Buzz
I own a barbell, but during the first three months of the pandemic, I had no proper storage for it other than the floor. This setup works for deadlifts, Olympic lifts, curls, or presses—all of which I did. However, squatting without a rack is impossible.
Over time, I noticed an intriguing trend on Instagram: people were placing their barbells on stacks of wood secured in concrete-filled buckets, and many claimed they were remarkably stable. I remained skeptical until I decided to test it out myself.
For additional home workout tips, watch the video below:
I completed my DIY squat stands this week, and my only regret is not starting sooner. They are incredibly sturdy, cost-effective, and quick to assemble. Along the way, I picked up some valuable insights, so here’s everything you need to know to create a reliable set of squat stands.
Review the instructions carefully
Numerous plans are available online, and while they share similarities, each has slight differences. (Here are a few examples: one, two, three.) It’s helpful to compare multiple plans and observe the variations in materials and design. Some designs even include an additional lower rack for bench press exercises.
Each plan involves cutting wood pieces to specific lengths, stacking them securely to form a solid post, and anchoring it into a bucket filled with concrete. This setup provides a stable base capable of supporting heavy weights, with the concrete ensuring the stands remain upright and secure.
The tools required are standard and likely already in your possession if you’ve tackled home repairs before. If not, you can easily source or improvise them. The total cost for materials is typically under $50, making this an affordable project.
Understand how to safely use squat stands
These are not power racks and lack safety features. Squat stands are designed solely to support the barbell during loading and provide a place to return it after use. That’s their only function.
If you fail to complete a squat rep, you’ll need to drop the bar. When lifting near your maximum capacity, ensure you know how to bail safely. As an Olympic weightlifter, I use bumper plates that bounce and am accustomed to dropping bars—it’s part of the sport. If I fail a back squat, I let the bar roll down my back, step forward, and stand up casually, as shown in the second video here.
If you’re unable to bail from a squat due to inexperience, lack of confidence, or living in an apartment with delicate items or neighbors below, heavy squats are not recommended. However, you might still consider squat stands for lighter lifts—just proceed carefully.
Build them shorter than you initially think necessary
A common mistake, even among gym-goers, is setting the squat rack too high. If you need to shrug or stand on your toes to unrack the bar, it’s positioned too high.
Since these DIY stands aren’t adjustable, you can’t simply lower the hooks if you realize they’re too high. Build them shorter than you think necessary. A lower rack isn’t an issue—you’ll just need to bend your knees slightly more during setup. If multiple users of different heights will share the stands, design them to fit the shorter person rather than compromising.
To determine the correct height, hold your barbell in your usual squat position and slightly bend your knees as if re-racking it. Have someone mark the wall with a pencil, measure the height, and subtract at least two inches. This measurement should guide the height of the board supporting the bar. The front board, which acts as a lip to secure the bar, should be two inches taller, while the back board should serve as a guide for re-racking. Avoid slamming the bar to prevent tipping the stands.
For reference: I’m 5'6", and my squat stand holds the bar 4 feet above the ground.
Cut, assemble, and secure the wood pieces
Before heading to the store, calculate the number of wood pieces required and their dimensions. Opt for eight-foot-long boards, though availability may vary, and plan how they should be cut.
Stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s often provide free wood-cutting services. If you know the exact measurements, you can have the lumber cut before leaving the store. Proper planning ensures efficiency.
After returning home, verify the measurements to ensure your squat stands are even. Assemble the wood pieces as per the instructions, using deck screws or similar fasteners for stability.
Handle the concrete carefully
Concrete can be challenging to work with, so review the instructions and plan thoroughly before starting. Products like Quikrete are ideal since they only require mixing with water. (Avoid plain cement, as it requires additional materials like sand and gravel.)
Avoid fast-setting concrete unless you’re confident in your ability to mix it swiftly. I used a concrete mixing power tool—similar to a large eggbeater—and had my husband assist to ensure we finished within the 20-minute window. Here’s a chart of Quikrete products and their uses. (Note: Quikrete is not sponsoring this content.)
Mixing concrete generates dust, so wear a mask and gloves to protect your skin. Always follow the instructions on the bag, not random online advice. For instance, excess water weakens concrete, so measure carefully. Post-setting instructions are irrelevant unless you’re placing the post in the ground. If you’re new to concrete mixing, watch tutorials to understand the tools and desired consistency. This hand-mixing video is a helpful starting point.
Mixing concrete isn’t difficult, and you can handle it. Purchase three buckets: two for the squat stands and one for mixing. When pouring the concrete mix, use an upside-down bucket as a platform to support the heavy bag.
A 60-pound bag nearly filled each of my buckets. If you plan to keep the stands outdoors (using treated lumber), fill any gaps at the top with sand or dirt to prevent water accumulation and mosquito breeding.
Ensure the posts are level
This cannot be stressed enough: ensure the posts are completely straight before adding concrete to the buckets. Here’s how:
Before pouring the concrete, verify that the floor or ground is perfectly level (use a level).
When placing the posts in the buckets, ensure they are perfectly level (use a level!).
Work with a partner: one person pours the concrete while the other keeps the post perfectly level (Use. A. Level.).
Luckily, there’s a useful tool called a post level, available at any hardware store. We already owned one, still tagged at $3.99. It’s absolutely worth the small investment to ensure your squat stands are perfectly straight.
Place them on level ground permanently and start enjoying
Once the concrete has cured for the recommended time, you’re ready to squat! Be prepared for the weight—these stands are heavy and not easy to move. Avoid relocating them daily; instead, find a permanent spot.
Choose a level location for your stands. If the surface isn’t level, use a shim (like a thin piece of wood or folded paper) to balance them. You can use the post level again to ensure accuracy.
Set the stands at the same width as a standard squat rack. This ensures stability, preventing the barbell from tipping. Placing them too close together compromises safety.
Now, it’s time to enjoy! Load the barbell and perform heavy squats confidently. While the stands are sturdy and can support significant weight, they do have limits. Stay cautious and prioritize safety.
