Picking the best weight bench from the hundreds of models on the market can be difficult, especially if you are new to weightlifting.

In this guide we have selected the top weight benches for a range of budgets and requirements:

Best Weight Benches : Top Picks

• Bowflex 5.1s Stowable Bench – Best Weight Bench Overall
• Ironmaster Super Bench – Best Adjustable Weight Bench
• REP AB 3000 FID
• Rep Fitness FB-5000 – Best Flat Weight Bench
• Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench
• Marcy Utility Flat Bench
  
• Fitness Reality 810XLT – Best Home Weight Bench
• Power Block Travel Weight Bench – Compact Folding Weight Bench
• Marcy Olympic Weight Bench – Best Olympic Weight Bench
• Fitness Reality 1000– Best Budget Weight Bench
• Bowflex 3.1 Adjustable Weight Bench – Best Weight Bench Under $200

 

Best Weight Bench Overall

Bowflex 5.1s Stowable Bench

Dimensions	56”L x 20”H x 26”W
Weight	60lbs/ 27kg
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	600lbs
Warranty	2 year frame 30 day upholstery

Overall, the Bowflex 5.1s is our choice for the best weight bench.

It is by no means the perfect match for strong powerlifters or bodybuilders who may require a higher weight capacity.

Nonetheless, the 5.1s is a good all-round bench that will be perfect for the majority of garage gyms.

Features

It comes with a 600lbs weight capacity, 6 different angles, foldable design, leg hold-down brace, high quality upholstery and adjustable stabilizers for uneven floors.

The 5.1s is the updated version from its predecessor, the 5.1.

The most noticeable differences are that Bowflex increased the weight capacity from 480lbs to 600lbs and that the bench is now stowable.

Bear in mind, that the 600lbs capacity includes the users body weight. For example, a 200lbs user lifting a 400lbs weight would equal the benches maximum capacity.

One downside of the new design is that the rear adjustable arm was converted from notches to using a spring-loaded knob.

The knob tends to get in the way when performing any dumbbell row exercises while led face down on the bench.

However, the pin-lock mechanism is needed to ensure the bench maintains its angle while in its upright folded position.

As a result, while being stored the 5.1s has a 50% smaller footprint compared to the older 5.1.

Adjustability

There are 6 different angles to choose from for the back support, decline, flat, 30˚, 45˚, 60˚ and 90˚. This offers plenty of variety and you will be able to find an angle that suits you.

In addition, the seat also has two positions (incline and flat). Having the seat slightly inclined will help prevent you slipping when doing incline movements.

Decline

If you are doing decline movements, there is a leg hold-down brace mounted on the front of the bench. This enables you to anchor your legs and stop you from sliding down the bench.

The leg hold-down brace is detachable, so it won’t be a hinderance while doing any other exercise. It also folds up and acts as the third support when the bench is upright in its stowed position.

Each of the 4 legs comes fitted with adjustable stabilizers which allow you to stop any rocking on uneven surfaces. There is nothing more distracting and frustrating than a bench that wobbles while being used.

One downside to the 4-legged design is that while you bench press you may find that the legs can get in the way of your feet.

In addition, there were a couple of complaints about the gap between the seat pad and back pad when the bench is in a flat position.

However, when the bench is an upright seated position there is no gap.

Unless you are willing to spend extra and get a model like the Rep Fitness AB-3000 (reviewed later). This is a common issue with with affordable adjustable benches and doesn’t seem to affect all users.

Nonetheless, the bench is comfortable with good quality upholstery and padding.

The back pad is just wide enough to offer the support you need in pressing exercises but not so wide that it restricts your movement.

The seat is slightly wider than the back pad to improve stability in seated movements. However, it is no so wide that it presents a problem when trying to do bench press.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bowflex 5.1s is comfortable, stable, strong and comes at a fair price.

Bowflex are well known for producing good quality and often unique equipment. For example, in our Bowflex treadclimber reviews we got to see an alternative design which combines the treadmill, stair climber and elliptical into one machine.

Best Adjustable Weight Bench

Ironmaster Super Bench

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTfhJAUlLyI

Dimensions	41”L x 20”H x 17”W
Weight	65lbs/ 29.5kg
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	1000lbs Flat (600lbs incline)
Warranty	10-year frame 1-year wearable parts

On first impressions it is clear to see why we have chosen the Ironmaster Super Bench as the best adjustable weight bench. The unique adjustment ring design gives you a total of 11 different angles to choose from.

