Best Weight Benches 2022 – Ultimate Buyer’s Guide and Reviews

If you are reading this article, you are probably considering getting yourself a weight bench. And for your money, you want to get one of the best weight benches possible, which qualifies you as a rational customer. Well, you have come to the right place.

Welcome to our guide pick best weight benches, where you will learn everything you need to know about weight benches, their main features, and benefits.

We will also give you top weight benches reviews and explain how to choose a bench that will satisfy your ultimate workout needs.

10 Best Weight Benches – Reviews

Let’s take a look over some of the best weight benches on the market has to offer this year and do a quick comparison.

ImageProduct nameDimensionsAdjustment positionsWeight Capacity 
CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench53"L x 27"W x 45"H10 positions500 pounds flat, 400 pounds inclined
Bowflex SelectTech 5.1 Adjustable Bench56"L x 26"W x 20"H6 positions400 pounds
Universal 5 Position Weight Bench51"L x 17"W x 25"H5 positions430 pounds
Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench57"L x 16"W x 18"H7 positions450 pounds
Rep 1000 lb Rated Flat Weight Bench for Weight Lifting47"L x 12"W x 17.5"H0 (non-adjustable)1,000 pounds
Rep Adjustable Bench - 1000 lb Capacity - Flat/Incline/Decline - FID

54"L x 26"W x 17.5"H7 positions1,000 pounds
Marcy Adjustable Utility Bench - SB67052"L x 25"W x 46.5"H6 positions600 pounds
PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench40"L x 9.5"W x 15"H0 (non-adjustable)550 pounds
Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable weight-lifting Bench44"L x 18.8"W x 21"H11 positions1,000 pounds
XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472

62.2"L x 25.8"W x 20.3"H7 positions1,500 pounds

1. CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench

CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench

First of all, We have no idea why they named it “Barbell Bench.” As far as we are concerned, you can do exercises with dumbbells as well so pay no attention to the name.

CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench is a solid bench, which has (almost) everything you may need. Here you have seven incline positions to train your pecs, biceps, triceps, and deltoids. The incline range is good enough for most common exercises, both on the seat and the back support.

Switching between the angles is really easy and smooth. The quality of the cushion materials could be better, but that’s what you get for the money asked, which is acceptable for us.

One major downside of this weight bench is the lack of decline options. Yes, some of us pectoral workout freaks simply would not want to have a bench that doesn’t allow for a lower chest workout, which is why you need the decline.

Of course, you may always put something under the leg on one side to raise the action, however, We strongly suggest you don’t do it simply because it’s very unsafe.

Speaking of the sturdiness, CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench is solid enough to withstand the maximum allowed weight without much wobble. However, you may need to tighten the bolts from time to time in case of regular usage as it’s simply not that well-constructed.

Other minor problems could include the paint peeling off the welds and loose feet (again, they require tightening from time to time).

The assembling process is relatively easy – it should take you no more than an hour and a half to assemble the whole thing simply by following the instructions provided.

For those you, who have wide shoulders, beware of the noticeable indent on the back support – if you want to have more support, you should probably consider a different model.

CAP Barbell Deluxe Review

Oh, and one more thing – there are two power band posts for resistance bands. Although not really suitable for men, they may come in handy for the ladies’ workout.

Otherwise, it’s a great product for the price asked – not too heavy and easily portable. You just grab the handle, raise it, and roll it using the wheels.

PROS:

  • Great price/quality ratio
  • Good incline range

CONS:

  • No decline options
  • Mediocre build quality (paint peeling, bolt require tightening)

Final Verdict

Overall, CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Bench is well worth its price. Excellent choice for a beginner.

2. Bowflex SelectTech 5.1 Adjustable Bench

Bowflex SelectTech 5.1 Adjustable Bench

Despite the fact that Bowflex are known for their rather innovative and somewhat controversial approach (like power rods in home gyms instead of more conventional weight stacks), this bench is a great example of a successful blend of the classic design and modern technology. You can even call it, dare I say, a benchmark.

First impression – Bowflex SelectTech 5.1 Adjustable Bench is quite sturdy! No matter how much weight you pump, it won’t wobble, and that’s a huge advantage compared to the cheaper models. We also like the stylish design, especially the upper cushion, which is red – looks pretty cool!

