When building a home workout space in Australia, choosing the right rack is the single most important decision you'll make. Whether you're searching for a power rack, squat rack, or half rack, this comprehensive guide cuts through the confusion and helps you make the smart choice for your training goals, space, and budget.

Understanding Different Types of Racks: 

Power Rack vs Squat Rack vs Half Rack

What Is a Power Rack?

A power rack (also called a power cage or full rack) features four steel uprights forming a complete cage around you whilst you lift. This design provides maximum safety through adjustable horizontal safety bars that act as your spotter—essential for training alone at home.

Power Rack Advantages:

• Superior safety – Four uprights and safety bars provide the safest lifting environment for solo training

• Maximum versatility – Compatible with extensive attachments, including landmine, dip bars, lat pulldown, and jammer arms

• Unlimited exercise options – Perform squats, bench press, overhead press, pull-ups, rows, and dozens more movements

• Best for serious lifters – Ideal if strength training is your primary focus

Power Rack Considerations:

• Requires more floor space than a squat rack or half rack

• Generally higher initial investment (though exceptional value exists—our 60x60 Power Rack starts under $1,000)

What Is a Squat Rack?

A squat rack (sometimes called a half rack) features two steel uprights, effectively forming half a cage. You perform exercises in front of the rack rather than inside it. Quality squat racks use heavier-gauge steel to ensure stability and include safety spotter arms extending past the front.

Squat Rack Advantages:

• Space-efficient design – Takes up significantly less room than a power rack

• Unrestricted range of motion – No overhead bars means complete freedom for Olympic lifts and overhead movements

• Excellent safety – Well-designed squat racks with proper spotter arms (included with our rack pack) provide reliable protection

• Great for smaller spaces – Perfect for garages, spare rooms, or apartment corners

• Commercial Grade Quality - Wihtough the commercial price tag
  
• No Bolting - Surdy design and it does not require any bolting to the ground

Squat Rack Considerations:

• Fewer attachment options compared to power racks

• Requires quality construction (75mm x 75mm uprights minimum) for stability

What Is a Half Rack?

The term half rack is often used interchangeably with squat rack in Australia. Both refer to two-post rack systems. Some manufacturers distinguish between them based on depth or attachment compatibility, but functionally they serve the same purpose—providing a safe, space-efficient platform for barbell training.

How to Choose Between a Power Rack and Squat Rack

Choose a Power Rack If:

• You train alone regularly and prioritise maximum safety

• You want the most versatile equipment with extensive attachment options

• You have adequate floor space (approximately 2.4m x 2.4m minimum)

• You're building a complete home workout solution for long-term use

• You want to perform pull-ups, dips, and cable exercises from one piece of equipment

Choose a Squat Rack If:

• You have limited space but still want serious lifting capability

• You prefer Olympic-style lifting or overhead movements

• You're comfortable bolting equipment to your floor for stability

• You want a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality

• You primarily focus on squats, bench press, and basic compound movements

Key Features to Look for When Buying a Power Rack or Squat Rack

Steel Thickness and Upright Dimensions

The stability and safety of any rack—whether power rack or squat rack—depends heavily on steel quality:

Steel Thickness (Gauge):

• 2mm thick (14 gauge) – Suitable for home gyms with weight ratings around 320kg. Our Home Gym Power Rack uses this specification for excellent value without compromising safety.

• 3mm thick (11 gauge) – Commercial-grade steel for maximum durability and stability. Our Q235 and Commercial Power Racks feature this heavy-duty construction.

Upright Dimensions:

• 60mm x 60mm – Entry-level home gym standard, suitable for most lifters

• 75mm x 75mm – Premium standard offering enhanced stability for heavy lifting

• Larger dimensions mean more surface area for attachments and greater overall stability

Weight Capacity and Rackable Weight

Don't just look at maximum weight capacity—consider rackable weight (the weight you can safely rack and un-rack). Quality power racks should handle a rackable weight of 300 kg or more, while commercial-grade options exceed 500kg.

Hole Spacing for Precise Adjustments

Westside hole spacing (25mm between holes) allows precise positioning of J-hooks and safety arms—particularly important for bench pressing where small adjustments matter. Standard spacing is typically 50-75mm between holes.

Laser-Engraved Numbering

Numbered holes on both sides of the rack save time during setup and ensure consistent positioning between training sessions. This small feature makes a significant difference in workout efficiency.

Compatible Attachments and Expandability

Consider future expansion when choosing your rack. Quality power racks and squat racks should accommodate:

• Dip attachments for bodyweight training

• Landmine attachments for rotational exercises

• Lat pulldown and low row cables

• Jammer arms (replacing 30+ machine exercises)

• Band pegs for resistance training

• Storage horns for weight plates

Rug and Rig's Power Rack and Squat Rack Range

 

1. Home Gym Power Rack – Best Value Power Rack Under $1,000

Our 60x60 Home Gym Power Rack delivers everything you need to start serious strength training without breaking the budget. Built with 60mm x 60mm uprights and 2mm thick steel, it provides a 320kg weight rating—more than sufficient for the vast majority of home lifters.

