Creating a home gym in a spare bedroom

28-01-2021 7:33am #1

Hello everyone

I've come to ask for some pointers on how I can create a home gym in one of my spare bedrooms.

The room itself is fairly a standard upstairs Irish bedroom. The floor is not concrete (this is probably important for weight considerations).

The room is 2.45m wide x 3.8m long. In reality I have about 7sq m of usable space to allocate to the gym. I have around 6,000 euro to spend on this (it's a limit, not a target).

Bodybuilding is not my goal. I'm a 42 year old male and have mild osteoporosis. My goal is to do some basic strength training and daily cardio. My wife is also 42 and would be interested in using the room for cardio, weights but also things like zumba from time to time.

We want:

An excellent treadmill that is pretty wide and sturdy, with incline settings Something that will last. I prefer to walk fast or jog slowly on it, rather than sprint.
A good set of dumbbells ranging from 2kg to 24kg (not adjustable). I also want a rack to store them on. I'm guessing they should be rubber to avoid damaging the floor.
A bench for dumbbell exercises.
A bar for pull-ups, this could be a door-hanging one, free-standing one, or one fixed to the stud wall.
Some type of high-grade rubber mat to cushion the floor and dampen any noise that might result from exercise.
A mirror wall.

Open questions:

Do I need a 20kg barbell / discs? (brand recommendations are welcome)
Do I need a bench press / squat rack with pull up bar? (brand recommendations are welcome)
I am reluctant to buy a machine that would be used for lat pull-downs and leg press, not because I don't want one, but because I am worried about maintaining it and having adequate space. I have often seen these machines out of order in a gym setting. If this happens in a home gym I expect it would be a pain to get it fixed. But if anyone could propose a good piece of kit, I'd be interested.
I'd have a slight concern about the weight of all this equipment in one bedroom with a non-concrete floor. Based on your experiences, is this something to worry about?

I would love some tips about how to get the most out of the space I have.
Note: I am aware that I could save space by, for example, using a skipping rope instead of a machine for cardio, or by using adjustable dumbbells instead of buying a set. But I want a set of dumbbells and a treadmill, not a skipping rope and adjustable dumbbells.

I'd also appreciate some recommended products for the dumbbell set, dumbbell rack, bench, floor mats, etc.

Buddy Bubs · 28-01-2021 7:54am

Weight of equipment would not be a problem over a floor span. Putting 5 or 6 people in a room would weigh as much as your equipment.

One thing I'd question is why are you getting a treadmill instead of going outside for a run or walk.

The weights end of things, yeah go for it, I'm thinking of doing something similar in a spare bedroom myself, but I'd always choose the great outdoors for cardio.

Prices of fitness equipment are extremely high at the moment.

TheW1zard · 28-01-2021 7:55am

Not a helpful post probably but the outside is your treadmill! Walk and run around the neighbourhood. Save you loads of space!?

FHFM50 · 28-01-2021 8:09am

10KG set of Dumbbells and a bench is all you need for basic strength training.

This is the workout plan I use - https://dumbbell-exercises.com/best-dumbbell-exercises/

JMNolan · 28-01-2021 8:13am

Just as an aside. I have a treadmill in my home office for the (often) days it is hammering rain. Plus I can often attend meetings from the treadmill

Esse85 · 28-01-2021 8:16am

Did anyone actually read the OPs post?

He's specifically said the range of DBs he wants.
He's also specifically described the type of treadmill he wants yet still posters on here refuse point blank to take onboard what the OP said and try push on him what they would like instead.

Esse85 · 28-01-2021 8:17am

FHFM50 wrote: »

10KG set of Dumbbells and a bench is all you need for basic strength training.

This is the workout plan I use - https://dumbbell-exercises.com/best-dumbbell-exercises/

Go out walking/running for the cardio.

And your set of circumstances are the exact same as the OPs are they?

28-01-2021 8:24am

Esse85 wrote: »

Did anyone actually read the OPs post?

He's specifically said the range of DBs he wants.
He's also specifically described the type of treadmill he wants yet still posters on here refuse point blank to take onboard what the OP said and try push on him what they would like instead.

Thanks, yes I definitely want a treadmill for a consistent uphill workout, regardless of weather and without having to worry about other environmental factors.

FHFM50 · 28-01-2021 8:53am

Esse85 wrote: »

And your set of circumstances are the exact same as the OPs are they?

I do exercises for strength training just as the OP plans to and I also have some minor back trouble. Not the same as Osteoporosis I know, but I do have to be careful. In my case I find 10-12 KG dumbbells enough and was only offering some advice to the OP from my experience.

I've removed my part of the post on Cardio as I never really do any of that and so I shouldn't have commented on it. The same with Pull up bars and Barbells, I have no idea as I've never used them .

