17 Best Weight Benches For Your Home or Garage Gym with Reviews 2024
False Economy = the belief that you are saving money when the truth is you actually end up paying more in the long run.
Buying a cheap weight bench is the definition of false economy. Don’t do it.
Not only is your weight bench the centerpiece of your home gym…
But
…it is the foundation, literally, of your safety.
Today I am going to review 17 of the best weight benches, go over what you should look out for, and what you must avoid and give you some of my best weight bench tips and workouts.
Contents
- TOP 17 Best Weight Benches Reviewed 2024
- Rogue Flat Utility Bench 2.0 - The Best Weight Bench
- Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench - Premium Choice
- XMark Flat Incline Decline Weight Bench - Editors Choice
- Rogue Adjustable Bench 2.0
- Monster Utility Bench
- Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
- Body Champ Olympic Weight Bench with Preacher Curl
- Body-Solid ProClubLine Leverage Bench Press
- Bodycraft F602 Flat Incline Decline Bench
- Rep Fitness Rep Adjustable Bench
- Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench
- Marcy Folding Utility Bench
- Soozier Adjustable Home Fitness Weight Bench
- Ironmaster Adjustable Weight Lifting Bench
- Rugged Fitness Flat Incline Bench
- Titan Fitness Adjustable Flat Incline Weight Bench
- Nautilus Universal 5 Position Weight Bench
- How to Choose the Best Weight Bench for Your Home Gym
- What Characteristics To Look For in Weight Benches – 4 Core Factors
- Weight Bench Training and Exercise Routines
- Weight Bench FAQs, Tips and Basic Knowledge
- There You Have It…
TOP 17 Best Weight Benches Reviewed 2024
There’s a pick on the list for every beast and beauty out there looking to set up his or her own garage or home gym.
If you’re a beginner with a small gym or a heavy weight enthusiast with a ton of space to work out, there’s a bench for you.
Rogue Flat Utility Bench 2.0 - The Best Weight Bench
Review: This is Rogue’s best home weight bench when you consider the value to utility ratio. And also considering the reviews, it’s the best weight bench for home gym on the market!
It comes with a hefty 2.25 inch thick pad, is made with indestructible 2 inch by three inch steel tubing, and is slightly angled in the front for superior stability.
Considering the bench’s durability, and the name behind it, it is offered at a great price.
Pros
- Constructed of two by three inch steel.
- 25 inch thick pad.
- Single piece frame.
- Not rickety or wobbly – a really solid stable bench.
Cons
- Heavy, not as easy as others to just move around.
Takeaway
This bench is a tank. Get one! It’s my choice for best weight bench of 2024!
Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench - Premium Choice
- GAIN MUSCLE: If you are into bodybuilding, this weight bench is for you! It can support up to 1000 lbs., so you can perform multiple strength training exercises. With this weight bench, you can target your biceps, triceps, lats, and more. In no time, you will be able to achieve the fit and lean physique you have been working toward.
- PERFECT FOR FREE WEIGHTS: Free weights are an excellent way to bulk up and this flat bench is the ideal piece of equipment to add to your free weight routine. You will be able to perform a wide variety of exercises, including bench presses, incline presses, pullovers, rows, tricep extensions, and curls. Use either barbells or dumbbells as you work out on this bench.
- COMFORTABLE PADDING: While weight lifting, you should be focusing on pushing yourself to reach some massive gains instead of how uncomfortable you feel. Our weight bench is padded with an extra cushion, so you can feel good as you exercise. Additionally, the padding features a sleek leather finish for both comfort and style.
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: At Titan Fitness, we do not skimp when it comes to our products. All our products are made from high-quality material that is built to last, and this competition bench is no exception. It has a rigid base that is made from steel, so itâ€s durable and long-lasting. It also has wheels and a handle for quick workout changes.
- DIMENSIONS: This Weight Bench is great for home gyms and personal gyms. It has a convenient overall length of 52", a width of 17" and a height of 17". The seatâ€s width is 12" and its length is 48", making it wide enough for most people to comfortably sit on. This bench can support a weight capacity of 1000-pounds and weighs 37-pounds.
Review: This Titan flat fitness bench is a beast. With a massive weight capacity of 1000 lbs, the back pad is ample width at 12 inches, and the bench just looks really good.
