Table of Contents
Building muscle is one of the best ways to lose weight, build your body strength, and improve your health.
There are dozens of options out there for workout equipment that can achieve full-body muscle toning and strength building, but none are as popular as the common weight bench.
Though many are simple, others have advanced features for an enhanced, full-body workout. Weight benches can be used in conjunction with bars, dumbbells, or your own body weight when performing elevated push-ups, dips, and various other exercises for building strength.
There are several different types of weight benches, each with their own features and pros and cons, so deciding which one is right for your fitness level and goals can be a challenge for anyone who hasn’t purchased one before – and sometimes even those who have.
To help you determine what you need from your workout bench, we’ve put together this shopping guide and filled it with the top choices on the market.
To help you choose the best weight benches in Canada, we analyzed 23 products and 738 reviews over 26 hours.
Following our last update, we recommend the Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench for its value, quality, versatility, and durability.
In a rush? Buy it Now on Amazon!
Weight Bench Comparative Table
| Product | Summary | Rating | Price | |
|
TOP PICK
|
Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench
|
|
9.3/10 | See price on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
UPGRADE PICK
|
Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench
|
|
9.7/10 | See price on Amazon |
|
BUDGET PICK
|
Marcy Flat utility Weight Bench
|
|
8.5/10 | See price on Amazon |
Our Pick for The Best Weight Bench
Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench Review
The Best Overall
Fitness Reality
Working out with a weight bench isn’t most people’s idea of a good time, but when you use a comfortable, innovative weight bench, your workout can be efficient, effective, and mostly pain-free. To get the most out of your weight lifting exercises, choose the Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL weight bench.
Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of the Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench
The Fitness Reality weight bench is one of the best on the market. It has a generous 850lb weight limit that allows the strongest body builders to work out and push their already intense limits while being safely supported and feeling completely stable. The thick steel construction will last for decades and the padded backrest is designed with incredible durable to avoid lost stitches or damage from wear and tear.
The backrest accommodates users up to 6’4” in height, so almost everyone will be able to comfortably workout using this weight bench. The backrest has 7 adjustable positions for a variety of workouts, including a decline option for decline bench presses, sit-ups, and other more challenging variations of common strength-building exercises.
I previously had a Bowflex bench, and the gap between the seat and the backrest was very annoying. This bench eliminates that problem, feels extremely solid and heavy-duty, and I am pleasantly surprised by the number of exercises this bench accommodates. For the price, I expected to receive a bench that was better for more casual use, but it is actually perfect for my more intense training compared to the gym-quality benches I’m used to.
harvey t,
There are four foam rollers for a comfortable fit when building your leg strength as well, and the seat offers 3 angle settings for greater customization when performing a number of exercises. There are even two backrest width options during assembly to match your body better. The foam seat and backrest are 2” thick, which is above the industry standard. This bench does fold down smaller for easier storage and comes with a 1-year warranty guarantee.
Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 69.5” x 24” x 52”
- Weight: 65 lbs
- Colour: Black
- Weight Capacity: 850 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: 4
- Adjustable Backrest: 7 positions
- Adjustable Seat: 3 positions
- Warranty: 1 year
Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- High weight capacity for body builders
- Highly adjustable for 20+ exercises
- Thick foam padding on seat, backrest, and rollers for comfort
- Seat and rollers are also adjustable
Cons
- Doesn’t have a preacher curl pad
Our Final Opinion about the Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
When you look at the overall product quality and usefulness for a varied and balanced workout, it’s easy to see why we chose it as our top pick. Fitness Reality has delivered a thoughtfully designed, high-quality, affordable weight bench that exceeds our expectations and industry standards, and it is suited to casual users and hardcore strength builders alike.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Weight Bench
Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench Review
The Advanced Choice
Marcy
Though many of us choose to exercise with a weight bench for casual strength training as part of a varied workout, there are those out there who need more from their bench for their more dedicated strength training. For ultimate performance, the Marcy foldable MWB-20100 weight bench is your best bet.
Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of The Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench
The Marcy foldable MWB-20100 weight bench is a slightly more expensive option, but it offers multiple features that are hard to find. This weight bench truly has everything you could ask for in a workout machine, including a curl pad and bar storage for authentic bench presses with lower risk. The weight limit of 600 lbs is a bit lower than we’d like to see on a weight bench of this caliber, so it isn’t recommended for intense strength building or body builders, but it should be more than enough for most athletes.