Features

In addition, the super bench also includes a 1000lbs capacity, powder coated frame, 3 different seat heights and 11 & 12 gauge steel used in the frame.

Firstly, assembly is a breeze as Ironmaster ships the bench almost completely assembled. All you have to do is attach the feet to the frame which can easily be done in 15 minutes.

When in the flat position, the bench can withstand 1000lbs of weight. However, once the bench is on an angle this maximum is reduced to 600lbs.

This reduction in capacity is likely due to the design of the seat which is a separate addon and uses thinner steel.

Nonetheless, this seat design solves the issue we saw with the Bowflex 5.1s of having a gap between the seat and back pad in the flat position. As you can see in the image below, the back pad is one continuous piece.

Adjustability

To alter the angle, you can use the foot lever which allows you to quickly change the benches incline/ decline.

The lever can be locked to prevent any accidental knocks from altering the angle while being used.

In total, there are 11 different angles to choose from: 0, 5,10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 75, 80 and 85 degrees.

Bear in mind, that if you wish to do decline exercises you will need to purchase the “crunch situp attachment”. Without the attachment there is nowhere to hook your feet and prevent yourself from sliding off the back of the bench.

The attachment costs an extra $75 and ideally would have been included as standard.

Using the crunch situp attachment can be awkward due to how the bench raises up in the air when the angle is set to decline.

Consequently, you have to climb onto the bench and hook your feet in position while holding your dumbbells. This will limit the amount of weight you can safely use on decline movements. However, using a power cage would help resolve this issue.

If you compare this to the Bowflex 5.1s, all you need to do is simply, sit down, hook your feet then lean back.

Another attachment that should have been included as standard is the transport wheels which cost an extra $30. The bench weighs 65lbs and without the transport wheels it is awkward to move.

Comfort

An important part of any bench is comfort. The super bench has 2” of high-quality foam that doesn’t compress easily and maintains its stability.

If you are looking to perform bench press, then you will need to consider the height of the bench. It is 20” high which can make it difficult for shorter users to get their feet comfortably flat on the floor. This will limit your ability to generate leg drive when using competition bench press form.

Attachments

One of the biggest selling points of the Ironmaster Super Bench are its attachments.

There a number of attachments to choose from such as, leg extension/ curl, crunch/ sit-up, preacher curl, dip handles, multi grip chin up, transport wheel kit, dumbbell spotters, cable tower attachment and hyper core attachment (used for back extensions).

On most other benches you tend to find that the leg extension can be locked in position and used for sit-ups. This would eliminate the need for the crunch sit-up attachment.

Nonetheless, out of all the attachments the leg extension/ curl and sit-up are the most useful.

The preacher curl and dips attachments are also worth the extra investment if you are looking to perform heavy arm exercises.

However, the other attachments are quite expensive and not worth the extra cost.

If you are looking for a cable tower and chin up bar then you will be better off looking at our top home gym reviews guide.

Conclusion

Overall the Ironmaster Super Bench’s adjustability is why it is our recommendation in this category despite its few minor drawbacks. It is a great quality bench that will last a long time.

REP AB 3000 FID

Dimensions	84”L x 17.5”H x 26”W
Weight	85lbs/ 38.5kg
Pad Thickness	2.5”
Weight Capacity	1000lbs
Warranty	10-year frame 30-day upholstery

If the drawbacks of the Ironmaster Super Bench concern you, then the Rep AB-3000 FID may suit your needs better.

Features

The AB-3000 comes with a 1000lbs capacity at all angles, powder coat finish, transport wheels, 7 different angles and a height of 17.5” to meet the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) specifications.

Assembly

First of all, assembling the bench takes a matter of minutes as it comes with the frame preassembled.

All that you are required to do is attach the rear stabilizer, back pad, seat pad and the foot rollers.

Assembly can easily be done within 15-30 minutes.

Adjustments

The back rest can be adjusted to a variety of different angles from -20˚, 0˚, 20˚, 30˚, 50˚, 65˚ and 85˚.

An 85˚ angle for the upright position feels comfortable and will prevent your torso from leaning forward which can be a problem with a bench that goes to 90˚.

In addition, the seat can also be adjusted to 5 different angles from 0˚ to 20˚.

With these many angles to choose from, you will be able to find a position that is comfortable for you.

The seat is wide which is useful in decline movements where you need the extra stability. But, it can be a bit of a nuisance with incline movements where you want to be able to tuck your legs back easily.

