A homemade squat stand is a straightforward project that instantly enhances your at-home training routine. These wooden squat stands take up little space and can be easily moved out of the way when not in use. Although these squat stands are very basic, they're easy to customize with additional safety rails, pull-up bars or a bench press rack.
Step 1
Measure the height from which you usually un-rack the bar. Transfer this measurement to two of the 2-by-4s and cut them to that length. Put the cut planks to the side.
Step 2
Add one inch to the measurement from the previous step and transfer this new number to two uncut 2-by-4s. Cut them to length and place these planks to the side. You should have two uncut 2-by-4s remaining.
Step 3
Measure the height at which you stand at full extension with the bar on your shoulders. Transfer this measurement to the last two uncut 2-by-4s and cut them to that length. You should have no uncut planks remaining.
Step 4
Sandwich the shortest plank between the planks of the other two lengths and use wood glue to secure them together. Repeat with the other three planks. All three boards should be flush with the ground and square with each other. The top of your plank sandwiches should now resemble the letter J.
Step 5
Drill wood screws into the plank sandwiches at regular intervals in an offset pattern. Drill on both sides of each sandwich.
Step 6
Place the flush end of one plank sandwich into one of the buckets and slowly fill it with quick-setting concrete. Make sure the plank sandwich remains plum on all sides as you go. Repeat with the other sandwich and bucket. Allow the concrete to dry with the plank sandwiches remaining vertical.
Tips and Warnings
- These squat stands can be customized to suit your needs. A bench press stand, chin-up bar or safety rails can be easily added with a little ingenuity and planning.
- Homemade fitness equipment can be dangerous. Do not use homemade equipment if you're unsure of how well it was made.
Things You'll Need
- 2 five-gallon buckets
- 6 eight-foot 2-by-4s
- 3 50-lb. bags of quick-setting concrete
- Box of three-inch deck screws
- Wood glue
- Wood clamps
- Tape measure
- Carpenter's square
- Drill
- Wood saw
- Power drill
- Bubble level
- Pencil, pen or marker
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