The pad is firm and dense, so you won’t easily wear it out, and the feet are wide enough that the bench is stable, even when using heavy weights.
Pros
- Holds up to 1000 lbs.
- A built-in handle and wheels allow you to move this beast, no problem.
- Thick 12 inch wide pad does not have too much give and will last a long time.
Cons
- A little shorter than the competition at 17 inches high.
Takeaway
Best weight bench for dumbbells. Its flat, has a thick pad, and holds up to 1000 lbs.
XMark Flat Incline Decline Weight Bench - Editors Choice
- AJDUSTABLE: This XMark 7-Position FID Adjustable Weight Bench has a ladder back adjustment for angles from a full decline to military press position using convenient side handles as well as a 3-position adjustable seat and 4-position leg holder
- STRENGTH: With a 1500 lb weight capacity, XMark has got your back during your most demanding strength training. The XM-7604 sports a heavy-duty 11-gauge 2" x 3" rectangular steel mainframe construction
- STABILITY: The U-shaped base with bolted-on, skid-resistant feet and the 2 inch by 3 inch back support make this bench extremely stable while performing a multitude of exercises of the abdomen, lower back, and upper body and lifting heavy weights
- MOBILITY: Transport wheels make moving this bench a breeze. Easily position it in and out of power cages, cable machines, and other areas of your workout space - or just roll it out of the way when not in use
- COMFORT: Extra thick 3" Duracraft padding with sweat and tear-resistant Duraguard vinyl cushions, and 4.33" oversized rollers with chrome endcaps will ensure your exercise routine is a comfortable and enjoyable experience to maximize your workout
Review: This FID adjustable incline bench by XMark is a great value. It has 7 levels of adjustment for the back pad, and the seat has three levels of incline.
Incline benches are great for the home gym since they can be used as a flat bench for barbell work, and inclined or flat with free weights.
Pros
- 11 gauge 2 inch by 3 inch steel frame.
- Adjustable FID Frame with 1500 lb weight limit.
- 3 inch thick compression resistant pad.
Cons
- The gap between the seat and back pad is wide.
Takeaway
Best adjustable weight bench for the home gym, very versatile.
Rogue Adjustable Bench 2.0
Review: This is one of the best adjustable weight benches you can get. It has a small gap between the seat and back pad, unlike others with an uncomfortably wide gap.
It has two seat adjustments and 6 back pad adjustments. It is stable, won’t wiggle or wobble as you train with heavy weights.
It also has a handle and two wheels to move it out of the way quick and easy.
Pros
- Includes wheels and a handle so it’s easy to move.
- No gap between the seat pad and back rest – an unheard of feature for an adjustable bench.
- Sturdy and solid bench – like no other.
Cons
- Pad is only 11.25 inches wide.
Takeaway
No gap! This is the best bench for home gym if you want to go with an adjustable weight bench.
Monster Utility Bench
Review: Do you really need a Monster Utility bench for your garage gym? Maybe, maybe not.
But I know you want one!
This bench is a tank. It will not wobble. At all. It comes in your choice of shorty or standard height, with either the Thompson fat pad, competition fat pad or standard pad.
So go ahead and customize one for yourself today.
Pros
- Built to hold more weight than even Rich Froning could lift.
- Looks phenomenal – a killer addition to your home gym.
- Extra wide base – 24 inches.
- 3 by 3 inch steel tube construction – built for heavy lifters.
Cons
- Heavy – needs some wheels.
Takeaway
The best workout bench for heavy lifters.
Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
- FULL-BODY WORKOUT – This Flat Utility Bench is a high-functioning workout equipment that lets you perform a full-body workout to enhance your body the way you want. Build a better-looking physique by doing different exercises with this versatile bench.
- HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION – This bench has a durable construction providing a max weight capacity of 600 lbs. The heavy-duty steel tube frame ensures steady support for the bench, and the high-density foam and boxed upholstery provides maximum comfort.
- SPACE-SAVING DESIGN – This bench is designed for perfect space-saving. Its heavy-duty steel frame is highly durable and is designed to maximize your mobility. Make every workout more efficient that combines practical design and performance
- POWDER-COATED FINISH – Reinforced with powder coating, the Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench resists wear and tear from heavy use and strenuous workouts, guaranteeing you an excellent, long-lasting investment for your home gym.