Quality and Stability

A tell-tale sign of the quality of fitness equipment is the products weight. The AB-3000 weighs in at 85lbs due to the high-quality materials and thick gauge steel.

Despite its weight, the bench is still easy to move thanks to the transport wheels and handle.

An added bonus of having a heavy bench is that it helps improve stability. Although the AB-3000s 3-legged design already helps with this.

Also, only having one leg at the front of the bench minimizes the possibility of the legs getting in the way while bench pressing.

The height of the bench is perfect for anyone that is serious about their bench press.

At 17.5” high it is within the IPF specifications for bench height of 16.5” – 17.75”. This will help you firmly lock your feet in position and generate that extra bit of power through leg drive.

Another important factor to consider is the width of the pad. At 11.5” wide it is comfortable and offers plenty of support.

There is no issue with the gap between the seat pad and back rest like we saw on the Bowflex 5.1s. Rep Fitness have designed the bench so that the seat pad and back pad move closer together as the angle is changed.

A nice feature that we don’t often see on garage gym benches is that the ankle holders are covered in a vinyl cover. This is a welcome extra when compared to the sponge pads that you normally see.

Warranty

The bench comes with a 10-year warranty on the frame, however the upholstery has just 30 days. It is surprising that rep don’t appear to have confidence in the quality of their upholstery. With that being said they are a great company and very helpful when trying to resolve any issues.

Conclusion

Overall it was a very close decision between the Rep Fitness AB-3000 FID and the Ironmaster Super Bench.

In terms of quality and capacity, the AB-3000 is the better choice. However, it does cost an extra $100 and doesn’t have as many different angles to choose from.

Best Flat Weight Bench

Rep Fitness FB-5000

Dimensions	48”L x 17”H x 12”W (options 14” wide)
Steel Thickness	11-gauge
Pad Thickness	4”
Weight Capacity	1500lbs
Warranty	1 year

The Rep Fitness FB-5000 is our number 1 pick for flat benches and here’s why:

Features

It comes with a 1500lbs weight capacity, 11-gauge steel, transport wheels, powder coat finish and at a budget friendly price of $149.

Rep Fitness have clearly designed this bench to help anyone that is serious about bench pressing. As we saw above with the AB-3000, the tripod leg design prevents any obstruction to your feet while getting into your bench press position.

The tripod design also helps to improve the benches stability. There are very few gyms with a perfectly flat floor and the 3-legged design will balance out over any lumps or bumps the floor may have.

4” of high-quality foam make the FB-5000 comfortable to use but also maintains its stability.

Rep Fitness have used an anti-slip material to cover the pad which helps to prevent any unwanted movement. This will help generate as much power as you possibly can and ultimately improve your lifts.

Depending on your size, you can increase the width of the pad from 12” to 14” for an extra $50. The 14” pad has 2 layers of plywood instead of just one to accommodate the extra width. This extra width will help improve stability if you feel you need it.

The FB-5000 is 17” high which complies with the IPF specifications. This will ensure that people of all different heights can bench press comfortably.

Made with high-quality materials and 11-gauge steel, the FB-5000 was always bound to be heavy. Nonetheless, moving the bench is easy thanks to the handle and transport wheels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Rep Fitness FB-5000 is without doubt one the best flat weight benches you can buy. This is a great option for powerlifters and bodybuilders with its high capacity, quality finish and affordable price.

Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench

Dimensions	52”L x 17”H x 17”W
Steel Thickness	12 & 14-gauge
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	1000lbs
Warranty	1 year

If you require a high capacity bench but don’t quite have the budget for the Rep FB-5000. An alternative model is the Titan Fitness flat weight bench.

Features

It comes with a 1000lbs capacity, transport wheels, 2” padding, leather finish and built to competition requirements.

The 1000lbs capacity is more than enough for the majority of people who are looking to improve their bench press.

Titan specify that the benches pad is 12” wide but this doesn’t seem to be the case as it measured at 10”. Therefore, some users might find that this bench feels a little bit on the narrow side.

Nonetheless, the bench is comfortable and feels rock solid when being used.

The total weight of the bench is 53lbs and would be awkward to move if it wasn’t for the transportation wheels.

The front stabilizer is a lot wider than we saw on the 3-legged Rep Fitness models. However, it doesn’t get in the way while preparing to bench press. Nevertheless, shorter users might find this to be a slight issue.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there isn’t a lot to say about this bench as it does exactly what it says on the tin. The quality of workmanship is not quite that of the Rep Fitness FB-5000.

