Last week I posted a video of this super cheap belt squat. I made mine from scraps, so it was free but also kind of ugly. If buying the materials, it would probably cost around $20.

A few people asked for a tutorial, so here you go.

Start off with a 2x4, cut two 30 inch pieces and two 20 inch pieces

Drill a 1 inch hole on the end of each 20 inch piece

Secure the 30 inch pieces together with screws or bolts

Attach the 20 inch pieces on the outsides of the 30 inch pieces

Bolts are a good idea to make it extra secure

Drill a hole for your eyebolt and insert the eyebolt

Use a plate for your weight sleeve placement

In my previous version I used a 1 3/4” dowel, but attaching these pipe fittings is an easier option

A hitch pin to hold it in place and you’re good to go

Ok, now that you have the basics done I am going to show two quick upgrades to make it even better.

First: a retractable kickstand.

I use a scrap of 2x4 and cut it to 20 inches.

Connect it to the bottom of the belt squat using a 2 inch door hinge.

Attach a spring on each side using lag bolts.

Boom, it goes up the you need it to and stays down when you need it to.

The second upgrade is a handle.

Attach the floor flange to the top of the belt squat using lag bolts.

Screw the pieces together, you can use loctite to permanently set them

I used 1 inch black pipe but 3/4” or 1/2” would also work.

Boom, now you can go real deep on those belt squats

Calf raises are more comfortable too!

These upgrades probably double the cost of the belt squat. Is it worth it? I think so.