Belt squat machines, while not initially one of the more popular home gym pieces of equipment, has steadily been gaining more and more traction over the years. As people have started to realize that improving their lower body is just as important as their arms and chest, the demand for these machines has now come to a point where, at the beginning of 2023, more people are looking into them now than ever before.
The challenge, unfortunately, is that, because so many people are just now taking an interest in belt squat machines, it’s also become easier than ever to pawn off faulty, low-quality products on unsuspecting customers. When you consider the fact that this machine is specifically meant to help handle weighted squats without taxing the back and spine, having something that is quality made isn’t just ideal, but a necessity.
Below, we’ve made a point of going over some of the different home gym belt squat machines on the market so that you know which is going to work best for you and what you’re looking to do, how big of a budget you have, and where you want to focus most of your energy improving.
If you know anything about Bells of Steel then it should be obvious why this was our #1 pick. Their Belt Squat Machine 2.0 pretty much is the ideal option for just about everyone, whether they be looking for something a bit more budget-friendly while also handling a good amount of weight with some great steel quality.
The machine uses 11-gauge steel with 0-gauge connection plates. This results in a machine that has a max weight capacity of 700 lbs. It’s not only got a legit weight capacity that will appease just about everyone, but the machine also is highly resilient, and able to last for years and years thanks to its belt is made from high-quality materials. The belt is extremely heavy-duty while having two feet of chain along with two separate carabiners. It has an initial starting weight of 45 lbs, meaning you’re getting the same workout as you would lifting up a standard barbell without any weights.
Physically, the Belt Squat Machine 2.0 is pretty impressive. Dimension-wise, it can fit in just about any home space with more than enough room to spare (51″ x 75.4″ loaded x 41.7″).
Features
Some of the big key features found with Bells of Steel’s Belt Squat Machine 2.0 is its cut-out raised footplate. Despite the fact that it is a lever-arm squat machine, it effectively overcomes this setback by holding the lever arm in the cut-out, ensuring a wider and smoother range of motion.
The machine also comes with a fixed handlebar, which helps ensure more steady belt squats, while the top and side-loaded pegs help keep things stable, helping keep an optimal range of motion.
If you’re someone that wants an extra bit of challenge, you can incorporate the included resistance bands, which make the existing weight that much more difficult to lift.
Pros
Impressively Priced (Only $1,000)
Doesn’t Need To Be Floor Bolted (But Still Super Sturdy)
Uses 11-Gauge Steel
Has A Limited Lifetime Warranty
Has Top & Side Pegs For Weights
Reasonably Sized For Most Homes & Home Gyms
Lever Arm Base Has A Cut-Out For A Smoother Range Of Motion
Cons
Lever Arm Isn’t Adjustable
Despite Cut-Out, There Is Still A Slight Forward Pull
Definitely meant as the belt squat machine you get when you’re serious, Rogue has done it again with the Monster Rhino Belt Squat machine. Run as a cable belt squat machine, the Monster Rhino is a serious game changer in the belt squat machine world. It weighs in at over 500lbs and is probably one of the densest “tankiest” pieces of home gym equipment you’re probably ever going to deal with. Seriously, I tried intentionally stressing this to see what would happen and the result was pretty much nothing. As in, absolutely nothing happened. Not groaning, no tipping. Nothing. The thing stood there like a rock, which was kind of insane.
With a 500lb weight class, you need to be sure where you set it where you want it to be. The good news is that, despite its crazy density, the Monster Rhino isn’t crazy big or expansive, having some relatively standard size dimensions (53 x 60.5 x 78.5). This means you’re not going to have to sacrifice a ton of space to put it down. In fact, it prides itself on being pretty compact.
