To rack or not to rack....

T0M_K

So I have some weights and a bench just collecting dust. I want to get started "again" into lifting. What I know is very important is squats. The problem is , not squat rack or cage. I'd like to do strong lifts 5x5 from home.

What are your thoughts on the need or not to invest in a open rack or a cage rack...are there alternatives? The bar and plates I have are not the Olympic style larger bar. Would the lower diameter bar work on these racks/cages?

Thanks for your thoughts.

pondee629

I failed once doing squats and was damn glad I was in the rack to get out from under with NO ill effects. Just had the weights rest on the safety bar (set slightly below where I was squatting to) and I got out. I wouldn't squat heavy without being in a rack or cage.

stealthq

You're going to want a rack if you're using a barbell with StrongLifts. Failing a heavy squat or bench without safety rails can be very, very bad.

jemhh

I do not have a rack or cage. Instead, I have a pair of squat stands and for safeties I use two sawhorses. I also use a standard, as opposed to Olympic, bar. The bar I use on the stands is 6', though I have a 7' that I can use too.

For me, the stands and sawhorses work fine, as do the lighter bars. I don't see myself ever aiming to lift more than what my bars can handle (225 for one, 250 for the other.) It's been a good and budget friendly setup for me for a couple of years now (got the stands for $50 off Craigslist.) I think that racks and cages are nice and wouldn't turn one down if somebody gave me one but it really comes down to personal preference.

sgt1372

You should at least get a pair of squat stands with some form of "safeties." See jemhh's suggestion above.

Relatively cheap and easy to store in a corner. Could save your back squatting and your life benching.

Vanguard1

Keep an eye on Craigslist and Facebook marketplace. I got a full cage for a really good price, really all I need in my basement.

BusyRaeNOTBusty

I was able to get everything I needed for my basement for about $800 from Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HDVZJ9A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M5G2PND/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000RNU280/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

CipherZero

If price is a consideration (and when isn't it?) take a look at gear from Titan Fitness. They've been copying the designs from Rogue at a better price point.

As far as whether you should get a rack, YES. A powercage or rack with spotter arms is safety equipment. You don't skimp on safety equipment.