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Getbig Main Boards => Gossip & Opinions => Topic started by: Tre on January 26, 2009, 09:00:47 PM

Title: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Tre on January 26, 2009, 09:00:47 PM

Now that I'm finally living on my own, I'm going to put a home gym in my garage. 

What are your thoughts on some of the different types of options available?  I've never given much thought to Bowflex (I tend to reject anything off-hand that seems like it's nothing but a made-for-TV product), but maybe some of you have one and would recommend it.  The Bowflex Revolution looks to be something that could work. 

All I'm looking for is something that can give me the resistance training I need on those days (which will be many) that I'm unable to travel all the way to the gym. 

Thanks in advance.

Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 26, 2009, 09:18:58 PM
http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1814036
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 26, 2009, 09:19:36 PM
Power rack
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: wes mantooth on January 26, 2009, 09:27:56 PM
one car or 2 car garage?

empty garage...or shit all over the place?



I have a power cage, adjustable utility bench, power block dumbbells, an upright bike, and a tread in the space of a one car garage.

from pull ups to power cleans....there is nothing that cant be done with that equipment. dont waste your time on bullshit devices.....just go back to basics. its perfect to supplement not being able to get to the gym everyday
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: tommywishbone on January 26, 2009, 09:35:59 PM
Power rack

Absolutely. Great piece with endless uses. Go with a taller and wider model to get maximum use/options.

Dumbells, Olympic set, flat-90 degree adjustable bench.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: LATS on January 26, 2009, 09:36:46 PM
  well,, if you have a powerrack and a adj bench you pretty have all you need.. i had the same issue.. i took my two car garage and leveled the floor.. (most garage floors slope).. laid down rubber mats.. bought a power rack with a cable attachment.. then brought in a leg press, ironmaster db's that adjust to 120lbs.. plates of 1100 pounds.. adjust bench and a flat bench.. chin and dip bar.. a ton of old attachments for the cable.. and just started adding bit by bit... to this day you will not see me in a commercial gym.. this is just way too convienent ..
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Disgusted on January 26, 2009, 09:40:00 PM
www.bowflex.com
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: tommywishbone on January 26, 2009, 09:40:56 PM
www.bowflex.com

Oh no you didn't!   >:(
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Disgusted on January 26, 2009, 09:42:06 PM
Oh no you didn't!   >:(

Why not?  ;D
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: tommywishbone on January 26, 2009, 09:44:39 PM
Why not?  ;D

Why not? Because dude clearly stated that he did not want to get "too big" and we all know what can happen with BowFlex. Next thing you know, he's gone to the BowFlex Gold and we're all history.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Disgusted on January 26, 2009, 09:45:29 PM
Why not? Because dude clearly stated that he did not want to get "too big" and we all know what can happen with BowFlex. Next thing you know, he's gone to the BowFlex Gold and we're all history.


;D I can not fault yor logic.


Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Tre on January 26, 2009, 10:05:42 PM

I like this power rack you guys have suggested: 

(http://www.newyorkbarbells.tv/4120.jpg)

The price is right, too - $1150, plus shipping (shouldn't be more than $500). 

I'll definitely investigate this option asap. 
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: LATS on January 26, 2009, 10:08:18 PM
 cheftim.. i love my setup.. i recently picked up a standing leg curl and plateloads standing calf raise...i can go out at 11 pm when the kids are bed and left, play the music i like, spit on the floor and have been known to watch some ufc between sets lol... 
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: kiwiol on January 26, 2009, 10:14:12 PM
Make sure you get one of these - Tbombz swears by it
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: tommywishbone on January 26, 2009, 10:16:29 PM
I like this power rack you guys have suggested: 

(http://www.newyorkbarbells.tv/4120.jpg)

The price is right, too - $1150, plus shipping (shouldn't be more than $500). 

I'll definitely investigate this option asap. 