Features
As with some of the others on this list, the Monster Rhino can hold up to around 1,000 lbs without issue, which shouldn’t be an issue for anyone that’s using it (and I mean anyone). In addition, the machine hosts multiple adjustable handles, making it great if there’s more than one person that expects to use the machine. Similarly, it also comes with a heavy-duty belt, which has five separate D-hooks, which let you adjust where you ideally want the cable attached. There’s also a set of band pegs which, when implemented, help add some extra resistance, upping the challenge factor without necessarily giving you more weight to deal with.
Pros
Is A Cable System, Making For A Smoother Squat Movement
Has A Weight Capacity Of 1,000LBs
Includes Adjustable Handle Options
Compact Size
Comes With Premium Multi-Belt, With Various D-Hooks Slots
If you’ve read any of our posts on other pieces of gym equipment, you’ll probably have seen Titan Fitness more than a few times on most lists. That’s because they know how to put together some impressive machines and tools without ever making the customer break the bank. Here, they’ve yet again done the near impossible.
The Titan Fitness Belt Squat Machine is easily one of the best options on this list in terms of budget-friendly money for value. Priced at around $700, Titan Fitness’ Belt Squat Machine is a high-quality device with a surprisingly vast number of useful features that you would expect on something at least twice its asking price. The machine has a fairly standard overall size, making it great for fitting in most homes without much issue (52″ x 83″ x 38.5″).
Features
The machine comes with three weight-stopper positions, letting you alter the squat depth, while four separate weight-storage posts double as a weight counterbalance. This ensures that all of your performances are great and the machine stays stable, whether you’re doing belt squat marches, calf raises, or hip-belt squats.
The machine, while using a more common lever-based system, can lift upwards of 1,000 lbs, giving you a ton of weight to play with without messing with the machine itself or interfering with your lift. In fact, belt squat machines at this weight capacity are normally found in commercial gyms, meaning you’re getting something really special here.
Included with the belt are a chain and carabiners, allowing you to start your box squats and belt squats without anything else in the way.
While not quite on the level of our top pick, EliteFTS has done some pretty impressive stuff with their own Belt Squat Machine. And while it’s certainly in the upper tier bracket when it comes to price (a little under $3,500) it is worth it if you’re trying to go all-out and get the highest machine possible for your lifts. Not only does the machine come in over eight different colors, but it has a 54.5-inch width along with an 82-inch length.
Features
The EliteFTS Belt Squat Machine can perform numerous different exercises. It uses a cable rather than a lever, ensuring a smoother range of motion when performing squats. Similarly, it comes with a high-quality squat belt and can be used to perform several exercises, ranging from pull-throughs, cable deadlifts, cable high pulls, cable Zercher squats, as well as seated low rows.
Pros
Made From High-Quality Material
Uses A Cable Instead Of A Lever Arm
Has A Variety Of Different Colors
A Good Size For Most Home Gyms
Able To Perform Numerous Squat Exercises
Cons
Is Definitely On The More Expensive Side Of Things Compared To Everything Else
Last on our list is one that is a great option for Amazon fans. BodyKore’s Commercial Belt Squat Machine offers features that are easily comparable with any of the others on this list despite being an Amazon-centric option. It is made with 11-gauge steel with a black powder coating that gives it a high-end premium look. This coating doesn’t just allow it to keep its neat look, actually protects it from rust and corrosion.
As it is indeed commercially made, the machine is incredibly dense, having a carrying weight capacity of 1,000 lbs, meaning there’s very little you can throw at it to get it to budge. Physically, BodyKore’s machine is quite impressive, weighing in at 341 lbs with a slightly larger overall size (66″ x 67″ x 86″).
Features
Presented as an easy alternative to heading to the gym, the squat machine is both easy to use, both for men and women, and its high-quality belt makes squats and other exercises much less stressful on the back. While using a lever arm, the machine has non-slip footplates installed, helping accommodate for the slight pull forward that inevitably comes. This doesn’t make the problem go away, but it does make it a bit more manageable.