Consequently, for the extra $25 or so that it costs to upgrade to the FB-5000, we would recommend saving up a little bit longer and getting the Rep Fitness model.

Marcy Utility Flat Bench (budget friendly flat bench)

Dimensions	43”L x 17”H x 14”W
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	1.5”
Weight Capacity	300lbs
Warranty	2 year

If you are looking for a cheap and cheerful flat weight bench that can be used for body weight and light resistance exercises, then the Marcy Utility flat bench is a good choice.

Features

It comes with a 300lbs weight capacity, powder coat finish, weighs just 20 lbs and comes at the reasonable price of about $50.

Assembly is simple with only 8 bolts to fix in place. However, the instructions did make the process look more complicated than it really is.

If you are looking to do body weight workouts such as Kayla Itsine’s workouts, then you won’t need a 15000lbs capacity bench.

Hence, the 300lbs capacity is more than enough to support most users and with some left over for resistance training.

Weighing just 20lbs it is easy to move and pack away when you have finished working out.

The pad is comfortable, while still being firm enough to help you stay balanced. In addition, the pad is slightly wider than other benches we have reviewed at 14.5”.

This will help with your stability, especially when performing exercises such as Bulgarian split squats and have to balance your foot on the bench.

Conclusion

Costing approximately $50, you can’t go too far wrong with the Marcy Utility flat bench.

It is ideal for someone who is looking to do circuit training in the comfort of their home.

Best Home Weight Bench

In-order to be considered for the best home weight bench we were looking for benches that offer a variety of exercises. Therefore, our winning setup comes from Fitness Reality:

Fitness Reality 810XLT with the Fitness Reality 1000 Weight bench

Dimensions	50.5”L x 83.5”H x 46.5”W
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	1.75”
Weight Capacity	800lbs
Warranty	1 year limited

This is not strictly speaking just a bench. However, the combination of the Fitness Reality 810XLT power cage and 1000 weight bench offers so much variety it needed to be included.

The main advantage of this setup over traditional weight benches is that you can lift heavy weights safely thanks to the spotting bars.

Both the cage and bench have a capacity of 800lbs and that will be substantial for most lifters.

One downside to this setup is that it takes up considerably more room than other benches. Furthermore, it can’t easily be packed up in-between workouts.

Therefore, you will need a dedicated area for your equipment to live. Nonetheless, the weight bench does fold up to help minimize the overall footprint.

Adjustability

The bench has 12 different angles to choose from ranging from decline to incline. In conjunction with the 19 different height holes offered by the power cage you will be able to find a comfortable setup for you.

The power cage comes with spotting bars which should be positioned just below your range of movement. So, that if you do happen to fail a rep, they will catch the weight.

A leg hold-down brace is included with the bench; however, it can be a little uncomfortable as the brace has no padding.

Attachments

Another added bonus is that you can purchase more attachments to further increase the variety of possible exercises.

For instance, you could have Olympic weight plate holders, dip bar attachment, j hooks (an upgrade on the original bar catches) and landmine attachment.

Conclusion

For approximately $370 you get a strong and versatile bench and power cage. This setup allows you to push yourself to your limits safely.

Bear in mind that, a barbell and weights aren’t included in the price. Therefore, you will need to purchase a 7-foot Olympic barbell and weights if you don’t already own them.

If you feel that a power cage and weight bench combination will be more beneficial to you than just a bench. Then you should read our Best Power Rack buyer’s guide.

Compact Folding Weight Bench – Collapsible Weight bench – Portable Weight Bench

Power Block Travel Weight Bench

Dimensions	40”L x 9.5”W x 15”H (8” when folded)
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	550lbs
Warranty	Unsure

For users that are short on space around the house or on the move regularly. They will likely be looking for a compact and foldable weight bench.

The Power Block Travel weight bench is the clear winner for its foldable compact design.

Features

Requiring no assembly at all, you get a 550lbs weight capacity, a carry handle and 2” thick padding.

The pad size is on the small side at only 9.5” wide and 40” long. However, this is the sacrifice you have to make if you are looking for a compact weight bench.

Nonetheless, the quality of the bench is remarkably high. Able to withstand 550lbs is far more than the majority of people would ever need.

When folded the bench is reduced from 15” high down to only 8” and thanks to the carry handle it is easy to move around weighing only 33lbs.