I'd consider that more of a 'Multi-station home gym" not really a power rack. I'm not a big fan of those type of home units. They can acommadate many exercises, but are great for none. I'd stay a little more old school myself. Just my two cents.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Jizzacked on January 26, 2009, 10:28:48 PM
http://www.newyorkbarbells.com/

when I had my home gym most of my equipment came from those guys... good quality stuff and the price is right.  you can find a decent rack for about $350.  the freeweight lat row machine is a nice addition as well.  stay away from the vert leg presses though, they suck.  that was really the only piece of equipment I regretted buying.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Stark on January 27, 2009, 12:46:01 AM
where is dumpster when you need him
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 27, 2009, 06:22:37 PM
(http://www.shoppowertecfitness.com/images/p-pr/opener.jpg)

Order this, then drive over to sears and buy
(http://s.sears.com/is/image/Sears/00615738000-1?hei=100&wid=100&op_sharpen=1)
add a set of these
(http://www.weiderfitness.com/wcsstore/Weider/images/catalog/WNSAW10008_promo.jpg)
900 + 300 + 250 plus a bench and shipping and tax. I just did this quickly shop around, i bet to can find better prices.


http://www.shoppowertecfitness.com/product.php?id=12
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00615739000P?vName=Fitness+%26+Sports&cName=Strength+Training&sName=Free+Weights+%26+Dumbells
http://www.weiderfitness.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_-1_14801_17102_38002_85503
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 27, 2009, 06:28:43 PM
(http://www.fitnessfactory.com/images/Item/789m.jpg)
for 170
plus
that 300 pound free weight set.
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00615739000P?vName=Fitness+%26+Sports&cName=Strength+Training&sName=Free+Weights+%26+Dumbells
and
this
(http://www.fitnessfactory.com/images/Item/820m.jpg)
for 140

170 + 140 + 250 = 560 + shipping and tax for a nice basic home gym. IMO i would upgrade to a real power rack tho.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: WillGrant on January 27, 2009, 06:31:32 PM
Make sure you get one of these - Tbombz swears by it
ROFL  ;D
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=260618.0;attach=301710;image)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Princess L on January 27, 2009, 08:16:17 PM
I like this power rack you guys have suggested: 

(http://www.newyorkbarbells.tv/4120.jpg)

The price is right, too - $1150, plus shipping (shouldn't be more than $500). 

I'll definitely investigate this option asap. 

It's hard to tell from the picture, but it doesn't appear to be very "heavy duty".  Metal appears to be light weight, cable system doesn't look "smooth".  The dip rack looks like it would tip over  :-\

Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: 240 is Back on January 27, 2009, 08:39:53 PM
I'd go with big chunks of machines, not some combo.  That machine in the pic looks cheap and really... you have the butterfly attachment for chest, and no ability to do free weight squats?

Tre, this is what you need, my friend...

Squat rack.
Olympic bench.
15, 30,40,50,60,70,80s for dumbbells.
EZ bar.
300 pound olympic weight set, plus 2 extra 45s.

Then get the $120 chin-up/dip bar from Sports authority. 

You can get all of that for under $1100.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: tom joad on January 27, 2009, 08:47:57 PM
I'd go with big chunks of machines, not some combo.  That machine in the pic looks cheap and really... you have the butterfly attachment for chest, and no ability to do free weight squats?

Tre, this is what you need, my friend...

Squat rack.
Olympic bench.
15, 30,40,50,60,70,80s for dumbbells.
EZ bar.
300 pound olympic weight set, plus 2 extra 45s.

Then get the $120 chin-up/dip bar from Sports authority. 

You can get all of that for under $1100.

what exercise would you use 15 lb dumbbells for?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: leonp1981 on January 27, 2009, 08:59:59 PM
Agreed with what many have already said. I've trained at home now for about 5 years.  All I ever use is:

Adjustable bench
Barbell/Dumbells
Various Plates
Squat stands

Although I hate the squat stands as they never feel stable enough and wish I had a power rack!  I can do any compound movement using this lot.  I can even make a dipping station by putting one bar on the bench supports and one on the squat stands.  If I ever have enough room I'll get a power rack and maybe a cable station as well.

Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: 240 is Back on January 27, 2009, 09:16:05 PM
what exercise would you use 15 lb dumbbells for?

warmups for shoulder movements.

personally, there is no way I can move the 35s or 40s for twenty reps for dumbbell side raises. 

I always warm up shoulders with a set of wussy weights.  Dad has been fighting rotator cuff surgery for years, I don't mess around when it comes to that.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 28, 2009, 09:58:21 PM
Barbell and dumbbells.  I made a bench out of two paint cans and a cupboard door, with another two smaller cans as the headrest.  I'm not gonna say it's comfortable, but it gets the job done.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 28, 2009, 10:47:02 PM
Barbell and dumbbells.  I made a bench out of two paint cans and a cupboard door, with another two smaller cans as the headrest.  I'm not gonna say it's comfortable, but it gets the job done.
Dude hit up the garage sales on the weekend. You can get benchs for under $20.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 28, 2009, 10:53:44 PM
Dude hit up the garage sales on the weekend. You can get benchs for under $20.