- PERFECT FOR HOME USE – This versatile gym equipment lets you get all the benefits of an intense gym session at home. Perform as many exercises to target and build specific muscle groups in the comfort of your home. 2-yr manufacture’s warrenty included.
Review: If you’re looking for an entry-level model that will get the job done, this bench is the best one you’ll find.
It’s small enough to fit in compact home gyms, and it suits a variety of needs. The bench is easy to move around for storage, or to place under different cages or power racks.
Pros
- Very inexpensive.
- 16 inches high, ideal for those who want a lower bench.
Cons
- Base not very wide, may experience wobble while using.
Takeaway
This is an excellent affordable bench, best weight bench for home at this price.
Body Champ Olympic Weight Bench with Preacher Curl
- Made For Your Fitness Goals: This Multi-Function, Heavy-Duty 2.5-Inch Square Tube Olympic Weight Bench Comes With Added Attachments And Accessories For Complete Workout Circuits
- Enhanced Safety And Comfort: The U-Shaped Front-Leg Stabilizer Provides Safety And Stability During The Workout. The Racks Have Safety Hooks On Catches And A Safe-Grip Feature To Prevent Your Hands From Getting Pinched When Re-Racking
- 7-Position Adjustable Backrest: This Bench Press Has Customizable Features For Ergonomic And Optimal Training Positions, Including An Adjustable Full-Action Leg Extension/Leg Lifts Developer And An Arm Curl Bar With Adjustable Foam Rollers
- Attachments Included: Accessories Include The Plate Adapter, Spring Clip For Leg Developer, Preacher Curl Pad, Arm Curl Bar, And Ab Crunch With Foam Grip Handles Attachment. All Are Included With The Set; No Need To Buy Separately
Review: This weight bench replaces the need for so much equipment, making it an economical option.
All of the attachments will allow you to do many different exercises, and because they’re all part of one piece of equipment, it’s excellent for saving space.
If your home gym is compact and you don’t have space for extra racks and curling equipment, you’ll save a bundle of money and a ton of square footage by opting for this bench.
Pros
- Includes a squat rack built in.
- Includes leg developer and ab attachments.
- Great price.
Cons
- Only rated up to 300 lbs & this unit is better for those under 5 feet 10 inches.
Takeaway
Best weight bench with squat rack included, for a very affordable price.
Body-Solid ProClubLine Leverage Bench Press
- INDUSTRY LEADER: For 30+ years, Body Solid has held the widest array of products designed to meet the demands of the ever-changing fitness industry (home gym, free weight machines, treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, weight plates, kettlebells, dumbbells, flooring, accessories and more). Our products are cutting edge and reliable and are built for Life……Your Life.
- PERFECT FOR ANY SIZE USER: Enhanced with Gas-Assisted Adjustable Bench Press, Ergonomic Grip Positions, and Independent Arm Movement, this Machine Offers Tailored Chest and uper body workouts for Users of Any Size, Ensuring a Personalized and Effective Fitness Experience.
- MAXIMIZE YOUR WORKOUTS: With the versatility of the Leverage Gym, you can seamlessly transition between exercises like the incline chest press, wide body bench presses, and bench press workouts. The plate-loaded design allows for precision weight adjustments, ensuring you can challenge yourself at every level of fitness. .
- DURABLE AND SAFE: Experience the pinnacle of home gym equipment with the Body Solid Leverage Gym, boasting sealed bearing pivot points and weight plate holders for secure storage. The adjustable press arms, complete with durable double stitched upholstery, ensure a comfortable, safe, and stable workout tailored to your body's needs.
- DIMENSIONS: Crafted with a robust 2" x 3" 11 gauge steel mainframe and coated with an electrostatically applied powder coat finish in metallic silver. Measures 69"x53"x30" and weighs 169lbs.
Review: This Body Solid bench comes with the pressing equipment already built on, making it safer, quicker, and easier than using multiple pieces of equipment to set up a pressing station.
This bench has unilateral arms so you can work each independently. This bench has gas assisted press arms and uses Olympic plates, not included.
This bench press is designed for heavy lifters who want a quick press option.
Pros
- Press arms are adjustable to accommodate all size lifters.
- Built-in weight storage pegs.
- Sturdy 11 gauge steel frame holds a lot of weight.