I do find having a skipping rope around handy just for warming up.

swededmonkey · 28-01-2021 8:55am

Check out pull up monster. I got a pull up bar and some heavy dumbbells made from steel recently. They're heavy duty and don't look the prettiest but they're effective. The bar is free standing and can be amended for Dips and inverted rows.

Alkers · 28-01-2021 9:22am

Sounds like a great plan!

I don't think there will be any issues with any of the equipment being upstairs and being used but someone on the treadmill in an upstairs bedroom is likely to make life unpleasant for anyone in the rest of the house. It will depend on your house but if you stand downstairs and ask your OH to jump up and down a couple of times you'll get an idea. Do you have anywhere else you could use the treadmill - preferably downstairs? You can get ones which fold, still take up a decent bit of room but not as much as you think. We have one, old at this stage, but it's very useful when it's freezing outside.

Squat rack with an adjustable bench which fits underneath it and a range of weights. Like you mention, I would avoid those multi-gym machines but not for maintenance reasons, they tend to accommodate a lot of exercises poorly and don't always have a good range of body shapes and sizes. If you do go for a full squat rack you will likely end up going with olympic bar and weights which are large and pricey. You might feel these overkill for your needs but if your sure this is something your going to end up using and not just a "get fit" fad, you'll probably end up goign that way eventually in any case.

copeyhagen · 28-01-2021 9:23am

get a few resistance bands, would be ideal for you.

28-01-2021 9:27am

Not sure what kind of house you have OP, hope it's detached!!
It can be extremely noisy in an ordinary house, I lived in a semi once & the neighbour had a treadmill & rowing machines in an upstairs bedroom, it was unbelievable the noise.

Black Sheep · 28-01-2021 9:42am

Hi OP-

I won't comment on the treadmill as this is not something I am knowledgeable about, but here are a few thoughts on the rest of it.

[*]A good set of dumbbells ranging from 2kg to 24kg (not adjustable). I also want a rack to store them on. I'm guessing they should be rubber to avoid damaging the floor.

You have a few options here but hex dumbbells are your industry standard. Hex dumbbells are all manufactured in China and are pretty much the same in terms of quality from seller to seller. There are some who claim to use higher quality parts, and there are cheaper versions without 'anatomical handles' but basically if you buy hex dumbbells from different vendors they'll match most likely. Due to shortages at the moment you might end up having to do this.

At the moment main Irish vendors like MC Sport, Fitness Equipment Ireland and others are out of stock or on pre-order, your best bet is going to be to set email alerts or contact vendors directly indicating you are looking to order a full set. If you're going from 2kg to 24kg it might interest them as that's a substantial order.

You're going to need a dumbbell rack for those.

I have this from Blk Box to store my hex dumbbells. The clearance from the floor of the bottom shelf is high enough that you can also store kettlebells and other things underneath.

https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-2-tier-storage-rack

The above is made by Blk Box in Belfast and like all their equipment it's a bit nicer than the imported storage options you can find on the likes of MC Sport. But it's a little more expensive.

I think because they're still on the island of Ireland they are an option to order from. At the moment there seems to be major problems getting deliveries from mainland UK companies like Strength Shop. They would have been a great option before Christmas, but unfortunately right now I would have to say steer clear until things settle down.

[*]A bench for dumbbell exercises.

Well, you could spend less and get a basic flat bench, but because of what you're after, and your budget, you should definitely opt for an adjustable bench that will let you do incline work with your dumbbells.

Something like this is quickly adjustable. Steer clear of anything requiring you to pull knobs out to adjust the position.

https://www.mcsport.ie/products/hit-fitness-sb57-semi-commercial-bench-hit00182?variant=31806488182863&_sgm_campaign=scn_949a8a50d4000&_sgm_source=4481012727887&_sgm_action=click

[*]A bar for pull-ups, this could be a door-hanging one or one fixed to the stud wall.

For most people a doorframe pullup bar is the best affordable option, and they are adequate.

https://www.decathlon.ie/ie_en/strength-training-pull-up-bar-500-en-s142047.html

Note this is one that braces off the doorway as a whole, it's not one of the extendable bars that fit within the actual doorway itself.

If you want an attachment that you actually drill into the wall they are easily available but IMO I would either get the doorframe pullup bar above or go the whole hog and get a squat stand with a pull-up bar attachment, mentioned further on.

[*]Some type of high-grade rubber mat to cushion the floor and dampen any noise that my result from exercise.

I bought 1m square 43mm rubber tiles from Strength Shop UK, and cut them to fit. I was very happy with how they turned out, but unfortunately you're not going to be able to avail of Strength Shop unless you really get them to confirm they are happy to ship to Ireland at the moment. And work out what you think you could get hit for in terms of VAT and charges.