This bench allows up to 400 pounds of weight + lift load, which is somewhat average and may not be enough for stronger athletes. However, we read numerous stories online where people would claim they did 500+ lbs on this bench and it didn’t budge. Still, We would strongly recommend you abide by the manufacturer-provided limitations.

The build quality is great (not perfect, though), everything looks solid and feels rugged. You will probably have to deal with the cheap plastic smell (from the cushion) for a few weeks, but it will go away eventually.

The incline/decline (up to 17 degrees) variations are very spot-on – every possible combination for every muscle group is there. Bowflex SelectTech 5.1 Adjustable Bench comes with a removable leg hold-down brace, which is quite handy for some exercises, like ab crunches.

One major disappointment we had with this product is the seat design – when the bench is flat, there’s a noticeable gap between the back support and the seat cushion. It may be unsafe for tall people to pump serious weights on such bench.

Other than that, it’s all good and we think sense a winner here. Bowflex guys will even throw in a 30-year warranty on the frame if you buy their weight bench – We would say that’s quite generous.

PROS:

  • Excellent value
  • 6 different incline/decline options
  • Cool design
  • Sturdy and rugged

CONS:

  • May be unsuitable for tall (over 6’1″) people due to seat design
  • Can not fold up

Final Verdict

It does what it says. It looks great. It feels solid. What more do you want for that money?

3. Universal 5 Position Weight Bench

Universal 5 Position Weight Bench

Next up is a Universal 5 Position Weight Bench. To sum up our thoughts on this product – it’s comfortable.

We’ve never seen such a quality made cushion on an affordable product. The material itself feels very soft and natural. No funny plastic smell here as well, which is also quite unusual for the price given.

This weight bench offers five positions – from -10 degrees decline to 45 degrees incline. Unfortunately, there is no upright position, which would make it difficult to perform exercises on shoulder muscles. This is our main problem with this bench.

If you want to limit your workout mainly to chest muscles, then Universal 5 Position Weight Bench is a great choice as it’s a very quality made product which is definitely worth its price.

However, if you look for some exercise options beyond that, you will have to look elsewhere.

The bench allows a maximum of 250 pounds of user weight with an overall weight capacity of 430 pounds – decent, but not great. Should be enough for an average home athlete.

We personally like the ease of use – it’s very easy to switch between the angles, just like you would expect from a gym-class machine. Universal 5 Position Weight Bench is stable enough on most even surfaces and the assembly process is something that most of us would easily handle.

The warranty is 2 years on the frame and 30 days on the upholstery, which is quite typical for the products in this price range but is nowhere near the 30-year warranty on the frame provided by Bowflex.

The leg holder looks good at first but after some use you realize that it feels uncomfortable on the lower angles. We wouldn’t recommend doing ab crunches on this machine.

Another disappointing for such a nice product is the plastic caps – they keep falling off every time you move the bench across your room. Not that it’s critical but still gets on the nerves and creates some discomfort.

PROS:

  • Quality materials
  • Has 5 incline/decline options
  • Easy movement

CONS:

  • No upright position

Final Verdict

Overall, Universal 5 Position Weight Bench is a good product. We would definitely recommend it to a novice while advanced lifters should probably spring for the bench which offers more workout options and allows more weight.

4. Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench

Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench

Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench is… solid! “Wow, who would have thought?” you may exclaim but it’s true.

This weight bench is a no-frills workout machine, which may not look as good as some of its flashy competitors but still do the job. And it does a great job!

First of all, there are 7 positions, including various degrees of incline and decline, flat position and near vertical position – ideal for bicep curls. However, the “near vertical” is not 90 degrees exactly, which is why those of you who are looking for a great shoulder exercise bench, should consider other options.

The padding feels quite comfortable and the cushion materials are of decent quality. One thing that we truly loved about this product is that it folds easily for space-saving storage – a very important feature for those of you who don’t have much space at home and want to use the one they have wisely.

The assembly is not even required as Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench arrives preassembled, in a folded position. The maximum allowed weight is 450 pounds which is OK for novices and those who lift medium weights.

This bench is also quite easy to move around as it has wheels of sorts.