The rear stabilizer comes with rubber feet to protect the floor however the front leg has only bare metal. Therefore, you will need to be careful when using this bench on a floor that easily scratches.

When doing any decline/ incline movements with the front leg folded, it does feel a little awkward especially as the bench pad is narrow. But, it gets the job done.

Conclusion

If portability is a key deciding factor that your bench needs, then you won’t find a more compact option than the Power Block travel weight bench.

Costing only $150 you get a good quality bench that takes up minimal room in your home.

Best Olympic Weight Bench

Marcy Olympic Weight Bench

Dimensions	47.5”L x 60”H x 80”W
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	600lbs
Warranty	2 year limited

The balance of versatility with affordability is why the Marcy Olympic Weight Bench is our top choice Olympic weight bench.

Features

For just under $300 you get a 600lbs weight capacity, weight horns (weight storage), leg curl/extension, preacher curl pad, adjustable back pad and rear bar catches so you can perform squats.

First things first, the assembly process of the Marcy Olympic bench is quite time consuming.

In addition, it is recommended that you have an extra pair of hands to help you. This will help speed up the process and make some of the more challenging parts a lot easier.

As this is an Olympic bench, it does take up considerably more room than most other benches we have reviewed. However, this is a worthwhile sacrifice thanks to the extra exercises you can perform.

For instance, it is possible to perform squats using the 2 vertical uprights.

The only downside to performing squats on this bench is that users under 5`7” might struggle as there are only 2 different heights for the rear bar catches.

However, on the front face of the verticals there are plenty of different heights to choose from for different angles of bench press.

Attachments

Additionally, you also get a preacher curl for bicep curl and a leg extension/ curl attachment for leg exercises.

The leg extension attachment can also be locked in position allowing you to do ab crunches and decline bench press.

There is a total of 4 different angles for the back support ranging from decline to flat to incline.

The only drawback is that the seat doesn’t go upright for military press. However, thanks to the rear bar catches you can also perform standing military press.

Bear in mind, that the bench doesn’t include a barbell or weights and you will need to purchase a 7-foot Olympic barbell.

If you already have a barbell, the measurement from outside to outside of the vertical posts is 47”. A 6-foot barbell would be a tight squeeze and would not be recommended.

The bench comes with spotting arms that will give you the confidence to lift heavier weights. Although, it would have been nice if the arms were slightly longer to offer extra protection.

Conclusion

The Marcy Olympic Weight Bench is a great choice for beginners that are looking to get into lifting weights. It provides the variety, stability and safety which are key to progressing on your fitness journey.

Furthermore, it is great value for money, costing just under $300.

Best Budget Weight Bench

Fitness Reality 1000 Super Max Weight Bench

Dimensions	59”L x 17.75”H x 23.5”W
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	1.75”
Weight Capacity	800lbs
Warranty	1 year limited

 

If you are looking for a weight bench that offers the best value for money, then look no further than the Fitness Reality 1000.

This is the same bench featured above in the best home weight bench section but without the power cage.

The bench comes with 800lbs capacity, 12 different angles, leg hold-down bar, foldable and a 1.75” thick foam pad all for $89.

The 800lbs capacity gives you plenty of room for improvement as your strength increases.

There are 6 different angles to choose from for the back rest and 2 for the seat pad. Combined, there are 12 different arrangements so that you can find what suits you.

In addition, the bench comes with a leg hold-down bar, this will prevent you from slipping when performing decline movements. However, the bar isn’t removable and may get in the way on other movements.

Conclusion

Getting an adjustable bench with an impressive 800lbs capacity for just $89 is great value for money.

It is by no means the best weight bench on the market, but when it is a quarter of the price of a top-quality bench it is hard to complain.

Best Weight Bench Under $200

Bowflex 3.1 Adjustable Weight Bench

Dimensions	56”L x 20”H x 26”W
Steel Thickness	14-gauge
Pad Thickness	2”
Weight Capacity	300lbs
Warranty	2 years frame 30-day upholstery

 

If you are looking for a good quality bench that will last you for years to come, but without costing an arm and a leg. Then the Bowflex 3.1 adjustable bench could be the one for you.

The 3.1 is a downgrade from the 5.1 series that we chose as our overall best weight bench.

Features

At a reasonable price of between $160 – $199 you get a 300lbs capacity, removable leg hold-down brace, 4 different angles (decline, flat, 45˚ and 90˚), transport wheels and good quality upholstery.

