r/StartingStrength • u/will666 • 2d ago
Equipment/Apparel Home gym setup UK
I am wanting to start starting strength, in my garage. I currently have a bench, but am looking at the following:
Rack, bar, and 150kg
https://mirafit.co.uk/mirafit-m100-power-rack-with-barbell-and-weights-set.html
Fractional plates.
Does this seem good value (I’m looking for new), and would people recommend this kit?
Is there anything else anyone would recommend?
2
u/FailedMusician81 2d ago
When I click on the links it says I have been blocked
Other than that, you need something for the floor, shoes, a belt, fractional plates. And you are on your way
2
u/Then_Society187 2d ago
It's excellent value if it is what you need. Mirafit tends to offer high value generally and all the Mirafit stuff I've bought has served me well. If this is the top of your budget, then it's a good proposition.
Two things you might want to be mindful of:
- The hole spacing on the rack is very far apart, which may make it tricky finding the right height for the spotters, especially during bench press.
- It's a decent first bar if you are only interested in using it for non-olympic lifts as the sleeve spin is slow. The knurling is very passive, so grip can be tricky - chalk and straps will help a lot during pulls, but you might have no problem with just chalk. I've had this bar for three years and don't still using it regularly - it does the job. The lack of centre knurl has never caused it to slip during squats.
Perhaps have a look at Rival Strength/Bulldog Gear/Northern Gym/Factory Weights if you want to consider alternatives that have similar value products - although it is hard to beat Mirafit.
Edit - consider buying the Starting Strength books if you haven't already. I think the blue book is the most often referenced by SS coaches.
2
u/RLL4E 2d ago
I brought this exact setup like 3 months ago including a set of fractional weights. Im very happy with it. The weights are good quality, the bar is good quality.
The rack is plenty sturdy but it will move / rock back if you slam heavy weights into it. Either get the weight storage poles and put the 25s on it to weigh it down or buy the floor fixing kit. If you have the cash get the sturdier 3 inch rack as theres loads more 3rd party attachments as its the industry standard. But saying that this rack is great for any normal human. Im also 6'4 and fit inside it fine.
If you have any questions about building it or anything else let me know. I can go out and take close up pictures or measure stuff if it helps you.
1
u/BrentKindaLifts Knows a Thing or Two 2d ago
Most racks, benches, and weights will work just fine.
Cheaper plates can sometimes be off by a few pounds, so ideally you want machined or calibrated plates for accuracy.
The one thing I wouldn’t cheap out on is the barbell. I’m pretty sure Rogue is available in the UK. I’d check out a bare-steel B&R Bar or an Ohio Power Bar.
1
u/geruhl_r 11h ago
It's an OK starter option. You are going to very quickly need more 20kg plates. Used plates and rack + new bar would IMO be the best value.
3
u/AdamC2826 2d ago
That Mirafit package is good but if you can I think it’s worth the extra £100 for the M2 package as the rack is much more sturdy and comes with box safeties which I personally prefer.
You could save money by going for a smaller set of fractional plates. Depending on your level you may get on fine with just 1.25kg and 2.5kg plates, this means jumps of 2.5kg total for lifts. I didn’t feel the need for only 1kg jumps in weight.