a safe and comfortable workout experience.
Our Helpful review
I purchased the Mikolo Power Cage a month ago and I am extremely satisfied with it. After conducting thorough research on various lifting racks available on Amazon within my budget of $500-$600 USD, I found that the Mikolo rack had the best reviews, was fully featured, and well-built. It meets all my requirements for the core exercises I perform in my garage gym. The equipment arrived in perfect condition, thanks to the excellent packaging by Mikolo.
The pulley system is sturdy and the attachments, although simple, are not cheap or flimsy. While there is a slight tilt in the floating pulley that occasionally catches on my 45lbs plates, I believe it may be due to the design of my grip weights rather than a flaw in the Power Rack's engineering. I have used all the attachments, including the pull-up bar, dip bar, landmine, weight storage, and barbell support, and they all work flawlessly. Unlike other rack manufacturers, this rack is stable and doesn't wobble.
I appreciate that I can easily purchase and use other standard 2" tube attachments without any compatibility issues. The only downside I encountered was the assembly instructions, which heavily relied on pictures and had small images. However, once I understood them, the assembly process was smooth, and I managed to put it together by myself. The paint job, possibly powder-coat, is durable and has not scratched yet. The beautiful light red adds to the squat rack appeal.
8. MAJOR LUTIE Power Cage PLM03: Best Adjustable Cable Crossover
The MAJOR LUTIE Power Cage, PLM03, is a versatile all-in-one power cage that combines a weight cage, squat rack, and Cable Crossover Machine, allowing for a complete total body workout without the need to switch between different exercise stations. With a weight capacity of up to 1400lbs, this power cage is built to handle heavy loads.
Made of high-quality commercial steel, it offers excellent stability and durability. The package includes various attachments such as Cable Bar, J-Hooks, Dip Bars, and more, providing a wide range of exercises. The Cable Crossover Machine features adjustable height holes and nylon-coated cables for smooth and effective training.
Our Helpful review
I purchased this MAJOR LUTIE Power Cage, PLM03 1400 lbs Multi-Function Power Rack about 1 year ago , and it has completely transformed my fitness routine. This versatile piece of equipment has exceeded my expectations in every way possible.
Firstly, the build quality is outstanding. The power cage is space-saving, sturdy and well-constructed, providing a safe and secure environment for my workouts. The frame is robust, and the attention to detail in the welding and construction is evident. I feel confident lifting heavy weights knowing that I'm using a reliable and durable piece of equipment.
The multifunctionality of this power cage is a game-changer. It offers a variety of workout options, including squats, bench presses, pull-ups, and more. The adjustable features make it suitable for users of all fitness levels, and the included attachments add even more versatility to my workouts. I can easily target different muscle groups without needing multiple pieces of equipment.
Assembly was surprisingly straightforward. The instructions were clear, and all the necessary tools were included. It took me a couple of hours to set up, and I appreciate the attention to detail in the design that made the process hassle-free. One of the standout features is the safety elements incorporated into the design. The adjustable safety bars and secure J-hooks provide an extra layer of protection during heavy lifts, giving me peace of mind during intense workouts.
Other Best-Selling Squat Racks for Small Space
- SUNHOME Smith Machine All-in-one Power Cage: CHECK PRICE
- WEIDER GYM Adjustable Squat Rack: CHECK PRICE
- BEKING Power Rack Squat Rack Cage: CHECK PRICE
- RITFIT Power Cage with Optional LAT PullDown/Cable: CHECK PRICE
- MAJOR FITNESS Power Cage Raptor F16: CHECK PRICE
How to Choose a Squat Rack for Small Space
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a squat rack for a small space:
Footprint
The footprint is the amount of space the squat rack takes up on the floor. You'll need to make sure that the squat rack you choose has a footprint that is compatible with the size of your home gym.
Height
The height of the squat rack should be high enough so that you can comfortably do squats and other exercises. However, it should also be low enough so that you can easily reach the safety bars.
Construction
The squat rack should be made of high-quality materials that are durable and can withstand heavy use.
Attachments
Some squat racks come with attachments, such as pull-up bars, dip bars, and storage pegs. If you think you might want to use these attachments in the future, be sure to choose a squat rack that has them.
When to Consider a Squat Rack for Small Space (Benefits)
Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider a squat rack for a small space:
- You don't have a lot of space: If your home gym is small, a squat rack is a great way to maximize your space.
- You want a versatile workout station: Squat racks can be used for a variety of exercises, including squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and more.
- You want a safe workout environment: Squat racks provide support and stability, which can help to reduce your risk of injury.
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Best Squat Rack for Small Space FAQ
What is the minimum space for a squat rack?
The minimum space for a squat rack depends on the type of rack you choose. A half squat rack typically requires around 42 inches of space from front to back, while a full squat rack needs about 78 inches.
What is an alternative to a squat rack?
If you don't have enough space for a squat rack, you can use a variety of alternative exercises to target your legs and glutes. These include bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and wall sits, as well as resistance band exercises like leg extensions and leg curls.
Can you put a squat rack in an apartment?
Yes, you can put a squat rack in an apartment, but you'll need to make sure it has enough space and that it's bolted to the floor to prevent it from tipping over.
Are half squat racks good?
Half squat racks are a good option for people who have limited space or who don't need all the features of a full squat rack. They are typically less expensive than full squat racks and can still be used to perform a variety of exercises.
What's the difference between a squat rack and a power rack?
A squat rack is a freestanding piece of equipment that is typically used for squatting and overhead pressing. It has two upright supports and a crossmember at the top, which can be used to hold the bar in place. A power rack is a more enclosed piece of equipment that also has safety bars and a pull-up bar. It is more versatile than a squat rack and can be used for a wider variety of exercises.
How long is too long at the squat rack?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the amount of time you spend at the squat rack will vary depending on your individual goals and fitness level. However, it is generally recommended to avoid spending more than 30-45 minutes at the rack per workout.
What is a good size room for a home gym?
The size of the room you need for a home gym will depend on the equipment you want to use. However, a general rule of thumb is to have at least 200 square feet of space.
How far should a squat rack be from a wall?
For safety reasons, it is important to keep a squat rack at least 3 feet away from a wall. This will give you enough space to move around comfortably and to safely bail out of a squat if necessary.
Is a squat rack all you need?
No, a squat rack is not all you need for a home gym. You will also need other equipment, such as a barbell, weights, and a bench.
Is a squat rack enough for building muscle?
A squat rack can be a valuable tool for building muscle, but it is not the only thing you need. You will also need to eat a healthy diet and follow a consistent strength training program.
Can you grow legs without a squat rack?
Yes, you can grow legs without a squat rack. However, squats are one of the most effective exercises for building leg muscle, so you may find it more difficult to achieve your goals without access to a squat rack.
How can I work my legs without a squat rack?
There are many exercises you can do to work your legs without a squat rack, such as bodyweight squats, lunges, and leg extensions. You can also use resistance bands or dumbbells for leg exercises.
How can I build my glutes without a squat rack?
Glute bridges, hip thrusts, and clamshells are all effective exercises for building glutes without a squat rack.
What is the best form for a squat rack?
Proper squat form is essential to prevent injury. Make sure to keep your back straight, core engaged, and knees bent at a 90-degree angle.
How can I squat at home without a bar?
You can squat at home without a bar using bodyweight squats or resistance bands.
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