- Unilateral arms work independent of each other.
- Multiple handles for maximum muscle engagement.
Cons
- Backboard is too thin.
Takeaway
Best flat bench for home gym for presses with Olympic weights.
Bodycraft F602 Flat Incline Decline Bench
- Accepts attachments
- 2" x 3" steel construction
- 2" thick, extra high density foam covered in black vinyl, with upholstered back covers
Review: This Bodycraft FID (flat incline decline) bench is a great choice for your garage gym because it is heavy duty and holds an impressive 1000 lbs, thanks to being constructed of two by three steel tubes.
Built to accommodate heavy weights and is ideal for free weights and dumbbells. It is also a good choice for a cage, provided there is enough room in and behind your cage to lay it in the flat position.
Pros
- Heavy, heavy duty, stable and beastly bench.
- 2-inch dense foam pads.
- Includes leg pads.
- Super easy and secure ladder style catch, no messing around with pegs.
Cons
- Assembly and tools required.
Takeaway
Solid enough to hold a truck, this weight bench will not disappoint and is one of the best workout benches for 2024.
Rep Fitness Rep Adjustable Bench
- Strong and Stable: Heavy-duty, 1,000lb-rated adjustable weight bench. Great for use with dumbbells, smith machines, cages, or power racks.
- Full Adjustable Incline and Decline: Now you can hit all your important muscle groups easily. 7 ladder adjustments go from an 85-degree incline to a 20-degree decline, while 4 different seat positions give you ergonomic support as your back angle changes.
- Easy to Clean and Store: Wheels on the rear make it easy to move around your gym. Just lift the convenient, front handle and wheel the bench into a new position. The pad and roller covers are made from ultra-tough, durable vinyl that wipes clean quickly and easily.
- Perfect Support for Lifting: The pad measures 11.5" wide at the shoulders, and we designed the incline mechanics to have minimal pad gap between seat and back. It’s comfortable to sit on but durable and sturdy under load. The top surface of the pad is 17.5" from floor when lying flat. Dimensions: 54”x26”x17.5"
- Buy With Confidence: Order today and get a 10-year warranty on the frame, 30-day warranty on the pads. Rep Fitness is a full-service equipment company based in Denver, Colorado. We carry a complete line of strength and conditioning equipment including benches, barbells, dumbbells, racks, cardio equipment, and more!
Review: This portable, powder coated adjustable flat-incline bench will make an affordable and useful addition to your home gym.
This bench features seven different lockable positions, and impressive weight capacity. It’s rated for up to 1,000 pounds, and you’ll never need a bench that can handle more than that.
The leg rollers and padding are coated in a durable vinyl, which makes this bench easy to clean.
Pros
- Ladder style adjustment catches means you can adjust the angle in seconds.
- Rated for up to 1000 lbs for user plus weights.
- Has handle and wheels for portability.
- Great price, especially considering its high weight capacity.
Cons
- No decline position.
Takeaway
Solid incline bench with a high max weight capacity and a reasonable price tag.
Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench
- VERSATILE HOME EQUIPMENT: Versatile design with total body strength and cardio home workouts for fitness pros and novices; Portable exercise deck that folds for compact storage
- SAFE AND STABLE: The bench features a non-slip bobble surface and quick-locking foot adjustments provide a textured grip for added safety and stability while pumping maximum weight
- MULTIPLE POSITION OPTIONS: Adjust the bench surface to different angle options (incline, decline, and flat position) to increase the intensity of your workout and better target specific muscle groups
- CLIP RESISTANCE TUBES: Includes clips to securely attach to resistance tubes for a varied workout (note: resistance tube bands are not included); Dimensions (L x W x H): 47.64 x 13 x 7.8 inches
- DIVERSE WORKOUTS: Features 2 height positions for diverse workouts, 7.87 and 13.78-inches high; Lift backrest for an integrated storage compartment to easy and quickly access equipment
Review: If your workout area is outside, you’ll love this bench.
The bench is plastic coated, preventing weather damage. This bench is adjustable to three different inclines with a simple ladder adjustment system.
It sits low to the ground, so you can also use it for step ups and Bulgarian split squats and triceps dips.
The internal storage compartment stores workout accessories, such as small weights or resistance bands, in an easy-to-access location.
