The Rogue Rhino vs The Squatmax-MD - Battle of the Best Belt Squats

In this video, I compare, arguably the two best belt squats on the market, the Rogue Rhino and the Squatmax-MD.
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Update: I am now an affiliate for Rogue. If you found this video helpful and plan on purchasing the Rhino, please consider using my affiliate link that can be found below.
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All information provided by Home Gym Hacks and Reviews is for entertainment and educational purposes only. No information is to be taken as medical or health advice relating to any individual health or medical condition. You agree that using this information provided by Home Gym Hacks and Reviews is at your own risk and do not hold Home Gym Hacks and Reviews liable for any losses, damages, or injuries resulting from any of the information provided. Always consult a physician before beginning any exercise program.
Studies:
Gulick DT, Fagnani JA, and Gulick CN. Comparison of muscle activation of hip belt squat and barbell back squat techniques. Isokinetics and Exercise Science 23: 101-108, 2015.
Evans, T.W., McLester, C.N., Howard, J., McLester, J.R., Calloway, J. A comparison of muscle activation between back squats and belt squats. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. Accepted May 23, 2017.

[@StevieRichardsFitness]

Great and detailed comparison. The Squatmax has made such a huge difference with my spinal injuries. It’s an essential part of my gym space. Keep up the great work.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you, Stevie! That means a lot coming from you! I know you’re a big proponent of the Squatmax and I can definitely see why.

[@futbol1972]

Steve is the loading and unloading on tje vertical pin really a pain and cumbersome?😢. Iam sure I will like squat max for squating and all the other exercises it does without a doubt but don't know if I will like loading and unloading it specially with my sensitive back do to 2 buldging disk and doing jujitsu. It looks like I have to ether bend over or reach out to unload/load plates putting some stress on back???

[@morfitr2162]

Enjoyed the review! Both look like great machines - thanks for taking the time to explain the differences and which aspects of each you like

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much! I appreciate you checking it out.

[@DesignBuildLift]

Your reviews are so thorough….you are so good at what you do!!!!! Love this channel!!!!!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Greatly, greatly appreciated! Thank you, DIY Fitness Club!

[@jacobsanchez6924]

Solid review. Easy to follow, good transitions and info. Was curious about both of these ( in addition to the BoS and Titan options). You got my subscription!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much and greatly appreciated!

[@TomGamache]

Fantastic review/comparison. Been looking at several pieces and this is probably the best comparison video I've seen. Thanks.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I really appreciate that. Thank you!

[@mdjak3686]

Truly excellent top notch reviews.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Greatly appreciated!

[@jackedgirldad816]

Another awesome video!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you, JGD!

[@loubromberg4976]

Excellent analysis

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Greatly appreciated!

[@Useruytrw]

Hey Coach the sheer in depth and comprehensive reviews make you the goto resource before any purchase. Can never say thank you enough 🙏🙏

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I really appreciate that BB! Thank you!

[@clarkg5946]

As usual, great review. I'm sure both are fantastic. I like seeing these reviews even if I am not in the market for a belt squat. I have the Bells of Steel belt squat which I think is a good value and very solid for a home gym. But if I had space and extra money I would get the Rhino in a heartbeat. And would be interested to try out the Squatmax.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you! Before I got the Rhino, I almost got the Bells of Steel, but it was sold out, so I had to hold off. I’m glad to hear you like the BOS as I’ve heard great things about it.

[@HighSpinSwingSpeed]

I honestly think you give the best reviews on YT!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I really appreciate that! Thank you!

[@kcuhc84]

Currently deciding between the Rogue, the squatmax and the Powertec squat. This helps.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

All great choices. I have a review for the Powertec Lever Squat if you want to see that piece of equipment in action.

[@Nick-1828]

Awesome review! I currently don’t have the space for either but if I could make space for one I’d probably go with the squat max. I’d love for Rep to come out with a different belt squat attachment since the current one has too many negative reviews for me to want to try at the moment. I do love how Rogue has a drop in option for their racks though. Attaching a surplus strength ups definitely makes it a versatile piece

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you! The rack-mounted Squatmax may be coming back at some point…so that may be an option for you. That is a cool set up with the Surplus Strength piece.

