Freak Athlete just launched their belt squat attachment and the internet is liking it.
If you already own Freak’s leg developer, this attaches directly to that piece
This opens up the ability to do belt squats and calf raises (they’re throwing in a free calf block).
Adding this to entire Freak Athlete Hyper Pro ecosystem turns it into an 11-in-1 machine!
Specs
Table of Contents
- Dimensions: 16.4″ x 11.42″ x 3.54″
- Weight: 7.4 lbs
- Weight capacity: 500 lbs
What Does The Belt Squat Attachment Include?
The Freak Athlete belt squat attachment includes the belt squat frame: the frame includes a kickstand that’s controlled via a handle.
They also throw in an adjustable belt with multiple loops.
And a free metal calf raise block.
RELATED: Freak Athlete Hyper Pro
What Is The Weight Capacity?
Freak Athlete states the weight capacity on the belt squat attachment is 500 lbs.
But the question is, can it be loaded with that much weight since the weight horn has a set height on 10 inches?
That will depend on the thickness and weight of your weight plates.
If you own thin weight plates like the ones from Weight It Out, then you can throw more on there.
But with regular weight plates, you won’t be able to load 500 lbs.
What About The Felt Weight?
Because the belt squat attachment is a lever arm, the felt weight you lift will be less than what’s loaded on the weight horn.
Some lever gym companies estimate that the reduction in weight is about 20% (If I load 100 lbs, it will feel like 80 lbs).
Top Benefits Of The Belt Squat Attachment
Eliminates Vertical Spinal Load
Since you’re not throwing anything on top of your shoulders, this eliminates all vertical load on the spine.
This is great for people who suffer from lower back pain.
Lower back pain prevents many people from training their legs, so having the load from the waist down keeps you in the gym without flaring up your back.
One thing to take into consideration though, is the amount of shear load you get with all lever arm belt squats.
There will be some back to front force because the weight is not directly below you, so you’ll have to play around with your foot position.
The closer you can get to the lever arm while still keeping good form, the better.
No Weight Rack Needed
Since the belt squat attachment connects directly to the leg developer, you don’t need to own a weight rack with this attachment.
This is good for people who are short on space and don’t have the room required for a weight rack.
It won’t attach directly to the Hyper Pro though, so you’ll need the leg developer in order to do belt squats.
Best Features Of The Freak Athlete Belt Squat Attachment
Kick Stand
I like that they added a spring loaded kick stand.
This makes it possible to start from a higher position, rather than having to squat all the way down.
There’s a handle right next to the frame so the kick stand is at a hands reach.
Assist Bar
The built-in assist bar is more for balance than actual assistance which is a good thing.
Because the bar is moving simultaneously with the weight, I can’t cheat my way up by using my arms.
Learn More
To learn more about the Freak Athlete belt squat attachment, check it out at their website.
It is currently in stock and comes with a FREE metal calf block.