Setting up Home Gym with Power Cage

Ok, here is an update video talking about what I like and don't like: http://youtu.be/WZt9JXYdefc

I bought some Powertec workout equipment for my garage gym. This is me setting it up in super fast motion. Most of the time I'm speeding the video up 6000 percent.

UPDATE (July 23, 2011)
1. I still dislike the bar-supports... see below for why.

2. I have found out that my Workbench and Cage may be mismatched as the linkage-tube on the bottom doesn't fit right. I may try prying it up or something, but it kind of sucks.

3. The Cage itself is very good, I don't really have complaints with it. It's just some of the other things you add to the cage that may not be thought out as well as they should have.

4. Something bothers me about doing behind the neck pull-downs, I'm not sure if it's the angle or what, but something feels odd to me on this unit.

5. Low pulley rows are still lacking in execution. Again, they should provide (even as an option) some foot-holds as well as maybe a thing bench that would lock into the linkage tube.

I'm going to try and do a video today of these issues. But I'm also a slacker, so don't hold your breath. If it's up, I will link to it here.


UPDATE II: I contacted PowerTec about my Workbench not fitting into the "linkage tube" (their words) and he asked what models my stuff is. Well, this is just a heads up that apparently not all of their stuff is machined to fit depending on the model (or year) you purchased. So if you buy the Workbench first, make sure you get a Cage that will like up properly and vise versa.

UPDATE I: There are a few things that I don't like about the cage... and I will send some suggestions to PowerTec.

1. Changing the bar support when you are working out, is a pain. You kind of have to be precise in lining up the holes. It's a bit annoying. If they just made the dowels that go into the holes taper off more to a point, you wouldn't have to be so precise.

2. The Utility Bench doesn't seem to lineup right with the Rack. There's a piece that is supposed to slip over the Utility Benches' back leg, but mine does not. So that's a bit of a defect.

3. They need an foot-hold attachment at the bottom of the cage when you do low-pulley rows. It's hard keeping your heels on just the bottom bar of the cage.

These certainly aren't deal breakers in anyway with regards to buying this system. It's really good outside of that.

A note to anyone who hasn't used a cage before... you may want to keep a notepad or chart in your gym listing where your bar hooks and support beams need to be for the various exercises. It sucks when you don't remember where they should go and you waste time with trial and error.

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[LeoVeritasAequitas]

lol the punching bag cant stop dancing

[SevenTwist]

@LeoVeritasAequitas Yeah! And it wouldn't let me take the lead!

[gymhodgson]

Hey ST some nice kit there! Why not have a go at making yer own accessories - looks like you've the tools? (have a gander at my Roman Squat accs - Homemadegymstuff.blogspot)

I've a WB-LS10 and at first the bench didn't align; until I realised the feet unscrewed to adjust the level, doh!

That Heavy bag workout is classic...

[SevenTwist]

@gymhodgson Thanks for the info on the feet to the bench. I checked and mine were all the way up, and even taking them off doesn't create enough clearance. I'm going to loosen the screws on the bar that attaches to the rack and see if I can lift it a bit and screw it back in. I shouldn't have to do that, but if it works, that would be great (I don't think it will work). I also like those DIY dip bars you have on your blog, those look interesting. Couldn't find the Roman Squat stuff.

[blueparrot989]

great gym man!

[SevenTwist]

@blueparrot989 Thanks, I will have an update video on the new layout soon.

[SevenTwist]

@oclv110sl :-) Yeah, I was just spent putting everything together, so by the time I had to put the bag back on the stand, I was well, less than at my smartest. Glad you enjoyed it!

[SevenTwist]

Hey all... I know I promised a new update video... and it's coming. I'm just jammin with work and side work. Now that football season is over, I don't have to give up a day to watch the games, so that should help. Stay tuned...

[oclv110sl]

Great gym... next time you could try laying the punch rack down on the floor, connect the bag then lift it up!? glad you didn't edit that out, best part of vid. PS. I'd have done the same as you then had the light-bulb moment after!

[Drewandy22]

lol the bag just has no grip