Pic's and discussion of your "Home Gym"

[KBKB]

So I took the initial idea, but I ended up removing the original threads from the Straps (PITA for sure to do, 4 straps, 2 ends each), and then I had some round end links lying around, inserted them onto one end of each strap, and had it sewed shut (I had someone sew it for me, I lack that talent) with a Sewing Machine, then I took the other ends that had been threaded and with hooks - removed them and made a loop large enough so I could strap it through with the ring and buckle.

Nice job. I like the look of the straps at the dumbbell handles now - very clean and compact. (Reps on recharge.)

[cypherslock]

I'm in a two bedroom apartment, so don't have the room some do, but I think I've done well. Not pictured is the 300lbs of Olympic weights + stand (beginner, gotta start somewhere right?), semi pictured is the stability ball. I'd love to fit an elliptical in there for the winter months, but we'll have to see. This was great because I was originally looking at a Northern Lights rack that was more expensive and not as stable (odd because everything else I've bought from them (bench, stand etc.) is very solid. But this I couldn't pass up: brand new in the box for $400 (MSRP of $800), cash deal as the store in question wasn't going to sell them anymore, since they're in the US only and shipping to Canada (plus duty and taxes) is nuts. That said, they DID say they'd get any accessories in I wanted and if I had an issue they'd deal with the company for me. It pays to have friends in the fitness industry, as they've saved me quite a bit of coin on other stuff that was shiny, but that I didn't need.

EDIT: Also not pictured: a set of 1st stage PowerBlock U-90s.

[ProtienandIron]

Here you go mate;



Thats good to see that level of dedication.

To embed the pics you have to have 50posts or more. To embed it just type; [img]imagelocationhere[/img]

[cypherslock]

Curious: I've been thinking that a spin bike is a good idea, but not sure what really constitutes a good bike. Ideally, I'd like not to spend more on the bike than I did on the rack. This is for when it gets gawd-awful cold, icy and just plain sadistic up here in the Great White North. Any recommendations?

[ProtienandIron]

I don't like stationary bikes of any kind except for the Schwin Airdynne. How about a concept rower? Or better still, get a few kettlebells- these can give a serious cardio hit in a small amount of time.

If you live in an apartment how about stair sprints, followed by burpees, and kettlebell swings you'll be a beast.

[BackI00]

Spin bikes can be great... have you ever cycled casually or seriously? Learning proper setup for seat vs pedals vs handlebars is all quite important. As is the fluidity of your pedal strokes. That said i got rid of an airdyne for a cheap old school reebok spin bike. I did so because the spin bike was built like a tank, no frills, nothing really to go wrong. The airdyne i had was a little beat up and had some problems which i was having trouble fixing.

as a side note... i got the spin bike for 60 and the airdyne was 300... so it made sense financially as well. I used to be cyclist as well.

That said i have been searching for a decently priced rower for 6 months now and am still trying to get one for the main source of warmup and cardio.

Looking into complexes (whether it be kettlebell as stated above or DB or Barbell) is also a good idea. Just depends the type of cardio you are looking for (Hiit vs steady state vs warming up and so on.

[cypherslock]

I've biked before, used to do it all the time at my old home. Never pro though. Mostly looking for warmup a la Kris Gethin's program. Not looking to kill myself, just warm up for the weights. Considering I'll be starting Ninjutsu soon, I think I'll have all I can handle. A rower? That COULD work...

[NoKittyNo]

Spin bike is EXCELLENT. As another poster said, it does require initial set up, as for assembly it's a breeze. The Set-Up I am referring to is proper height for seat, pedal, etc. But this thing burns calories like nobody's business (ensuring you have put the work in obviously). It's low impact (which I love) and if I go at it, after a weight session I can burn between 150-170 calories in under fifteen minutes. On a dedicated cardio day I average 4-500 on 35ish minutes. It's great.

With all cardio equipment however, quality can vary on price. My bike retail was $598.00 before taxes from a local Canadian Outlet. It's a tank for sure, no wobble or sway, I love it. My treadmills been collecting a thin layer of dust in the last few weeks since I got it. I use to only have to shower ever 2nd day (give or take), as some lifting days doesn't cause me to perspire as much as others (Ergo Legs, Back) but now I sweat through my clothes after Spinning for a few minutes, sure it's a lousy time trade off (hygiene wise, LOL) but it's a great one at that.

Just for an example, where I got mine and what it looks like:

http://shop.fitnessdepot.ca/Front-Drive-C143.aspx
http://shop.fitnessdepot.ca/Whirley-...x#.T7Ap3OtYvMg


Mine



This is a video I used to set up my Bike:

http://youtu.be/odO8MPrmBVA

[cypherslock]

Thank You! But what is the diff between that one and the one for $300 less? Same brand it looks like.

[NoKittyNo]

Thank You! But what is the diff between that one and the one for $300 less? Same brand it looks like.

Honestly? No idea. Probably something along the specs of the material used to compose the bike itself.