Pros
- Quick and easy to adjust, just lift the back.
- Can be used and stored outside.
- Leg can be removed on one side to use in decline position.
- Grippy surface, made to be stepped on.
Cons
- Only rated for 330 lbs total, including athlete and weight lifted.
Takeaway
A really versatile weight bench that’s low to the ground and designed to be stepped on.
Marcy Folding Utility Bench
Review: Not only is this a durable and reliable utility bench, but it also inclines a few levels. You’re getting the versatility you desire, all wrapped up in comfortable long-lasting upholstery.
The biggest draw to this bench is another feature it offers – it folds up.
If your gym space isn’t large enough to leave your bench open at all times, you can fold it up and tuck it in a corner until you need to use it again.
No more crowded home gym!
Pros
- Easy ladder style catch on the back adjustment – no more cheap pegs.
- Folds for easy storage – portable.
- Includes leg developer that can be used with standard or Olympic weights.
Cons
- Teeters a bit, Marcy needs to correct the stability.
Takeaway
If you are looking for a folding, portable weight bench, this one is the best weight bench for the money.
Soozier Adjustable Home Fitness Weight Bench
- Transform any space into a personal free weight fitness center
- Adjusts to 6 different back positions and 4 seat positions
- Soft yet firm cushions give optimal support
- Floor protectors safeguard your workout area and prevent skidding
- Wheels make it easy to move when not in use
Review: This bench adjusts to ten different positions – 6 back positions, and 4 seated positions. The leg piece is completely independent from the back piece, making it easy to set the bench into any configuration that you desire.
This model includes wheels, making it easy to move when it’s not in use. The feet are also lined with skid-proof protectors, so you won’t have to worry about damaging your gym floor.
Pros
- 440 lb weight capacity.
- Ladder style adjustment.
- Can be stored upright thanks to the ladder style adjustment locking it in place.
Cons
- No foot lock for decline position – no real decline option either.
- Front is not as stable as benches designed for higher weight.
Takeaway
Great option for beginners. It’s space saving and money saving, without getting a bench that feels cheap.
Ironmaster Adjustable Weight Lifting Bench
- SUPER STRONG 1000 LB RATED. Heavy duty, stable bench platform, but still easy to pick up and move, very space efficient design.
- QUICKLY ADJUSTS TO 11 ANGLES WITH PATENTED FOOT LEVER. Quickly adjusts from decline to upright from either side of the bench.
- MULTI FUNCTIONAL, PROVEN DESIGN. Ideal for dumbbell training, barbell, machine or cage work. Perfect for use with dumbbells, smith machines, cages or racks. Check out all the amazing attachments available - more than any other bench in the world!
- SOLID WARRANTY AND SUPPORT WITH OVER 35 YEARS OF PROOF. 10 year structural warranty and 1 year on upholstery. Ironmaster is always at the ready to help if needed.
Review: Not only does this bench have an exceptional weight rating of 1,000 pounds and an impressive 11 incline settings, it also serves as a foundation for just about anything.
You can use it alone, with cages, or with racks.
If you don’t want to buy a bunch of separate equipment, the brand has created attachments, sold separately, that fit right onto this bench. You’ll be able to create a customized bench, and use it however you want to.
Pros
- 1000 pound weight capacity.
- Virtually no gap between the set and back pad.
- Lays flat as a true flat bench because the seat pad is a removable – very unique feature.
Cons
- The seat is small and the bench is too high for some.
Takeaway
Truly innovative design set this weight bench apart from the rest.
Rugged Fitness Flat Incline Bench
Review: There are three things I love about this Rugged Fitness flat bench. It is super easy to adjust, it has more support under the back and seat pad than other brands, and it holds up to 1500 lbs, making it an excellent choice for use with heavy free weights and one of the best weight benches for home use.
Pros
- Holds up to 1500 lbs.
- Wider steel beam under the pads – superior support.
- Easy smooth gliding seat and back rest adjustment.
Cons
- Must be assembled.
Takeaway
If you are looking for a HEAVY duty bench for home, this is the best workout bench for home gyms.
Titan Fitness Adjustable Flat Incline Weight Bench
Review: This Titan adjustable flat Incline bench is a good choice for beginner to intermediate lifters as it is rated for up to 650lbs.
