How To Build Your Own Deadlift Platform w/ Your Logo 

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

This is by far the most informative, useful fitness channel on youtube.

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.

This is why Alan's videos are awesome. Only he would think to use miniatures to demonstrate the construction process.

I'm surprised with some of the negative reviews. I was so impressed with the ru-vid.comUgkxMwYg0MOXR4M-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

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! 👍🏻

I built this today! Works like a charm. Total cost was $210 where I live.

The scaled down demonstration was a da vinci inspired moment.

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.

I have researched a few deadlift platform designs on RU-vid - 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

Incredible video. I've watched at least a dozen "How To Build A Platform" videos, and none compare to this.

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.

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!!!

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

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.

You need to make a second channel dedicated to home building/diy. That was hilarious.

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.

Very helpful man, thanks!

Wow, the amount of production in this is great, you not only made the platforms but made mini platforms to demonstrate. Well done.

Love how much effort you put into actually making a miniature model, this was great.

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 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.

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.

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.

Alan, where did you get the band pins for your deadlift platform? Thanks.

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!!!

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.

This is EXACTLY what I've wondered about your gym watching your videos. I'm doing this next week. thanks for sharing

He just shared DIY gym. Thats why i love that guy, thanx bro.

Amazing video, Alan. I think these gym DIY videos are great.

you put some thought snd energy into that! scaled logo's even, impressive.

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.

This is so helpful! The details you tell about predrilling are so awesome! For dummies like me!

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.

@5:15 HOLY SHIT! You're hands are HUGE!!!

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

HELL YEAH! Been waiting for this one

Dude you're the man!!! I can't wait to try it myself.

LOVE your "How to make" Videos man keep making more!!

Impeccable timing, sir. Building my home platform now.

Fantastic job Alan! Your channel might turn into a DIY paradise one day. So pro!

This is honestly an amazing instruction. I love it!

Just completed a deadlift platform for my gym. Thank you for the helpful video, Alan.

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!"

Awesome DIY! I will definitely be making some of these!

gonna make this, this weekend. thanks Alan!

Thank you for the excellent video! Looking forwarding to using this in my home gym

Thanks alan, giving this a go this weekend for the garage gym!

I actually built one and it turned out beautiful, thank you for the precise and informative video, had no problems putting it together!

This was an immensely helpful video. Thank you.

Once again, satisfaction guaranteed. Exactly what was needed.

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' ?)

Thanks. Alan! You have the best videos on RU-vid!

Thanks for the video. I'm definitely going to build my own platform for the garage gym with your help!

Best one I've seen. Buying supplies tomorrow! Thanks, dude.

Dude, you are a Fucking hero. One of the most valuable videos on the internet by far.

I followed this and it came out perfect! Thanks for great video!

really enjoyed that, will definitely follow this guide when making mine.

i love how you made a small model to show the build! really smart! :D thanks!

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.

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 😃😃😃😃😃👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

Alan u are blessing to lifting community 🙏

Just finished my platform looks awesome. Best instructional video out there. Now i can dl 500 without shaking the house 👍

Nice work Alan!!!

Great vids Alan, your channel is still so underrated, you should have over a million subs

Thanks Alan!! Going to make mine this weekend!!

Thanks for the info great 👍🏾 video Much love from Philly!!

Fantastic instructions, bud. I enjoyed that.

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.

Genius video idea! keep up the good work

Thanks Alan. Just build my platform with your help and watched your other video to add band hooks to the platform.

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.

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

Very good tips Alan. Thank you

I finally squatted 315 so I guess you could say things are getting pretty serious

Hi Alan, Thank you for this awesome tutorial :) it really helped me out making my platform :) a new and big fan of your channel

Outstanding video! Thanks so much!

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!!!

This video helped me a lot in building mine. Thanks!

pretty much how I built the 8'x12' lifting platform for my old garage, nice job on the video

The mini deadlift platform was so cute :)

Thank you, Iv been waiting for a very long time for this video hahaha

this is perfect! was just about to make one of these

Built it today. Thanks, Alan!

Dude. Awesome vid. I am making my own platform and will follow this. Thank you.

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

Super awesome vid, man. Thanks alot

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 got my Sub right after you said "Lastly, a Monster Energy Drink"

So close to 300,000 Alan!!! Any special video plans to celebrate???

Amazing how to video !!!

Awesome vid. Very helpful

Great job on the video!! THANKS!

Just built this thanks for duh solid tips 🔥

Alan has currently left untamed gym to follow his heart, and go to this old house on pbs.

that's pretty cool that he made his own platforms. i'm going to give this a shot and see how it turns out.

Dude.... At the Gates!! killer music, brother! \,,/

Great vid man!!!