A fixed squat rack is a sturdy, non-adjustable piece of gym equipment designed for heavy lifting. It provides a stable structure for exercises like squats, bench presses, and pull-ups. Selecting the right fixed squat rack is essential for meeting specific fitness goals, whether for strength training or building muscle. A well-chosen rack enhances performance and minimizes the risk of injury. Fixed squat racks are often preferred for their durability and security, offering a more permanent setup compared to adjustable or folding models. Key features such as safety bars, reinforced frames, and space efficiency make them ideal for commercial gym environments where high stability and consistent use are necessary.
Types of Fixed Squat Racks
Smith Machine Squat Rack
The Smith machine squat rack is a popular type of fixed squat rack commonly found in commercial gyms. Unlike traditional squat racks, this design features a barbell that moves along a fixed track, providing a guided motion. This design helps lifters focus on form and stability during exercises. Typically, it includes adjustable safety bars, which provide additional protection when lifting heavy weights.
Advantages of Smith Machine Squat Rack
The primary advantage of a Smith machine squat rack is the enhanced safety it offers. The fixed track prevents the barbell from straying off its path, reducing the risk of injury during lifts. This makes it ideal for beginners or anyone looking to focus on strength training without worrying about stability. Another benefit is the guided motion, which helps in maintaining proper form. This is especially helpful when performing exercises like squats or bench presses, as it reduces the likelihood of incorrect lifting technique.
Moreover, the Smith machine provides an easy way to work with heavy loads without needing a spotter, making it an attractive option for solo lifters. The ability to adjust the safety bars also allows for various exercise variations, giving users a versatile workout experience. This feature makes it a popular choice in commercial gym environments.
Disadvantages of Smith Machine Squat Rack
Despite its safety features, the Smith machine squat rack has some limitations. The fixed motion track means that the barbell moves in a predetermined path, which can limit the natural range of motion for some exercises. For instance, during squats, the bar’s path may not align with the natural arc of the lifter’s body, potentially causing discomfort or limiting performance.
Additionally, Smith machine squat racks are less versatile than traditional squat racks. Due to the fixed nature of the barbell, lifters cannot adjust their hand placement or bar path freely, which can be a disadvantage when performing more complex lifts. For exercises requiring greater movement freedom, such as overhead presses or deadlifts, a Smith machine may not be the ideal choice.
Wall-Mounted Fixed Squat Rack
A wall-mounted fixed squat rack is a space-saving solution often used in commercial gym environments where space efficiency is important. This type of squat rack is designed to be mounted directly to the wall, offering a sturdy and permanent structure for lifting.
Space-Saving Design
One of the primary benefits of a wall-mounted fixed squat rack is its space-saving design. By being fixed to the wall, it eliminates the need for bulky, freestanding frames that take up valuable floor space. This is particularly beneficial in smaller commercial gyms or fitness areas with limited room. The compact nature of this design allows more equipment to be stored in the same area, enabling the gym to maximize its use of space.
In addition to its compact size, a wall-mounted squat rack can be a practical solution in environments where flexibility is needed. Users can easily adjust their workout routine without worrying about the rack taking up extra space during downtime. This makes it an excellent choice for commercial gyms that cater to both casual and serious lifters.
How It Differs from Other Fixed Options
Compared to other fixed squat rack designs, a wall-mounted version offers a more permanent solution without occupying too much floor space. However, it does require solid wall anchors to ensure stability during heavy lifting. Unlike freestanding racks, which provide support from all angles, the wall-mounted version is supported only from one side, making proper installation crucial.
Another difference is that wall-mounted racks are typically less adjustable than other fixed squat racks. While some wall-mounted models come with adjustable safety bars, the overall design may be less versatile than other types. Lifters using a wall-mounted squat rack may have limited options for customizing their setup, which could be a drawback for users seeking flexibility.
Benefits and Challenges with Wall-Mounted Racks
The wall-mounted fixed squat rack offers several advantages. Its low-profile design ensures that it doesn’t crowd the gym space, making it perfect for small or crowded commercial gym settings. The solid wall attachment provides great stability, allowing for heavy lifting without worrying about movement or tipping.
