Building workout equipment is necessary if you want to create your own home gym or run a fitness center. There are several basic steps needed to assemble any form of free weight workout equipment. You will need detailed diagrams and must follow the directions in the order of construction.
Steps to Build the Frame
Step 1
Lay out all the base supports, upright bars, cross bars, plate shafts, pin shafts and stacked plates in the area where you are placing the workout equipment. Put them spread out on the floor in the order of assembly from base to top. Have the socket set and all bolts, washers and nuts next to the frame.
Step 2
Assemble the base by laying the bottom side supports of the frame parallel with each other. Connect the front and back base supports by putting the bolts in the holes of the supports and screwing on washers and nuts. Tighten the nuts firmly but not too tight.
Step 3
With the help of another person, place the upright supports next to the front and back corners of the side frame base. While on its side, place two upright supports parallel to each other and connect them at the top with the side supports using bolts, washers and nuts. Repeat this process for the other side.
Step 4
With assistance, lift the connected upright supports on each side one at a time. Connect the bottom of these supports to the frame base with bolts, washers and nuts. Then connect the top of the frame with the front and back top supports using the same parts as listed for the frame base.
Step 5
Go back and tighten all the bolts and nuts on the main frame before continuing on with the next step. Make sure that the base frame is stable and does not wobble or have any play when utilizing it.
Step 6
Now attach any bench or seat frames to the main frame using bolts, washers and nuts. Next, attach any back or seat pads to these frames using the ratchet and socket set to tighten the bolts and nuts.
Tips and Warnings
- Some weight frames include plate arms for storing barbell plates. These are optional and not essential for the free weight equipment itself. However, if you wish to add them, it will require an additional step of assembly because you need to attach these plate arms to the front and sides of the upright supports of the frame.
- When assembling workout equipment, always use the assistance of another individual; one person needs to hold the upright supports and cross bars for assembly while the other person tightens the bolts and nuts when attaching the parts.
Things You'll Need
- Base supports
- Upright bars
- Cross bars
- Plate shafts
- Pin shafts
- Back frames
- Seat frames
- Stacked plates
- Bench pads
- Seat pads
- Socket set with ratchet
- Bolts, nuts and washers
Member Comments