Here's a comparable:

EQUIPMENT FEATURES:
Frame: Powder coating Main tube 40x80x1.5T, Fork tube 38x38x1.5T, Bottom tube 30x60x1.5T
Flywheel: 19kgs(42LBS)
Handlebar: MTB style handlebar w/ PVC coating；Forward / afterforward adjustment
Handlebar Post: Steel 38*38*1.5T, Chrome plating；Vertical adjustment
Seat Post: Steel 38*38*1.5T, Chrome plating；Vertical adjustment
Seat Adjustment Bracket : Steel, Chrome plating；Forward / afterforward adjustment
Resistance w/brake: Micro adjustment resistance ; Push style brake w/leather
Drive system: 1/2" x 1/8"x108links steel chain
Chainwheel: 1/2" x 1/8"x 52T steel BED
Sprocket: Fixed, 1/2"x1/8"x16T steel
Chain guard: ABS
Sweat guard: N/A
Pedal : Standard pedals with safety strap and toe clip
Seat: MTB style
Bottom bracket: Cotterless square axle
Max. user weight: 115kgs (250lbs)
Bottle Holder: 1 pcs on side of fork
Assembled Dimensions: 42.1"(L) x 19.7"(W) x 45.0"(H)
Product weight: 44kgs (97.0lbs)
Warranty: 6 months for all welds - Frame; 90 days - Crank, Flywheel, Handlebar/ Seat Post, Pedals (Note: This warranty excludes the wear items that need to replaced due to the normal wear.)

and then the cheaper one, as stated:

EQUIPMENT FEATURES:

Seat Adjustment Bracket : Vertical post adjustment design allows user to set the comfortable position
Seat: Road style
Assembled Dimensions: (L)108cm x (W)48cm x (H)105cm
Product weight: 36.6kg (80.6lbs)
Warranty: 6 months for all welds - Frame; 90 days - Crank, Flywheel, Handlebar/ Seat Post, Pedals (Note: This warranty excludes the wear items that need to replaced due to the normal wear.)

Personally I chose the model I did because it just made the top of my budget, and I figured I didn't want to settle for less and be disappointed or have it crap out on me in half the time, so if I am going to go in - might as well go all out as big as I can go. I have read of issues on cheaper models such as chains rubbing, parts inconsistent through each model in terms of it's working ability or fit, etc. I was looking at a local one from Canadian Tire in Canada here called a "Bladez Spin Bike" but it's reviews were not so stellar, and it's sale price of rounding around $400.00 I decided to look elsewhere. I found one locally on a Buy and Sell ad, but the asking price was still out of reach even when negotiated, and they weren't available to sell then anyway, so I went for what I purchased and so far have not regretted it one bit.

[vsvs]

Amstaff rack w/ band pegs, dip attachment, monkey bar, 2 pair J-hooks (1500/1000lb rated)
Cap oly DB handles
Lockjaws, spring collars, fatgripz
Light, medium, heavy bands, extra light for stretching
Rogue bar
700lb+ iron plates
Powertec FI bench
Dowin oly shoes


Looking for better bench, rubber/Ivanko plates, better j-hooks, fixed DB set?
In Canada though, hard to find any better

[ProtienandIron]

Nice setup you have there vsvs. Reps on recharge.

[jndietz]

Got this set up a couple months ago. Spent $500 on the rack itself and $75 on the weights (bar, 45s, 35s, 25s, 10s, 5s, 2.5s). Bought a Bowflex bench for 160 bones. It's a little ghetto but it gets the job done.

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6024.JPG
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6025.JPG
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6026.JPG

Anyone got tips on how to clean up my bar and weights?

[KeithTheSnake]

Got this set up a couple months ago. Spent $500 on the rack itself and $75 on the weights (bar, 45s, 35s, 25s, 10s, 5s, 2.5s). Bought a Bowflex bench for 160 bones. It's a little ghetto but it gets the job done.

https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6024.JPG
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6025.JPG
https://dl.dropbox.com/u/64273543/rack/DSCF6026.JPG

Anyone got tips on how to clean up my bar and weights?

Nice set-up. With those weights, I'd take a wire wheel attached to a drill motor to remove the rust, wipe off the dust, and shoot with some cheap flat black paint from walmart. For the bar, I'd take some steel wool and some CLR Clear or some vinegar and remove the rust. If the bar's collars spin, leave them on. Neutralize the CLR Clear or vinegar with water, wipe it off and let it dry in the hot sun, and rub a little light oil or WD-40 on it.

[ellisbailey]

We recently had a big undercover outdoor area built to the back of our house so all the gear has been moved there.....

Iron Edge Assault Rack, rings, torsonator



Ironmaster Cable pulldown and Superbench and also the Powertec Multi Press



Seated Calf, Concept II Rower, Ironmaster Dumbbell set with 120lb add on kit



Still to get----

Powertec Leverage Squat and Powertec Functional Trainer

[ProtienandIron]

That all looks very Crossfitesque, I like.

[ellisbailey]

That all looks very Crossfitesque, I like.

Cheers buddy. I`m predominantly a BB but the wife is into crossfit.

[ExtremistPullup]

We recently had a big undercover outdoor area built to the back of our house so all the gear has been moved there.....