This bench is aimed at beginners that are looking to do the basic movements from the comfort of their own home.

Depending on what your personal goals are, the 300lbs capacity may not be enough for some users.

Therefore, anyone looking to dramatically improve strength will need to consider a bench with a high weight capacity.

The leg hold-down brace will allow you to comfortably perform decline movements such as ab crunches and decline chest press. In addition, it can also be removed when it is no longer required.

It would have been nice if the bench had a couple more angles to choose from. However, it is possible to do decline, flat, incline and upright movements which should be more than adequate.

Weighing in at 55lbs the bench is heavy due to the quality of materials used. Nonetheless, moving the bench is easy with use of the transport wheels.

Conclusion

It is no mistake why the Bowflex weight benches are so popular with over 1600 reviews on amazon.

You get a good quality weight bench at a fair price that will be a great addition to your garage gym.

If you are concerned that the capacity of the bench will not be sufficient then you may want to consider the Bowflex 5.1s.

Points to Consider

What are your personal goals?

What do you hope to achieve with your new workout equipment? If you are looking to perform a light workout from your lounge, then chances are you will not need a 1500lbs capacity bench.

On the other hand, if you want to become a powerlifter, then be sure to invest in a good quality bench you can grow into.

The cheaper option might not be such great value for money if you have to buy a second bench when you out grow the first.

In the long run it is cheap to buy a bench that will stand the test of time.

What weight capacity do you need?

All weight benches come with a maximum weight capacity. It is important that you have a rough idea of what capacity you are going to require.

Bear in mind, that the weight capacity of the bench includes your body weight and the weight you are lifting.

For example, if you weigh 200lbs and want to be able to bench press 350lbs, you will need a bench that has a maximum capacity of at least 550lbs.

Do you need an adjustable bench?

The advantage of buying a flat bench is that they are often cheaper and have a higher capacity.

But, you don’t get the added variety that an adjustable weight bench has to offer.

How wide should the bench be?

Pad width will have an impact on comfort and stability. When performing exercises such as bench press it is important that the bench supports your shoulders.

However, you also don’t want a bench that is too wide for your build. If the bench is too wide you will feel it digging into your shoulders and will be uncomfortable to use.

A pad width of 12” is a good width that can accommodate the majority of users.

Bench Height

Another important factor to consider is the height of the bench. A bench that is too high may prevent you from being to comfortably place your feet on the floor.

For example, if you are performing bench press and the weight bench is too high or too low, you won’t be able to generate as much power through leg drive. This will hinder your performance and prevent you from lifting to your full capability.

Budget

Although I am sure everyone would love to have the best weight bench. Your budget may not stretch that far.

Therefore, it is important to find the right bench for you so that you get the best value for money.

How heavy is the weight bench?

Home weight benches will often be packed away after each workout. Therefore, it is essential that you take in consideration the weight and portability of the bench.

A bench that is light and easy to move will make the process of getting setup to work out that little bit easier.

Attachments

A number of benches come with attachments. Knowing what attachments, you want will save you money in the long run.

For instance, if you want to do leg exercises, you should consider a bench with the option of a leg curl/ extension attachment. You could also look at including a power cage with your weight bench.

Upholstery

The saying “you get what you pay for” is often true when buying a weight bench.

If you want a bench that is going to last a long time, then you will be better off spending a little bit extra so that you save money in the long run.

Cheaper weight benches often have low quality upholstery that will show signs of wear and tear quickly.

Padding

A common mistake people make trying to find a bench is that they assume the thicker the padding, the better it will be.

However, this isn’t always true.

A bench with poor quality foam that is too thick, will feel unstable when you use it.

As a general rule, a bench that uses good quality foam that is about 2” thick will be comfortable and stable.

Assembly

Some people dread the thought of DIY. If this sounds like you then maybe you should consider a bench that comes pre-assembled.

Warranty

Although, you will hopefully never have to use a warranty, they do give added peace of mind.

A warranty also signifies the confidence a manufacturer has in their product. If a weight bench only has a 30-day warranty it tells you, they do not trust their quality.

Flooring

An often-overlooked aspect of buying a weight bench is the flooring you intend to use it on. For example, if you going to be working out on an uneven floor, then you may want a 3-legged bench or one with adjustable stabilizers.

Also, if you are going to working out on a floor that easily scratches, then having protective sleeves on the bench will help minimize any possibility of scratching.