gymnastic rings
Rack Mod: Attachment Point for Chain, Bands, Rope, Etc.
You can easily add attachment points to many squat or power racks for chains, bands, gymnastic rings and numerous other devices by swapping heavy duty eye bolts for the regular bolts. Additional attachment points can be placed anywhere else on the rack by drilling new holes if you have the appropriate tools. More on this later…
Before swapping out bolts, you’ll need to know the diameter and length you’ll need. Most home and commercial equipment uses 3/8 and 1/2 inch hex bolts. The bolt size is not the same as the head size. A 3/8 inch bolt will have a 9/16 inch head, and a 1/2 inch bolt will have a 3/4 inch head. Check the head size using your socket or wrench and write it down.
Remove the bolt and measure the distance from the bottom of the head to the end. Write this down. Or, take the bolt with you to the hardware store and compare directly. Let anyone else that might use the rack know you’ve removed the bolt before you go.
When selecting eye bolts, check the packaging for the safe working load. The stainless steel bolts will typically have the highest, although zinc plated steel will usually be more than strong enough for most uses. The eye bolts I purchased will handle up to 540 pounds, and the spring clips up to 400. The packaging will usually contain some warning about not using the product for support of human weight or athletic equipment, but this is just there to cover their ass - a properly secured 3/8 or larger steel eye bolt is more than strong enough to safely support you and then some. If you’re over 400 pounds I doubt you’re going to be doing any body weight rows or ring dips any way. Use common sense. If you ever notice any kind of wear or damage to a bolt or spring clip, replace it. Hardware is much cheaper than an emergency room visit for a concussion or broken bone. › Continue reading