How To Build Your Own Deadlift Platform w/ Your Logo
Вставка
- Опубліковано 9 лют 2025
- In this video I explain exactly how I made the deadlift platforms at Untamed Strength and how I put my logo on each one.
-Stack two 4'x8' sheets of 3/4" plywood. Glue and drill.
-Place one 4'x4' piece of 3/4" plywood on top, centered. Glue and drill.
-Place two 2'x4' pieces of 3/4" horse stall mats on each side of 4'x4' piece of plywood. Glue and drill with washers.
-Add logo
-Stain wood and coat with polyurethane.
Untamed Strength is a Strongman/Powerlifting gym in Sacramento CA.
www.trainuntame...
Follow me on IG @untamedstrength
This is by far the most informative, useful fitness channel on youtube.
Jah Rastafari Jason blaha is decent. sometimes he's insane.
Jah Rastafari have you seen athlene-x ?
Jah bless Alan! one love
Alan thrall, Buff dudes and vitruvian physiqe are the three most educational fitness channels on youtube
***** for sure. I just got one of my friends to go check out his UA-cam. I'll know tomorrow what he thinks about his channel.
This is why Alan's videos are awesome. Only he would think to use miniatures to demonstrate the construction process.
Probably out of necessity also, if he didn't want to make another platform just for this video.
Those aren't miniatures, he's just that big
4 years later… I was really pleased to stumble upon this vid since I was thinking about how best to reinforce my shed floor for lifting!
Followed these instructions to the letter and really pleased with the outcome!
Thanks so much, Alan! - fantastic channel! 👍🏻
Minor point for others: Pre-drill holes in the top full sheet before gluing, and screw it all together before letting it dry overnight. Screws provide clamping force which you need for a good bond. Then use free weights in the open area for clamping force.
The scaled down demonstration was a da vinci inspired moment.
Da vinki????
I have researched a few deadlift platform designs on UA-cam - some by some famous lifters - and some by some not-so-famous fitness folks. Although there are some designs similar to Alan's, this is the best one I have seen by far. And if this is not the best design, this is definitely the best demonstrated/explanation on the art of building a deadlift platform. Alan walks you through all of the steps and features and informs you as to why on each step. I can't believe how many experienced lifters didn't even comment on the importance on the quality of the wood/fiberboard - this is critical! Thanks again Alan for saving critical time and money.
Man you really speak clear and show why you do and don’t do things
You speak a language that everyone understands. Key to your success.
Good shit
I built this today! Works like a charm. Total cost was $210 where I live.
That's good, how'd you get wood that cheap?
Thats about what mine comes out to
where do u live?
Wow, in 2024 I just paid $269 just for the lumber. I got 4'x8' maple, 3/4 inch
My daughter wanted a dead lift platform. She sent me the link to your video. Extremely clear and concise instructions....much appreciated. I thought I would build a better mouse trap and tried a skill saw to cut mats because I though the razor blade cut would take forever. I was wrong on both sides. The circular tube (I used 4" plastic drainage piping like you can get at Lowes) concept was brilliant. I used a 4' level as a straight edge and minutes later I was done. Cost about $170.........She is ecstatic. Thanks for sharing Mr Thrall.
Wow. I was just watching it because a friend is making a deadlift platform and shared this link. I don't lift. Your scale model to explain the process is very informative. Reasoning for using the woodworking, painting, and finishing techniques is thorough and thoughtful without being condescending. The pacing is also pretty flawless. One of the best instructional videos I've ever seen on anything.
Just watched this again but noticed a few fine details I'd change.
Those severely warped pieces of "plywood" you showed as an example (pic I'm sure you just swiped of the interwebs) aren't exactly plywood, they look more like 1/4" thick veneer wood strips.
