I'm pretty partial to Body Solid. I got my Smith Machine with weight stack up to 180 lbs (can also add weight), a plate loaded pec dec, plate loaded/chest supported seated row, seated calf raise, 2 in 1 seated leg extension/leg curl, dip bar & leg press from them. 

Have since sold the leg press/seated calf raise (can't work legs due to knees). 

Also bought a seated dip machine for like $100 on Ebay a while back. 

Also have about 1200 lbs in free weight, Power Block dumbbells that can be adjusted up to 125 lbs, a trap deadlift bar, swiss bar and an Olympic bar. 

Oh yeah, and a Powertec power rack with pullup attachment.

EDIT: Powertec products are very affordable and a quality product, btw.

I've heard the thought process has changed on letting kids lift weights. My son is almost 12 and plays every sport known to man. He's a nice athlete but on the smaller side. Was thinking about getting him introduced to working out with me. Maybe to light weight (bar) exercises for higher reps. 

posted by kizer permanente

I've heard the thought process has changed on letting kids lift weights. My son is almost 12 and plays every sport known to man. He's a nice athlete but on the smaller side. Was thinking about getting him introduced to working out with me. Maybe to light weight (bar) exercises for higher reps. 

There shouldn't be an issue with that, at that age. I started a few years later, when I was 14.

posted by kizer permanente

Back in 2020 I bought home gym equipment.  It was powertec brand and was pretty good. When we moved last year the people who bought our house wanted to buy the home gym equipment, and like an idiot, I agreed.  So I’ve been going to a gym for the last year.  I hate it.  I hate how crowded it it.  I hate the inconvenience.  I hate waiting to use equipment.  I’m ready to buy home gym equipment again.  

Do I go with Powertec again or do I go with something else?  I know Rogue has really nice stuff.  Costco uses Inspire equipment that includes delivery and install.  Have been looking at that.  I mostly just do compound exercises anymore so I’m really only looking for a rack, bench, and plates.

I have had success w/ Rogue. I currently have their Monster Lite Squat Stand. Gets the job done. Wish I had a pull up bar but don't have the ceiling height in my basement.

Get an Ohio bar and some bumper plates and you're good to go.

posted by kizer permanente

I've heard the thought process has changed on letting kids lift weights. My son is almost 12 and plays every sport known to man. He's a nice athlete but on the smaller side. Was thinking about getting him introduced to working out with me. Maybe to light weight (bar) exercises for higher reps. 

Yes, this is correct.  The old logic - that lifting weights was unhealthy for adolescents is invalid.  In no fitness expert, but a long time lifter.  My non-expert advice is to focus him on the big compound lifts, to start light, to focus mainly on proper technique before adding weight.  Once his technique is sound, the weight will increase easily at his age.

posted by Dr Winston O'Boogie

Yes, this is correct.  The old logic - that lifting weights was unhealthy for adolescents is invalid.  In no fitness expert, but a long time lifter.  My non-expert advice is to focus him on the big compound lifts, to start light, to focus mainly on proper technique before adding weight.  Once his technique is sound, the weight will increase easily at his age.

Yeah so anymore I only do compound lifts. I was going to do the same with him, just with really light weight. 

posted by kizer permanente

Yeah so anymore I only do compound lifts. I was going to do the same with him, just with really light weight. 

You should have him do CrossFit.......its really scientific stuff!

posted by birddog23

You should have him do CrossFit.......its really scientific stuff!

only thing I know about crossfit is their goofy pullups. 

Ended up ordering the Rogue Fm-6 twin stack.  I over researched and leaned about 7 different ways before buying this one  

posted by kizer permanente

Ended up ordering the Rogue Fm-6 twin stack.  I over researched and leaned about 7 different ways before buying this one  

Damn. Good for you