[@Nick-1828]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews sadly I don’t think I could make it work. Already got the lat low row attachment on the back of my PR 5000. No room on the sides either and if I attach to the front I’m not sure if I could bench out of it. The dream is to build another house with a 3 car garage with 2/3 being my garage gym 😂

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@Nick-1828 that sounds awesome!

[@marywalton293]

Love that the SquatMax has the seat which makes it much easier for those with previous knee injuries. It's tough to get into position on the Rouge Rhino. Thanks for your thorough review!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I’m a big fan of the seat! And it comes stock which is even better!

[@teambdugz]

I am a huge fan of the seat because I can sit down in between sets without taking off the belt.

[@martinrosenberger666]

When I want to do box squats on the Rhino I slide an adjustable bench(Rep AB-3000) under the platform. The front feet go under the platform and the pad goes over. I can use different size plates to adjust the seat height.

[@thebodybeatdownDiTi]

great review..this video should help anyone out there looking for a belt squat machine..If I was in the market and money was no issue, i would likely go for the Rhino just for its easier cleaner look,less hassle to use,heavier build quality..BUT both would do the trick im sure..Thanks for the video!!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much, BBD! They both definitely get the job done.

[@LukesGarageGym]

Seems like both are solid! The loading of the rogue seems easier on your back for sure. But idk, it’s tough! Both have their pros and cons. 5 more minutes to go!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

It is tough…both are so good!

[@jpele001]

Ive never used a belt squat machine...do you feel pulling in your lower back when using since the force of the gravity would have a pull on your lower back?? thank you so much for your review...I was looking for a squat alternative and a seal row and without this review I would've never known that the squat max would do both. You are a true savior for us home gym guys

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much! I have to be very careful with my lower back and neither machine causes me trouble…I think it actually feels good for the lower back as there is a decompression component with the belt squat when it has a true vertical line of drive.

[@KoolAidMan7981]

Any issues with the cable on the Rhino? I had to have mine replaced after the rubber coating frayed away while doing seated rows. The cable was rubbing against the platform as I rowed back and forth. Great review. I love doing RDLs on the Rhino. Gets a great stretch to the hams!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you! No, I haven’t had any issues with the cable, admittedly, I mainly use the Rhino for squats and calf raises.

[@kevinstreisant7704]

Looking back at this. What would you prefer?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I still feel the same as I did when I made this review. If you’re a free weight proponent, the Squatmax may win out bc of the chest row, hip thrust, and loading pin. I couldn’t tell a huge difference between the two belt squats, the Rhino is just easier to load and unload with more foot position possibilities.

[@JoseSuarez-bk3qg]

Nice review. I prefer The Squatmax-MD hands down. The Squatmax-MD give a much better spine decompression than the Rogue Rhino. This in my opinion is a game changer as it targets your quads without any strain to your lower back.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you! I’m really glad to hear you like the Squatmax. It really is a great piece of equipment.

[@futbol1972]

But will loading and unloading plates on vertical pin stressed my lower back more? Have sensitive back wirh 2 bulding disk, also do jujitsu so it's sore all the time. Lol. Iam pretty sure I would love the squat max but don't know about the loading/unloading and also a minor thing stepping up to a 20" box. Iam still deciding between the rhino and squat max😢

[@JoseSuarez-bk3qg]

@@futbol1972 Marco, I understand you can use the flat resistance bands for resistance if you have a concern of loading and unloading weight plates.

[@thomaspham-qf4ry]

@@JoseSuarez-bk3qghave you used both if so which one do you like better for squats only ?? Which one feels more comfortable

[@gregoryanderson7103]

Hello, I enjoy your reviews. I recently used your belt squat idea with 12 inch plyo boxes and Titan loading pin. It works great. I wanted to implement this with squat wedge to elevate heels. I have double circle metal squat wedges. I'm worried about them sliding on plyo box during squat. Any suggestions? Thanks

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Great to hear! Yeah, the laminate could be an issue. I would use a stall mat between the wedge and plyo box.