Now, for the downside. It’s the smell. We would expect a little less plastic smell. Some say this has to do with the fact the item was made in China, but we won’t jump to any conclusions there.

The manufacturer provides a 10-year warranty on the frame and a one-year warranty on the parts.

All in all, you have got to give credit to this product for being a nice and reliable weight bench, no more but no less. After all, what we ultimately want is not bells and whistles but a sturdy and reliable home exercise machine, and this bench gives you that.

PROS:

  • Has 7 adjustment positions, including near vertical
  • Folds easily for storage
  • Rrequires no assembly

CONS:

  • No upright position
  • Cheap plastic smell

Final Verdict

Body-Solid Powerline Flat/Incline/Decline Folding Bench is a solid weight bench that allows you to effectively exercise your upper body and save some space by easily folding the bench and putting it away in the corner (or closet).

5. Rep 1000 lb Rated Flat Weight Bench for Weight Lifting

Rep 1000 lb Rated Flat Weight Bench

If you are looking bench for heavier weight, this is the best flat weight bench for your weight lifting time. The weight lifting flat bench offers 1,000 lbs weight limit so that you can lift the weight without any tension.

This is a heavy duty weight bench for weight lifting. 11 gauge frames are used for providing long lasting service to any person. Moreover, the thick steel hardware with 2 x 2-inch square tubing design makes it perfect for weight lifting. The bench will give support for the maximum limit weight.

The measurement of the flat weight bench is also suitable for any person. This is a 47-inch long and 17.5-inch tall flat weight bench for the weightlifters. Moreover, it comes with 12 inches pad width for a perfect structure. The size is perfect for supporting your back and helping for leg driving.

Although many people may think 2.5 inches thick pad is not enough, this is comfortable for the weightlifters. The dense foam core along with soft top layer helps to make it soft and comfortable. Moreover, the top layer is covered by non-slip vinyl. As a result, this gives the perfect outlook of the flat weight bench.

The bench wobbles at the blot connection on feet. Therefore, this might become a problem. Moreover, it does not fold up for easy storage

You will get 10 years warranty on the frame of the flat weight bench. Moreover, 30 days warranty is given on the pad too. As a result, you can imagine the quality and durability of the bench comfortably.

PROS:

  • The weight bench offers 1000 lbs weight limit
  • The frame is made of steel for durability
  • Stable and sturdy bench
  • Design makes it comfortable for weightlifting

CONS:

  • Does not offer any adjustable feature
  • Can not fold up

Final Verdict

This is a long lasting flat weight bench for weight lifting. Its quality and weight limit is tested through standard certification. As a result, you can trust the quality and limit of this bench. Moreover, this is a comfortable bench for lifting weight at any time. So, this can be a good addition to your exercise equipment for weight lifting.

6. Rep Adjustable Bench – 1000 lb Capacity – Flat/Incline/Decline

Rep Adjustable Bench 1000 lb Capacity Flat/Incline/Decline - FID

Now, this is what we call heavy duty! Finally, a bench for serious weight lifters and those who like to pump much iron.

Everything about this Rep Adjustable Bench says that it means business, starting from the fact that it allows up to 1,000 pounds of weight, which is a lot! Most of you heavy lifters would be more than pleased with such a possibility to push your limits even at home.

Even the construction of the bench is different than that of the other, less-capable products. The frame is much more sturdy and rugged; the upholstery contains no flaws and feels very tight. The rollers on the leg hold-down are covered with vinyl rather than cloth and allow minimal leg movement during the exercise.

Another great thing about this product is that it has minimal gap between the seat and back support – it allows for greater safety during heavy lifting.

The lowest decline angle is -20 degrees, which is pretty impressive – your lower pecs won’t have any excuses not to get ripped. The maximum incline angle is 85 degrees which should be enough for shoulder presses. The seat can also be adjusted in four different positions, making this machine quite versatile for its size.

Rep Adjustable Bench ships mostly assembled, so it won’t take you long to get the bench together – 15 to 20 minutes tops. Just make sure you tighten all the bolts with a socket wrench.

There really isn’t anything wrong with weight bench apart from its price. Still, you have to realize that you’re getting a gym-class product for the home-class price, which is a bargain any way you look at it.