I have enough money for a bench but I haven't gotten round to buying one yet.  Thanks, yeah I'll check the local paper to see what people are selling.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Powerlift66 on January 29, 2009, 03:31:26 AM
Hit up Craigslist, Play it Again Sports, Flea Markets & Scrap Metal yards (Ive gotten tons of plates and solid dummbells at scrap yards for 20 cents a pound)...

Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Tapeworm on January 29, 2009, 05:16:46 AM
Barbell and dumbbells.  I made a bench out of two paint cans and a cupboard door, with another two smaller cans as the headrest.  I'm not gonna say it's comfortable, but it gets the job done.

Lol.  Eye of the tiger baby!  Monster weight right there btw.  ;)



4 post power rack with high & low cable (or fully adjustable) & dipping bars & a chin bar.  A crossover system like the pic you posted would be really nice (although I'd want to be able to adjust the handle height), but that setup lacks safety bars (which are essential), the ability to rack the bar outside the cage (for overhead pressing if you're over 5'4), and the pec deck and dip station add a lot of size and are totally unnecessary (if you can do crossovers why do pec deck?).

For DBs, have a look at plate selection and what adjustable DB bars will accomodate.  I chose oly for DBs even tho my barbell is a standard because the standard diameter DB bars and available plates wouldn't give enough weight for benching without sacrificing range of motion (the bar needed fatter diameter plates to get the weight up).  The oly DBs were a little longer and had 7.5kg plates which were unavailable for standard bar.  Also GET SOME POWERHOOKS if you can.  Fuck I wish I could get ahold of some.  I have 4 heavy duty garden hooks duct taped to each of my oly DBs.  :-\  I've got a range of cast DBs which are great for drop sets, and just plain convenience, but as they get heavier the cost ($3 a kg here) just becomes too stupid to pay.

Include in your setup budget the cost of going to see a good PT or lifting coach for at least an hour or two.  Discuss past injuries if any, pain or discomfort during particular lifts and the cause/solution, assess your ROM and flexibility, and look at your form.

Last, set aside your most ripped assed threadbare pair of underwear.  Do not throw it away.  This is now your workout outfit.  ;D  Lifting at home rocks!
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: BIG_STI on January 29, 2009, 08:06:03 AM
Barbell and dumbbells.  I made a bench out of two paint cans and a cupboard door, with another two smaller cans as the headrest.  I'm not gonna say it's comfortable, but it gets the job done.

Living the dream  ::)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: jpm101 on January 29, 2009, 08:57:37 AM
If starting from scratch the price of a home gym can really creep up when adding equipment you think you need, but may never use. If you want to keep it simple, and to the point, than a Power Rack.  Olympic bar (with plates starting at 1 1/4) and a sturdy adjustable flat/incline bench also. Set of adjustable DB's. If you have the bucks, and room, than invest in a complete DB's rack. Warning much $$$$$$$.

Good idea about Craigs list, newspaper ad's, yard sells or even bulletin boards a community centers, stores, etc. Even can put a wanted list or run ad's yourself. Any local gym's, in your area, going out of business or who want to sell older (but still good) equipment? If you do see a good price on what you want, but it has to be shipped, than check the shipping prices per pound. Sometimes the shipping can almost be almost as much as the equipment you are buying. If you got a pickup, and not too far, go get it yourself.

Surprise The Pumpster has not given his expert advise on a BowFlex. The one piece of equipment that transformed him into the mountain of muscle he is today. If you get a BowFlex, I am sure he will come over and help you set it up. He might even stay a couple of night (wanting to share you bed I bet) to make sure you are using it the Pumpster way.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 29, 2009, 09:00:38 AM
http://www.fitnessanywhere.com/page/000-94127/PROD/FTKMG

That's enough for starters.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 09:04:31 AM
If starting from scratch the price of a home gym can really creep up when adding equipment you think you need, but may never use. If you want to keep it simple, and to the point, than a Power Rack.  Olympic bar (with plates starting at 1 1/4) and a sturdy adjustable flat/incline bench also. Set of adjustable DB's. If you have the bucks, and room, than invest in a complete DB's rack. Warning much $$$$$$$.