A lot of other tile options will be thinner than 43mm, but they might suit your purposes as you aren't going to be dropping more than 24kg, and hopefully not even that, really.

Blk Box does various options, they have these in stock. I would have a google around.
https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-anti-slip-tile-1mx1mx15mm

[*]Do I need a 20kg barbell / discs? (brand recommendations are welcome)[*]Do I need a bench press / squat rack with pull up bar? (brand recommendations are welcome)

Your dumbbells and the storage for them will take up a significant amount of space, and they're not going to be cheap.

They will, in theory, allow you to train very comprehensively, especially with the pull-up bar and the adjustable bench.

However...

Personally yes I do think that strength training with a barbell is the gold standard. It would not necessarily be any more expensive for you to get a good quality barbell, 100kg worth of plates, set of squat stands and your adjustable bench.

If your ceiling height permitted it you have the option of something like this, which is a common design incorporating a pull-up bar attachment at the top.

https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-utility-quarter-rack

If you look on Blk Box's site they also have a "fold away" rack that might be of interest to you.

Their Belfast barbell is a good quality imported bar:-
https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-belfast-bar-7ft-20kg-olympic-

Another option: https://www.mcsport.ie/collections/all/products/mens-ultimate-bar-8-needle-bearing-hardened-chrome?_sgm_campaign=scn_949a8a50d4000&_sgm_source=4833526284367&_sgm_action=click

There are cheaper barbells out there, but because of your budget I think would be worth investing a little more to get something that is more nicely finished and which has high quality sleeve construction.

Overall though, based on your goals I would not commit to the space involved in a rack, bar and plates unless you really think you want to go that route. They will take up a lot of space, and you'll need a storage solution for the plates (and maybe the bar too). I would say in your case it is either those or it is the dumbbells.

[*]I am reluctant to buy a machine that would be used for lat pull-downs and leg press, not because I don't want one, but because I am worried about maintaining it and having adequate space. I have often seen these machines out of order in a gym setting. If this happens in a home gym I expect it would be a pain to get it fixed. But if anyone could propose a good piece of kit, I'd be interested.

I wouldn't bother.

In lieu of the lat pull-downs you have the option of throwing a resistance band over the pull-up bar and doing banded pull-downs and similar. Or do higher rep band-assisted pull-ups.

For leg press, leg curl and so on it is a little trickier but basically substitute a higher rep dumbbell squat, goblet squat, Romanian deadlift and similar. You can also try things like single leg hip bridges etc. With the dumbbells lunge variations and split squats are also going to be a staple for you.

Those machines I would typically associate more with someone who did want to do bodybuilding / hypertrophy work. For your purposes probably not necessary.

[*]I'd have a slight concern about the weight of all this equipment in one bedroom with a non-concrete floor. Based on your experiences, is this something to worry about?

No.

I would love some tips about how to get the most out of the space I have.

I have fitted out a couple of gyms in small spaces. One at my work, and one in my shed.

I completely accept that you are set on the treadmill and if you guys will use it I wouldn't second guess that, but if you want another piece of cardio kit that is a tiny bit more space friendly, you could look at an air assault bike or a C2 rower.

For cardio or HIT type training in a small space my main observation would be that it's not so much the equipment you have, but the training protocol you use.

If do a dumbbell complex for several rounds you don't have to move around much, but you'll certainly get your heart rate up.

If you have the pull-up bar another option is simple metabolic conditioning workouts where you set a time limit and try to complete as many rounds as you can of a couple of simple exercises. For example, 5 pull-ups, 10 pushups, 15 air squats, AMPRAP 15 minutes (Yes, that's a CrossFit workout, but it's still a good workout :pac:).

ted1 · 28-01-2021 9:43am

would you consider or have space for a gym out back? https://www.logcabins4less.ie/cabins/summer-houses

28-01-2021 9:56am

Alkers wrote: »

Sounds like a great plan!

I don't think there will be any issues with any of the equipment being upstairs and being used but someone on the treadmill in an upstairs bedroom is likely to make life unpleasant for anyone in the rest of the house. It will depend on your house but if you stand downstairs and ask your OH to jump up and down a couple of times you'll get an idea.

bubblypop wrote: »

Not sure what kind of house you have OP, hope it's detached!!
It can be extremely noisy in an ordinary house, I lived in a semi once & the neighbour had a treadmill & rowing machines in an upstairs bedroom, it was unbelievable the noise.