Another minor issue is the foot holder position, which may seem awkward for some tall people. Also, this bench won’t do you any good if you like to do a lot of ab crunches – it’s simply not that comfortable.

However, for a mid to heavy home workout, We can’t think of any better choice. This thing is built like a tank and very durable. It can withstand the toughest workout regime and not move an inch away.

PROS:

  • 1,000-pound weight capacity
  • Rock-solid build quality
  • Great incline/decline variations (from -20 degrees to 85 degrees)
  • Minimal gap between the back and seat

CONS:

  • Quite pricey
  • Foot holder position may seem uncomfortable for tall people

Final Verdict

Rep Adjustable Bench – 1000 lb Capacity – Flat/Incline/Decline is a number one choice for mid to heavy lifters. The quality, the ruggedness, and sturdiness are top-notch.

7. Marcy Adjustable Utility Bench – SB670

Marcy Adjustable Utility Bench - SB670

We have to admit it – this bench is definitely a bang for the buck. However, not everything is that perfect, and in a few moments you will find out why.

This bench is solid and all metal parts are of stellar quality – 14 gauge steel says a lot about the build quality. The upholstery is also up to par – looks quite stylishly and feels very comfortable.

In fact, Marcy SB-670 Adjustable Utility Bench may have the most comfortable padding of all weight benches that we have tried in the affordable price range. The high-density foam and quality materials make you feel natural at all angles.

There is no noticeable gap between the seat and the backrest, which is a huge bonus for people who are over 6 feet high.

You can adjust the back pad to 6 different positions, including the decline:

  • -15 degrees (decline)
  • 0 degrees (flat)
  • 25 degrees
  • 45 degrees
  • 60 degrees
  • 75 degrees

The 75-degree incline feels almost vertical, yet it’s still not the real deal.

The seat can also be adjusted to 3 different positions, and We find it extremely useful – not many benches in this price range allow that.

These angles should be more than enough for home athletes as all the main exercises are there: chest, shoulders, and arms. You can even do ab crunches – however, without the leg hold-down it’s not that comfortable.

The bench is quite sturdy – almost no wobbling during the heavy-duty workout. However, it may take you a while to adjust the whole thing and tighten up the bolts.

The assembly process is relatively easy – it shouldn’t take you more than 40 minutes to get the whole thing set up. We feel like the instructions could have a little clearer, though. The transport wheels are also there to help you move the bench around your place – it’s actually very handy.

The maximum weight capacity is somewhat average – 300 pounds of user weight plus additional 300 pounds of the added weight. Definitely, won’t break the world record with this one.

Now, for the downside. Although We haven’t experienced it ourself, there have been quite a few reports of poor welding on some parts, which caused the bench to break. This is something you would never want to happen during an exercise, especially the one with a serious weight.

The manufacturer does provide a limited 2-year warranty but we guess it would be better for you to inspect the product, packaging, and parts immediately after the bench is delivered – to avoid unwanted accidents.

PROS:

  • 6 angles, including decline
  • Adjustable 3-position seat
  • Comfortable padding and upholstery
  • Affordable price

CONS:

  • Poor assembly instructions
  • Not support leg hold-down for decline position

Final Verdict

Overall, Marcy SB-670 Deluxe Utility Bench is a decent product, which offers great value as long as you don’t put it under heavy workout pressure.

8. PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench

PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench

If you’ve been looking for a portable weight bench, this PowerBlock Travel bench may be one of your top choices. However, you should be aware of a few things.

PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench is a regular, no-frills weight bench that allows you to do what you’re supposed to – workout. Don’t expect some fancy gimmicks or multiple angles – it’s nothing more than a flat bench for dumbbell chest presses. But, at the same time, it’s nothing less.

First off, it’s very sturdy and solid on most surfaces – this is one of the most important things We are expecting from a weight bench. Still, We wouldn’t recommend using it on a carpet or sports mat.

The padding is comfortable enough, better than in most public gyms – no slipping whatsoever. We wish the bench would have been a little higher, though. We do realize that they did it for the transportation purposes but we do not intend to carry it around forever. Most of the time this bench would be standing in my room ready for the workout.

Another thing, which may seem uncomfortable for some of the future owners, is the length. At six feet tall, we feel like PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench is a bit short for us– when we lay down it with our butt right on the edge of the bench, our head is just near the opposite end. A few inches more and we would slip either way.