I would just stress potential builders to make sure they get OSB panels for their base layer. It's generally stronger and more durable than plywood. I can go on about the differences between OSB panels and Plywood panels and how they're made which sets them apart...... but that would bore most people. Just go to Lowes, Home Depot, local lumber yard, wherever and ask where their OSB panels are...... likely right next to the Plywood panels. Not only is OSB cheaper, but it's stronger and generally better quality. That top "pretty" looking board you want is where you need to buy plywood panels.
Finally, I highly suggest not only treating the side you'll see with stain and a clear coat, but also the under side as well. While plywood generally does better than OSB when in contact with moisture.... BOTH with expand and get wonky. That is probably the reason why yours bowed over time because the underside was not protected and just sitting on the floor bare. So I stress again, apply some sort of coating to the underside of your platforms. Do this and your platform should stay straight as an arrow for a very long time. Likely will only need to get a wood conditioner (sold by the stains) and then apply a few layers of OIL based polyurethane. While you will get a better buzz going with oil base polyurethane if not applied in a well ventilated room or outisde, it performs MUCH better than water based Polyurethane in extreme, exposed conditions. As a result, I'd use oil based poly on both the underside and the top, finished side as well..... you know.... since you'll be standing on it. I'd call that pretty "extreme" conditions. For ultimate protection for your OSB or plywood base layer that will be resting on the floor, a good coat of Varnish will be better than either water or oil based Polyurethane. Poly is generally intended for side furniture and picture frames.... stuff like that. Varnish is the coating they generally put on wood floors, doors, outside gates or furniture, etc. Slap a coat of varnish on the underside of your platform and it will likely stay solid and straight for as long as you keep the platform.
Just my two cents. Wrap up - 1) I'd use OSB as my base layer because it is more durable and higher quality than plywood. 2) don't just coat the top of your platform with a clear coat like Polyurethane. Also coat the bottom. If Poly is used use OIL based Polyurethane because it will hold up better than water based poly...... just make sure you apply oil based poly outside or right next to an opened garage door if at all possible...... you seriously might get fucking loopy otherwise. 3) personally, I'd use VARNISH as my clear coat of choice for not only as the moisture barrier on the underside of the platform, but also the top side. This is more durable than Poly by a long shot. It's why it's used on floors for fucks sake. Oh yeah.... Varnish is also the finish of choice for outdoor decking and BOATS..... so yeah, it's insanely waterproof. Might be overkill, but I'd rather be safe than sorry..... or, I'd rather have a completely protected and flat as can be platform than standing on a not quite as protected platform that if moisture does break through feels like you're standing on a wobble board....... that might be an exaggeration but you get the point.
That is all.
Searched Amazon for Varnish, and it seems to be a bit difficult to find straight up varnish nowadays. BUT I found something from Rustoleum.... Here it is. www.amazon.com/Rust-Oleum-207008-Marine-Varnish-1-Quart/dp/B000C011CE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1502319730&sr=8-1&keywords=outdoor+varnish
EXTREMELY underrated comment, going to go with your method, an 8x12. Do you reckon the varnish gives a slippery touch? Going to be doing Olympic lifts.
Incredible video. I've watched at least a dozen "How To Build A Platform" videos, and none compare to this.
I purchased the Deadlift Band Pegs that you see in the thumbnail here:
www.blackwidowtg.com/Band_Deadlift_Platform_Pegs_p/deadlift-platform-peg.htm
I'm glad I checked the comments section. You rock dude.
Out of curiosity, what type of squat rack are you using at the end of the video?
if I deadlift 6 plates 585lbs and slam it will it damage the boards? also how are your platforms holding up to date? thanks!!!
Great video! This is pretty much exactly how I did my 8'x12' garage gym platform. For anyone who has trouble cutting the rubber mats, spray wd-40 or any other silicone spray on your cutting line. It makes cutting those mats way easier
Even water with dish soap significantly helps the cut.
You need to make a second channel dedicated to home building/diy. That was hilarious.
Wow, the amount of production in this is great, you not only made the platforms but made mini platforms to demonstrate. Well done.
