Budget Home Gym Assembly Guide: Building a Complete Setup for Under $900

Setting up a home gym doesn't have to break the bank. With the right budget-friendly equipment and a bit of DIY spirit, you can create a comprehensive workout space that rivals commercial facilities. This guide walks you through assembling an affordable power rack with a pulley system – the centerpiece of any effective home gym.

Assembling Your Budget Power Rack

If you've purchased one of the budget-friendly power racks available on flash sales (like the Evil Pal/Evil Pow model), here's a step-by-step assembly guide to help you put it together properly.

What to Expect

Your rack will arrive in two boxes:

• Box 1: Contains smaller components and accessories
• Box 2: Contains the longer frame pieces

Step 1: Assembling the Base

Begin by connecting the feet to the base of the rack:

1. Identify the base feet pieces
2. Locate the back bracket with two threaded holes in the middle
3. Bolt the bracket between the feet using the appropriate bolts from the kit

Step 2: Attaching the Foot Rests

Next, attach the foot rests that will be used when performing rows:

1. Identify the smaller feet pieces
2. Position them behind the bracket you just installed
3. Use four bolts, eight washers (one on each side of each connection), and four nuts
4. Tighten with a 17mm wrench

Step 3: Installing the Upright Posts

Now it's time to install the four upright posts:

1. Position the posts with the numbered holes facing inward (5, 6, 7, 8, 9 should be visible)
2. Insert the posts into the brackets on the base
3. Use the lower set of holes as indicated in the directions
4. Only hand-tighten the bolts at this stage

Step 4: Adding the Upper Cross Members

For easier assembly, work on one side at a time:

1. Start with one bolt loosely inserted to let the cross member hang
2. Lift and connect to the opposite upright
3. Add the pull-up bar while the structure is still loose
4. Connect the remaining side to complete the frame

Step 5: Adding the Support Bracket

Before tightening everything:

1. Insert the support bracket
2. You may need to remove and reinsert some bolts to get it positioned correctly
3. Use a level to ensure the rack is properly aligned
4. Begin tightening all bolts, starting from the bottom

Installing the Accessories

Barbell Row Attachment

The two shorter bolts in your kit are for the barbell row attachment:

1. Install at the appropriate height for bent-over rows
2. This attachment allows you to secure one end of the barbell for stable rowing movements

Safety Bars and J-Hooks

Install the safety spotting arms:

1. Insert the back end first
2. Pivot up and back to desired height (position 3 is recommended for starting)
3. Push down to lock in place

Add the J-hooks for squatting and bench pressing at your appropriate height.

Weight Storage Pegs

Install the weight storage horns:

1. Slide the pegs through the designated holes on the sides
2. Note the slight upward angle that prevents plates from sliding off

Dip Bars and Additional Attachments

Your kit includes dip bars that can be positioned for narrow or wide grip training, along with various hooks for the rack.

Setting Up the Pulley System

The pulley system allows for a wide range of exercises:

1. Install the upper bracket with the tab facing upward
2. Secure with appropriate bolts, washers, and nuts
3. Thread the first cable as far as possible by hand and secure with the locking nut
4. Route the cable through the appropriate holes and over the pulleys
5. Install each pulley with the shorter bolts from the kit
6. Connect the second cable to create the complete pulley system

Completing Your Budget Home Gym

This power rack forms the foundation of a complete home gym that can be assembled for under $900:

• Power rack with pulley system: The core of your setup
• Weight plates and barbell: 300 lbs with bar for approximately $300
• Adjustable bench: Around $120
• Weight tree: Approximately $40
• Fitness floor mats: Around $40

Benefits of Your New Home Gym

Having a home gym offers several advantages:

• No more gym membership fees (the setup pays for itself within the first year)
• No waiting for equipment at busy commercial gyms
• More time with family (perfect for parents who want to stay fit without sacrificing family time)
• Complete workout flexibility on your schedule

With this budget-friendly power rack and accessories, you can perform virtually all the exercises you'd normally do at a commercial gym right in the comfort of your own home.