When people look for the best squat stands for home gyms, they often ask, “Are squat stands safe to use?”
This is an intriguing question and one you should be asking before spending money on a new piece of equipment.
There are several advantages to going with a squat stand and it’s also important to know whether or not they’re safe to use.
This in-depth guide is going to offer insight into the top squat stand right now, what makes it good, and whether or not it’s best to invest in one.
Best Squat Stands: Cap Barbell Squat Stand
Key Features
- All-in-one Squat Stand
- Built-in Bar
- 500 lb Capacity
- Steel Tubing (11 and 12 Gauge)
- Double Gusseted Uprights
- Meets ASTM Standards
When it comes to investing in a safe squat stand that’s well-designed, functional, and consistent, the CAP Barbell Squat Stand is exceptional. It’s one of the brightest investments a person can make when it comes to finding a top-tier squat stand.
The best squat stand for home gyms is one that’s versatile, durable, and built to deliver value. This is right up there with the finest options and is going to be a considerable addition to your setup.
The reason this squat stand works has to do with how it’s designed. It meets ASTM standards illustrating it’s the real deal and is among the best options available to those who want a comprehensive home gym.
Are Squat Stands Safe?
Let’s answer the question first. Are squat stands safe to use?
Yes, they are safe to use as long as you are going with one that’s well-reviewed and comes packed with high-grade features. If you spend money on something that’s flimsy, you are going to pay for it through an injury.
You have to be smart about where your money is going.
Squat stands are great because they provide a way to keep the barbell in place. You can simply lock it into place and feel secure as you are completing the movement. While it’s never a bad idea to invest in a good squat rack, we believe a squat stand is just as good.
Take the opportunity to look at what is out on the open market before making a decision.
You should only choose a squat stand that is worthwhile.
This includes being made out of high-grade steel, offering a substantial weight capacity, and remaining compact at the same time. For a home gym, you will hate something that takes up too much space!
Tips for Using Squat Stands
1. Start with a Lower Weight
A common mistake people make is to start with a heavier weight.
This may seem like a good idea but it’s going to lead to injury! You have to take a step back and learn how to use the squat stand before making it a part of your overall routine.
Remember, this is not the same as any other piece of equipment you were using. It has a specific design that requires appropriate use on your part.
This is why starting with nothing more than a barbell is smart. It will allow you to get the hang of things before racking on the plates. When a person starts hoping for the best, they get hurt and that’s the last thing you require.
Start with a lower weight, learn the technique, and then begin squatting properly.
2. Keep the Barbell at Shoulder Level
Where is the barbell set up on the stand?
Is it above your head? Is it at your chest? Is it sitting in front of your face?
There’s no reason to get the positioning wrong because that’s how people get hurt once the weight starts to go up. You have to take the time to ensure the barbell is set at the right height for your squatting needs.
So, where should the barbell go then?
It should be placed approximately at shoulder level, so you are able to rack and unrack without hindrance. This is the only way to ensure you don’t get caught up in a situation where the barbell is impossible to unrack.
This happens all the time and it is not a good feeling to deal with.
You should look to go with something that’s set either at shoulder level or slightly below. This will allow you to rack and unrack without having to think twice.
Remember, when you are squatting heavier weights, it is already going to be taxing to rack the barbell. You don’t want to make it impossible by setting the height too low or too high.
3. Practice Racking and Unracking without Plates
Racking and unracking is an essential component of squatting with squat stands. You have to learn how the equipment works before putting it to use. This goes for almost anything in your gym.
You want to learn what’s required to get the barbell into place.
This should be done without any plates on the barbell!
You want to see what happens as soon as the barbell is in place. Does it move the entire stand? Does it make a certain noise? What is the feeling like as soon as it is racked?
You want to be aware of these details before going through a robust workout session. Too often people will start to work out with heavier weights and realize they don’t know how to use the squat stand.
Take your time with this and learn how to rack and unrack the barbell.
4. Maintain a Strong Grip
You should look to maintain a strong grip throughout the movement.
This is one of the reasons to ensure the barbell is set up at the right height. You don’t want a situation where the grip starts to slip as soon as you unrack the barbell. This is when people end up getting injured!
You have to learn how the barbell feels in your hand and make sure it is strongly in place within your palm.
If not, you will have to make adjustments to the squat stand’s height.
This will allow you to unrack without having to worry about losing grip strength.
To further empower your grip strength, it’s never a bad idea to invest in good gloves for weightlifting purposes.
5. Ensure the Squat Stand is in Safe Spot
The squat stand should be in a safe part of your home gym.
It shouldn’t be in the middle of the room as that is when things can start to fall apart. You can easily tip over the squat stand with a bump and that’s not something you want to deal with.
The goal should be to have it closer to a wall.
This will allow you to feel safe while squatting.
Final Thoughts
In the end, “are squat stands safe to use?”
Yes, they are as safe as you want them to be as long as you invest in a powerful option with good reviews. A high-quality squat stand is going to deliver on all fronts and will allow you to have a powerful workout session.