Thanks for this input. My house is detached. Are there any alternaive cardio machines which would not make as much noise? Unfortunately a stationary bicycle isn't an option as I find my man bits get numb(!!) from using them.

ted1 wrote: »

would you consider or have space for a gym out back? https://www.logcabins4less.ie/cabins/summer-houses

Alas, no. It has to be the spare bedroom.

liamtech · 28-01-2021 1:43pm

For comparison, i was in roughly the same situation as OP. Aside from the cardio, which i do walking, running, and hiking, i wanted to do weight training as i would have been doing in the gym: Using back of my ground floor Apartment for this purpose so heres what i did, along with price range

Weight Plates- I realize you dont need as much as bodybuilding isnt your goal, but i bought a Plate Storage rack in the UK for about 40euro (prebrexit) - The weight plates i purchased on Adverts and some from EBAY. Price varied from maybe €3 to €6 per KG - standard Plates only 25mm - olympic bars, plates and Dumbbells were prohibitively expensive
Dumbbells and Bars- Again all standard size 25mm - managed a full size, an EZ Curl, 2 sets of dumbbells (for doing drop sets) and a Tricep Bar - reasonable enough, and i can provide links of a UK supplier i used
Heavy Duty Bench - I went through 3 benches before settling on this - The difficulty is that im a large and Tall guy, so bench 1 was not long enough. Certain exercises my head would be hanging off the back - just not fit for purpose - settled on my current heavy duty bench - which covers all angles for shoulder, incline, lower incline, flat and decline presses - also a Preacher attachment which i have made extensive use of - bench and Preacher was about 300 - bare in mind depending on your height their are lower priced variants around
Lat Pull down Plate loaded rig - The walls and door frames in my apartment are not suited to pull up bars - i made that decision early last april, when trying to decide what to get - this Plate loader is the best i could get and it hasnt dissapointed. It has both Horizontal and Vertical pullys on it so doing pull downs, tricep cable work, rows, and bicep work is excellent - obtained a variety of grips for it so i can vary everything im doing - rig was 250euro, and can take up to 120KG of my plates - attachments include long bar, short bar, hammer grips, single hand, and ankle (for glutes, thighs, etc) - grips were cheap enough if you shop around
Leg Extension attachment - when i mentioned i went through 3 benchs i wasnt kidding! This bench was supposed to serve all purposes but like i mentioned before it is not long enough for my height - i keep it now for the leg extension attachment, which is decent - also the back Polls/half-rack, detaches and is freestanding so i can slip my bench between it for benching

All in a probably spent maybe 1500 odd euro - i think for what i payed i am content. The way i see it, i am lifting/gyming at home for the rest of this year, and it already has 8 months of use so - im content

For yourself, i would say get some plates, and a few dumbbells, a cheap enough bench depending on your height (cant emphasize this enough, the shorter benches were uncomfortable in a real way - i wasnt content to continue use given what i was lifting)

Happy to discuss - we obviously have different goals, but i think there is overlap - pictures below
EDIT

Removed pics they seem to be non functional at present - will try to upload later

Dtp1979 · 30-01-2021 3:20pm

FHFM50 wrote: »

10KG set of Dumbbells and a bench is all you need for basic strength training.

This is the workout plan I use - https://dumbbell-exercises.com/best-dumbbell-exercises/

This belongs in the “worst fitness advice you’ve ever been given” thread

FHFM50 · 30-01-2021 4:33pm

Dtp1979 wrote: »

This belongs in the “worst fitness advice you’ve ever been given” thread

Why is it bad advice?

The OP said his goal is basic strength training. He also says he has osteoporosis so 10-12KG dumbbells are enough.

He also asked for tips so I linked a website I found useful for making a workout plan.

I don't use Barbells, Pull up bars, Machines, etc so I didn't comment on that.

Dtp1979 · 30-01-2021 5:31pm

FHFM50 wrote: »

Why is it bad advice?

The OP said his goal is basic strength training. He also says he has osteoporosis so 10-12KG dumbbells are enough.

He also asked for tips so I linked a website I found useful for making a workout plan.

I don't use Barbells, Pull up bars, Machines, etc so I didn't comment on that.

You’ve no idea how strong the op is. You said all they need are 10kg dumbbells etc. 10kg dumbbells might feel like feathers to the op. Plus, even if they started at 10kg, with most strength building exercises and not bodybuild like the op said, they would quickly outgrow them.
For all we know the op could be a 40kg girl or Paul o Connell.

FHFM50 · 30-01-2021 5:59pm

Dtp1979 wrote: »

You’ve no idea how strong the op is. You said all they need are 10kg dumbbells etc. 10kg dumbbells might feel like feathers to the op. Plus, even if they started at 10kg, with most strength building exercises and not bodybuild like the op said, they would quickly outgrow them.
For all we know the op could be a 40kg girl or Paul o Connell.

The interval he said for the dumbbells is 2KG - 24KG. If 10's felt like feathers he wouldn't have started the interval with 2.

I put down 10KG as a starting point, which just happens to be what I use. Of course he can use heavier ones as he progresses further or depending on how bad his osteoporosis is.