[@gregoryanderson7103]

Thanks, I will definitely use the stall mat. This is the best option at this point. Not wanting to purchase a belt squat machine. Several of your videos have been helpful to me. I have a Titan T3 rack with several accessories and lever arms. I have several Titan products. I may consider a Power Tec LG after watching your videos. Thanks again

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@gregoryanderson7103 glad to help! I used pre-cut stall mats on the Rhino’s platform before entirely covering it. It worked very well.

[@magnusmagnuson2862]

What are you using for angled foot plates? Thanks for the review. Subscribed.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much! Those are the xii:xi squat wedges. That company is no longer in business, but a lot of companies are making them now.

[@TheCarterHomeGym]

Great comparison! I would personally go with the Rhino, but the SquatMax looks like a great option for the reasons you gave. Lever versions seem get work well too (Bells of Steel, Wenning Strength, etc.) Any chance you get a 3rd option to compare? 😆

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you!! Oh no…now you’ve got me thinking I need to compare the Rhino and Squatmax to a lever belt squat 😂 Before I got the Rhino, I was so close to getting the Bells of Steel or Titan. Ultimately, I’m glad I spent the extra money and got the Rhino.

[@TheCarterHomeGym]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews Yeah, I'm with you on that. Can't go wrong with Rogue.

[@futbol1972]

Why would u chose the rhino instead if u don't mind asking?

[@NisAznMonk]

Did you sell the squatmax? I didn’t see it in your latest garage gym tour. Any chance you have a video on why you sold it? I’ve been considering the one sold by Titan.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I sold the Squatmax and the Rhino. I have a couple videos titled, “I Sold 1/2 My Home Gym Equipment.” I like them both, and stand by everything I said in this video, but it was time for a change.

[@jwarner945]

comparing both of these and I have a couple questions. is ur rhino bolted to the floor. I don't really want to tear up my floor. And the resistance bands on the squatmax. are they optional to have on the machine or required? I'm a female 5'2 I've tried the rhino and it fit my body so I'm leaning towards rogue but squatmax smaller footprint wins me over

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Against Rogue’s recommendation, my Rhino is not bolted to the ground. I’ve moved it around about 5 times, so I’m glad I never bolted it. The resistance bands come with the Squatmax, but they don’t need to be used. I have 2 newer videos with the Rhino if you want to check those out. Good news, I don’t think you can go wrong with either.

[@GoreckiFit]

I told the GF I’d be done buying new equipment for awhile, but that Squat Max MD has caught my eye. I’m looking forward to what you think about it overtime and which one you like more.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

It’s a great addition to any gym. Hopefully, the GF will understand! lol! I am also looking forward to the year mark with both…I’ll likely do an update video in 6 months to a year.

[@GoreckiFit]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews I just bought the HLP Single Stack so I’ll wait for your 6 month review 😂

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@GoreckiFit great piece of equipment.

[@Crazytaru1]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews please do make an update on the rhino vs squatmax. Im debating on selling my squatmax to get a rhino since I can turn the rhino into a lat pulldown, and the rhino will make it easy to train my hip flexors too. But damn, I love the squatmax too. Ideally, id have both just like you

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@Crazytaru1 it’s a tough call to put one over the other. The biggest difference I have found is ease of use with the horizontal posts over the loading pin. Each has their own set of exercises that the other really can’t. For example, barbell rows and hip thrusts on the Squatmax Vs seated rows and bicep curls on the Rhino. The Squatmax is easier to get in and out of position because of the seat. I wouldn’t want to choose if someone said you can only have one. Being able to maneuver the Squatmax is another advantage. I’ve moved the SM 10 times since I’ve had it and now have it inside my Power Rack. The rhino is very difficult to move if I am solo.

[@babygiantbarbell1014]

I lean towards the rhino between the two but they are both very nice options.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Hey BGB! Agreed, hard to go wrong with either.

