DIY Cable Belt Squat Platform
Hey everyone, welcome back! In today’s post, I’ll show you how I made a DIY Belt Squat and low row platform for my Bells of Steel Plate Loaded Wall Tower. If you’ve been watching my channel for a while, you’ll know that I made this type of platform for my Titan Fitness Wall Tower. It worked great, but there were a few design changes needed to really optimize the experience.
Why I Needed to Redesign the DIY Belt Squat Platform
The pulley in the platform was a bit too far forward, the platform itself wasn’t quite wide enough, and I used 2x6’s under the tower to keep the platform in place, but they just weren’t quite strong enough. I decided to rebuild the platform for my Bells tower and incorporate those changes into the new design.
Overview of the DIY Belt Squat Platform Build
Before I jump into the build, I’m trying something new with this one. This is an overview of the build process. If you’re looking for specific dimensions, check the Video description for the downloadable PDF Belt Squat Platform Plans. Purchasing that PDF helps to support this channel.
Using Scrap Wood for the Build
One of the things I am really proud of is that this entire platform was built using scrap wood destined for the dump. Last fall, we started a kitchen remodel in my house and knocked down a wall in the process. The construction workers left this wood in my backyard, and it stayed there all winter. I had to clean it up a bit and remove nails, but it was all in pretty decent shape.
Assembling the Base and Platform
The three base pieces were already assembled when they came out of the wall, so I just used 2x4s on the front and back to connect everything. The base of the Bells tower has holes that allow it to be bolted down. I’ll be bolting it to the platform for extra stability. Having 6 2x4s stand upright along the bottom will definitely eliminate the upward pull and the movement of the platform.
Finishing Touches: Staining the Wood and Attaching the Pulley
I cut the cross pieces for the top and left a gap in the center for the pulley. These are going to be the boards I stand on. With the wood being outside all winter, there’s a lot of color variation of the pieces. I had this same issue on my barbell rack. An easy way to mask that is to use different colors of wood stain and alternate. I apply black stain to the base and alternate shades of brown on the top pieces. For the pieces that have been turned gray by the sun, I use a clear coat to keep that natural discoloration. I love how this looks, but you could always paint the wood a solid color instead.
As I attach the 2x4s to the top of the platform, you can see that I left a little cutout in the center. This is for my pulley wheel. If this looks like it would be too much work, you can use this type of pulley and attach it directly to the platform, eliminating the need for the cutout. Click here for the pulley.
Adding the Footplate for Seated Rows
The last step is to add the angled footplate for seated rows. I use my miter saw to cut a piece of 4x4 into three small wedges. After applying black stain to the sides of those, I attach them to the platform. Then I cut a 2x6 to the same width as the base, add stain, and attach it to the base.
Final Assembly and Setup
Now that everything is assembled, it is time to bring it down to the basement. I love the tower out of the way, then set the platform down. The tower goes on top, then I fasten it to the wall, and secure it to the base.
Choosing the Best Belt for DIY Belt Squats
I get a lot of questions about what’s the best belt for *DIY belt squats*. I’ve tried quite a few, and my current favorite is the Henny Belt. It has full padding, multiple connection points, and is comfortable under heavy weights. Use code KAIZEN20 for $20 off your purchase.
If you already own a good belt and just want to make it more comfortable, I suggest trying the AbMat Belt Squat Cover. It covers any existing belt and is extremely comfortable. Code Kaizen10 will save you 10%!
Enhancing the Belt Squat Setup: Belt Squat Buddy
The last piece of the puzzle on this build is an option for starting *DIY belt squats* in the standing position. I’ve already made a video on the belt squat buddy. It is fairly easy to make and will work with any platform. The downside is that it can be a little awkward sometimes.
The next best option is this. It’s sort of an upgraded version of the belt squat buddy. It attaches to the platform with small hinges, which is nice because it’s always in line with the pulley wheel. The only downside is that it stays on the platform at all times, which can get in the way during other exercises.
In my opinion, this is the best option—simple to make, easily accessible, and out of the way. I’m not entirely sure how much weight it can hold, but the hole can always be reinforced with a steel plate just to be on the safe side.
Conclusion: A Fully Functional DIY Belt Squat and Low Row Platform
So there you go! A fully functional cable belt squat and low row platform that’ll work with the Bells of Steel tower, or any other wall-mounted pulley tower. This adds even more value to the Bells tower, which is already the best available in my opinion. If you want to buy one, be sure you use my affiliate link to help support this channel. See you next time!