I love that it has wheels and a handle and is so easy to move. The gap between pads is small, so it is more comfortable than some others out there.
It is a decent adjustable weight bench at an accessible price.
Pros
- Includes wheels and a handle to more it quickly and easily.
- Great price.
- Gap between seat and back pad is not too wide.
Cons
- Bench can wobble a bit.
Takeaway
Best workout bench for apartment because it is easy to move.
Nautilus Universal 5 Position Weight Bench
- Five-position settings from -10 to 45
- Includes 8 padded foam rollers to hold your feet in place
- Maximum user weight capacity 250 lb.
- Features contoured pads and sides to support your body
- Measures 50.5in L x 17.5in W x 37.5in H
Review: Nautilus is a big name in gym equipment, and they’ve earned their stellar reputation. Nautilus is a major innovator, and they’ve created a unique 5 position bench I think you will love.
This bench adjusts to five different positions, allowing you to engage your core in various ways as you work out.
The shape and padding also feature an ergonomic design for maximum comfort. With a 250-pound user weight limit and a limit of up to 430 pounds for user plus load, it’s unlikely you’ll ever grow out of this bench.
Pros
- Adjustable up to a 45-degree angle down to a negative 10 degrees.
- Includes foot pads.
- Easy to assemble and attractive appearance.
Cons
- Max weight is too low for intermediate to heavy lifters.
- Black feet pop off easily.
Takeaway
A good starter bench for beginners from a trusted name in fitness.
How to Choose the Best Weight Bench for Your Home Gym
The best weight bench for your home or garage gym should be considered carefully because it is the centerpiece of your gym.
It is the first piece of equipment you purchase when you’re assembling your home or garage gym.
Invest in Your Weight Bench
If you want to save money building a home gym, I have to say it: The weight bench is not the place to cut corners and save a few bucks.
Your weight bench is the central foundation for any other workout equipment you purchase.
Power racks, cages, and stands all require a bench, and some workouts require the usage of a bench by itself.
It may seem like a bench is a simple thing to purchase. It doesn’t appear to be fancy and there’s no need for bells and whistles, so you may feel inclined to grab the cheapest bench available.
Don’t be cheap!
These benches can, and will, fall apart on you with use. Padding pops out, legs become wobbly, and parts will begin to rust. Pretty soon, you’ll have to buy a new one.
Rather than buying a cheap bench just to get you through, it’s better to think about how your investment will work in the long term.
A good bench is a one-time investment. A cheap one will have you buying another one quick.
If you use it properly and maintain it well, you’ll probably never have to purchase another one. It’s worth spending a little more now to avoid spending a lot later.
What Characteristics To Look For in Weight Benches – 4 Core Factors
If you’re trying to pick the great benches from the bad ones, it can be difficult to tell the difference.
There’s no shortage of overpriced garbage flooding the market, and you need to be able to distinguish that garbage from the benches that are really worth the money.
When investing in a weight bench, there are four core considerations you should be making:
- Safety
- Comfort
- Durability
- Versatility
Weight Bench Safety
Safety is the most important. This bench needs to be strong enough to accommodate your weight, plus the weight you’re lifting.
If you weigh 200 pounds, the bench needs to be able to accommodate double your weight, or more.
Always look at the weight capacity or max weight rating. A good weight bench should have at least 500 lbs to 1000 lb weight limit. The best weight benches have up to 1500 lbs.
You need your bench to be stable and secure to the ground. The material used to construct the frame should be rustproof and solid.
Over time, cheap metals will warp or bend, causing your bench to become uneven.
Rusted benches lose their integrity as the metal becomes brittle, and may even collapse.
Do you want your bench to collapse while you’re holding a 200-pound barbell above your chest?
A quality bench will be very heavy because of its solid metal construction. You want something that requires minimal assembly, having as many parts welded together as possible.
Every individual component you have to install yourself can create a weak point in the event that the bolts loosen.
Many weight benches have bolted components, and it’s important that you regularly check these components to be sure that they’re fastened tightly and that the bolts remain in good condition.
Weight Bench Comfort
If you have to lay on this bench an extended period of time performing a strenuous activity, you don’t want it to give you a backache.
Benches that have improper or insufficient padding can actually cause or worsen back injuries.
Look for thicker dense padding to save your arse and back from pain.