If you are over 6 feet tall, think twice before buying this weight bench. In any case, you can visit your local sports equipment store and try one to see if it fits you.

The portability is a huge feature for this PowerBlock Travel bench, We guess. They even made foldable legs (requires removing retainer pins) to make it easier to transport. The bench does fit into an average car trunk so the marketers did not lie to us, at least here. The built-in shoulder strap is another portability feature.

The bench itself weighs 32 pounds, which is nothing for us athletes, right? It allows a maximum overall weight of 550 pounds (user weight + exercise load) – pretty much enough for most rookies and amateur bodybuilders.

The build quality is great – 14-gauge 2×3 steel tubing provides for a sturdy construction and reliable performance.

Another thing that many of us would find useful is that you basically don’t need to assemble the bench. PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench arrives pre-assembled and is ready for use straight out of the box.

PROS:

  • Easy to install and move around
  • Compact and portable
  • Sturdy on most flat surfaces
  • Comfortable padding

CONS:

  • Relatively high price for such a basic set of features
  • Not suitable for the heavy action (550 lbs weight capacity)

Final Verdict

PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench is a great travel bench and we thoroughly recommend it to people who change their location frequently. When the portability mix is taken out of the equation, we’re still looking at a solid product worthy of the listed price. Good stuff!

9. Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable weight-lifting Bench

Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable weight-lifting Bench

This is an ideal adjustable weight lifting bench not only for the weightlifters but also for any kind of gymnasium workout at home. The quality and size of the bench are suitable for good workout time at home.

You will not get any other flat bench with the versatile level. This is a unique model with 11 angles to the users. You can also use it as decline bench press for a workout. But, you need to buy the attachment separately.

The bench is easy to adjust angles. Therefore, you can do workout comfortably. You do not need to bend your foot because of having a foot lever. Moreover, this is a flexible and comfortable workout bench for any serious weightlifter.

This is a durable bench for a home workout. It is made of 11 and 12-gauge super strong steel for durability. Moreover, powder-coated is used to prevent the bench from scratches and rust. Heavy duty padding with vinyl makes it comfortable for any person to enjoy the workout time.

The bench is 20 inches high when it is flat. Therefore, this is hard to feel comfortable when lying on the bench. So, shorter people will not feel comfortable to do workout on the flat bench. You can’t reach to the ground lying down in the bench if you are short.

This is a 60 lbs bench with no easy transportation. Therefore, this would become hard if you want to move the bench from one place to another.

PROS:

  • Heavy duty weight lifting bench that can take 1000lbs weight
  • Offers easy to adjust 3 incline seat positions
  • The frame is durable with comfortable seat for long time exercise
  • It comes with 11 angles for different types of workout
  • Easy to get attachments to improve workout quality

CONS:

  • Hard to move the weight lifting bench because it doesn’t have any wheel
  • The height of the bench is high for comfortable lifting.

Final Verdict

Ironmaster is a qualified brand for providing the best workout equipment. This is a heavy duty weight lifting bench for the people with so many workout options. You will get a comfortable seat with an adjustable option. In addition, this is a durable bench that can support you for the maximum type of workouts at home.

10. XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472

XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472

Get ready for some heavy action with XMark XM7472 weight bench but make sure your wallet is fat enough.

XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472 is a serious product for athletes who mean business. Workout business, that is. With its 11-gauge steel mainframe construction and 1,500 lbs weight capacity, this weight bench will hardly fail your wildest workout expectations.

The bench itself feels very ergonomic and… just right. The back pad is easily adjusted, so is the seat. No wobbling or squeaking whatsoever, even during some heavy-duty workouts.

There are 7 different pad adjustment positions – from decline to almost vertical military press position, which means all your main muscle groups are covered, including pectorals, deltoids, triceps, biceps and abdominals.

One thing that bothers our (for that matter) are the gap between the back pad and the seat in the flat bench position – it’s rather big and We don’t like that for our exercises as it’s not exactly safe for the back.

In other incline or decline positions, 3-inch Duracraft pads that make up the upholstery feel quite comfortable and provide excellent back support.