Dtp1979 · 30-01-2021 8:13pm

FHFM50 wrote: »

The interval he said for the dumbbells is 2KG - 24KG. If 10's felt like feathers he wouldn't have started the interval with 2.

I put down 10KG as a starting point, which just happens to be what I use. Of course he can use heavier ones as he progresses further or depending on how bad his osteoporosis is.

No you said all they need was 10kg dumbells.
One size doesn’t fit all

Alf Veedersane · 30-01-2021 8:46pm

FHFM50 wrote: »

I put down 10KG as a starting point, which just happens to be what I use. Of course he can use heavier ones as he progresses further or depending on how bad his osteoporosis is.

The thing is the OP wants a range for doing different exercises. 10kg might be too heavy for some movements and too light for others so he wants a range of weights to allow for the appropriate weight for a range of exercises.

Its not that he wants to start using 2kg (for everything?) And work up to 24kg as he gets stronger.

ahnowbrowncow · 30-01-2021 9:11pm

Dtp1979 wrote: »

For all we know the op could be a 40kg girl or Paul o Connell.

Or a 40kg girl called Paul O Connell, there's numerous possibilities.

Dtp1979 · 30-01-2021 9:17pm

ahnowbrowncow wrote: »

Or a 40kg girl called Paul O Connell, there's numerous possibilities.

Paula

FHFM50 · 30-01-2021 9:27pm

Dtp1979 wrote: »

No you said all they need was 10kg dumbells.
One size doesn’t fit all

Fair enough, I wasn't thinking straight

As an aside does anyone here use a weight vest? I don't have the room for a barbell or bench so I thought I could build my chest by doing push ups with a weighted vest. Was hoping it would also work my core.

Argos have one in stock near me €70.

Alkers · 30-01-2021 9:38pm

FHFM50 wrote: »

Fair enough, I wasn't thinking straight

As an aside does anyone here use a weight vest? I don't have the room for a barbell or bench so I thought I could build my chest by doing push ups with a weighted vest. Was hoping it would also work my core.

Argos have one in stock near me €70.

You can do pushups with a weighted backpack

Black Sheep · 31-01-2021 10:21am

I have used weighted vests in the past but I would suggest they are only worth investing in if you are going to use them in conjunction with a range of bodyweight movements, not just push-ups. Think pull-ups, lunges, air squats etc.

If you only want to increase the difficulty of your push up sets you can obviously do the following, although maybe you're well aware.

-Slow tempo
-Close grip / diamond push ups
-Feet elevated
-Pre-fatigue with light DB floor flyes or similar before going into push up sets
-Band resisted push ups
-Clapping push ups
-One handed push up progressions if all of the above are easy and you're banging out massive volume

In general terms you can always up the ante with conventional push ups by increasing volume and / or decreasing rest periods. If you can do 5 sets of 20 push-ups with 2 minutes rest between them (Just a random example) then if you changed nothing but started reducing your rest period from 2 minutes to 1.30 and then 1 minute ... You'd know all about it.

Or set a goal of 100 push-ups and try to do it against the clock.

There's so many ways to subtly change up your training, it's quite amazing.

Esse85 · 31-01-2021 11:25am

FHFM50 wrote: »

Fair enough, I wasn't thinking straight

As an aside does anyone here use a weight vest? I don't have the room for a barbell or bench so I thought I could build my chest by doing push-ups with a weighted vest. Was hoping it would also work my core.

Argos have one in stock near me €70.

I don't use a weight vest.
I'd do elevated push-ups if I were you and that was my goal or else I would increase the volume of push-ups if you haven't already tried that.

If your insistent on spending money I would buy a resistance band and use that to provide resistance doing your push-ups.

You can also do lots of other work with it.

Those options I've suggested take into consideration your space restrictions and your desired outcomes.

Alf Veedersane · 31-01-2021 1:22pm

Just to agree with Black Sheep...I have little equipment to work with, so just have to look at the variables I can change. This isn't a "this is what I did so it will work for everyone" post but just an example.

The equipment I do have is a pair of push up handles and resistance bands. I do variations....hands close (think close-grip bench), hands wide (wide grip bench) and double-pause push up (on the way down and at the bottom).

Include the push up handles to make those harder because of going through a greater range of motion.

You can hold a resistance band in both hands and around your back for more resistance

Other options I've done are largely based on bench variations I've done....using a tempo, e.g. 4 seconds down, pause and back up. Tempo push ups will burn. Add pauses to tempos.

There are a ton of variations that you can do that will give you a sufficient workload. My bench didn't drop off all much in either lockdown and I only had the push up handles and bands as equipment.

Also, probably should have added it earlier but you have more scope for higher frequency as well.