[@babygiantbarbell1014]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews what’s up man. I know people with bar collections but belt squat collections? You are really upping the ante😂

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@babygiantbarbell1014 😂 we each have our vices 😂

[@rambojohn7118]

Great review 👍💪 I was wondering if you would ever get the Squat Max and do a Real honest review . I like them both , I am deciding between which one. The smaller footprint on the Squat Max is better for my apartment gym. The Rhino just keeps getting more and more expensive. I did have the Squat Max about 1 1/2 years ago but had to sell it so I know the feel of its movement, Brian delivered it himself to me and gave me a quick session on the use of the Squat Max. I like the rhino too though. Question: Didn’t you get the transformer pin with your purchase? It’s listed as it comes standard with the Base model of the Squat Max ! Also did you consider getting the Retrofit guiderod for the Squat Max ?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thanks so much! I have wanted the Squatmax for a while and almost got it a year ago. That was very cool of Brian to deliver it as I’ve seen him do that from time to time for others. Yeah, the transformer pin came with the purchase. I misspoke about paying extra…it’s on the website for purchase for those with the older model Squatmax. I’m pretty sure mine is so new that I have the new guide rod. Good luck on deciding which one to get…it’s a tough decision.

[@rambojohn7118]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews Thanks for your reply. I am curious now, I’ll have to ask Brian if the New Retrofit Guiderod comes with the machine or is an extra . The squat max is definitely easy to move if you have to and the rhino would need almost full disassembly and the pieces are heavy for one person to move. They are both excellent though.

[@rambojohn7118]

It looks like you have the old Guiderod from looking at your video. If the Guiderod you have now if the base that’s closes to the floor is long than you have the old version and that would mean the Retrofit Guiderod is an extra cost Add on. The new retrofit Guiderod from comparing pictures from the SquatMax website is shorter.

[@garyjouvelakas2475]

What is the overall length of the Rhino from the 45 lb plate to the front of the platform?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

About 70” from 45 pound plate to the front foot.

[@Dezlou]

I like the functionality of the Rhino in this video. How well do you think the Rhino would work for a 5'2 petite woman for rows and the other uses besides belt squats. I am having difficulty growing my legs because of a moderate brain injury, and I cannot perform heavy movements such as squats or deadlifts. Plus, the way I was impacted, I have neck and shoulder issues. I have always said I wanted to buy 1 piece of leg equipment to help my legs grow. I am just curious about your thoughts on the other uses as someone who will keep a minimalistic approach to a home gym with a good piece of leg equipment, and I am now in the market for that 1 piece. I do not have a cage, and I am not sure I want one.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Sorry to hear about your injury. I can’t be 100% certain how well the Rhino will fit you. I will say, the belt has 5 adjustments which will help. I have a full review for the Rhino if you want to see a few hacks and additional exercises and another training video using the Rhino. Those videos may help you get a better idea if the Rhino is for you…bc it is very expensive. However, I’ve said before, it’s my most overbuilt and favorite piece of equipment. The Rhino can definitely be your only piece of leg equipment if you want.

[@Dezlou]

Thanks!

[@Dezlou]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews I just watched your lower body workout, and I think you just sold me. I really don't want a lot of equipment, but I can do hamstring and everything. Now just to pause, pray, and measure my garage space. Thanks for responding back.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@Dezlou glad to help.

[@chrisa8203]

You are creative in the Rogue Rhino exercises. Is there a way to do leg curls?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you. I show a prone leg curl in my Lower Body Training video using only the Rhino and standing 1 leg curls are okay but not great.

[@chrisa8203]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews thanks so much!

[@samuelbatth4317]

If you add 500 lbs on both machines equally, which one of these machine feel heavier ? Since only question I have is depth on Max MD with more plates on, because 500 lbs is not heavy.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

If I remember correctly, I could lift slightly more on the Squatmax. If you are worried about running out of room for plates, adding bands is an option.

[@onazram1]

I just purchased the Squat Max, where did you get those angled foot plates your using? Thanks...

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

They are XII:XI Squat Wedges. That company is no longer in business, but Prime and Rogue make them as well as some companies on Amazon.

[@onazram1]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews Thanks!