Once XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472 is assembled, it’s as solid as a rock. However, the assembly itself is quite an arduous process – it may take up some of your time and nerves. If you don’t rush it, you should be able to get the whole thing together in about 50 minutes.

Transport wheels allow the bench to be moved around with ease, which is a nice touch for such a heavy-duty weight bench like this.

The height and length are optimal, to our personal preference. We imagine there won’t be a problem even for some bulky 300+ lbs guy to do exercises on this bench with maximum effectiveness and safety.

If you want to upgrade your XMark XM-7472 weight bench, you can purchase a few additional attachments like Preacher Curl or Leg Extension. This way, you will have an ultimate workout machine at your disposal.

Now, for the downside. There aren’t any major flaws with this product other than its price. Yes, We do realize that it’s a high-quality and top-performance weight bench. Otherwise, it’s quite expensive, even for the features that you get.

PROS:

  • Excellent ergonomics and design
  • 7 adjustment options, including decline and near-vertical positions
  • Extended weight capacity (1,500 lbs)

CONS:

  • Too pricey for some users
  • The assembly process can be a bit complicated

Final Verdict

Monster of a weight bench, XMark 11-Gauge FID Flat Incline Decline Bench XM-7472 has it all, except for the price – it’s way too high for this type of products.

Benefits of Workout Bench

Benefits of Workout Benches

Weight training benches (or workout benches) are a great way to set up a mini-gym at your place without breaking the bank. All you need is a few hundred dollars and a set of dumbbells.

Even this simple setup will allow you to perform basic upper body exercises without going to the public gym – you can even do two workouts per day, one in the morning and one in the evening.

Here Are 5 Reasons Why Weight Bench Are Cool:

1. They are the most effective way to develop your upper body muscles

That’s right – simply because weight benches are designed to be used with free weights, your regular exercising with gradual weight increase will quickly gain you some pectoral and deltoid muscles, not to mention triceps and biceps.

2. They specifically target your chest muscles

Let’s admit this – who wouldn’t want a set of rippling pecs on their chest? Combined with dumbbells or a barbell, weight benches are the ultimate tool for developing your pectorals.

3. They allow for a great variety of exercises

Weight benches would have been that popular if they hadn’t allowed for such a great variety of exercises. You can do ab crunches, rear deltoid dumbbell rows, step ups, push ups, and other nasty things your workout fantasy is capable of imagining.

4. They take up little space and can be moved around

Unlike their larger counterparts as home gyms, weight benches are compact. Most of them can be easily folded and moved around for space-saving storage.

5. They help increase your overall push strength

Yep. The stronger you get at the bench press, the easier it is for you to perform other push-based exercises like barbell overhead press or dips.

Different Types of Weight Benches

According to an official source, there are six different types of weight benches.

  • Flat Bench

The most common type of weight benches found in all gyms. Does not allow any transformation and attachments. It’s a classic type of bench with minor customization to adapt the human body. But apart from that we are merely looking at a plain bench with zero adjustment abilities.

  • Adjustable Weight Bench

As the name suggests, such benches can be adjusted to three main positions – decline, flat, and incline. This allows for a great variety of exercises. This type is quite frequent in a variety of gyms. Chances are that when you think of a weight bench, this bench is the first thing that pops up.

  • Olympic Weight Bench

They are more “pro” equipment that regular benches, usually wider and longer in size. Olympic benches often have additional equipment, such as squat rack, dumbbells, weight plates etc. They present a good choice for more advanced users who want to hit specific muscle groups with higher efficiency.

  • Folding Weight Bench

The ability to fold is an additional feature not available in all bench models. Folding weight benches are mostly popular within home-training individuals rather than gyms. The folding factor makes this item more portable, so do take that into consideration if you are looking to carry your bench around a bit more than an average user.

  • Abdominal Bench

The title says it all – these are the benches designed specifically for abdominal muscles exercises. They can be adjusted to decline, incline, or flat position. Needless to say, if you want to focus on working on your abdomen muscles, this is your winning ticket.

  • Preacher Curl Bench

Weight benches are designed for performing preacher curls to develop biceps.

how to choose the best weight benches

How To Choose The Best Weight Bench

If you’re about to shop your first weight bench, this guide is something you would want to read first. If you’re getting an upgrade for your current bench, it may still prove useful in the process of choosing the model, which is right for you.