Iron Edge Assault Rack, rings, torsonator



Ironmaster Cable pulldown and Superbench and also the Powertec Multi Press



Seated Calf, Concept II Rower, Ironmaster Dumbbell set with 120lb add on kit



Still to get----

Powertec Leverage Squat and Powertec Functional Trainer

Nice, Jelly of the rower. what else is in that room looks like you can expand.

[dnb]

*snip*

This is a video I used to set up my Bike:

http://youtu.be/odO8MPrmBVA

I wouldn't mind taking Jenna for a ride.

[matrix563]

how big was the add on? what is it made out of? looks nice. like the skylight

[DubSilky]

This is my setup.

[ellisbailey]

Nice, Jelly of the rower. what else is in that room looks like you can expand.

Cheers mate, looking to get a Powertec Leverage Squat and a functional trainer....just need to negotiate patio space with the wife haha!

[vsvs]

Amstaff rack w/ band pegs, dip attachment, monkey bar, 2 pair J-hooks (1500/1000lb rated)

Nice setup you have there vsvs. Reps on recharge.

protip: build quality on this rack sucks ass, shouldve just went for a powertec or something but i got drawn in by the band pegs
amstaff aka force usa aka strength armor
made in china and rebranded for several companies

[Detrus]

Current room gym

Deadlift platform with 5' Hampton beefy bar wrapped in gauss tape because I hate the knurl. Lock Jaw collars for 1" bars.




Dumbell handles and terrible spinlock bar that came in cheapo weight set. Fatgripz and Ironmind's overpriced carabiner for standard plates, for use with super squat belt.




Bench press. I start at the bottom not the top. Sit down at the front edge with the bar across hips, lie down and jerk it so it goes across stomach onto chest. Then twist roll it off when I'm done. Usually I can't do the last rep so I'd be rolling it off even worse in the gym. With a couch rolling off is more comfy than a bench.




Deadlift and bench press is the same compact unit. It's made from big box cardboard. It's relatively comfortable. The big 50 lb plates are wrapped in duct tape to contain their smell. This is where I'll fit Rogue's S-2 with 7' bar when I upgrade. Obviously I'm space constrained, can't fit a full rack. Can fit S-2 because I could keep half of it under couch because of its flat base and otherwise move it around.

[jndietz]

Nice set-up. With those weights, I'd take a wire wheel attached to a drill motor to remove the rust, wipe off the dust, and shoot with some cheap flat black paint from walmart. For the bar, I'd take some steel wool and some CLR Clear or some vinegar and remove the rust. If the bar's collars spin, leave them on. Neutralize the CLR Clear or vinegar with water, wipe it off and let it dry in the hot sun, and rub a little light oil or WD-40 on it.

Hey Keith thanks a lot for the advice. I will definitely try this out this weekend. I do have a wire brush attachment for my drill. I also do have a power washer Hopefully those will help get it cleaned up! The collars are spinning freely on the bar. I'm not sure what CLR Clear is, but I'll look into it. Hopefully it'll look pretty decent when all is said and done.

Thanks again!

[ProtienandIron]

protip: build quality on this rack sucks ass, shouldve just went for a powertec or something but i got drawn in by the band pegs
amstaff aka force usa aka strength armor
made in china and rebranded for several companies

Thats such a shame mate. Someone started a thread about that rack here recently and I said just that about it. I'm sorry I was right. Because it looks the part you may find you get a good resale price off it if you ever decide to get rid. Just sent some reps your your way.

[ProtienandIron]

I repped you too detrus, your setup is 'no excuses good'.

[highhung723]

protip: build quality on this rack sucks ass, shouldve just went for a powertec or something but i got drawn in by the band pegs
amstaff aka force usa aka strength armor
made in china and rebranded for several companies

What's wrong with the rack? Besides the (apparent) lack of spotters, I don't know if Powertec has much over this (I have one and I like it, but it doesn't seem much different than Amstaff). The pullup bars on the Amstaff are better, hole spacing is better, you have weight racks on the back to stabilize it, the J hooks are rated for 1000/1500. I don't see where this doesn't measure up.

[vsvs]

What's wrong with the rack? Besides the (apparent) lack of spotters, I don't know if Powertec has much over this (I have one and I like it, but it doesn't seem much different than Amstaff). The pullup bars on the Amstaff are better, hole spacing is better, you have weight racks on the back to stabilize it, the J hooks are rated for 1000/1500. I don't see where this doesn't measure up.

there are spotters, i took them out
the jhooks are wobbly and they are scratching up my bar because its pretty much just bare steel.
the holes arent machined/sanded so it screeches like a bitch when you slide the spotters in
ratings might not mean anything......you dont know how they are measuring it
the black paint comes off easily
im using the band pegs as weight trees. i have 4 pegs left for band deadlifts. theres a lot of wobble room for the pegs.

the sum of these things makes it feel cheap and lousy

if theres an upside its that i can sell it for maybe 200-250 when i decide to get rid of it since it LOOKS impressive

[highhung723]

there are spotters, i took them out
the holes arent machined/sanded so it screeches like a bitch when you slide the spotters in

So instead of tolerating the screeching, you're lifting without any spotters? FWIW, the old Powertec with the saber spotters screeches too.