[@loubromberg4976]

I am considering getting a lat pull down machine, which do you recommend?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Your budget has a lot to do with it. The Prime is nice. The more expensive Titan is nice. The Powertec is nice. If you want a mobile one, the Ironmaster. If you want an inexpensive but really decent option, the plate loaded Titan…the padding and other areas are top-of-the-line, but price is good.

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

Was wondering what your next main equipment vid would be 😉 Yeah I found a commercial gym with a belt squat (a leverage one similar to the Wenning BS), they also have awesome barbells so joined there Will likely do my powerlifting stuff at home still, but do hypertrophy/cardio at gym. Sold my Echo bike last week, the first of the sacrificial lambs 😕

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Have you given the belt squat a chance? If so, will you keep it in your program? Sounds like a good training plan, but sorry to hear you had to sell something…although, the Echo bike would be one of the first pieces I would sell…it’s so tough, it doesn’t get used much 😂

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews tbh, I've never used one before Will fiddle around with it if I do a late night leg session there eventually, definitely Interested, but don't want to look like a novice either 😄

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews yeah I'm hoping to keep my power rack for my move so I can also buy the matching storage system and rack attachments, so if I do need to sell one day I can command a higher % back on a bundle compared to letting the rack go for peanuts because I have to get rid of it when I move, plus the rack attachments will definitely improve my lifting experience

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@redwhiteandblueblood 😂 let me know what you think when you get a chance to try it out.

[@redwhiteandblueblood]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews yeah will do when gym's quiet 😉 This particular gym I joined is pretty good for crossfit/functional fitness, but has the usual body-building and cardio stuff too as well, they've built pretty well Only gripes so far, their 3 Smith machines are all angled, no vertical ones, haven't found a good biceps/preacher machine yet and their olympic benches are all tiny, so basically means I will have to bench at home, but definitely can hit a few areas there Can OHP off their rig on shoulder day and not be compromised by ceiling heights or low racking points, their seated row and lat pulldowns are all nautilus and are elite, and most of their plate loaded leverage machines are quality too, so can hit the bro split well enough mixing home and there

[@Useruytrw]

Hey Coach please discuss some less expensive options like Titan🙏💐

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

The least expensive option I can think of is what I show with the plyo boxes and loading pin. I think that option is better than a lever squat. I would like to get a lever squat to review, but I think it is an inferior product when compared to these two.

[@Useruytrw]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews Thanks for taking the time to respond to a rookie, stay Blessed🙏

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@Useruytrw glad to help!

[@chrisdonnell2575]

I'm curious how you feel about both now? From what I've seen people love the Rhino and its very versatile and most importantly its far easier to load and unload the weight! If I bought Squat Max I likely would buy a 100lb plate and leave it and a 45 on there just to save time. Do you feel the workout is superior with one vs the next? I'm 52 and just started lifting again did a regular squat for 275lbs for a few sets of 5 and I want belt squat to try to increase leg strength while keeping back safe hoping to get up to 350+ lbs and build leg strength for regular squatting or after a bunch of squats and back is sore will use belt squat with likely 150 to 200lbs and try to crank out 1-2 sets of 20 reps to torch legs and not hurt back.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I sold them both and went back to my DIY Belt Squat (I have a new video for it). I sold the Squatmax first and less than a year later, sold the Rhino. Your conclusion is right on. I always liked the Rhino slightly more because of easier loading and more foot positions. It’s also a heavier and more robust machine. Luckily, you can’t go wrong with either.

[@chrisdonnell2575]

I totally appreciate and respect your advice. I know you said you have lower back issues did you find you were not using the Rhino with heavy weight and just want a lighter leg workout is that why you sold it? I like your new belt squat idea however want to do 300+ lbs and it doesn't look like it would be easy to stand on boxes! I'm considering the belt squat Kaizen made with Fringe Sport, kickstand coming early next year and it can load a lot of weight, supposedly it has a 90% feel weight do 330lbs will feel like 300 and can go low as weight pin is vertical on top. I don't need to build any stand to get range of motion, its affordable and can be added and removed with rack! Curious if you've seen it and what you think?@@HomeGymHacksandReviews

[@chrisdonnell2575]

I'm trying to protect my back. For instance this week did some deadlifts nothing radical about 250lbs for 10 reps and next day squatted and my back is so sore. I need to do belt squats on weeks I deadlift (trying to build up traps and forearms which deadlifting does for me but it ruins my squat!). That's why belt squat is so important to me and trying to prevent major back injury!

