Want to see my favorite squat stand? Check it out: https://www.roguefitness.com/rogue-sml-2c-squat-stand?sku=RF0479-FBS6-C2476&a_aid=61b1561d37a5d

Definitely think these heavy duty squat stands (with pull up bar) are definitely UNDERRATED

Wow, that you for this as you have saved me in a decision on a purchase.

I use my kids sidewalk chalk to color code the space/holes for the spotter arms and j cups.  It’s an easy and cheap way to mark where they go for each lift.

I started with the SML 1.  ended up turning it into a half rack over time but def a good way to start the home gym

!Great video and answered all my questions on the Rogue SML-2C!

I like how versatile this rack (and esp the sml-2). It can be converted to a half rack or full rack.

Good stuff! I've been lifting on my SML-2 for almost 9 years now. Similar financial situation to you at the start, and the cost savings compared to a rack help me add both a bench and a set of plates to go with it. No regrets all these years later.

I have the exact stand you have here (SML 1), minus the plate storage pins. It's been great for me for several years now. I use to chalk to mark various pin heights.

I started with the rogue monster lite hr-2 half rack back in 2019. Then I dropped in a rogue monster lite slinger 300lb weight stack and it's a beast. This was years before rep ares or rogue Athena was even created. buget setups are very underrated and can still be upgraded. I also added bullet proof vts lite on my half rack. so it's almost like all in one machine. no regrets not upgrading to monster 1inch holes.

My first rack was a Rogue Monster squat stand and it was great. I then sold it for my current 43" RM4. For me the upgrade was worth it and it's the perfect setup. It takes up the same Sqft as the Squat stand but is much more versatile in general, especially for my dedicated ring setup and work. The main reason I  went to four post was for the safeties however, and it was well worth it for that.

I love my squat stands with pull up bar a lot, it's enough for me.

Great video!

You're right. All you need is a squat stand to do any Power rack movements. I have a half rack functional trainer and do everything on the outside of the rack. Essentially using it like a Squat Stand. Works great.

I’m in a position where I’ve been enjoying my dumbell lifts to make some beginner progress for about a year and a half and have been playing with the idea of getting a yoke as a squat stand that I can “decommission” for squats and benching when I can afford a full rack down the line.

I think you did a great job laying out the points I have considered but I’d also like to add that a squat stand is relatively space efficient as well. I’m lifting out of the side of a little mudroom in my dinky rental home and I’m already close to my limit with my bench, dumbell stand, and weight tree (plus a couple accessories on the ground).

This footprint is only about a foot deeper than my bench, so I can just stand up my bench right inside of the stands and it’s almost free real estate.

The other thing is that these 2 post squat stands often have half rack upgrades you can buy down the road once you’re interested in upgrading. It’s obviously cheaper to buy the complete set up in advance, but like you said, if a squat stand gets you lifting and lifting safely sooner, that upcharge to just get started is a valid expense.

Great video.  Purchased storage pegs for the rear base and loaded it with several 45lb plates for added stability, and another 2 storage pegs for the side of my rack.  I numbered mine myself with a silver sharpy and purchased a crossbar and bolted it across the top of mine. The rack is built like a tank, and I love it.  Happy lifting 🤙

Thank you sir

I went for a Yoke with extra safety arms and a bench. Even more versatile and it can be dismantled in 2 minutes. And it includes plenty of plate holders in the price

I have had an sml-1 for almost 12 years, bought spotter arms after delaying and getting pinned under a bench. It does everything I need it to do, added 2 sets of roller J cups so I can squat or bench without moving anything and it’s perfect for me

I started basic weight training with a full body workout about 4 months ago with minimal equipment (adj dumbbells, cheap adj bench, borrowed 30 lb bar and a few plates).  I've progressed to the point where I've maxed out the dumbbells (52.2 lbs) and I'm ready to move to a proper rack or stand along with a 45 lb barbell for convenience and safety.  Your videos about power racks and this video about squat stands have been extremely helpful in making an informed decision about which to buy.  My planned program is pretty simple, powerlifts combined with a few assistance exercises.  I'm 46 and not an influencer, so no plans for a bunch of accessories (like cable systems).  I've had one friend recommend a rack and another friend recommend the SML2-C stand.  Basically, for my use, the only difference I see between the 2 is that the racks offer storage, which I don't need because I'm planning to buy a weight tree.  I'm going to anchor whichever I buy, so stability is not an issue either.  Budget between the two is also not a consideration.  I'm leaning towards the rack because it seems to be safer but also more convenient since I can set the safety straps for bench and put spotter arms off the front and squat off the front like you show here with the power rack.  I'm putting this in my shop, so ceiling height and space around is not an issue.  Is this possible?  Thanks again for the awesome, no-nonsense videos.