However, there are also challenges with this design. Installing a wall-mounted squat rack requires careful consideration of wall strength and structure. Not all walls may be suitable for this type of setup, and improper installation could lead to safety issues. Additionally, wall-mounted racks may not provide the same level of adjustability or versatility as other designs, limiting the exercises that can be performed with it.
Fixed Squat Rack vs Folding Squat Rack
Feature | Fixed Squat Rack | Folding Squat Rack |
---|---|---|
Stability | High stability, ideal for heavy lifts | Less stable, suitable for moderate lifting |
Space Efficiency | Fixed, requires dedicated space | Can be folded away when not in use |
Durability | High durability, designed for constant use | May wear down faster due to folding mechanism |
Convenience | Less flexible, cannot be moved or stored easily | Highly convenient for space-saving purposes |
Suitability for Heavy Lifting | Excellent for heavy, high-intensity lifts | Not recommended for extremely heavy lifts |
Ideal Environment | Commercial gyms or locations with dedicated workout space | Spaces with limited room |
Set-up & Storage | Permanent setup, no storage option | Can be stored away to free up space |
When choosing between a fixed squat rack and a folding squat rack, it’s important to consider the design features, benefits, and limitations of each. Both types serve the same fundamental purpose of supporting weightlifting exercises, but they offer different benefits depending on the space and workout needs.
Fixed vs. Folding Design Considerations
A fixed squat rack is designed to remain in place, providing stability during heavy lifts. This makes it ideal for commercial gym environments where high durability and reliability are essential. On the other hand, a folding squat rack is more flexible, offering the ability to fold away when not in use. This is particularly useful in situations where space needs to be cleared for other activities.
However, the fixed squat rack offers better overall stability and support, especially when performing high-intensity lifts. The folding design, while convenient, may lack the same level of robustness and may not be suitable for very heavy lifting. In commercial gyms where consistent heavy use is expected, a fixed squat rack is generally preferred for its sturdiness.
Pros and Cons of Fixed Squat Racks Over Folding Options
The major advantage of a fixed squat rack is its permanent, sturdy setup, providing consistent support and stability for heavy lifts. It also often features additional safety bars and adjustable components that enhance workout safety and effectiveness. Commercial gym owners often prefer fixed racks because they require less maintenance and provide a more professional, reliable option for serious lifters.
However, fixed squat racks take up more floor space than folding versions. For gyms with limited room or those that need to maximize the available space for multiple exercises, a folding squat rack might be more practical. The downside of folding racks is that they may not offer the same long-term durability as fixed models, which can wear down over time with repeated folding and unfolding.
Ideal Use Cases for Fixed Squat Racks
Fixed squat racks are ideal for commercial gym environments that prioritize stability, durability, and safety. They are perfect for serious lifters who require a dependable structure to support heavy squats, bench presses, and other compound exercises. Additionally, fixed squat racks are suitable for high-traffic gyms where users often perform different types of lifts with varying intensity.
In contrast, folding squat racks are better suited for smaller gyms or spaces that need to be adaptable. While they may not provide the same stability for heavy lifting, their flexibility makes them an appealing option for gyms with diverse activities that require different setups.
Key Exercises with a Fixed Squat Rack
Squats
A fixed squat rack is essential for performing squats safely and effectively. It allows lifters to position the barbell securely and adjust the height of the safety bars, which is critical for preventing injury during heavy lifts. The stability provided by a fixed squat rack ensures that the barbell stays in place, reducing the risk of imbalance. This allows lifters to focus on their form, ensuring the proper movement mechanics.
How Fixed Squat Racks Facilitate Proper Squat Form
A primary benefit of using a fixed squat rack is the consistent bar path. When squatting, maintaining the correct form is crucial for both safety and effectiveness. With a fixed squat rack, the barbell’s movement is guided along a set track, helping users keep the bar aligned throughout the movement. This can prevent common mistakes such as leaning too far forward or losing balance, which could lead to injury.
Furthermore, the safety bars on a fixed squat rack are adjustable, allowing users to set them at a height that will catch the bar if it drops. This provides added security, especially when lifting heavy weights. A fixed squat rack also eliminates the need for a spotter, making it ideal for solo lifters or commercial gym settings where a spotter may not always be available.