I'm about to build a deadlift platform in my garage and I couldn't find a great video. This is EXACTLY what I needed. Good stuff, Alan.
Loved this video! My hubby and I have gotten back into lifting these past few months and just made our own platform. Your how to videos have helped us so much and I think I am the strongest I’ve been in a long time. Before when I was lifting I would quit after a few months because I felt like I wasn’t making much progress and felt like crap after my lift days. Now after greatly improving our technique we are both seeing amazing results in our strength and physique. Just wanted to say thank you for making lifting fun again!!!
Nice video. I made mine a couple years ago and did not secure the horse stall mats onto the platform. This never caused a problem when I was using the platform, but it did allow me to move the platform much more easily. If you have never worked with horse stall mats, you need to know that they are very heavy, much heavier than the wood used for the platform. Being able to remove the horse stall mats and move them separately makes it a good deal easier to move the platform around. No matter. Still an excellent tutorial.
Very helpful man, thanks!
How many of your members are going to surprise you with a Neversate DL Platform next week? At least two right?
Hahaha nah man, we don't have enough room for them
Love your channel big guy! Hope your rotator cuff is recovering quick!
Well I own a print shop that could print do you platforms, your shirts, your hats, your banners, etc.
I would donate what you need for exposure.
I'm definitely impressed with this video, obviously Alan knows a lot about lifting but this is great information. I watch videos about DIY woodworking projects all the time, and all of his advice is spot on.
This is an old video of yours but im actually using it tomorrow when i build my platform for my basement gym! you saved me a shit ton of money thanks Alan!!! you rock
He just shared DIY gym. Thats why i love that guy, thanx bro.
I actually built one and it turned out beautiful, thank you for the precise and informative video, had no problems putting it together!
Dude, you are a Fucking hero. One of the most valuable videos on the internet by far.
Tbh i really dig these old alan thrall videos way more than the newer ones (they're great too though) because i can watch these without wanting to build a plattform, just for entertainment
You'll be glad to know that when I finally move into my first house, I will follow this guide and make my first addition to my garage gym!!!
About to graduate High-School. Lifting at the High-School weight room won't really be an option anymore. I have a home gym. I was deadlfiting this morning on just a mat and still noticed it was extremely loud. I can't wait to build one of these thanks to your tutorial.
This is so helpful! The details you tell about predrilling are so awesome! For dummies like me!
Love how much effort you put into actually making a miniature model, this was great.
I loved the style of this video. The content isn't anything new to me, but i'm sure your use of scaled down models will really help a lot of people. Keep up the good work Alan, you're an inspiration.
Best one I've seen. Buying supplies tomorrow! Thanks, dude.
It took me very long to realise Alan was making a miniature one just for the video, instead of a part of a normal sized deadlift platform
This is an amazing video.
Keep making the DIY gym equipments, I just love it and it's extremly motivating for us to start doing our own!
Thank you Alan
I'm surprised with some of the negative reviews. I was so impressed with the ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxMwYg0MOXR4M-oGeyBsNSYe1aPOUoRH6D cage that I got the lat pulldown attachment that goes with it. It is equally outstanding. I don't have one complaint other than putting it together is a job. The instructions and packaging of the parts are very well designed and organized. Also, I stripped and damaged the pull down cable the first day, admitting it was my stupid fault, and they quickly replaced it at no charge. I'm 6'5, 280lbs and fit in the cage just fine. Glenn B
I play Alan's videos in the background, in low volume, because his assertiveness and voice soothes me and relaxes me. Alan, you should read books on Audible!!!
I think it's so cool how your gym is only 45 minutes from where I live!
SVG STRENGTH Have you visited the gym?
Not yet! Hoping to get a little stronger before I do lol
SVG STRENGTH Go there and get strong ;)
Wise words
I watched your deadlift video. Those round backs tho.