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Thank you. Not at all. I posted a few videos going pretty heavy shortly before selling the Rhino. One of the YT Shorts was 350 pounds for quite a few reps and I was able to get (8) 45s for a couple reps. For me, it was just time for a change and I needed to free up space for new equipment reviews. As for the Kaizen Belt Squat. First, I’m a big fan of Kyle, he is one of the nicest guys in this space. If the lever arm is long enough, it could be a good design. I can’t remember exactly the dimensions of Kyle’s (I think it’s better than some of the other designs). I do not like the mechanics of a short lever arm belt squat.

[@chrisdonnell2575]

Thank you for your opinion. I sure would love to save the space of Kyle's design. It is a bit longer than most and says its 90% feel weight. Kickstand coming soon which is cool.@@HomeGymHacksandReviews

[@futbol1972]

Which one do you guys is easier/better for bad knees? Anyways I ended up buying the rhino but after having it for a week I thinks is just overkill just for squats:( I showed my wife the squat max and she liked it cause she can do hip thrust, has the pad for seal rows and loved the seat and it's way smaller than rhino. She says rhino too big just for belt squats. Lol

[@thomaspham-qf4ry]

For squats what feels better rhino or SquatMax-MD?

[@futbol1972]

I already own a titan selectorized lat pull down, a selextorized funcional trainer and foldable titan rack. Do you still prefer the rhino over the squat max? I was about to buy squat max but they don't have financing. I like it because it's smaller than rhino and cheaper, however rhino has financing where I can give $1000 and pay the rest in 6 payments with no interest:) that I can do. But it looks quite large compared to squat max??

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

That makes a difference. I stand by everything I said in this video. I have a couple newer Rhino videos too. I think both are great belt squats and you can’t go wrong with either.

[@MBenson]

Now do the Bells Of Steel 2.0 belt squat machine.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

It’s crossed my mind. 😂

[@danielstarr9037]

The rogue one just looks more sturdy to me for some reason

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I agree, the Rhino is more sturdy. The height of the Squatmax / length of its legs creates some side to side movement, but I have complete confidence in its stability as I’ve seen it handle 100s and 100s of pounds.

[@futbol1972]

Is it true the footprint of rhino it's about 70" with weights on by 50"?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I can’t remember off the top of my head. In my original review for the Rhino I show the measurements with a tape measure.

[@futbol1972]

Squat max it's cool but changing plates on pin looks like a pain:( I already went through it with my lat pull down pin system. In the rhino it looks like you can do a lot more exercises that the squat max too

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

The Rhino is definitely easier to load / unload. Both machines have their advantages. For example, Hip Thrusts are much better on the squatmax. Also, with the chest-supported row squatmax add-on, I can do barbell and dumbbell work.

[@futbol1972]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews that's true but u can so barbell work with regular squat too

[@futbol1972]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews I may get high and low slinger with a bully glyder to do belt squats and lat pull downs

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@futbol1972 seems like a pretty good option; although not as vertical of a line of drive.

[@futbol1972]

I already own a straydog goat with a pad too. It's like a bulldog pad. I don't know if it will be worth to get the squat max pad if I already have the goat? However it looks like for hip thrust on squat max I ha e to get their pad? Assuming I decide to buy squat max over rhino🙄

[@futbol1972]

Don't know which one to get yet😢

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Tough call. Both are great. I have a new video showing 35+ exercises with the Rhino and another video showing my favorite accessories to use along with the Rhino.

[@futbol1972]

​@@HomeGymHacksandReviews the rhino very nice however I already have selectorized cable machines so I won't be needing rhino for cable exercises only for squats but still don't know

[@jamesdean1143]

The Squatmax is a true free weight experience. The Rogue is cable system which just doesn’t have the same gravity effect.