Tips for Maximizing Effectiveness
To maximize the effectiveness of squats using a fixed squat rack, lifters should focus on their foot placement and depth. The feet should be positioned shoulder-width apart, and the lifter should aim to squat deep enough to achieve parallel thigh positioning. It’s also crucial to use proper breathing techniques — inhaling as you lower into the squat and exhaling as you push back up.
Setting the safety bars at the correct height is another important consideration. If the bars are too high, they may not catch the barbell in the event of a missed lift. Conversely, if the bars are set too low, the lifter may not be able to recover from the squat safely. Adjusting the rack according to the lifter’s body size and preferences will help ensure the most efficient and safe workout possible.
Bench Press
The bench press is another key exercise that can be performed effectively using a fixed squat rack. While fixed squat racks are primarily designed for squats, many also allow for bench press variations. The barbell can be placed at a suitable height for bench press exercises, providing a stable and secure platform for lifting.
Bench Press Variations Using a Fixed Squat Rack
Using a fixed squat rack for the bench press offers several advantages. First, the height of the barbell can be adjusted to suit the lifter’s arm length and comfort. This allows for an efficient starting position, making it easier to lift the barbell off the rack. Additionally, the safety bars can be adjusted to ensure that the barbell doesn’t drop too low if the lifter fails a lift. This prevents injury by offering a safeguard during intense lifting sessions.
Bench press variations such as incline or decline presses can also be performed using a fixed squat rack. These variations target different areas of the chest and shoulders, offering a complete upper-body workout. By adjusting the bench’s angle or using different grips, lifters can work on strength and muscle development from various angles.
Adjusting the Setup for Safety and Performance
Proper setup is key when using a fixed squat rack for bench pressing. The lifter should adjust the barbell’s height so that it is neither too high nor too low when lying down. Ideally, the barbell should be at chest level or slightly below. Additionally, the safety bars should be positioned just below the chest to catch the bar if the lift fails.
To maximize performance, lifters should ensure they are using proper bench press form. The feet should be flat on the floor, and the back should be kept in a natural arch. Maintaining a controlled tempo during the lift and keeping the core engaged will help prevent unnecessary strain on the shoulders and lower back.
Pull-ups and Other Upper Body Exercises
While a fixed squat rack is primarily designed for lower-body exercises like squats, it also provides a solid base for upper-body workouts. The stability of the rack makes it suitable for a variety of exercises that target the back, arms, and shoulders.
Versatility of the Fixed Rack for Upper Body Workouts
A fixed squat rack can be adapted to perform pull-ups, chin-ups, and other upper-body exercises by incorporating additional attachments like pull-up bars or resistance bands. These attachments can be added to the squat rack, providing versatility in workout routines. For pull-ups, the user can set the rack at an optimal height to allow for a full range of motion.
The fixed squat rack also allows for exercises such as dips and upright rows, which are essential for building upper-body strength. By adjusting the rack’s height or adding accessories, it’s possible to tailor the workout to focus on specific muscle groups. Whether you are aiming to target the back, chest, or shoulders, the fixed squat rack offers a stable platform for various upper-body exercises.
Techniques for Using the Squat Rack for Pull-ups and Chin-ups
When using a fixed squat rack for pull-ups and chin-ups, proper form is critical to prevent injury and ensure maximum effectiveness. For pull-ups, grip the bar with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, engaging the shoulders and back as you pull your chin above the bar. Keep the body straight and avoid swinging, as this could place unnecessary strain on the shoulders and lower back.
For chin-ups, the palms should face inward towards you, and the hands should be shoulder-width apart. As you pull yourself up, focus on contracting the biceps and engaging the core for added support. Both exercises can be modified to increase or decrease difficulty by adding weight or adjusting the body’s position.
The fixed squat rack is not only beneficial for squats but also offers versatility for various upper-body exercises. Whether you’re performing bench presses, pull-ups, or other strength-building exercises, the fixed squat rack provides a stable, secure base for lifting. Its stability, combined with adjustability, makes it an essential tool in any commercial gym or fitness facility.