Awesome video! I would also recommend a light dusting of sand (uniformly and not a layer or coat of sand) when the second clear coat (polyurethane) is tacky, let dry and then one or two more coats of poly. It adds some nice grit and grip to the surface, without obscuring the logo). There are probably other, better ways to do it, but that is a favorite of mine. The trick is to keep the dusting of sand light and uniform.
I like this idea. How do you apply it though in a uniform manner?
@@ryeann2567 either buy a sifter or make one from a small bucket or gallon jug. But, I believe you could also use a flour sifter from the kitchen supply store or similar outlet store.
This guy makes great instructional videos. 💯
love the miniature demo model! If you're doing a logo you can also incorporate a subtle centreline mark, makes it easy to line up the bar and your feet squarely and evenly, great for beginners to get a solid repeatable stance
Just completed a deadlift platform for my gym. Thank you for the helpful video, Alan.
Seen 3 ppl ask so far and no answers to the question. Lol
Alan u are blessing to lifting community 🙏
This is EXACTLY what I've wondered about your gym watching your videos. I'm doing this next week. thanks for sharing
Hi Alan all I can say is great instructions I built two platforms one with 3 full sheets of hard wood and one as a deadlift platform next to it all out of hard wood ply 😃😃😃😃😃👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Once again, satisfaction guaranteed. Exactly what was needed.
That's awesome. Even though I had my basement floor covered with black gym mats when I bought the house, it's still only one layer and definitely wouldn't handle 500 pound deadlifts. Course, I'm nowhere near 500 pounds. But I would like to add that plywood platform under my squat stand, and put a DL platform in front of it. That way I can attach band hooks. And also that way I can also bolt down the stand. I have a Rogue ES-1. It doesn't have bolt holes but maybe one day I'll upgrade.
that's pretty cool that he made his own platforms. i'm going to give this a shot and see how it turns out.
I know its 4 years old but soooo relevant. I made a dope platform thanks to you bro
Hey man, I'm relatively new to your channel, but I'm loving this DIY series (this one and the atlas stones so far)
Keep on rockin' (metalin' ?)
Hey Alan - excellent video! The idea of building a scale model of the platform was mind-bogglingly helpful to understand the process. Really awesome job my friend.
Only thing I would add is you could add edge banding to hide the end grain. Moisture is actually lost through end grain significantly faster than any other part of the wood. Sealing with poly does help with moisture changes, but it only slows it down.
Just finished my platform looks awesome. Best instructional video out there. Now i can dl 500 without shaking the house 👍
I followed this and it came out perfect! Thanks for great video!
Amazing video, Alan. I think these gym DIY videos are great.
Thanks Alan. Just build my platform with your help and watched your other video to add band hooks to the platform.
Impeccable timing, sir.
Building my home platform now.
This video helped me a lot in building mine. Thanks!
Awesome tutorial! I built my own home gym platform using your guidance and it turned out awesome! My logo looks great using your method as well.
Very helpful video! I'm going to try making one of these this weekend for my garage. That quick cut to Zack Galifianakis always makes me laugh. And as always, thank you for the friendly reminder to "train on time!"
you put some thought snd energy into that! scaled logo's even, impressive.
But what do I do with the Monster energy drink????? Ahh. I guess I'll add that as layer between the stain and the poly.
Ah, nah. You're supposed to smear it on the bottom side. It creates a sticky layer that ensures the platform doesn't move.
Great vids Alan, your channel is still so underrated, you should have over a million subs
the deadlift platform looks badass
Thanks. Alan! You have the best videos on UA-cam!
So close to 300,000 Alan!!! Any special video plans to celebrate???
LOVE your "How to make" Videos man keep making more!!
Fantastic instructions, bud. I enjoyed that.
@5:15 HOLY SHIT! You're hands are HUGE!!!
After further investigation, he MAY be using smaller pieces of wood for demonstration purposes. Not positive though
you know what they say about big hands...
they need big gloves?
those are 45 plates though
3Runner95SRB that finger strength too. see how he didn't even use his whole hand?!