04-02-2021 9:00pm

Just to jump in on this as I'm after a home gym as such as the OP, im looking at the below

https://www.fitnessequipmentireland.ie/product/home-gym-package-with-lat-pulldown-rack/

And

https://www.fitnessequipmentireland.ie/product/dumbbell-5-30kg-bundle/

Id also like to add in a spin bike or air assault bike but just wondering what the general consensus on the above would be for a home gym, or if theres any alternatives or something else to be looking at?

deathbomber · 04-02-2021 9:15pm

Mental prices at the moment. Good kit there but all in its circa 3k, before the virus you would of had all that for 1.5k. If you wait a few months and hopefully the vaccine kicks in and works and life starts to resume, i envisage a **** load of used weights for sale etc

Alf Veedersane · 04-02-2021 10:45pm

5500 wrote: »

Just to jump in on this as I'm after a home gym as such as the OP, im looking at the below

https://www.fitnessequipmentireland.ie/product/home-gym-package-with-lat-pulldown-rack/

And

https://www.fitnessequipmentireland.ie/product/dumbbell-5-30kg-bundle/

Id also like to add in a spin bike or air assault bike but just wondering what the general consensus on the above would be for a home gym, or if theres any alternatives or something else to be looking at?

I'd just get a rack without the lat pulldown business. Just do pull ups and use a band to reduce resistance if you struggle to do full pullups in the short term. I just think the lat pulldown probably adds more cost than its worth

04-02-2021 11:52pm

deathbomber wrote: »

Mental prices at the moment. Good kit there but all in its circa 3k, before the virus you would of had all that for 1.5k. If you wait a few months and hopefully the vaccine kicks in and works and life starts to resume, i envisage a **** load of used weights for sale etc

Yeah I'd expect or at least hope so, although will it go the other way with people being happy to just stick to working out at home and cut the gym membership for good, hard to know.

Heres another i looked at although is it worth the longer wait time?

https://strengthandfitness.ie/collections/racks/products/half-rack-package

https://strengthandfitness.ie/collections/dumbbells/products/bodymax-5-30kg-rubber-commercial-dumbbells-without-rack

Black Sheep · 05-02-2021 6:27am

5500 wrote: »

Yeah I'd expect or at least hope so, although will it go the other way with people being happy to just stick to working out at home and cut the gym membership for good, hard to know.

Heres another i looked at although is it worth the longer wait time?

https://strengthandfitness.ie/collections/racks/products/half-rack-package

https://strengthandfitness.ie/collections/dumbbells/products/bodymax-5-30kg-rubber-commercial-dumbbells-without-rack

There’s a fair difference between a half rack and a full size rack you posted above, it would be worth figuring out exactly what you’re after.

Why do a pre-order, if you are fairly flexible in terms of what you want?

You could order a quarter rack with catcher arms immediately from Blk Box. They also just restocked Hex DBs and adjustable benches.

There’s also various racks in stock in ROI based suppliers.

If you do get a full set of hex DBs you will need a storage solution- I would suggest budgeting for a rack and getting what you can now and more later.

As far as pricing goes, in new gym gear sales there has been no mark up of any significance - the higher asking prices are very much in the used / second hand market and from new businesses who have come in to try to fill demand, from what I have seen.

With a company like Strength Shop in the UK, what has happened is that their prices have not gone up at all, but suddenly their weekly deals are gone. Those used to be amazing... Regularly 20-30% off stock, they'd just rotate it from thing to thing. Now they don't need to do that.

What mark-up there is... To be honest feels like there’s also a bit of Irish people just hating to ever pay more for a thing no matter what availability of product is, what demand is, what added costs there are with shipping etc.

deathbomber · 05-02-2021 8:16pm

Black Sheep wrote: »

There’s a fair difference between a half rack and a full size rack you posted above, it would be worth figuring out exactly what you’re after.

Why do a pre-order, if you are fairly flexible in terms of what you want?

You could order a quarter rack with catcher arms immediately from Blk Box. They also just restocked Hex DBs and adjustable benches.

There’s also various racks in stock in ROI based suppliers.

If you do get a full set of hex DBs you will need a storage solution- I would suggest budgeting for a rack and getting what you can now and more later.

As far as pricing goes, in new gym gear sales there has been no mark up of any significance - the higher asking prices are very much in the used / second hand market and from new businesses who have come in to try to fill demand, from what I have seen.

With a company like Strength Shop in the UK, what has happened is that their prices have not gone up at all, but suddenly their weekly deals are gone. Those used to be amazing... Regularly 20-30% off stock, they'd just rotate it from thing to thing. Now they don't need to do that.

What mark-up there is... To be honest feels like there’s also a bit of Irish people just hating to ever pay more for a thing no matter what availability of product is, what demand is, what added costs there are with shipping etc.

