What Is A 3×3 Power Rack?

If you’re a fitness enthusiast or a seasoned lifter, chances are you’ve come across the term “3×3 power rack” at some point. 

It sounds impressive, doesn’t it? But what exactly does it mean? Is it some secret code for ultimate strength gains, or just another marketing gimmick? 

Well, friend, I’ll unveil the mysteries of the 3×3 power rack so you learn what 99% of people miss when they hear the term. 

Let’s dive in!

First and foremost, let’s address the most obvious aspect of a 3×3 power rack — the dimensions. 

A 3×3 power rack refers to the tubing or uprights that measure 3 inches wide by 3 inches long. That’s right, we’re talking about some serious steel here. 

This beastly construction provides the stability and sturdiness you need to tackle heavy weights without a hint of wobbling.

Now, here’s where things get interesting. 

Most 3×3 power racks come with holes for rack attachments, adjustments, and the like. You might be wondering, what’s the big deal? Well, the size of these holes can make a world of difference in your lifting experience.

In the world of 3×3 power racks, you’ll typically encounter two common hole sizes: 5/8″ and 1″. 

The 5/8″ holes are perfect for those who enjoy a little extra precision in their workouts. They allow you to make smaller adjustments to the attachments, ensuring that everything is dialed in just right. 

On the other hand, the 1″ holes are for the bold and daring. They provide more room for adjustments, making it easier to switch between exercises and customize your rack to your heart’s content.

Now, here’s a little secret that many people overlook: the fact that not all 3×3 power racks are the same — there’s 3×3 racks, then there’s TRUE 3×3 racks.

While they may appear to be the same dimensions, there can be subtle differences that set them apart. 

First, we have the standard 3×3 power racks, which measure 75mm x 75mm or 2.95” x 2.95”. While they might seem similar to the true 3×3 racks, they fall slightly short of the imperial measurements. 

This size of 3×3 is commonly found on imported racks because most of the world including the countries the racks are sourced from use the metric system. Nevertheless, they still offer formidable strength and durability, albeit with a hint of metric precision.

On the other hand, true 3×3 power racks measure exactly 76.2mm x 76.2mm, adhering to the imperial system’s standards. These racks are the real deal, boasting the full glory of a 3-inch width and length — like our Hydra racks.

This difference of 1.2mm in length and width makes it so that attachments built for 3×3 are NOT compatible with all 3×3 power racks.

So, my dear lifting enthusiasts, be aware that not all 3×3 power racks are created equal. The devil is in the details, or in this case, in the dimensions. 

In the vast realm of power racks, the 3×3 variety stands tall, both literally and physically. Its formidable dimensions and hole sizes make it a beastly ally in your quest for strength and gains.

Whether you opt for a true 3×3 power rack or its metric counterpart, both options provide exceptional strength and stability. They are the foundation upon which you can build your lifting kingdom, conquering one heavy rep at a time.