Hey man good video. And yes u r correct about buying good lumber. The platform is leveled but the rack wobbles when no weight is on it. As soon as start adding weight to the rack. The wobbling goes away.
Thanks for the video. I'm definitely going to build my own platform for the garage gym with your help!
LOL "Pretty metal I know!!...but not very sanitary" awesome job Alan
The mini deadlift platform was so cute :)
YOU THE MAN ALLEN IM JUST ORDERING ALL THESE GRACIAS. YOU IN LA YOU SHKULD KNOW WHAT “gracias “ means
I finally squatted 315 so I guess you could say things are getting pretty serious
Wren Gehle nice. Before gyms closed I had just hit a 335 squat and 315 deadlift. I’m probably back at 200+ pounds now😐
Michael Michael buddy you should be deadlifting more than what your squatting
@@j.cbarajas8988 i was gonna say am i doing it wrong? lol
@David A it could be any number of things. in my instance i used to squat more than deadlift cause i was raised under the notion that deadlifting was more dangerous than it was worth. avoided it like the plague for 10 years, so when i was really seriously lifting i started to squat 385-400 but was only deadlifting 225 simply because i never did it before. took about 5 months of work but got it to surpass 400. anyways my point is dude could be squatting right but not deadlifting much because of other reasons. a lot of old wives tales still plague the lifting scene
Built it today. Thanks, Alan!
You got my Sub right after you said "Lastly, a Monster Energy Drink"
I got some free 1/2 plywood that is okay. Will make a dead lift plat form with it and see how it tunees out. Still figuring out my layout if our gym in our garage. Great video.
Dude. Awesome vid. I am making my own platform and will follow this. Thank you.
i love how you made a small model to show the build! really smart! :D thanks!
Thanks alan, giving this a go this weekend for the garage gym!
really enjoyed that, will definitely follow this guide when making mine.
Dude.... At the Gates!! killer music, brother! \,,/
pretty much how I built the 8'x12' lifting platform for my old garage, nice job on the video
Alan, where did you get the band pins for your deadlift platform? Thanks.
gonna make this, this weekend.
thanks Alan!
Hi Alan, Thank you for this awesome tutorial :) it really helped me out making my platform :) a new and big fan of your channel
This is honestly an amazing instruction. I love it!
I got a vinyl logo made at a local print shop, which was not expensive, it was still semi time consuming to place on the platforms, but has lasted well with some varnish over the top.
Dude you're the man!!! I can't wait to try it myself.
Awesome! Believe it or not my wife & I got kicked out of Planet $hitne$$ We moved to the Delmarva eastern-shore So the Gym Choices are Slim Planet, YMCA, Power-House.. Which we currently belong to.. However we drive over 62 Miles Round Trip... 4 X a week... So we are putting a Out-Building up & making a Home Gym.. We like the 24 hour of which Planet was the only one... This is something that I will do... BIG LIKE !!! Cheers!
coolest videos on the internet
Very good tips Alan. Thank you
Thanks Alan!! Going to make mine this weekend!!
Awesome DIY! I will definitely be making some of these!
Thank you for the excellent video! Looking forwarding to using this in my home gym
I built this today! It was hard to find 4 x 8 inch horse mats. But now I'm having trouble trying to stand on it, seems a little small...
Jkjk, great video! I'm going to build the Art of Manliness style for my half squat/ bench / deadlift area. 8x8ft.
Thanks for the video very useful instructions... for my platform i used birch plywood and conveyor belt (used). Toughest platform in the neighbourhood 😉
Alan has currently left untamed gym to follow his heart, and go to this old house on pbs.
Holy shit, this vid is great and the model of it just makes it much more awesome. hope to do this some day!
I'm stuck with a rectangular pad at home that I made out of smaller square pads... and that's due to me having to deadlift at the end of the one and only squat rack that's at the gym.
:(((( powerlifting problems