Sorry disagree, i have been buying various equipment over the years and regularly check pricing on new equipment, weight and even gear i bought, pricing has most definitely increased by at leadt 25 %, some places more. I agree about the used market.

deathbomber · 05-02-2021 10:14pm

Just had a look at blk box as recommended above. Very expensive, easily 33% more on some of their equipment. No doubt import costs and unit costs have gone up for them but things are really starting to get farcical.

Black Sheep · 06-02-2021 10:45am

deathbomber wrote: »

Sorry disagree, i have been buying various equipment over the years and regularly check pricing on new equipment, weight and even gear i bought, pricing has most definitely increased by at leadt 25 %, some places more. I agree about the used market.

Could you give some examples? I am genuinely interested.

“Over the years” there’s no doubt pricing has changed. Partly inflation as in all sectors, partly a massive change in the nature of what is available. Hard to get some of the low quality barbell and plate sets that were ubiquitous 10-20 years ago, the standard has risen. Even what used to be a premium product like Jordan is now no more than mid market.

But since the pandemic began, and examples of 25% price hikes or more?

Black Sheep · 06-02-2021 11:00am

deathbomber wrote: »

Just had a look at blk box as recommended above. Very expensive, easily 33% more on some of their equipment. No doubt import costs and unit costs have gone up for them but things are really starting to get farcical.

Which products are you talking about, out of interest, and what product are you comparing it to thats 33% less?

They import some gear, some is EU made and some is made in Belfast. You’re probably aware.

caviardreams · 06-02-2021 12:22pm

I am starting to contemplate getting a small rack - space is very limited for me. Was looking at the likes of this:

https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-utility-quarter-rack

I have a small spare bedroom so was hoping a couple of mats underneath (it doesn't need to be bolted to the floor which would be an issue) and I could use it for squats and bench (weight would be up to 100kg or maybe just over I'd say so nothing too heavy - could add spotter arms down the line https://www.blkboxfitness.com/collections/all/products/blk-box-goliath-spotting-arms)

Would this be a good option? I could possible just squeeze it in size wise, but I want something stable enough

Would something like this still be solid if not bolted down?
https://www.mcsport.ie/products/hit-fitness-adjustable-squat-rack-standard-hit00323?variant=31806426546255&dfw_tracker=95584-31806426546255&cmp_id=732425403&adg_id=114225645032&kwd=&device=c&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmfmABhCHARIsACwPRAAT-tKEqBX8t5m19MHeGrch-cslP7V5bi0LlBROBykuKxSb9r4O2usaAk21EALw_wcB

Black Sheep · 06-02-2021 12:44pm

caviardreams wrote: »

I am starting to contemplate getting a small rack - space is very limited for me. Was looking at the likes of this:

https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-utility-quarter-rack

I have a small spare bedroom so was hoping a couple of mats underneath (it doesn't need to be bolted to the floor which would be an issue) and I could use it for squats and bench (weight would be up to 100kg or maybe just over I'd say so nothing too heavy - could add spotter arms down the line https://www.blkboxfitness.com/collections/all/products/blk-box-goliath-spotting-arms)

Would this be a good option? I could possible just squeeze it in size wise, but I want something stable enough

Would something like this still be solid if not bolted down?
https://www.mcsport.ie/products/hit-fitness-adjustable-squat-rack-standard-hit00323?variant=31806426546255&dfw_tracker=95584-31806426546255&cmp_id=732425403&adg_id=114225645032&kwd=&device=c&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmfmABhCHARIsACwPRAAT-tKEqBX8t5m19MHeGrch-cslP7V5bi0LlBROBykuKxSb9r4O2usaAk21EALw_wcB

I have had an outdoor quarter rack and they’re very stable. I do think it’s a great design for most people’s use.

The HIT one would be fine too but you lose the pull-up option, the catcher arms are shorter and it’s imported from China vs made in Belfast. Not necessary to bolt down either.

Alf Veedersane · 06-02-2021 12:49pm

caviardreams wrote: »

I am starting to contemplate getting a small rack - space is very limited for me. Was looking at the likes of this:

https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-utility-quarter-rack

I have a small spare bedroom so was hoping a couple of mats underneath (it doesn't need to be bolted to the floor which would be an issue) and I could use it for squats and bench (weight would be up to 100kg or maybe just over I'd say so nothing too heavy - could add spotter arms down the line https://www.blkboxfitness.com/collections/all/products/blk-box-goliath-spotting-arms)

Would this be a good option? I could possible just squeeze it in size wise, but I want something stable enough

Would something like this still be solid if not bolted down?
https://www.mcsport.ie/products/hit-fitness-adjustable-squat-rack-standard-hit00323?variant=31806426546255&dfw_tracker=95584-31806426546255&cmp_id=732425403&adg_id=114225645032&kwd=&device=c&gclid=Cj0KCQiAmfmABhCHARIsACwPRAAT-tKEqBX8t5m19MHeGrch-cslP7V5bi0LlBROBykuKxSb9r4O2usaAk21EALw_wcB

I think the mcsport one is along the lines of what bluewolf has.