Good idea about Craigs list, newspaper ad's, yard sells or even bulletin boards a community centers, stores, etc. Even can put a wanted list or run ad's yourself. Any local gym's, in your area, going out of business or who want to sell older (but still good) equipment? If you do see a good price on what you want, but it has to be shipped, than check the shipping prices per pound. Sometimes the shipping can almost be almost as much as the equipment you are buying. If you got a pickup, and not too far, go get it yourself.

Surprise The Pumpster has not given his expert advise on a BowFlex. The one piece of equipment that transformed him into the mountain of muscle he is today. If you get a BowFlex, I am sure he will come over and help you set it up. He might even stay a couple of night (wanting to share you bed I bet) to make sure you are using it the Pumpster way.

Brutal obsession..Am i in this dweeb's mind or what... ;D The babbling never ceases. :P
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Coach on January 29, 2009, 09:13:24 AM
Stay away from those gay ass machines and train like a man




(http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e196/Intenseone/monorack_400.jpg)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 29, 2009, 09:16:11 AM
(http://tsampa.org/training/blog/archives/images/rackproject_9.jpg)

(http://www.crossfitohio.com/photos/uncategorized/wood_squat_racks.jpg)

(http://www.straighttothebar.com/images/posts/070515_squat.jpg)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 09:30:23 AM
For the macho men obsessed with the idea that weights are always better, i suggest that's actually kinda lame. For this niche i submit that weights are actually a poor substitute for the real thing..keep it raw budday...
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 29, 2009, 09:32:55 AM
http://www.fitnessanywhere.com/page/000-94127/PROD/FTKMG

That's enough for starters.
http://www.tobands.com/ half the price ;D
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: kiwiol on January 29, 2009, 09:41:06 AM
(http://tsampa.org/training/blog/archives/images/rackproject_9.jpg)

That's not Kegdrainer's pet rock.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Coach on January 29, 2009, 10:39:31 AM
Your saying that machines are the real thing??
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: mar10s on January 29, 2009, 11:29:19 AM
Check out Pro Elite.  They make commercial grade equipment with affordable prices. 
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 29, 2009, 12:52:06 PM
Your saying that machines are the real thing??
Your not asking me, but i give your my opinion anyway.   ;D
machines are great for somethings. I love the hack squat,  pec deck, cable row, and hammertec iso machines at my gym. So yes, machines, can give you a "real' workout. But free weights are were it's at tho.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 01:29:05 PM
Your saying that machines are the real thing??

Sometimes better, just as someone named Sergio Oliva said. All this BS about free weights is laughable, it's just a macho thing.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: QuakerOats on January 29, 2009, 01:31:16 PM
Stay away from those gay ass machines and train like a man




(http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e196/Intenseone/monorack_400.jpg)
now that is fuccking sweet, how much is that whole setup?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: mass 04 on January 29, 2009, 01:55:01 PM
Stay away from those gay ass machines and train like a man




(http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e196/Intenseone/monorack_400.jpg)
I'll buy that with the stimulus check Mr. Obama sends me.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 02:29:14 PM
That EFS monorack's around 4K, in the league of something like the Titan T1.

http://flexcart.com/members/elitefts/default.asp?cid=301&m=PD&pid=2785




Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: mar10s on January 29, 2009, 06:15:30 PM
Check out Hammer Strength...we always have a "phase out" list every month or so and we always have racks and half racks on there...usually for a good price.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Coach on January 29, 2009, 06:20:05 PM
Sometimes better, just as someone named Sergio Oliva said. All this BS about free weights is laughable, it's just a macho thing.

That was back before they new any better.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 06:40:32 PM
That was back before they new any better.

"New"? Actually alot of the principles haven't changed much since then, and he said that relatively recently after having started out in Olympic lifting in the 60s. Exactly what's changed recently.. ???
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Coach on January 29, 2009, 07:56:51 PM
Sorry "knew". Nothing has changed that much in bodybuilding or Olympic lifts for that matter, that being said, everything else has.

But if you are comparing Olympic vs. Bodybuilding, its like comparing apples and oranges.

I fall into the catagory where you don't need olympic lifts to be explosive. If you want to look pretty, stick with isolation with machines, if you want to strong, thick, powerful and functional stick with weights. Back when Oliva probably said that machines were not anywhere as they are now. You actually think he got that freaking think from machines?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 29, 2009, 10:10:38 PM
Back when Oliva probably said that machines were not anywhere as they are now. You actually think he got that freaking think from machines?