Benefits of Using a Fixed Squat Rack
Stability and Safety
A fixed squat rack provides excellent stability during heavy lifts, which is essential for both beginner and experienced lifters. Stability is crucial for lifting safely, especially when working with heavier weights. Unlike free-standing equipment, a fixed squat rack is securely anchored to the ground or the wall, reducing any potential movement or wobble. This stability helps the lifter maintain proper form throughout the lift, ensuring that the barbell stays on the correct path and minimizing the risk of injury.
How Fixed Squat Racks Provide Stability During Heavy Lifts
The structure of a fixed squat rack offers a firm base for exercises that involve heavy loads. During squats, for example, the rack holds the barbell firmly in place. This allows the lifter to focus entirely on the movement without worrying about the barbell’s position. The fixed nature of the rack eliminates unnecessary shifts that can occur in free-standing models, where the bar may tilt or sway, affecting the lift’s form.
Additionally, a fixed squat rack’s design often includes heavy-duty materials, such as steel, to further enhance its stability and durability. This makes it a preferred choice for commercial gyms, where the equipment needs to handle frequent use and heavy lifting by various individuals.
Safety Features That Make Them Ideal for Serious Weightlifting
Safety is a key benefit when using a fixed squat rack, especially for exercises that involve heavy weight. Most fixed squat racks are equipped with adjustable safety bars that catch the barbell if the lifter fails during a lift. This feature is particularly useful when performing squats and bench presses, where lifters may reach muscle failure or experience fatigue.
Moreover, fixed squat racks are often designed with ergonomic considerations in mind, ensuring that the height adjustments for the barbell are easily customizable. These adjustments help the lifter find the optimal position for their body size, reducing the risk of unnecessary strain or injury. The sturdy frame and well-positioned safety features make the fixed squat rack a preferred choice for serious weightlifters, ensuring a safer lifting environment.
Durability and Longevity
Durability and longevity are significant advantages of investing in a fixed squat rack. Commercial gyms and fitness centers require equipment that can withstand frequent, high-intensity use. Fixed squat racks are built to last, using high-quality materials that resist wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability.
Construction Quality and Lasting Performance of Fixed Squat Racks
The construction of a fixed squat rack is designed to withstand heavy lifting demands. Typically made from strong, high-grade steel, these racks are engineered for superior load-bearing capacity. This ensures that the rack can safely hold large amounts of weight without compromising stability or safety. Additionally, the finish of these racks is designed to resist rust and corrosion, ensuring they stay in excellent condition even in high-humidity environments such as commercial gyms.
For fitness enthusiasts and commercial gym owners, the lasting performance of a fixed squat rack means fewer repairs and replacements, providing long-term value. The sturdy construction not only provides stability but also ensures that the rack can endure the constant pressure of heavy lifting without weakening over time.
Why Investing in a Durable Option Can Save Costs in the Long Run
Investing in a durable fixed squat rack can save money in the long term. While there may be cheaper alternatives, they often don’t offer the same level of stability or durability. Over time, cheaper racks may require frequent maintenance, replacements, or repairs. On the other hand, a high-quality fixed squat rack, made with robust materials, can last for many years with minimal maintenance.
The durability of a fixed squat rack also means that it can withstand the rigors of a commercial gym environment. Frequent use by multiple individuals, heavy lifting, and constant adjustments all place stress on gym equipment. A durable squat rack can handle this wear and tear without losing functionality or performance. This makes it a smart investment for any gym owner looking to reduce long-term costs while providing top-tier equipment for their members.
Space Efficiency
Another key benefit of a fixed squat rack is its space efficiency, making it ideal for gyms with limited floor space. Fixed squat racks are typically designed to fit neatly into a designated space, offering a stable base for heavy lifts without occupying excessive room. This design allows more equipment to be placed in the same area, maximizing the use of the available space.
How a Fixed Rack Design Can Work Well in a Gym Environment Without Taking Up Unnecessary Space
The compact design of a stationary squat rack makes it an excellent choice for commercial gyms or smaller fitness centers. Unlike free-standing squat racks, which may require more space to ensure stability and safety, fixed squat racks can be mounted against walls or integrated into existing structures. This saves valuable floor space while still providing a stable and secure platform for lifting.
Additionally, many fixed squat racks come with adjustable features that allow for customization. These features enable the rack to fit different body sizes and workout preferences, without taking up excessive space in the gym. As a result, gym owners can offer a wider variety of workout stations in the same area, improving the overall efficiency of the gym’s layout.
