PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench Review (2023): The Ultimate Compact Squat Rack?
The PRx Performance Profile Pro Squat Rack is regarded as one of the most space-efficient squat racks on the market. Having tested numerous options, including fold-away racks, we can confidently say that the Profile Squat Racks from PRx Performance are both convenient and sturdy.
However, a squat rack alone is not complete without a weight bench. It’s like having peanut butter without jelly—good separately, but together they make a perfect match.
Our PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench review aims to highlight the best option for those who require a fully functional squat rack and bench without sacrificing too much floor space.
We Have Experience with Home Gyms of All Sizes
Although our name is Garage Gym Reviews, we have trained in spaces even smaller than a garage. Some of us have created home gyms in basements, cramped laundry rooms, and studio apartments that are barely larger than a closet. We understand the struggle of finding high-quality home gym equipment in limited space. As certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive athletes, we only recommend equipment that can help you achieve your fitness goals.
A Quick Look at the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench
PRx Performance was established in 2013 with the goal of providing space-saving solutions for home gyms and commercial facilities. The company gained popularity in 2017 when it secured a deal with Shark Tank judge Kevin O’Leary.
Although PRx Performance was not the first to produce fold-away squat racks or weight benches, their products outshine the competition in terms of ease of use and affordability. The PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench can be folded and unfolded within seconds. Moreover, they are capable of supporting heavy weights and are reasonably priced.
Coop’s Tips
- Before installing the rack, ensure that your wall studs are evenly spaced apart. Uneven spacing may result in stability issues.
- For any installation queries, feel free to email [email protected].
- Prime members can find this rack on Amazon and potentially save money.
Video Review
Is the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench Worth It?
We must clarify that the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench are not suitable for everyone. If you don’t require or desire compact training equipment, then there are more affordable and versatile options available. However, if you are looking to save space, this bench is one of the best weight benches for you, and the rack is our top recommendation.
Specifications of the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack
Specifications of the PRx Performance Profile Bench
Using the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack
The PRx Performance Profile Rack that we reviewed is the PRO Rack, although there is also the PRx Performance Profile ONE Squat Rack. The main differences between the PRO and ONE Squat Rack series are that the former has a 96-inch upright option, laser-cut numbers, and varied hole sizing throughout the uprights.
In terms of functionality, the two racks are identical.
If you have ever used a squat rack without identification numbers, you would understand the frustration of transitioning from squats to bench presses. Coop previously used the Rogue R-3 Power Rack and loved it, but the absence of laser-cut numbers drove him crazy.
Stability
One of the most common questions Coop received about this rack was regarding its stability. Despite its foldable design, he didn’t notice significant differences in stability compared to racks bolted to the ground. The only slight instability occurred during side-to-side movements. Overall, the rack remained sturdy during use and kipping pull-ups. Coop was pleasantly surprised by the rack’s stability during kipping movements.
PRx Performance advises against using the bar for individuals taller than 6 feet, 2 inches.
Footplates
The bottom of the uprights features plastic footplates that protect the floor. While it would be desirable to have rubberized footplates for improved grip, Coop has not experienced any swaying of the rack due to the plastic feet.
Folding and Unfolding the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack
To make the most of the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack’s folding capability, four 100-pound rated gas shocks are employed to assist users in putting up and taking down the rack. Folding the rack is so effortless that Coop’s wife can easily do it with one arm while holding a baby.
Every aspect of the PRx Performance Rack is of high quality and well-thought-out. However, the true standout feature and the reason for our recommendation is the ease of storage and the small footprint it occupies. When folded up, the rack only takes up 4 inches of space, allowing you to park a car or truck under the kipping bar if needed.
Using the PRx Performance Folding Bench
The PRx Performance Folding Bench is specifically designed to be used with a Profile Rack. It can be used with other racks, but you must ensure that the uprights are approximately 24 inches from the wall.
Similar to the PRx Incline Folding Bench, the Folding Flat Bench solves a common issue with weight benches: providing a stable platform for bench presses without taking up excessive space. Space is a crucial factor in any home gym, and having a piece of equipment that is only used once a week occupying valuable real estate is unfortunate.
Instead of occupying a significant amount of space, the Folding Bench folds away using gas shocks and only extends 4 inches from the wall (the thickness of the pad). When you’re ready to bench, simply unfold it, and you’re good to go.
