In-Depth Review of Black Widow Steel Platforms for Belt Squats

You know what ol’ Jack Burton says when he’s staring at a steel platform for belt squats? He says, “Why lift the weight of the world when you can do it with style?” And when it comes to style, my buddy Rob Shoecraft over at Three Storm Fitness knows a thing or two about making things look good while getting your sweat on. Let’s dive into the brass tacks and steel facts of these Black Widow Steel Platforms, the unsung heroes of the gym floor.

The Legend of the Black Widow Steel Platforms

Now, if you’re the kind of person who thinks real strength is just about biceps and bravado, let me stop you right there, pal. Real strength is about stability and foundation, just like these Black Widow Steel Platforms that Rob’s been raving about. Now, Rob isn’t a welder—I mean, neither am I—but he sure knows a solid product when he sees one. Dean, the mastermind welder behind Black Widow, has crafted these platforms to withstand whatever you throw at them, or on them, as the case may be.

A Platform Built Like a Rock

Rob would tell you that these platforms are as simple as they are sturdy. Heavy, yes, but that’s just because they’re made of 11-gauge steel, measuring a neat 12 by 12 inches. They’re like the Chuck Norris of gym equipment; they don’t budge, and they don’t complain. Just mount ’em in your power rack like you would a J-hook, and you’re good to go. Rob’s got a Rogue R-4 rack, so Black Widow whipped up a set perfectly tailored to fit. Whatever your rig, Dean and his crew can make it happen—whether you’re rocking a 3×3 or a 2×3 setup.

Belt Squats: The Crown Jewel

You ever tried doing belt squats off the floor? It’s like trying to change a tire in a hurricane—more trouble than it’s worth. That’s where these platforms come in. They elevate you just enough to keep your form tight and your progress steady. No more stacking 45s or playing Jenga with plyo boxes. Just strap in, squat down, and let gravity do the rest. Rob’s got the demo down pat, even if he did knock his head on the pull-up bar once or twice. Safety first, folks: keep your noggin in check!

Versatility: More Than Just Squats

Now, you might be thinking these platforms are a one-trick pony, but let me tell you something—there’s more to this steel than just supporting belt squats. Rob uses them for front-elevated lunges and even has clients do variations of squat-to-box exercises. Got a newbie in the gym or someone with knee issues? These platforms provide the perfect stepping stone, literally and figuratively. You can adjust them to different heights, helping folks work their way to the ground floor of squat mastery.

And hey, if you’re into training for a one-arm pushup, these platforms got your back. Use ’em to lower yourself little by little until you’re ready to show off that new feat of strength. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of gym accessories—if a Swiss Army knife was made of unyielding steel and didn’t fit in your pocket.

The Critics’ Take: Limitation Station

As much as these platforms are a boon to your workout routine, let’s talk turkey about some limitations. They’re not perfect for narrow squats due to their size—it’s like trying to squeeze a grizzly into a phone booth. But hey, that’s not a flaw of the platforms themselves; it’s just the nature of the beast when you’re dealing with belt squats in general. And Rob, ever the resourceful trainer, points out that you can still load a hefty amount of weight on these bad boys without worrying they’ll buckle under pressure.

Safety First: Rock Solid Stability

And for those of you who like to push the limits—yeah, you know who you are—rest assured, these platforms aren’t going anywhere. Rob’s loaded them with over 600 pounds, and they held steady like a rock in a riptide. Your safety is as guaranteed as my next misadventure, and that’s saying something. Whether you’re a lightweight or a heavyweight in the gym, these platforms can handle it, no sweat.

Price and Value: Weighing the Options

Now, let’s talk dollars and sense. These platforms run about $285 for the pair, and while that might seem steep, ol’ Rob would tell you they’re worth every penny. The versatility, the build quality, and the sheer convenience they bring to your workout make them a solid investment. It’s like buying a truck that never breaks down—worth its weight in gold, even if gold doesn’t exactly come in 11-gauge steel.

Wrapping It Up: Black Widow’s Final Verdict

So there you have it, folks: an in-depth look at the Black Widow Steel Platforms for belt squats, courtesy of Rob Shoecraft’s firsthand expertise and a bit of Jack Burton’s colorful commentary. Whether you’re a gym veteran or a newcomer looking to boost your routine, these platforms might just be the missing piece in your fitness puzzle. Remember, it’s not just about lifting weights—it’s about lifting your game. And with gear like this, you’ll be bench-pressing your goals in no time.

So next time you’re in the market for something that can take a beating and keep on ticking, give ol’ Rob a shout and see what he’s got cooking over at Three Storm Fitness. Because when it comes to gym gear, you don’t just want the ordinary—you want the extraordinary. And that’s what ol’ Jack Burton has to say about that.