Should be plenty stable. Unless you start racking the bar from a distance or with a bit of a run-up

caviardreams · 06-02-2021 12:54pm

Great - thanks guys - the mcsport one looks like it might be better for me (don't need the pull up option as have a doorway bar that never gets used as it is!

)

Would this be a decent bar?
https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-belfast-bar-7ft-20kg-olympic-barbell
or https://www.mcsport.ie/collections/barbells-1418/products/hit-fitness-7-black-coated-olympic-bar-20kg-semi-commercial-hit00001

Have seen 6 foot and 5 foot bars too - would these be a decent option given I won't be loading it too much (again thinking of the space issue!)

Really helpful!

theoneeyedman · 06-02-2021 12:58pm

OP,

I bought a Nordtrak treadmill in September, from Gym fix in Monaghan. Cost about a grand, is a good machine, and will fold up out of the way to save some space. Has a 27.5HP motor and a wide track. That were good to deal with and delivered etc included in the price.

Might be a little more than required for walking, but I'd prefer if possible to overspec a little than underspec.
Won't can't comment on the other bits as I k ow nothing about them

Dtp1979 · 06-02-2021 1:05pm

caviardreams wrote: »

Great - thanks guys - the mcsport one looks like it might be better for me (don't need the pull up option as have a doorway bar that never gets used as it is! )

Would this be a decent bar?
https://www.blkboxfitness.com/products/blk-box-belfast-bar-7ft-20kg-olympic-barbell
or https://www.mcsport.ie/collections/barbells-1418/products/hit-fitness-7-black-coated-olympic-bar-20kg-semi-commercial-hit00001

Have seen 6 foot and 5 foot bars too - would these be a decent option given I won't be loading it too much (again thinking of the space issue!)

Really helpful!

Very expensive bars. The one I use is fine and Cost around €170 bought from the same guy I bought my plates from. All still available on DoneDeal.
There’s a guy in Dublin making concrete dumbells that are a little flintstoney looking but very affordable.
There’s also a guy selling a lovely half rack on DoneDeal for 400.

deathbomber · 06-02-2021 1:53pm

Black Sheep wrote: »

Which products are you talking about, out of interest, and what product are you comparing it to thats 33% less?

They import some gear, some is EU made and some is made in Belfast. You’re probably aware.

Standard olympic barbell is 299 sterling on blkbox. I bought a quality one from d8 fitness in Novemberv2019 for 180 euros. Basically everything on blkbox is way up, they are not alone.

06-02-2021 2:47pm

I use this bar
BLK BOX Utility Bar - 7ft 20kg Olympic Barbell × 1
£140.00

And very cheapy squat stands from amazon which are not bolted and rest on carpet
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08L6HBHGK/ref=pe_2515581_431334481_fb_remail_prodpg

Black Sheep · 06-02-2021 3:47pm

deathbomber wrote: »

Standard olympic barbell is 299 sterling on blkbox. I bought a quality one from d8 fitness in Novemberv2019 for 180 euros. Basically everything on blkbox is way up, they are not alone.

I bought three of the D8 fitness bars you’re talking about for two different small gyms I fitted out.

They’re good mid range bars, but not comparable to the Belfast bar in terms of collar construction and fit and finish.

I haven’t bought the Belfast bar for any fit outs but used them fairly extensively in other peoples gyms before the pandemic. The knurling is better and it has two needle bearings per sleeve.

To the person asking- yes, they’re quality bars, comparable to the Strength Shop bastard bar and Rogue Ohio bar in spec.

I would say Blk Box is also a brand at this stage, there is a premium that comes with that but it also means good QC. I’ve not seen anything shoddy from them yet. I have their open hex bar, sand bag, plyo box and DB rack, all very good.

Black Sheep · 06-02-2021 3:56pm

Zachary Echoing Geese wrote: »

I use this bar
BLK BOX Utility Bar - 7ft 20kg Olympic Barbell × 1
£140.00

And very cheapy squat stands from amazon which are not bolted and rest on carpet
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08L6HBHGK/ref=pe_2515581_431334481_fb_remail_prodpg

Just checked out the specs on that- looks more in line with the D8 elite bar. PSI rating is good for a relatively inexpensive bar. I also like that it’s 28mm.

Will_I_Regret · 06-02-2021 4:06pm

I ordered the Belfast Bar from BLKBOX and I am extremely impressed with it. Good quality bar with a nice whip, but may be wasted spending that kind of momey if you're only using it to squat/bench.

deathbomber · 06-02-2021 8:11pm

Ok in fairness i didn't realise they had a mid range bar, fairvenough

Creating a home gym in a spare bedroom

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