Actually he was using machines that were the prototypes for what's in gyms now, and says he wishes he'd continued to use them after getting in his best shape using machines and a little barbell on the side. He said machines were more effective in most cases.

SO: I went back to free weights because I did not have access to his machines. I was definitely more powerful after the experience and was lifting more on the free weights than ever before.

BDJ: The reason I brought that up is that previous issues of muscle magazines, and throughout various Weider encyclopedias and books, it suggested that you performed a much higher volume of training, up to 15-20 sets per muscle group.

SO: I definitely did not do that many sets, but don't forget I didn't have the machines, which were much more intense -- requiring less volume in comparison to free weights. So I had to make up for the reduction in quality.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 29, 2009, 11:51:43 PM
http://www.tobands.com/ half the price ;D

Bullshit, that something TOTALLY different. The TRX is not a tube.

(http://community.fitnessanywhere.com/photos/military/images/1400/425x319.aspx)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 12:06:38 AM
Lol.  Eye of the tiger baby!  Monster weight right there btw.  ;)


hahaha don't go knocking my 30 lb bench presses, I'm training for cuts  ;D


Quote
Last, set aside your most ripped assed threadbare pair of underwear.  Do not throw it away.  This is now your workout outfit.  ;D  Lifting at home rocks!

I thought I was the only one who did this lol  8)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 30, 2009, 12:49:33 AM
Bullshit, that something TOTALLY different. The TRX is not a tube.

(http://community.fitnessanywhere.com/photos/military/images/1400/425x319.aspx)
so it's flat, same shit ::)
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 12:57:11 AM
so it's flat, same shit ::)

lol, no, it doesn't stretch.

It's really good though, very demanding. Check out my 12 week training log book on the training board.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 30, 2009, 01:12:16 AM
lol, no, it doesn't stretch.

It's really good though, very demanding. Check out my 12 week training log book on the training board.
i'll pass, thanks anyway.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 01:16:50 AM
i'll pass, thanks anyway.

you don't know what you're missing.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 30, 2009, 01:19:25 AM
you don't know what you're missing.
ok, i looked ;D. Do you feel you're getting a better workout then going to the gym?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Reign Down on January 30, 2009, 01:21:37 AM
I used to work out at home but there are too many distractions, Phone, people turning up, danger wanking etc.


Gym is a better environment for me
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 30, 2009, 01:28:58 AM
I used to work out at home but there are too many distractions, Phone, people turning up, danger wanking etc.


Gym is a better environment for me

yip yip i like the gym too. I like doing cardio at home tho. I also got some dumbbells, ez-curl bar, and some plates at home too.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 01:30:59 AM
ok, i looked ;D. Do you feel you're getting a better workout then going to the gym?

Difficult to say. The TRX workout is strictly strength, so it's really demanding. There is no such thing as pump or whatever. The workouts with the TRX are very intense, so in this way, it is "better", as there is no way to 'cheat' around the intensity, like in the gym.

On the other hand, even though i will do the 12 weeks program only with the TRX, i will not cancel my gym membership. One legged squats are demanding, but barbell squats are better for mass. Also deadlifts.

But, i will never train my abs without the TRX anymore, i have had the best ab training in my life with that. There are certain other exercises i will incorporate into my usual gym workout after the 12 weeks. For strength, you could go only TRX i think, but for mass some weightlifting will be necessary too.

But i really don't want to miss the TRX, it's a great workout for building functional, overall body strength. Better than weights in this part. No imbalances as well.

Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 01:32:20 AM
yip yip i like the gym too. I like doing cardio at home tho. I also got some dumbbells, ez-curl bar, and some plates at home too.

Me too, i mix it up. Sometimes, when i get fed up with the gym, i train at home. For me, distraction is bigger in the gym.

Lately, with the TRX, i only train at home though.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 01:42:15 AM
Hey guys, which of these two bars would you rather use/buy?  They both cost the same amount.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 01:44:40 AM
The first, i hate the second type.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 01:47:29 AM
The first, i hate the second type.

Why's that?  It looks like you could also do a more hammer style grip with the second one.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 30, 2009, 01:51:04 AM
Why's that?  It looks like you could also do a more hammer style grip with the second one.