Furthermore, unlike many foldable benches that require alignment with each use, the PRx Folding Bench does not require adjustments. Aligning foldable benches can be a hassle, and even when you don’t have a ruler on hand, they often end up slightly misaligned. While this may not be a major issue, it can be frustrating when trying to squeeze in a quick workout on a busy day.
The bench frame is constructed from heavy-duty steel and features a black onyx powder coat finish. It would be great to have color options that match the rack, but that would likely increase the cost due to the number of parts.
The bench height is a standard 19 inches from the floor, which is surprisingly ideal. Neglecting bench height can significantly impact your power while performing bench presses.
The only aspect we dislike about the PRx Folding Bench is the bench pad, which could be more comfortable considering its $400 price tag.
Suggested Improvements
Although the PRx Performance Profile Rack and Folding Bench are the best options for those with limited space, a few improvements could be made.
The first suggestion is to add rubber-coated feet to the steel uprights for enhanced stability. Additionally, introducing storage options for barbells and weight plates would be beneficial. However, these items are small enough to be stored in a corner of your gym space.
Another area that could be improved is the bench pad. While it may suffice for a cheaper bench, a firmer pad with a more grippy covering would be preferable for the PRx Folding Bench, considering its $400 price tag.
PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack vs. Rogue Fitness RML-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack
As the COVID-19 pandemic has compelled people to adapt their fitness routines, space-saving squat racks have become increasingly popular. The market has responded by offering a variety of options, from small squat stands that neatly tuck into corners to fold-away racks.
One such competitor is the Rogue Fitness RML-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack, which shares similarities with the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack. Both racks feature 3-inch-by-3-inch 11-gauge steel construction and can be folded against the wall. However, the Rogue RML rack is notably more challenging to use compared to the PRx rack.
To unfold the Rogue RML rack, you must:
- Remove hitch pins from the top two wall brackets
- Remove hitch pins from the bottom two wall brackets
- Swing out the left upright
- Swing out the right upright
- Place the hitch pins back in the top two wall brackets
- Place the hitch pins back in the bottom two wall brackets
- Place the J-cups on the uprights
- Additionally, if you plan to use the pull-up bar, you’ll need to grab a ladder and secure it with the hitch pins
To fold it back, you must reverse these steps. Although it doesn’t take an excessive amount of time, it’s likely that most swing-away racks remain in the upright position permanently due to the inconvenience.
In contrast, using the PRx Performance Profile Racks is incredibly simple. You just need to remove two hitch pins and pull the rack down. It’s that easy.
Ordering and Assembling the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench
Upon receiving the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Folding Bench, Coop noticed that the packaging was intact, with only minor damage to a few box corners. The parts themselves were undamaged. Having reviewed a significant amount of gym equipment, we’ve observed that some companies take careful measures to protect the equipment during shipping, while others do not. Thankfully, PRx Performance falls into the former category.
With straightforward assembly instructions, Coop had the rack installed on the wall and ready to use in under 30 minutes. To ensure stability, the brackets must be screwed into a stud (the same applies to the bench). Attach the main frame to the studs, then connect the other parts using washers and screws. PRx Performance provides a helpful assembly video on YouTube for additional guidance.
Financing, Warranty, Returns
PRx Performance offers various financing options starting as low as $29 per month. You can check if you qualify for financing and choose a plan that suits your needs during checkout.
The PRx Performance Profile Racks come with a limited lifetime warranty that covers all parts of the rack, including manufacturer defects.
If you are not satisfied with your squat rack, you have up to 30 days from the date of delivery to return it. However, it must be returned in the original packaging, along with proof of purchase. You are responsible for shipping costs, and a 10 percent restocking fee will be applied to all returns.
Customer Reviews
As of writing this review, the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack has an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, based on over 230 reviews. Customers are generally pleased with their purchase and appreciate how it maximizes their workout space.
The few complaints revolve around shipping issues.
The PRx Performance Folding Bench has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on 85 reviews at the time of writing. Users are pleased with the bench’s stability without occupying excessive space.
A few complaints were raised regarding quality control, although these were relatively rare.
Final Verdict of Our PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench Review
For individuals seeking to make the most of their compact workout space, the PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack and Bench are undoubtedly two of the best fitness equipment options available. As your parents probably told you, good things often come in small packages, and this squat rack and bench are a testament to that. Although they may not be the most budget-friendly options, sometimes it’s worth paying a little extra to ensure better quality. The ease of use alone makes these products an excellent value, and their high weight capacity further solidifies our recommendation.
