How Wide Is a Rack?
Every rack is 49" wide, combining a 43" crossmember with two 3" uprights. All configurations share this width, but their overall depths, including platforms, vary: Alpha Half Racks require 10', Alpha Double Half Racks 12', Full Racks 13', and Full/Half Combo Racks 21'.
Each 8' wide by 5' deep platform defines a barbell training area, helping keep athletes and teammates safe. Platforms are typically positioned on 10' centers, leaving 2' between them. Our 43" wide racks connect with 6' Top Beam Connector Tubes to maintain this spacing. Custom spacing can provide more room, but tighter layouts create clutter and increase safety risks.
Shown here at Bucknell University, two Alpha Double Half Racks are connected with an 6' Top Beam Connector, with an MG Chin Up added to create a bodyweight training station.
Platforms
Each platform has two sections: a 4' wide center lifting area and drop zones on either side. The center provides room for athletes with wide stances and broad shoulders to lift comfortably. Made with ECORE Rally, a high-traction surface also used on track lanes, it supports everything from dynamic lifts to traditional squats and deadlifts. The drop zones typically use ECORE Beast Plus, a denser material designed to absorb the impact of dropped barbells and heavy loads.
Walk Ways
When planning multiple rows of racks, consider the space between platform rows as well as the spacing between racks. At Elgin High School in Ohio, shown below, a 5' wide walkway between platforms allows athletes to move freely through the room while staying clear of active lifting areas.
Conclusion
Allow at least 6' between the nearest uprights of adjacent racks to keep barbells from contacting each other during simultaneous lifts. Wider spacing creates room beside platforms for cable machines or PowerBlock Carts, but keeping racks at safe, functional spacing often makes better use of the room. This leaves more space for additional racks, standalone machines, or open training areas. With over 25 years of designing and installing team training facilities, we know how to make every square foot count.