Why should you? You can use dumbells for that.


On a serious note, i see your point. I don't know why, i get wrist pain with the second type, i like the first one better.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 02:02:21 AM
Why should you? You can use dumbells for that.


On a serious note, i see your point. I don't know why, i get wrist pain with the second type, i like the first one better.

Fair enough.  Thanks for the input.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 30, 2009, 04:49:48 AM
Hey guys, which of these two bars would you rather use/buy?  They both cost the same amount.

You just have to think about which appeals more. I like the 2nd one better for extensions, the 1st one is good for close-grip preacher curls and upright rows. Both are good for bent over rows.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 05:13:39 AM
You just have to think about which appeals more. I like the 2nd one better for extensions, the 1st one is good for close-grip preacher curls and upright rows. Both are good for bent over rows.

I mostly want to use it for reverse curls, and extensions, so I guess the second one may suit me better.  Thanks.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: marcus on January 30, 2009, 05:29:08 AM
P O W E R T E C
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Showstoppa on January 30, 2009, 06:12:58 AM
Tre, like someone mentioned.  Go with craigslist....you can find about anything at a reasonable price, always negotiable, as long as you are willing to drive to pick it up.  Put your own ad specifying what you are wanting, don't rely on you searching for it.  There are tons of people who have the stuff, but don't list it.  Just sitting in their garage collecting rust.  Be patient and you can get about anything.


Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Tapeworm on January 30, 2009, 06:24:58 AM
I thought I was the only one who did this lol  8)

Everytime I workout I hope The Witnesses knock on the door so I can grab the woman and screw her quick and hard up against the wall while the guy nervously tells me about the latest edition of The Watchtower.


danger wanking

That the new sport in Paris with those guys atop skyscrapers?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Get Rowdy on January 30, 2009, 07:19:47 PM
Everytime I workout I hope The Witnesses knock on the door so I can grab the woman and screw her quick and hard up against the wall while the guy nervously tells me about the latest edition of The Watchtower.


LMAO  :D
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Sherief Shalaby on January 30, 2009, 08:50:26 PM
Now that I'm finally living on my own, I'm going to put a home gym in my garage. 

What are your thoughts on some of the different types of options available?  I've never given much thought to Bowflex (I tend to reject anything off-hand that seems like it's nothing but a made-for-TV product), but maybe some of you have one and would recommend it.  The Bowflex Revolution looks to be something that could work. 

All I'm looking for is something that can give me the resistance training I need on those days (which will be many) that I'm unable to travel all the way to the gym. 

Thanks in advance.



no kidding, the abs wheel, the power twister, and, the expander all r gr8.. very effective.. they also dont take any space..
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 31, 2009, 12:53:09 AM
Tre, before buying a bowflex, you should seriously check out the TRX Suspension trainer. Much cheaper and very effective.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: LatsMcGee on January 31, 2009, 01:01:08 AM
Tre, before buying a bowflex, you should seriously check out the TRX Suspension trainer. Much cheaper and very effective.

Got a link?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on January 31, 2009, 01:21:42 AM
Tre, before buying a bowflex, you should seriously check out the TRX Suspension trainer. Much cheaper and very effective.

This guy practically works for the company. Isn't compelling, looks ackward. Calisthenics with bands would be better and simpler IMO, or a Bow.

http://www.fitnessanywhere.com/resources/exercisesdb.php
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on January 31, 2009, 03:21:44 AM
Lol, i started it two weeks ago, and it seriously has lots of merits. I dont want to sell anything, just point out an alternative. The training with it is lots of fun, and intense. Not comparable to tubes. I dont give a fuck if you buy a bowflex or golds gym or the TRX. hth.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Method101 on January 31, 2009, 03:53:18 AM
power rack, olympic barbell/dumbell handles + iron plates and your set. But you would need to go to the gym once a week for leg training, lunges and squats are not enough.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: HTexan on January 31, 2009, 12:38:22 PM
Lol, i started it two weeks ago, and it seriously has lots of merits. I dont want to sell anything, just point out an alternative. The training with it is lots of fun, and intense. Not comparable to tubes. I dont give a fuck if you buy a bowflex or golds gym or the TRX. hth.
seriously, what kind of commission are you pulling in?
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Coach on January 31, 2009, 03:15:55 PM
We use TRX for our fitness bootcamps ONLY.

www.performbetter.com
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: DK II on February 01, 2009, 03:49:05 AM
The TRX is not as famous as it should be.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: benchthis on February 01, 2009, 03:50:21 AM
its 5 am just got home from a club... drank to much arrogant bastard... will that stunt my muscle gains
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: oldtimer1 on February 01, 2009, 05:58:00 AM

If space is an issue go with Ironmaster dumbbells and their bench.  Ironmaster dumbbells are just about unbreakable unlike other adjustable dumbbells.  They look like commercial gym dumbbells. Their bench has every attachment from chins, dips and leg extensions. 