What's Included:

• Four-post power cage design with safety bars

• Multi-grip pull-up bar

• Adjustable J-hooks and spotter arms

• Compatible with lat pulldown, dip, and landmine attachments

• Simple DIY assembly in under one hour

• Fast delivery from Australian stock

Best For: First-time home gym builders, intermediate lifters, and anyone 

wanting maximum versatility on a budget.

View the 60x60 Power Rack Package.

2. Q235 Power Rack – Premium Power Rack for Serious Lifters

The Q235 Squat Rack (power rack configuration) features 75mm x 75mm uprights with 2mm thick steel and 25mm Westside hole spacing. This premium rack includes integrated storage shelving and additional plate storage pins.

What's Included:

• Heavy-duty 75mm x 75mm construction

• Westside hole spacing for precise adjustments

• Built-in storage solutions

• Enhanced stability for heavy compound lifts

• Compatible with all premium attachments

Best For: Experienced lifters, those planning to lift heavy long-term, and anyone wanting commercial-quality equipment at home.

View the Q235 Power Rack Package

3. Commercial Power Rack – Professional-Grade Power Cage

Our Commercial Power Rack represents the pinnacle of home workout equipment. Built to exceed commercial gym standards with 3mm thick steel and 75mm x 75mm uprights, this rack handles 500kg+ rackable weight whilst maintaining a footprint suitable for home use.

What's Included:

• Commercial-grade 3mm thick steel construction

• Multi-grip pull-up bar for varied grip positions

• Maximum stability for Olympic lifting and powerlifting

• Lifetime warranty on frame

• Compatible with the full range of professional attachments

• Straightforward DIY setup despite commercial quality

Best For: Serious strength athletes, powerlifters, Olympic lifters, and those building a professional-quality home workout space.

View the Commercial Power Rack Package

Building Your Complete Home Workout Space

A quality power rack or squat rack forms the foundation, but you'll need a few essential pieces to create a functional training environment:

Essential Equipment:

• Power rack or squat rack – Your primary training station

• Olympic barbell (20kg) – For all major compound lifts

• Weight plates (start with 120kg, expand as needed)

• Adjustable bench – Essential for bench press and accessory work

• Rubber flooring – Protects your floor and reduces noise

Recommended Additions:

• Adjustable dumbbells – Space-efficient alternative to full dumbbell sets

• Dip attachment – Bodyweight strength training

• Landmine attachment – Rotational and functional movements

• Resistance bands – Accommodating resistance and warm-ups

Power Rack and Squat Rack FAQs

Q: What's the difference between a power rack and a squat rack?

A: A power rack has four uprights forming a complete cage, 

whilst a squat rack has two uprights (half rack design). Power racks generally offer more safety features and attachment options, whilst squat racks save space and allow unrestricted overhead movement.

Q: Do I need to bolt my rack to the floor?

A: Power racks with four posts are generally stable without bolting, though it's recommended for maximum safety. Squat racks (two-post designs) should be bolted when lifting heavy weights to prevent tipping.

Q: What weight capacity do I need?

A: For most home lifters, a 300-350kg rackable weight capacity is sufficient. If you're an advanced powerlifter or plan to lift very heavy long-term, consider 400kg+ capacity.

Q: Can I perform Olympic lifts in a power rack?

A: Yes, though many Olympic lifters prefer squat racks or half racks because there's no overhead bar restricting movement during cleans, snatches, and jerks.

Q: How much space do I need for a power rack?

A: Minimum 2.4m x 2.4m floor space, with 2.3m+ ceiling height. Squat racks require less space—approximately 1.8m x 2.4m.

Q: Are Rug and Rig racks easy to assemble?

A: Yes! All our racks include clear instructions and most customers complete assembly in under one hour with basic tools. Customer support is available if you need guidance.

Q: What's included in your rack packages?

A: Our packages typically include the rack, Olympic barbell, weight plates (120kg standard), adjustable bench, and all necessary hardware—everything you need to start training immediately.

Q: How quickly can I get my rack delivered in Australia?

A: We stock all racks locally in Australia for fast delivery. No 90-day import delays—most orders ship within days, with free delivery to Melbourne metro areas.

Why Choose Rug and Rig for Your Power Rack or Squat Rack?

Australian-Owned and Operated: We understand Australian homes, spaces, and training needs. Our equipment is designed for real Australian garages and spare rooms.

Local Stock, Fast Delivery: No waiting months for imported equipment. We maintain Australian inventory for quick dispatch.

Exceptional Value: Quality equipment shouldn't cost a fortune. Our power racks start under $1,000 without compromising safety or durability.

30-Day Money-Back Guarantee: Try your rack risk-free. If it's not right for your space or training, return it within 30 days.

Two-Year Manufacturer's Warranty: We stand behind our equipment with comprehensive warranty coverage (lifetime warranty on commercial rack frames).

Expert Support: Our team has a deep understanding of strength training and can help you select the ideal rack for your specific needs.

Ready to Build Your Home Workout Space?

Stop delaying your strength training goals. Whether you choose a versatile power rack, space-efficient squat rack, or premium commercial cage, Rug and Rig delivers quality Australian equipment with fast delivery and expert support.

Shop Our Complete Power Rack and Squat Rack Range

View Our Best-Selling Home Gym Packages