If you're building a home gym then you've probably already seen the arguments for buying a power rack. Most people who just want a good workout at home can get away with other equipment like kettlebells or dumbbells. But if you're a weightlifter then there's no replacement for a barbell and a set of weight plates, and you'll need a power rack to maximize your use of that equipment.
That's where short power racks come in. Short power racks are those that can fit in a spare room or garage without you having to worry about your low ceilings getting damaged. You might be worried that you'll have to sacrifice functionality to save space, but most short racks come with many of the same attachments as full-size racks. In this article, we'll talk about the best short power racks and discuss their size, weight capacity, and other key features to help you make an informed decision.
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The Best Short Power Rack - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall: REP PR-1050
- Best Budget: CAP Barbell Full Cage Power Rack
- Best Premium: REP PR-4000
- Best Folding: Rogue RML-3W
- Best Compact: Titan T-2 Series
- Best for Beginners: REP PR-1050
Best Overall Short Power Rack - REP PR-1050
SPECS
- Dimensions: 72" H x 58" W x 48" D
- Weight: 123 lbs.
- Rack capacity: 700 lbs.
- Material: 2x2" 14-Gauge Steel
If you're looking for a short power rack to put in a room in your house or a garage gym, then the REP Fitness PR-1050 is one of your best options. This rack is only 6 feet tall so it will fit in rooms with average ceilings, plus it has a compact footprint.
The whole rack weighs 123 pounds but can hold 700 pounds of weight including the bar and whatever you can fit on the storage horns. One thing that sets the PR-1050 apart from other racks like it is that it includes things like storage horns, j hooks, and safety bars that you will have to pay extra for with other options.
What We Like
- Storage horns included
- Fits in a room with a low ceiling
- Includes safety bars for affordable price
What We Don't Like
- The framing is 14 gauge, which is thinner than other comparable racks
- Not many attachment options
BUY: REP PR-1050
Best Budget Short Power Rack - CAP Barbell Full Cage Power Rack
SPECS
- Dimensions: 72" H x 44" W x 47.5" D
- Weight: 109 lbs.
- Rack capacity: 500 lbs.
- Material: 12 and 14-Gauge Steel Tubing
Power racks are an investment, but if you're on a budget then check out the CAP Barbell full-cage power rack. You can get this rack in a 6- or 7-foot height, it's lightweight, and has color options to make it more aesthetically pleasing.
One thing to be aware of is the catch that holds the barbell on the rack. It is designed poorly on this rack, but there are plenty of attachment options you can buy to replace them, which is especially recommended if you're going to lift heavy.
What We Like
- Available in a 6' or 7' height option
- Great quality for the price
- Multiple color options
What We Don't Like
- Can't hold as much weight as other racks
- The catch that holds the barbell is a bad design
Best Premium Short Power Rack - REP PR-4000
SPECS
- Dimensions: 80" H x 50.8" W x 30" D
- Weight: Adjustable
- Rack capacity: 1,000 lbs.
- Material: 3x3" 11-Gauge Steel
If you have the budget for a premium power rack, let me introduce you to the REP Fitness PR-4000. This rack is an upgrade to the PR-1050, made with 3-inch 11-gauge steel uprights so it is one of the most durable racks you'll find, plus it can hold up to 1,000 pounds for heavy lifters.
The best part about the PR-4000 is the control options you have. You can change the height, the depth, the style of j hooks, and choose the attachments you want to include on the rack for your style of lifting, whether Olympic weight lifting, CrossFit, or another style.
What We Like
- Customizable build options
- Premium materials
- High weight capacity
What We Don't Like
- Attachments can drive the price up quickly
- 80" is the shortest height option
BUY: REP PR-4000
Best Short Folding Power Rack - Rogue RML-3W
SPECS
- Dimensions: 90" H x 49" W x 21.5" or 41.5" D
- Weight: 163 or 190 lbs.
- Rack capacity: 500 lbs.
- Material: 3x3" 11-Gauge Steel
Folding racks are a great way to save space if you want to work out at home but don't have a space you can completely dedicate to your equipment. You'll sacrifice some weight capacity with these types of racks, but you will save space. If that sounds like what you need, then I recommend taking a look at the Rogue RML-3W rack.