Fixed squat racks are often found in commercial gyms due to their space-saving nature. By reducing the amount of floor space required, gym owners can add more machines or free weights, increasing the variety of exercises available to members. This makes the fixed squat rack an indispensable tool in maximizing gym space while ensuring that lifting equipment is readily available for users.
A fixed squat rack is not only durable and stable but also a highly space-efficient option for gyms. Its long-lasting performance and compact design make it an ideal choice for serious weightlifters and commercial gym settings. Whether you are outfitting a new gym or upgrading existing equipment, investing in a high-quality fixed squat rack will provide both safety and value for years to come.
Additional Considerations for Choosing a Fixed Squat Rack
Customization and Attachments
Fixed squat racks are designed to be versatile and can often be customized with various attachments to enhance functionality. These attachments can transform a simple squat rack into a multi-functional piece of equipment, catering to different workout needs.
Options for Customizing Fixed Squat Racks with Attachments
Many fixed squat racks come with the option to add various accessories, such as dip bars, cable attachments, or plate storage. These additional features significantly improve the rack’s versatility, allowing users to perform a broader range of exercises. For example, adding a dip bar to the fixed squat rack enables users to work on triceps and chest exercises, increasing the rack’s usefulness in a commercial gym setting.
Another popular attachment is the cable system, which can provide users with a full-body workout, from lat pull-downs to seated rows. Plate storage is another useful option for commercial gyms, as it helps keep weights organized and easily accessible for users, ensuring a safer and more efficient workout environment.
These customizable features allow fitness centers to make the most out of their fixed squat racks. With the addition of multiple attachments, the same rack can be used for squats, bench presses, upper body exercises, and even cable-based movements. This flexibility makes it a great investment for gym owners looking to maximize the functionality of their equipment.
Importance of Adjustability in the Rack for Different Exercises
While fixed squat racks themselves are typically not adjustable, many offer accessories that can be customized to accommodate various exercises. These accessories can be height-adjustable or have multiple settings to allow users to adjust the rack to their specific needs. For instance, some fixed squat racks have adjustable safety catches that can be moved up or down depending on the exercise being performed. This adjustability ensures that the rack can accommodate different body types and lifting preferences.
For commercial gyms, having adjustable features in addition to the fixed squat rack itself can be highly beneficial. It allows the rack to be used by a wide range of clients, from beginners to advanced athletes. The ability to quickly adjust safety bars, hook positions, or barbell heights can make the equipment more accessible and effective for various workout routines.
The flexibility of these adjustability options is especially important for exercises like bench presses, where the lifter’s body position may require different bar heights. A fixed squat rack with adjustable components can ensure that these exercises are performed safely and effectively.
Pricing and Value
The pricing of a fixed squat rack can vary significantly depending on various factors. Understanding these factors will help you choose the best option for your needs, whether you’re outfitting a commercial gym or setting up a personal training facility.
Several factors affect the cost of fixed squat racks. One of the primary considerations is the quality of materials used in construction. Racks made from high-quality steel are typically more expensive but offer greater durability and longevity. The size of the rack is also a factor—larger racks with additional features like integrated pull-up bars or multiple safety catch settings tend to be more expensive.
The inclusion of extra features, such as adjustable safety bars, cable attachments, and plate storage, can also increase the cost of the rack. These added functionalities make the rack more versatile and capable of supporting a wider range of exercises. However, these extra features come at a premium price, making it important to evaluate which features are essential for your needs.
For commercial gyms, the pricing should also account for the expected wear and tear on the equipment. More expensive racks built with high-quality materials will often perform better in the long term, requiring fewer repairs and replacements. Understanding the balance between price and quality is essential when selecting a fixed squat rack for commercial use.
Evaluating Value for Commercial Gym Investments
When evaluating the value of a fixed squat rack for commercial gym investments, the cost must be considered in relation to the durability and functionality it offers. A high-quality rack may come with a higher initial price, but it can save money in the long run due to its extended lifespan and reduced need for maintenance.
