Building a foundation for a platform over soft ground

[m s]

Hi,

This is how I'm currently lifting:


The platform is too small, breaking, and where the weights land (mats on top of rocks) continuously digs deeper into the ground and has to be constantly adjusted. I want to build a better one. What would be the best way to build a foundation to lay the platform on? I considered connecting some 2x4's together and sledgehammering them into the soft ground and laying the platform but wanted to ask for other suggestions first.

[Mark Rippetoe]

Build a foundation out of a 6-inch concrete slab.

[Tartarus]

Rip, any advice on deadlifting in a house with a raised foundation? I would like to set up a lifting area in my living room which has wood floorong.

[Mark Rippetoe]

What is a "raised foundation"?

[Oso Rojo]

Slab vs. Crawl Space Foundations: Costs, Types, Energy Efficiency | HomeAdvisor

[Mark Rippetoe]

It's called "pier and beam," not "raised foundation." I would not drop heavy deadlifts on a pier and beam floor.

[Tartarus]

Thanks, Rip.