The bar stand is a bit narrower than would be ideal for comfort’s sake, but the bench system is quite compact and folds for storage to take up less of your home’s valuable floor space. The leg developer is heavy-duty with enough room to add multiple weight plates as you improve your strength as well. 6 foam rollers make every leg day more enjoyable since they’re thickly padded and comfortable.
This bench is perfect for my needs. It is the only one I could find with a leg trainer. You do have to remove the weight bar if you want to do crunches or anything similar, I have hit my head multiple times by not doing so. I love that it is an entire gym that fits in my closet – I needed something compact yet comfortable and versatile, and I am not disappointed.
danny j.
The backrest only has 4 positions but the seat is adjustable which provides that extra bit of customizability many people look for. The bench is quite heavy at 80 lbs, so though it isn’t easily moved by yourself, it won’t put you at any risk of tipping over or collapsing as long as you stay under the recommended weight limit.
Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 69” x 30” x 64”
- Weight: 80 lbs
- Colour: Silver
- Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: 6
- Adjustable Backrest: 4 positions
- Adjustable Seat: Yes
Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Includes a bar stand for easy storage and access
- Has a leg developer and preacher curl pad
- High-quality steel frame is sturdy
- Folds for easy storage when not in use
Cons
Cons
- Expensive
- Bar stand is pretty narrow
- Not great for anyone taller than 5’11” or so
Our Final Opinion About the Marcy Foldable MWB-20100 Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Marcy foldable weight bench is a fairly balanced product with important pros and cons. It offers the best of both worlds by fitting a full gym in a very small space, but the drawback of this is a narrower, awkward design that won’t accommodate taller users. Overall, though, it is a quality pick for people seeking better versatility in exercise options than is offered by most weight benches.
Our Budget Pick for a Weight Bench
Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench Review
The Budget Pick
Marcy
Not everyone can afford to outfit their home with a home gym no matter how much they may want to, so the Marcy flat utility weight bench is the best choice whether you’re only looking for a casual-use bench or simply can’t afford the high-end options.
Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of the Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
The Marcy flat utility weight bench is a simpler, more affordable options. It is not adjustable in any way, so users won’t have the same variety of workouts when using this bench and may need other pieces of equipment to achieve a full-body workout, but its performance as a flat bench is pretty great regardless.
We’re very pleased by the dimensions of the bench since the main pad is 43” long and the bench is 17” tall with a 14” width – roughly 2” wider than is standard on weight benches. The added width will be more comfortable for larger individuals since more of your body is supported. The length of the pad is also ideal for tall people up to about 6’6” or so, which is quite generous compared to many other high-end options.
When the pandemic hit and gyms closed down, I needed an emergency home gym without breaking the bank. I searched high and low for an affordable bench, and am happy that I settled on this one. I am shocked by the weight capacity since it does feel a bit wobbly, but since I rarely exceed 300 lbs when lifting a bar, I’m not too concerned by it. It isn’t as padded as a lot of other benches, but overall, I really enjoy using it.
marcy p.
The weight limit on this bench is 600 lbs, so anyone can use the bench for intense strength training even when moving into the hundreds of pounds territory. One of the great benefits of using a flat bench like this Marcy utility weight bench is that it is lightweight and very easily stored in a closet or away in a corner.
Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 43” x 17” x 14”
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Colour: Black
- Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: None
- Adjustable Backrest: No
- Adjustable Seat: No
- Warranty: 2 years
Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- High weight capacity
- Resistant to wear and tear
- Very portable and easy to store
- Affordable
Cons
- Not useful for as many exercises
Our Final Opinion About the Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, this Marcy weight bench is a great pick for anyone with lower demands for their workouts. It is perfect for simpler exercises and will last as long as the more expensive options. We don’t recommend this bench for people looking for maximum versatility, but it is great as a starter bench or for more casual use with basic exercises.
Alternative Products to Consider
Flybird Utility Weight Bench Review
The Beginner-Friendly Alternative
Flybird
The Flybird Utility weight bench is a simple, comfortable choice that is best suited to beginners. It helps you learn optimal positioning for a variety of exercises, is easy to use and adjust, is sturdy and safe as you increase your lifted weight, and won’t overcomplicate things when you’re just starting out.
Flybird Utility Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of the Flybird Utility Weight Bench
The Flybird utility weight bench is one of the most value-packed on the market. Its 600lb weight capacity is about average compared to others in the category at this price range, and the steel frame is extra durable for stability under movement as well as longevity of life with regular use. The bench padding is nearly 2” thick for reliable comfort in any position, and the two foam rollers are thickly padded to protect your legs when lifting with the lower body as well.