Before you go online and start browsing through different options, you should ask yourself a few very important questions, which will help you set your mind straight and formulate the requirements for your future weight bench.

1) How many positions may I need?

Most benches offer 3 to 5 positions. Some offer up to 12 positions, while others are non-adjustable – they’re flat. It’s up to you to decide which one you need. Often it depends on what exercises on what muscle groups you are planning to do.

Generally, benches with different angles allow for more versatility and better muscle development simply because you can do more exercises with them. For example, you can do a dumbbell chest press at various angles to target various pectoral muscles – upper chest or lower chest, depending on the angle.

2) Do I need a bench with the decline option?

Decline option is not something every weight bench press has. If you’re planning to do extensive lower chest workout, then you would definitely want a decline bench.

Same for the abdominal crunches – they are usually performed on a decline bench. The degree of the decline is also important – the lower, the better. Most weight benches would feature a -10 to 20-degree decline.

3) How much weight am I going to be lifting?

To rephrase the question: are you a novice or a seasoned weightlifter? If you’re new to bodybuilding and fitness, you might want to choose a beginner model, which allows up to 400 to 500 pounds of weight (that includes the user weight + lift load).

Depending on how much you weigh, you can do the math and see 500 pounds is enough for you.

For mid to high weight lifters, 500 pounds may not be enough but don’t worry – there are plenty of heavy-duty weight benches able to take up 1,000 pounds of weight.

4) Will it suit my individual parameters (weight, height, shoulder width)?

Just like I mentioned in the previous paragraph, it’s very important to choose a product that will match your individual parameters. You should realize that weight benches (like most consumer products) are designed based on an average man.

But no man is an average man – everyone is, in fact, different. That’s why you should take everything into account (your weight, height, shoulder width) and see if you feel comfortable on a given weight bench.

Do you want a shortcut? Well, it’s more of a cheat, actually. Pick a few options you like online, write down the names, and go to your local sports equipment store to see if they have these items in stock.

If they do, try them on – sit, lie, do a few exercises. Remember: safety should always be your number one priority. If you feel uncomfortable, weird, or stiff, don’t buy the bench, even if it’s a bargain.

You should fee absolutely comfortable while exercising.

5) Where will I place it?

All consumer weight benches are meant for indoor use only, which means you will probably put your bench somewhere in your room. What I meant here is the space it will require – some benches are more compact, some less.

Manufacturers and sellers usually provide product dimensions – do study them and make some approximations before realizing that the bench you’ve just chosen simply won’t fit in your room.

6) Will I ever move it?

It’s quite important because some weight benches (especially the heavy-duty ones) are not meant for moving around a lot, while others are easily moved and can even be folded.

Folded benches are quite rare but very handy. You can simply fold your bench after the workout and put it away in the closet until the next time you will need it.

7) Do I care how it looks?

Well, we all do. It depends on how much. There are weight bench models which have generic look and don’t really stand out. Others are visually appealing and set you in the right workout mood just by their look.

If workout motivation is not some random phrase for you, feel free to search for a weight bench, which has the right aesthetics and stunning look.

8) What’s my budget?

Ah, the last but not least. Same as everywhere – to get a good-quality product, you will have to cough up a bigger sum of money than for some entry-level Chinese-made piece of equipment.

Don’t go overpaying for the brand, though. It’s not a vanity contest, just some weight lifting. Your main priority is the quality and features. If they come along with a fancy logo, well, that’s a nice bonus but nothing more.

9) Warranty

As always, warranty is an important factor when choosing a product. Much like with any equipment, the weight benches come with various types of warranties, ranging from one year to lifetime options. Needless to say, the longer and more encompassing it is, the better.

Conclusion

By now you should know a great deal about weight benches – what they are, how they work, and why you may need one. You even read about some of the top choices available on the market today and now it should be easier for you to make up your mind.

Weight benches are great home exercise machines. Not only they do a great job exercising your upper body and helping you build your muscle strength, they take up little space and require minimal assembly and maintenance.

Now, there are no excuses for you not to start exercising today. This was your guide to pick best weight benches, you’ve been a great audience, now get down to work! Happy lifting!

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