If you have the room, a power rack from Powertec is priced right.  Add an Olympic bar and bench and you can do just about everything. 

A bow flex?  Are you kidding?  I suspect every model shown with that machine is a weight user.  That is for a out of shape middle aged guy or a house wife looking to get a little exercise and it will turn into a clothes hanger.  I have tried one and the rods are to easy in the first half of the ROM.  In other words the variable Resistance is all wrong. The one that has the rubber Resistance in a plate like holder is one I haven't tried. 

http://www.quickdumbells.com/store/home.php
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on February 01, 2009, 09:08:35 AM
If space is an issue go with Ironmaster dumbbells and their bench.  Ironmaster dumbbells are just about unbreakable unlike other adjustable dumbbells.  They look like commercial gym dumbbells. Their bench has every attachment from chins, dips and leg extensions. 

If you have the room, a power rack from Powertec is priced right.  Add an Olympic bar and bench and you can do just about everything. 

A bow flex?  Are you kidding?  I suspect every model shown with that machine is a weight user.  That is for a out of shape middle aged guy or a house wife looking to get a little exercise and it will turn into a clothes hanger.  I have tried one and the rods are to easy in the first half of the ROM.  In other words the variable Resistance is all wrong. The one that has the rubber Resistance in a plate like holder is one I haven't tried. 

http://www.quickdumbells.com/store/home.php

Oldtimer after all these years still doesn't get that the resistance curve on weights is also imperfect on many exercises, which doesn't matter. I had an Ironmaster, Bow and Powertec side-by-side in a home gym-they were equally excellent for building muscle.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: mass 04 on February 01, 2009, 09:10:48 AM
I'll probably get "owned" for this, but i've used a bowflex a few times and it's not as easy to use as some of you think.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Apprentice on February 01, 2009, 09:37:38 AM
it depends on your goals - my minimal home gym would be a platform and free standing squat racks coupled with a bar and bumper plates - you can do squats, dead lifts, cleans, snatches, rows, presses - i would say about 90 percent of what you need.  throw in an adjustable bench and a pull up bar and you are set.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: mr_florida on February 01, 2009, 09:37:52 AM
We have the Max Rack at the gym where I work and I really like them.  Would love to have one for the house.  

http://maxrackinc.blogspot.com/2007/08/max-rack-3-d-smith-machine-30-sec.html#links
http://maxrackinc.blogspot.com/2007/08/video-bicep-curl-video.html#links
http://maxrackinc.blogspot.com/2007/08/video-close-grip-bench-press.html#links
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on February 01, 2009, 09:41:20 AM
it depends on your goals - my minimal home gym would be a platform and free standing squat racks coupled with a bar and bumper plates - you can do squats, dead lifts, cleans, snatches, rows, presses - i would say about 90 percent of what you need.  throw in an adjustable bench and a pull up bar and you are set.

Too limited, too easy to get caught under too much weight if training alone. In terms of heavy BB lifting at home I'd want some kind of rack or even better something like a Prospot to make it safer to train hard and heavy training alone.
http://www.prospotfitness.com/
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: The Apprentice on February 01, 2009, 09:42:44 AM
i never used a spotter while squatting - just dump the bar to the floor, this is what bumper plates are for
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: pumpster on February 01, 2009, 09:45:43 AM
i never used a spotter while squatting - just dump the bar to the floor, this is what bumper plates are for

Doesn't cut it for heavy lying or seated presses, even for squats it's still a little dangerous not to mention tedious to reset the bar for the next set. Not exactly an inducement to train to failure. Even though they're made for it, can't be good for the equipment or floor long-term either if training anywhere other than a basement.
Title: Re: GetBig's Home Gym Experts
Post by: Tapeworm on February 01, 2009, 09:50:13 AM
I usually just yell for my mom.