This is one of the most adjustable weight benches on the market with 6 back positions and 4 seat positions. This design choice ensures that everyone, regardless of body size and shape, can find a comfortable, supportive position for their exercises. The one drawback when looking at the size of the Flybird weight bench is that it is only recommended for users up to 5’9”, which is fairly limiting.
Coming from a newbie, this bench is awesome. It is strong, wide, and long enough for a taller, larger dude. I am really enjoying using it for seated flys and rows with free weights, sit to stands, and planks, but it is great for the basic curls and bench presses too. I love that it is foldable and I put it together in 5 minutes. Handles my 200lb frame with 100lb weights easily.
jeason d.
We also wish that the Flybird bench had a decline option for more intense exercises, but this is only a minor missing feature that most users will make do without. The bench folds for storage like most and has 3 foot support positions for optimal positioning for beginners learning how varying exercises should feel. Everything about this Flybird weight bench speaks to user-friendliness and ease of use, and novices and mid-level users will appreciate the comfort and usability of the bench.
Flybird Utility Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 42.4” x 42.3” x 15.1”
- Weight: 22 lbs
- Colour: Black and red
- Weight Capacity: 600 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: 2
- Adjustable Backrest: 6 positions
- Adjustable Seat: 4 positions
- Warranty: 1 year
Flybird Utility Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 4 seat positions and 6 backrest positions
- 600lb weight capacity
- Foldable for storage
- Includes a set of rollers for leg workouts
Cons
- Shorter height recommendation
- No backrest decline option
Our Final Opinion About the Flybird Utility Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Though there are a few advanced features missing, the overall design of the Flybird utility weight bench is excellent. It fits every body type and will grow with you as you expand your comfort with weight lifting. It is incredibly easy to us and offers just enough choice to be effective without being complicated – the perfect balance for beginners.
Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench Review
The Simple Alternative
Magic Fit
If you’re looking for a weight bench that caters to more basic exercises and is affordable, the magic Fit foldable weight bench is for you. This bench doesn’t have as much to offer as many other models, but it gets the job done.
Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of The Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench
The Magic Fit foldable weight bench is a budget-friendly option that follows a simpler, more basic design trend compared to some high-end, feature-rich alternatives. That is not to say that this bench won’t be an effective workout tool, however, because it certainly can be. 7 backrest positions offer great choice to users for all types of positioning for bench presses and incline strength work.
The weight limit is a bit lower at 550 lbs, which isn’t very much room for strength building when you deduct your own body weight, but it is great for beginners and more casual users that couldn’t reach the weight limit even if they tried. The steel frame is strong and sturdy to make you feel comfortable when in more vulnerable positions, but the 1.6” padding isn’t as thick as many others in the industry and you may find it uncomfortable if sitting in one position for extended reps, but it is certainly still comfortable for normal use.
I really enjoy the customization possible with this weight bench since it is one of the few with an adjustable seat, backrest, and decline option. It is very sturdy, folds down small to be put away, and has comfortable padding. I’m comfortable lifting about 150 lbs (I weight 185) since the bench is strong, but I probably wouldn’t go higher even with the 550lb weight rating.
max e.
The seat is adjustable with 3 optional positions and the end of the seat pad is rounded for comfort when performing leg exercises with the included leg developer bar. The backrest is quite short at 31.5”, so it isn’t a great choice for taller individuals, but its compact size works well for apartments and cramped home gyms hidden in the corner of your basement.
Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 36.2” x 15” x 54.7”
- Weight: 26 lbs
- Colour: Black and Red
- Weight Capacity: 550 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: 2
- Adjustable Backrest: 7 positions
- Adjustable Seat: 3 positions
- Warranty: 1 year
Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Folds down for storage, saving 80% space
- 7 backrest positions and 3 seat positions
- Very sturdy
- Non-skid feet for stability and floor protection
Cons
- Slightly lower weight capacity
- Not as versatile
Our Final Opinion About the Magic Fit Foldable Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The overall design of the Magic Fit foldable weight bench exceeds expectations, but in the same token it does not compete with the more advanced benches out there when it comes to versatility and effectiveness as a full-body piece of workout equipment. That being said, it performs very well for the standard weight bench exercises.
PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench Review
The Compact Alternative
Pasyou
The PASYOU adjustable weight bench is perfect for people in apartments or smaller homes since it can fold down to the size of a suitcase when not in use. It can truly be stored anywhere and is one of the most portable options on the market.
PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench Video Review
What We Think of the PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench
Some people choose fancy weight benches that offer ultimate performance for a varied workout, and others choose a weight bench for its ability to offer a full-body workout without taking up too much space. If you’re in the latter group, this PASYOU weight bench is for you. Its defining feature is how incredibly compact it can fold up for storage virtually anywhere, and it’s lightweight enough that you could pack it in a bag and take it anywhere.
The weight limit is a bit lower at 500 lbs, but it still offers enough room and stability for ongoing training as you increase your strength. Despite its compact size, this weight bench does include a leg developer to keep your lower half as buff as your top half – trust us, chicken legs look good on no one. One of the great features about this weight bench is that it can be assembled in 2 minutes, so we definitely recommend this model for people who struggle to follow any type of assembly instructions.
Since I live in a one-bedroom apartment with my husband and daughter, it’s safe to say that I don’t have a lot of space for a home gym set-up. Luckily, this weight bench fits in my closet when I’m not using it and comes apart with just 2 pins for really quick set-up and take-down each day. It is lightweight and very easy to move on my own. My only criticism is that the push pin that secures the pivot point on the backrest has a bit of wiggle room and doesn’t feel as safe.
lyndsay b.
The adjustability of the bench is right on point with higher-end options with an impressive 7-position backrest, but the seat is fixed and cannot be adjusted. Users will also appreciate the thick foam padding on the seat and backrest since it will keep you properly cushioned and supported. If you’re looking for an affordable and portable weight bench, this is our top recommendation.
PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 55.1” x 15.7” x 20”
- Weight: 26.2 lbs
- Colour: Black
- Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
- Frame Material: Steel
- Rollers: 4
- Adjustable Backrest: 7 positions
- Adjustable Seat: No
- Warranty: 1 year
PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- 7 backrest positions
- Folds incredibly small for storage
- Lightweight for single-handed portability
- Affordable
Cons
Cons
- Lower weight capacity
- Seat is not adjustable
Our Final Opinion About the PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
For people with limited living space, smaller individuals, or those who won’t be doing any extreme lifting, the PASYOU adjustable weight bench is a great choice. If you want top-quality stability and need lots of variety to keep your strength-building exercises interesting, there are better options out there.
Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench Review
The Versatile Alternative
Reebok
Though it may not look it at first glance, the Reebok professional deck workout is one of the best options out there in terms of exercise versatility. It can be used as a weight bench, rower, stepper, and more thanks to its innovative design and resistance band compatibility.
Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench Video Review
What We Think of The Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench
The Reebok professional deck workout bench is the most unique option on our list. It doesn’t look like your standard weight bench, and it doesn’t perform as one either. Sure, it includes an inclinable and declinable backrest for varied positioning and will support your positions for lifting weights, but this is where the comparison ends.
The backrest actually hides an inner compartment that stores your needed accessories. Yes, that’s right, accessories. This workout bench includes clips for resistance bands that can be used to simulate rowing exercises without buying a whole other machine. It is designed as a stepper as well with a raised, textured surface for grip and stability with a variety of exercises. Plus, this bench can be used for front raises with resistance bands, tricep dips, and more.
This is a great bench overall, but there are some pros and cons to consider. It is compact and easy to store, has a storage compartment for resistance bands that is very useful, and the tilt deck feature is easy to operate. I don’t like the surface texture since it hurts my hands and knees depending on the exercise, but I would definitely still choose it again after using it for about a month now.
debbie d.
However, there are a few drawbacks as well. The hard plastic surface is uncomfortable to lay or sit on with the raised bumps, and the lack of padding means you don’t have any cushioning when lifting weights. The weight capacity is also incredibly low at 330lbs, so it isn’t ideal for bench presses beyond 50-100lbs when you account for your own body weight depending on your height. There are only 3 options to choose from when setting your backrest position, but this bench can be used for a wider assortment of exercises than top industry options in the standard style.
Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench Specifications
- Dimensions: 4.5” x 8” x 13”
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Colour: Black
- Weight Capacity: 330 lbs
- Frame Material: Plastic
- Rollers: None
- Adjustable Backrest: 3 positions
- Adjustable Seat: No
Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very sturdy
- Can be used for front raises, low rows, tricep dips, Bulgarian split squats, and more
- Easy to store
- Offers incline, decline, and flat options
Cons
Cons
- Low weight limit
- Hard and uncomfortable surface
Our Final Opinion About the Reebok Professional Deck Workout Bench
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
We’re pleased by the quality, durability, and versatility of the Reebok professional workout bench, and recommend it for novices and pros both, but we are disappointed by its lack of comfort and limited weight capacity since it can’t perform as a standard weight bench for presses and other strength-building exercises that exceed 330 lbs.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Weight Bench
Why Add a Weight Bench to Your Home Workouts
The most obvious reason to add a weight bench for your home workouts is that they can be used for up to 57 different exercises depending on the style you choose. With their large weight capacities, they can also be used to take your training to the next level no matter how advanced you already are. You can lift hundreds of pounds and still have room to grow. They are also ideal for beginners just learning how to lift weights since they guide you into the proper positions while keeping your back straight and your joints flexible, ensuring you won’t hurt yourself as you learn the technique. Weight benches are often compact, so they are great for any sized homes since they can provide a full body workout in very little space.
How to Properly Choose Your Weight Bench
- Price.
When shopping for a weight bench, your main concern will probably be how much it costs. Though you should expect to spend at least $100 to get even a basic weight bench, there are other options up to several hundred dollars or more that offer higher quality construction, greater versatility, and enhanced comfort compared to lesser priced products. Depending on how strict your budget is, you’ll have dozens of great options to peruse before choosing one over the other.
- Weight Limit.
When looking at the weight limit of a weight bench, you must consider more than your own weight. you must also consider the type of exercises you’ll be performing as well as your strength level since everyone is different. If you are a casual exerciser and won’t be lifting more than 50 lbs at a time, the weight limit of the bench probably won’t be much of a concern. On the other hand, if you’re a serious weight lifter or body builder, the weight limit will matter more to you since it will need to support your weight plus a couple hundred lbs or more.
- Backrest Positions.
For bench presses and other exercises where you’re sitting or lying on the bench, the angle of the backrest can have a huge impact on your workout. Some benches are adjustable and others aren’t, so you’ll have to determine what types of exercises you’ll be doing before purchasing a weight bench. Some benches have 7-10 backrest settings while others only have 3, and some can decline and lay flat while others can’t. For most people, the more choice the better, but your budget may also determine how many options you have for adjusting the backrest.
- Seat Positions.
An adjustable seat is much rarer than an adjustable backrest, so you’ll have an easier time finding this feature on higher-end weight benches. An adjustable seat gives you more freedom with angle at which you sit, as well as your positioning for various exercises. Sometimes the seat can even be moved to accommodate taller and shorter people by adjusting the distance between the backrest and the seat.
- Surface Material.
While the majority of weight benches have a foam layer for comfort, not all do, and some are thicker than others. When looking at the surface material, you should note how thick it is, if it is smooth, ridged, or bumpy, and how easy it is to clean of sweat so it stays fresh. Most weight benches have padding that is 1.5” thick or less, but some gym-quality options have 3” padding or thicker for pressure relief and comfort when working with heavier weights.
- Leg Attachments.
Most middle and high-end weight benches will include leg attachments with rollers that make it easier to achieve a full-body workout using one piece of equipment. The number of rollers may differ, and some will use resistance while others allow you to place plates on the leg bar for strength training. Some leg bars will be more comfortable than others, so look for thicker padding here if you’ll be lifting heavier weights since they will protect your legs better than thinner rollers.
- Storability.
Unless you have a space dedicated for a home gym, you probably don’t have the space for a weight bench to hang out in the open in all its glory. Luckily, there are many different styles of weight bench to choose from, and the larger options are often foldable to save space. Basic utility benches are lightweight and very easy to move on your own, so they’re best suited to smaller rooms and apartment dwellers. If you want the added performance and versatility of an adjustable bench, you should be prepared for a much higher weight that makes it more difficult to move on its own. Foldable benches each fold to different dimensions, so make sure to pay attention to these measurements before buying.
- Size.
When looking at the size of a weight bench, there are a few key areas to consider. First, the total length of the main pad, or backrest and seat. In most cases, the main pad will be around 3-4’ long, making it ideal for anyone under 6’2” or so. Next is the pad width. The standard size is about a foot wide, and this is the most comfortable for the majority of users. However, some benches have smaller ends or are narrower in the body, so double check that other users found it comfortable to lay on, especially if you’re a bit wider yourself. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, is the bench height off the floor. This is usually the most important size feature for people since it can impact the angle of your legs to the floor, and for most exercises your feet should be firmly planted and in solid connection with the ground. Shorter people will need to look at this extra carefully, but 15-20” is the average range that works for most people.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of weight benches allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