Pros
11-Gauge Steel Makes Bending Or Damaging Nearly Impossible
Quality Belt Is Great For Back & Spine
Machine Is Resistant To Rust & Corrosion
Includes Non-Slip Footplates To Prevent Forward Jerk
What Factors To Consider For A Quality Belt Squat Machine
Now that we’ve had a chance to look at some of the top belt squat machines currently out there, you may feel a bit confused about which you should get for yourself, especially since they’re all worth getting for someone. Below are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind as you’re making a decision. That way, you’ll have a clear idea of the best squat machine for you and your home.
#1. Price
First and foremost, we need to talk about price. After all, the last thing you want to do is go over your budget and deal with the stress of feeling you paid out more than you needed to. Even if other products are nicer than what you can afford, stick to your price point. Nothing is going to be so much better that it justifies taking money from somewhere else to get it.
That said, also be reasonable. Belt squat machines aren’t cheap, and you’re going to be in for a rude awakening if you try to get something that’s too good to be true. Titan Fitness is known for offering great home gym equipment and affordable prices, and even they are selling within the $600 – $750 price range. Ideally, you want a budget right at around $1,000 – $1,300. You can go lower or go higher, but if you want the most results at the most affordable price (there are some that are $4,000), it’s worth it to stick as close to that range as possible.
#2. Size
After pricing, you’ll want to determine how much space you’ll need for your home gym. Always remember that, more than anything, you need a machine that is able to fit in the space you have available. The last thing you need is an awesome belt squat machine that you spent $2k on only for it not fit.
Take a look at your home gym space and see how much you can allot. Generally, most machines need around eight feet of width space (side to side) and five feet of depth space (back to front). Generally, the length shouldn’t be an issue unless you have low ceilings that are under eight feet. If that’s the case, you’ll want to take a look at the length (up and down) of the machine in question and square it with how far your ceilings are off the ground.
#3. Build Quality
On top of price and size, you also want to seriously take a look at what kind of material is being used. Your best bet is a belt squat machine that uses 11 gauge steel or higher. On top of that, the machine should also weigh between 200 lbs and just over 500 lbs. This means you won’t have to worry about either bent steel from too much weight or the machine itself accidentally tipping over on itself. Quality squat machines will often have a max weight capacity of between 700 and 1000lbs, again speaking to their resistance when it comes to breaking when exposed to heavy weights.
In addition to the density of the machine, you should also see if there are any add-ons like adjustable handles or racking positions as well as other things like band pegs or weight storage posts.
#4. Machine Type
Belt squat machine types are primarily based on how much you’re willing to spend. If you’re willing to spend a bit on a higher-end machine, you can opt for a cable belt, while the more budget-friendly machines will tend to be lever arms. For most people, lever arm machines are fine, though they might result in a slight pull forward. Cable belt machines don’t have that issue, making them the better option if you can afford them.
#5. Reviews
Some people may be confused about why reviews should be more important than a solid warranty. Well simply put, if people are happy with their product, a warranty isn’t necessary. Before deciding on any product, you’re going to want to take some time and go over different product reviews from various online sources. Seriously. When you consider just how much money you’re spending on this, you want to make sure you know that you’re not getting suckered in by lofty promises and enticing descriptions. The best way to have that certainty is to see the experiences other people had with that product.
As mentioned earlier, you don’t want to just go through one site either. Make a point of visiting multiple websites that sell the product to get multiple reviews. This includes online forums (like Reddit) as well as blog sites and YouTube reviews. You just want to have a firm grasp of the general consensus. It’s one thing if there’s a stray negative review amidst a ton of praise. It’s quite another to have the company singing how their machine is amazing while virtually every customer is talking about how pieces were missing and customer service sucked.
#6. Warranty
Lastly, you’ll want to make sure your belt squat machine has a good warranty. As mentioned in point #5, if the machine you’re interested in has a lot of high-marked reviews, that should come first over a warranty. After all, customers that are happy about the product don’t necessarily need to have it replaced or refunded.