[@abduljama9621]

The squatmax md I like it for it's size/free weights. The price is absurd to me i could diy this myself. I get the rhinos price blecause it's heavily built I guess. Md is basically a well built guage steel table lol.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I’ve seen a couple decent DIYs for the Squatmax and I used a loading pin and plyoboxes for a number of years; but if anyone is willing to pay extra, the Squatmax is better than those options with the loading pin that travels along a shaft, band pegs, and the arms that lock the loading pin into place. I can’t sell the Squatmax short because it’s a hip thrust and can be used for rows too.

[@mariolp2999]

I would prefer the Rhino but darn... this machine is expensive as of now it's 2500 shipped to TX.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Keep an eye on marketplace. They show up from time-to-time. I sold mine for 1250 (I should have listed it for 1500) but I wanted it to go fast.

[@Innocence44]

is there a reason why the pulley tower on the rhino is so tall? my god damn low basement ceiling

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

It could probably be slightly shorter and not impact the exercise selection / carriage travel. Would it be possible to cut a small hole in the Sheetrock to allow for the tower?

[@pooradogd]

Which do you feel is better now that you've had them for awhile?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

I still think they are very comparable and I still stand by everything I said in this review. The Squatmax has some unique features: the seat, the transformer pin, the hip thrust, and it’s less expensive. The Rhino is easier to load and has more foot positions. A couple months ago, I sold 1/2 of my equipment to make room for future reviews (I have a video) and I sold the Squatmax…it was a tough choice, but the Squatmax was easier to load in the truck to meet the seller.

[@futbol1972]

So If the rhino was the same weight as squat max and easy to move just like squat max you would of sold the rhino or squat max?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

The Rhino is my preferred belt squat…only by a little bit.

[@futbol1972]

@Home Gym Hacks and Reviews I have A bad knee and 2 buldging disk. I wonder which one will be better for my knee, the rhino whith the cable or the squat max with free weights?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@futbol1972 I think you should call around and find a gym that has each or both and test each belt squat for yourself…that’s the only way you’ll truly find out before purchasing one.

[@chrisa8203]

How tall are you?

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

5’9”

[@danstockton8815]

Those cords strength on the Rhino if you go heavy enough

[@danstockton8815]

Not sure about the other

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Both can handle at least 500 pounds.

[@danstockton8815]

I mean stetch. Kind of nerve racking when you fully up and it's still below the horn

[@hitleractually8180]

The Rhino design is based off the Westside ATP. That, in itself, is a reason to get the Rhino. Can you easily perform ATP marches with the squat max? Doesn't look like it. Do step ups/downs with it? Nope. Box squat with it? Not how you're supposed to. Can you do seated rows with the squat max or chest supported rows? Nope! Rogue wins!

[@JB-po3rb]

Total umständlich !!!!

[@stephenclark8844]

Nope Weinning belt squat

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

A lever belt squat over one that offers a vertical line of drive? The Wenning is nicely made, but functionally, I don’t think it’s as good as either of these.

[@trainerman1]

Invasive and interrupting ads gives this a Thumbs Down.

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

Typically, the ads are supposed to be placed at natural breaking points. Also, sometimes, I can watch a KZbin video and there won’t be any ads and I can watch the same video again, and there may be 2 or 3. All I can say is, sorry.

[@DERHOF2007]

I have yet to use any kind of belt squat but I really want to get one. But I'm not liking about the squat max is it seems that the seat is in your way so you can't do ask the grass squats. Also if you want to do squats with your feet really close together you also can't do it on the squat max because of the giant hole for the plates. If it wasn't for that I think I would definitely want to go that route but based on that it seems like Rogue might be the winner for me 🤷‍♂️

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

The seat can go really low or can be removed from the Squatmax. At one point, Brian manufactured a riser which allowed for a super close stance and at some point he might bring it back. There is also the close-stance inlay which allows the feet to get a little closer. Both are really good options, but you are correct, the Rhino allows for a closer stance.

[@DERHOF2007]

@@HomeGymHacksandReviews Thanks for the reply. I wonder why he would stop production of the riser???

[@HomeGymHacksandReviews]

@@DERHOF2007 absolutely. He told me it was due to cost.