Rogue is known for durability and quality materials and this rack follows that standard. When set up the rack has a fairly compact footprint depending on the depth you choose, and when folded, it gets fairly flat against the wall. It can also hold 500 pounds, which is great for a wall-mounted rack.
What We Like
- Compact footprint that is only 5" from the wall when folded
- Compatible with the Rogue Lite line attachments
- Versatile fold options to help you maximize storage space
What We Don't Like
- The 90" height makes the rack best for garages not indoor rooms
- Does not come with any attachments
BUY: Rogue RML-3W
Best Compact Short Power Rack - Titan T-2 Series
SPECS
- Dimensions: 71" H x 46" W x 30" D
- Weight: 133 lbs.
- Rack capacity: 850 lbs.
- Material: 2x2" 12-Gauge Steel
When you're thinking about compact power racks, you need to think about both height and depth. Most power racks are a similar width in order to balance the barbell, but the Titan T-2 series gives you a sub-6-foot power rack with a 30-inch depth that can fit in tight spaces.
However, if you don't need a rack that small you have the option to make it taller at 83 inches and deeper at 40 inches with the extension. This Titan rack is also compatible with a lot of attachments so you can customize the experience however you need.
What We Like
- Less than 6 feet tall
- Can hold 850 lbs.
- Options to make the rack taller and deeper
What We Don't Like
- Thin upright design
- Not as durable as other rack options
BUY: Titan T-2 Series
Best Short Power Rack for Beginners - REP PR-1050
SPECS
- Dimensions: 72" H x 58" W x 48" L
- Weight: 123 lbs.
- Rack capacity: 700 lbs.
- Material: 2x2" 14-Gauge Steel
Yes, I know that the REP Fitness PR-1050 has been on the list twice, but here's why: This is an excellent rack that is durable, has a high weight capacity, and won't break the budget if you're a beginner looking to get started lifting at home.
Other racks at this price point you can expect to replace in a few years, especially as you get stronger and need a sturdier rack. But with the PR-1050, you can lift relatively heavy and it includes some safety features that other racks at this price point do not.
What We Like
- Budget friendly for beginners
- Simple design that won't be intimidating for new lifters
- Enough weight capacity to use as you progress
What We Don't Like
- You can't upgrade the safety bars to be outside of the rack
- Larger footprint than other racks
BUY: REP PR-1050
How to Choose a Short Power Rack
Dimensions
The dimensions of the power rack are one of your main concerns if you're looking for a short power rack. Most racks in this category will be around 6-7 feet tall, but the depth and width will vary depending on the brand. Make sure you consider the overall footprint for your space.
Rack Capacity vs. Rackable Capacity
Rack capacity and rackable capacity can get confusing because different manufacturers use the two interchangeably. On one power rack you might see a 700-pound rack capacity, and on another, a 2,200-pound rack capacity.
The difference between the two is how much weight you can safely rack on a barbell versus how much weight the rack can hold including storage. For our list we wanted to make it simple and use rack capacity to indicate how much weight you can safely rack on the bar.
Durability
Most power racks are made with some type of steel, usually 11-14 gauge. If you're looking for a premium option, look for 11 gauge. These racks will last longer and hold more weight than their lighter competitors. But 12- or 14-gauge steel is still a durable option.
FAQs About Short Power Racks
What is the shortest Rogue rack?
Rogue has several short squat rack options, but the shortest is Rogue SML-1 which stands at 72 inches.
What height should a power rack be?
Power racks come in different heights and the best choice depends on your space. If you're trying to find a rack for a home gym you'll likely need one under 8 feet, which is the average ceiling height.
Is a power rack worth it?
If you work out at home and you're serious about weight lifting, then power racks are one of the most valuable pieces of equipment you can purchase.
About the Author
Cory is a certified personal trainer and fitness nutrition coach. After spending six years as an educator and coach, Cory joined the ACTIVE team as a staff writer turning his passion for education toward helping ACTIVE readers live their best, healthiest lives.
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