In commercial gyms, the number of users and frequency of use can quickly wear out cheaper equipment. Investing in durable, high-quality fixed squat racks reduces the likelihood of frequent repairs and replacements. Gym owners should also consider the potential for increased revenue due to the reliability and versatility of the equipment, which may attract more members or clients.
Moreover, fixed squat racks with a variety of customizable options and attachments can enhance the overall experience for gym-goers, offering a wider variety of exercises. This can make the gym more appealing to members, improving member retention and attracting new clients. Thus, while the upfront cost may be higher, the value provided in terms of performance, longevity, and user satisfaction justifies the investment.
Choosing the right fixed squat rack involves balancing customization options, pricing, and long-term value. The features, quality of materials, and adjustability all play significant roles in ensuring that the rack meets the needs of both individual lifters and commercial gyms. By carefully considering these factors, gym owners can make an informed decision that maximizes their investment in fixed squat racks.
FAQs about Fixed Squat Rack
A fixed squat rack is often referred to as a stationary squat rack or a rigid squat rack. It is a piece of equipment used to support the barbell while performing exercises such as squats and bench presses. Unlike adjustable racks, a fixed squat rack does not allow for changes in height or position. It remains in a stationary position, offering a stable base for lifting heavy weights.
In a commercial gym setting, a fixed squat rack is crucial for providing a secure environment for weightlifters. The rack’s stability ensures that the barbell is safely supported while users perform exercises. This design allows gym-goers to lift heavy loads with confidence, reducing the risk of injury.
Although it cannot be adjusted like some other types of squat racks, a fixed squat rack is known for its strength and reliability. It is often chosen by commercial gyms because of its durability and low maintenance requirements. The fixed structure makes it ideal for serious weightlifters and professional training facilities.
Squat racks, including the fixed squat rack, offer many benefits, but they also come with some drawbacks. One major disadvantage is the lack of adjustability. Fixed squat racks have a set height and position, which means they cannot be adjusted to accommodate lifters of varying heights. This limitation may make it difficult for some users to perform exercises like squats or bench presses with proper form.
Additionally, fixed squat racks can take up a significant amount of space in a commercial gym. Since they are stationary, they require a fixed location, which can limit the flexibility of gym layouts. In smaller gyms, this can be a challenge as it reduces the available space for other equipment.
Another disadvantage is the lack of versatility. Fixed squat racks are primarily designed for squats and bench presses. Unlike multifunctional racks, they may not be suitable for exercises such as deadlifts, pull-ups, or overhead presses. Commercial gyms might need to invest in additional equipment to provide variety in their workout offerings.
A sissy squat rack is a specialized piece of equipment designed to target the quadriceps during a workout. It allows for a specific variation of the squat, where the lifter’s torso leans backward while their knees travel forward over their toes. This movement isolates the quads and helps in building strength and muscle mass in the thigh area.
While a traditional squat rack focuses on supporting the lifter for a variety of lower-body exercises, a sissy squat rack is intended for a more focused, isolating workout. This type of rack has a unique design that features pads or supports for the ankles and thighs, ensuring that the user can perform the sissy squat exercise safely.
Though not as common in all gyms, a sissy squat rack is beneficial for athletes or individuals who want to isolate their quadriceps in a controlled manner. It is sometimes found in commercial gyms that cater to more advanced lifters or those with specific training goals, particularly those aiming to increase quadriceps strength.
Squatting with a fixed bar is a standard way of performing the squat exercise. The fixed squat rack provides a stable base to hold the barbell in place. To begin, the lifter sets the barbell on the rack at an appropriate height, usually just below shoulder level, so it is easy to grab while standing.
To squat with a fixed bar, position your feet shoulder-width apart and ensure your chest is lifted while keeping your back straight. Grip the bar with both hands, and lift it off the rack by pushing with your legs. Once the bar is lifted, step back a few inches to clear the rack, and begin your squat by lowering your body while keeping your knees aligned with your toes.
It is crucial to maintain proper form to avoid injury. Make sure to keep your knees from caving inward and avoid leaning forward excessively. After completing the desired number of reps, return the barbell to the rack safely.
The fixed squat rack helps provide stability during heavy squats, making it an excellent choice for lifters in commercial gyms. By supporting the bar in a secure position, it ensures that users can focus on their squat form without worrying about balance or safety.
Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.