The weights you’re holding will cause you to sink further down into the bench, because you become heavier while you hold them.
A good bench should have enough padding to keep your body away from the backboard even when you’re holding a large amount of weight.
The Durability of the Weight Bench
Quality materials last a lot longer than cheap ones. This is the same across the board for all materials used to construct your weight bench.
Bad padding isn’t dense, too soft, and you’ll sink right into it.
You’ll be able to feel that flat piece of metal or plywood, or worse, particle board, right against your back if the padding is low quality. If the padding is covered by thin fabric and isn’t sewn very well, the cover will split and tear, revealing the foam beneath, which will promptly break down because it is exposed.
This can lead to your padding completely falling out and ruining your weight bench.
Make sure your bench is coated or powder coated so it won’t rust or corrode.
This is especially important if your home gym is in an area that gets hot, such as a garage.
Weight Bench Versatility
Flat benches are great for smaller racks and cages, but what if you want a full range of motion or more versatility?
Will you be able to use this bench to do a variety of complex exercises?
Consider getting an adjustable weight bench, one that adjusts to incline, flat and decline positions.
When you can set the incline on your own, you’ll be able to get a lot more out of your workout.
It depends on how you intend to use the bench, but you may find that it’s worth spending a few more dollars for an adjustable bench that will expand your options.
What features should I avoid in my search for the perfect weight bench?
There are two features you should avoid when you are choosing the best weight bench for your gym!
Peg or pin adjustments – peg or pin style adjustments on an FID or adjustable incline bench are, unfortunately, occasionally, a point of failure.
If these fail, you can be seriously injured if the bench comes crashing down with you and your weights on it. I know of one pin failure that sent a man to the hospital with a concussion.
Narrow feet – Avoid benches with narrow feet because they are not stable and can tip under even light weights. Look for feet with a wide of stance as possible.
Try not to save space by getting a narrower bench, your safety is more important.
Weight Bench Training and Exercise Routines
If you already have a great rack, a barbell with weight plates and a set of dumbbells check out the following weight bench routines.
If you still need to pick up a rack and barbells, check out this gym essentials article to see some great recommendations.
Build your back using the weight bench
This routine is done with your FID or adjustable incline weight bench and a decent set of dumbbells. Vince is on point as he moves through 10 different workouts to get your back ripped.
Since the routine calls for dumbbells, it is totally scalable and good for beginners and advanced athletes, it just depends on how much you can lift. Beautiful.
Build your chest using the weight bench
This routine uses simple moves beginners can easily master. It calls for a flat bench, a barbell and dumbbells.
He also does a few bodyweight exercises that use the bench. The routine is cumulative and weights increase on each rep.
A routine using ONLY a bench and bodyweight
All you have is a weight bench? No problem, you can use it to work your entire body.
Build a routine by choosing any of these 57 exercises you can do with only a weight bench. No excuses!
Weight Bench FAQs, Tips and Basic Knowledge
How do You Clean Your Weight Bench?
The pad of the weight bench should simply be wiped down after every workout. If you are sharing equipment and want to get more thorough, you can lightly mist the surface of the pad with disinfectant spray and wipe it down with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.
How Can I DIY a Weight Bench and Make a Weight Bench at Home?
I cannot, in good faith, recommend a homemade weight bench and equipment.
For starters, it has to be done right which takes some skill in either woodworking or working with metal. Building a weight bench can be unsafe.
Second, building your own may actually be more expensive. One of the best weight benches you can get, the Rogue 2.0 flat bench is just under two Benjamins.
If you want a less expensive bench, this Titan adjustable bench is a sweet deal, and safer than a DIY setup for probably the same you would spend building your own.
Are Weight Benches Safe?
Yes, if used correctly. See my notes above on what to avoid. Specifically, do not get a bench with narrow feet or one that uses pin adjustments.
How to Use the Weight Bench Correctly?
Yes, there is a way to use the bench correctly and you do not want to fail on this.
Jeff goes over some really helpful tips & shares some potent wisdom with Yáll, so do yourself a favor and watch this quick video so you can bench press like a pro and not like a bro.
There You Have It…
The basics of the mighty weight bench, the centerpiece of any home or garage gym.
Don’t hesitate, pick out the best weight bench for you and get started on your home or garage gym today!
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