Interestingly enough, however, what you’ll find is that the most highly reviewed products will have some of the best warranty options. Not only is this going to be pleasing for users to know about, but it also speaks to the quality of the product itself.
Considering you’re planning on spending a good bit of money on even the most affordable option on this list, you want to make sure there is ideally some level of protection via a warranty. It should, at the very minimum, be for one year. That said, that should only be the case if you’re choosing one of the more affordable options on this list. Otherwise, your ideal warranty should be between five to 10 years, if not a lifetime warranty.
Belt Squat Machine Types
One interesting thing to note with belt squat machines is that there isn’t just one universal type out there. As with most other fitness machines, there are different types, each having its pros and cons to be aware of.
There are many different options out there, however, the three most common types include lever arm machines, cable machines, and free-weight machines.
Lever Arm Belt Squat Machines
The more common of the three, lever arm belt squat machines are primarily reliant on a specific pivot point that rests in front of the lifter. This is generally the more affordable of the different options, which is why it is more commonly seen. They also tend to be smaller compared to the others.
The downside you’ll have to deal with is the fact that the weight is focused primarily at the center in front of the lever rather than under you. This can result in you needing to pull forward, which isn’t a natural movement compared to free weights or the cable belt squat machine.
Cable Belt Squat Machines
Cable belt squat machines operate differently from lever arm machines. Running a cable through the footplate, the cable belt machine attaches the belt to one side and a pulley system to the other. This makes it so that the weight is centered perfectly under you, making for a natural and smoother squat.
As expected, while they are generally seen as the ideal option, they are also the more expensive option. Not only that, but they also take up more space in your home gym, making them a bigger investment than the three.
Free Weight Belt Squat Machines
Not quite as common as lever system and cable belt squat machines, free-weight machines work by using weight plates that dangle below you and are outright attached to the belt around your waist. These require the lifter to stand on a raised platform, where they’ll do their squats.
This method is very effective as it helps focus more on the core as well as the other parts of the lower body. However, you’ll want to keep in mind not to add too much weight here, as you could more easily risk back injury than the other two types.
How We Decide The Best Machines
There were a few different yet important factors that were taken into account when deciding on these five different options. This includes price as well as warranty length. We also took a look at things like how large it was dimension-wise, and what features you could reliably enjoy compared to other belt squat machines. Lastly, we took a look at how the belt squat machines were reviewed by others and if there was something we weren’t seeing. This ultimately led to these five machines making the list over others.
While there are certainly other machines out there that may cost less or more, offer more or less weight, or even be reviewed higher than the ones on this list, these were the ones we found that hit virtually all of the boxes, making for a synergistic effect, where they each were at the top in most of these points from an overall standpoint.
FAQs
#1. Are Belt Squat Machines Even Worth Getting?
It can be easy to question the importance of a belt squat machine. After all, it doesn’t isolate muscles the same way other workout machines do, nor does it offer results that are dramatically different from what you’d get from a barbell squat on its own.
So, if that’s true, why spend the kind of money you’re getting asked to spend? Simply put, it’s because you are getting largely the same workout as you would with a barbell squat… without risking your back. Whether you’re someone who’s already suffering from back and spinal issues or someone that simply wants to keep from wearing it out over time, belt squat machines provide that much-needed support without worrying about any later risks of injury.
Simply put, if ensuring you don’t suffer back pain later on in life is important, then a belt squat option is definitely worth your getting and worth your time when it comes to leg training.
#2. Belt Squats Vs. Standard Barbell Back Squats – Which Is Better?
Before answering this, it’s important to determine exactly what you mean by “better”. Unlike other gym machines (which tend to isolate the muscle group it’s working on) the belt squat machine focuses ultimately on the same areas as a barbell back squat and squat lift. The difference is that a belted squat relieves pressure and strain on the spine and upper body, allowing you to more effectively focus everything in your lower body.
