Having a home gym is convenient. You never have to worry about finding the extra 10 to 20 minutes just to drive to the gym. Unfortunately, gym equipment can be bulky or take up a significant amount of space indoors. Many owners often ponder the possibility and benefit of keeping their gym equipment outside, especially power racks or squat racks, two of the largest and heaviest pieces of home gym equipment you can own.

What Is A Power Rack?

When looking for the best power racks 2021, it helps to know exactly what you are looking for. Essentially, a power rack, also known as a power cage, is a rectangular-shaped structure with a series of adjustable pegs going down four vertical posts. It is often referred to as a mechanical spotter and is primarily used in free-weight barbell training. 

The rack is preferred to other systems or machines because it allows the freedom of movement often restricted in those devices. The cage also provides significant safety advantages to individual workouts, meaning a person can practice free-weight training without a spotter if needed.  

How To Keep Power Racks From Rusting? 

Because of the size and weight of power racks, many owners entertain the idea of installing the equipment outdoors, but doing so can present a risk of rusting. Power racks have a significant number of holes on the vertical rails, and while great for exercises, the holes increase the potential for water damage. 

The exterior of the rack is likely painted with a durable finish to protect against the elements, but the interior of the rails is not. You will want to find spray paint you can use to coat the interior. Cover all the holes with painter’s tape, then choose an upper, middle, and low point to insert the spray paint nozzle through, twisting the can to coat above and below each point. It is impossible to know if you have hit everywhere, so you will have to guess and do your best.

Beyond coating the interior of the rails, you will want to keep your machine as dry as possible. Applying a 3-in-one oil or mineral oil once per month should help protect the rack against any rust. You do not need a significant amount of oil for an effective coating.

Finally, you will want to keep an eye on the exterior paint. It is not uncommon for the surface to get scratched with power racks or for some paint to rub off during exercises. If you notice any paint issues, be sure to use touchup to current the problem as quickly as possible. The exposed metal or steel will rust quickly if exposed to excess moisture and humidity. 

Power racks and other home gym equipment can be cumbersome, and many people do not have efficient square footage inside their homes to accommodate a decent home gym setup. Fortunately, most gym equipment, especially for free-weight training, can be installed outdoors, as long as you are willing to put in a little preparation time. Contact a local gym equipment dealer for more information. 

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