What this ultimately means is that while standard squats do offer some marginal benefits by focusing on your core, those benefits aren’t nearly as much as with other weighted machines. Not only that, but because you’re not straining your spine, just about anyone can reasonably perform using it without risking injury. It also can result in you performing MORE lifts in a set, easily offsetting any loss you may otherwise deal with.
Ultimately, it’s difficult to decide which of the two is “better”. However, while both have their respective benefits in different areas, belt squats will lead to similar results as standard squats while having a spine and back that isn’t nearly as taxed or at risk of suffering an injury.
#3. What Squat Machine Is The Best?
Of the belt squat machines on our list, despite all of them being great in their own ways, our top pick is the Bells of Steel Squat Machine. This one offers the best overall results while at the most reasonable budget and price point.
For those that want something a bit higher-grade with better results, you’ll be better off looking at something like the Rogue Monster Rhino Belt, as it is the one seen in most commercial gyms. Not only that, but Rogue has a track record for putting out some truly remarkable equipment, with the Monster Rhino being no different. The challenge for many will be the price tag, which can be a real sticking point for those on a budget.
If you are on a budget, you’ll probably want to spend some time checking out the Titan Fitness Belt Squat Machine, which, like Bells of Steel and Rogue, has proven time and time again to produce some stellar works for the price they’re offering. It’s not going to be on the same level as either of the two options, but if you’re just getting started, and need a good beginner-priced belt machine, this is best.
Ultimately, the reason why we said Bells of Steel was the best choice all around was that they offered results that were in the same realm as what you’d get with the Rogue while selling at a price that was at least feasible for people that may be more inclined with the Titan Fitness. It really is the best of both worlds and worth considering before looking anywhere else.
One of the biggest benefits is how it helps with squat form. When you use this machine, it’s easier to maintain proper form compared to traditional squats. This is super important because proper form is key to getting the most out of any exercise and avoiding injuries. It’s kind of like having a spotter who ensures you’re doing it right.
Now, if you’ve ever used a leg press at a commercial gym, you know it’s great for targeting your lower body. The belt squat is similar but offers a bit more. It encourages more muscle activation throughout the entire leg. It’s not just pushing against a platform; you’re performing a more natural squat movement. This means your legs work harder, leading to better lower body strength.
And let’s talk about commercial gyms. You’ll often find belt squat machines there, and they’re becoming increasingly popular. Why? Because they’re effective. They allow you to load up the weight without loading your spine, which is a game changer for many people, especially if you’re dealing with upper body injuries but still want to crush leg day.
In short, the belt squat machine is a fantastic addition to any leg workout routine. It helps you focus on your lower body strength, ensures you maintain good squat form, and activates those leg muscles more effectively than some other machines. Plus, it’s a great way to mix up your routine and keep leg day interesting.
Conclusion
As you can see, belt squat machines, while not quite as iconic as the barbells or the more complete home gym options out there (both of which are great additions as well), they are definitely worth your time if you’re seriously considering improving your core and lower body without potentially damaging your back or spine. While, in theory, unassisted standard squats will always be the ideal, even trained professionals understand that the benefit offered doesn’t outweigh the potential issues you’re likely to have, especially if you’re not a professional.
Though they haven’t been a super popular item in the past, more and more lifters are realizing that they’re seriously worth looking at regardless of your gym experience. By jumping on them now, before the craze starts to set, you’re not only getting them at their best price, but you’re also giving yourself a serious head start over all of your gym buddies on who has the sweeter quads and glutes.
Ryan is a former college wrestler and lifelong fitness fanatic. He has run half marathons, done mud runs, placed in body transformation contests, coached wrestling, and now coaches girls’ soccer. Not to mention he has also tried literally hundreds of supplements over the years and has a vast and thorough supplement knowledge. He has written for Muscle & Strength, Testosterone Junkie, The Sport Review and other publications. He is also the editor-in-chief of this website and has over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry. Feel free to connect with him on his LinkedIn page below.
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