A Versatile Piece for a Home Gym: Best Adjustable Weight Bench
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Ironmaster Super Adjustable Weight Bench -
X-Mark Fitness Adjustable Weight Bench -
Bowflex Weight Bench -
Rogue Adjustable Weight Bench -
Legend Fitness 4 Way Bench -
Buyer's Guide
Adjustable weight benches are much cheaper than a full home gym, yet enable you to do most of the same movements using free weights. Unfortunately not all adjustable weight benches are the same and you could end up with a flimsy bench that can barely hold you and your weights. Weight benches are not exceptionally complicated so what sets the best weight bench apart from the worst can be very subtle. The best adjustable weight benches in 2022 on this list were selected because of their sturdy manufacturing materials and weight capacity, any extra features for enhancing your workout like a leg extension add on, and overall comfort thanks to a range of seat adjustments and padding options.
Here are the best adjustable weight benches of 2022
Ironmaster Super Adjustable Weight Bench - Best Adjustable Weight Bench Overall
The Super Bench is what other adjustable weight benches grow up wishing they could be. The benches steel frame is made from 11 and 12 gauge tubing, giving it a sturdy base and also allows this bench to support up to 1,000 pounds. The padding is super thick, and although it may be too firm for some people, it’s still comfortable and provides extra support when you’re going for those higher weight limits.
Instead of a clunky, bar-in-groove incline-changing method, the Super Bench uses a smooth, crescent slider to let you choose between 11 positions ranging from decline to 90 degrees. Unlike most of their competitors, the Super Bench also allows you to adjust the seat for the perfect fit and feel during a workout.
When it comes to accessories, the Super Bench puts all others to shame with enough attachments to literally turn this model into a full home gym including a pull up bar, dip handles, and a crunch anchor. Overall this bench is just the perfect height and width for the maximum comfort for most body types.
X-Mark Fitness Adjustable Weight Bench - Runner Up
X-Mark is a company which flies under the radar, but they still puts out some really awesome products like the XM-7472. The benches 11 Gauge steel is guaranteed to hold you and your weights with a 1,500 pound weight limit. The XM-7472 also offers seven different positions from decline to 90 degrees to better serve all of your workout needs.
This is a commercial grade bench and you’ll feel it as soon as you sit down on the thick, comfortable cushioning. The vinyl outer covering is also sweat and tear resistant; you definitely won’t feel like you’re constantly sticking to it. There’s not a lot in the way of extras for this bench but it does offer add-ons for preacher curls and leg extensions. When you’re done with the XM-7472, you can fold it up and wheel it away for convenient storage.
Bowflex Weight Bench - Honorable Mention
The Select Tech 4.1 by Bowflex offers a reliable adjustable weight bench that would fit in almost any home. While the benches padding isn’t especially thick, it’s still very comfortable and the benches slim frame can still support up to 480 pounds. This model isn’t as versatile as other benches, but it will meet most exercise needs with five positions ranging from full decline to 90 degrees.
As far as extra features go, this bench is sparse with no more than a removable leg brace attachment. However, a lack of multiple extra features makes this a great, space-saving weight bench. While this may be the most basic of the adjustable weight benches on this list, this bench proves that sometimes less is more.
Rogue Adjustable Weight Bench - Consider
Rogue is hands down one of the best fitness companies and their products are continually finding their way onto our best lists. This adjustable weight bench uses 11 gauge steel tubing for sturdy support and its padding is thick and firm for comfortable support. It offers nine adjustable back positions from decline to 90 degrees along with six different seat adjustments, making it the perfect fit for almost anyone.
What sets rogue products apart is that they’re constructed with body builders in mind, so with this bench you’re definitely getting a rugged, well-designed product. This bench doesn’t have any extras to speak of but if you’re only in the market for a bench and a bench only, this is a really solid option.
Legend Fitness 4 Way Bench - Best Adjustable Weight Bench
This bench is just one of many impressive products from Legend Products. This bench uses the seldom-used crescent method which is much smoother than the rod and groove adjustment-style most benches rely on. With eight incline positions and four seat positions, you’re guaranteed to find the right fit for every exercise movement no matter you size.
Legend doesn’t disclose the weight capacity of the 4 Way Bench, but 11 gauge steel, a lifetime warranty, and a commercial-use rating all add up to a higher weight capacity than you will likely ever need. The bench itself is exceptionally sturdy with fairly comfortable padding which is firm enough so that you won’t sink into the bench the second you pick up your weight.
This manufacturer operates on the “less is more” principle so you won’t find a lot of extras here, but it does have a padded leg anchor and wheels for easy movement around the house or gym. Legend offers sweat and tear resistant vinyl, but they also offer a list of color options for fabric to make your bench perfectly fit your home or gym.
Buyer's Guide
Are adjustable weight benches worth it?
There goes a saying; old is gold. Sadly, one can not implement this when it comes to traditional weight benches VS the adjustable counterparts.
These adjustable weight benches have taken over the throne as the best weight benches type you’ll ever find. Why? Well, there are a few notable reasons for this.
- First of all, the adjustable weight benches tend to be extremely versatile and multi-purpose. You can shift them into different positions for different muscle-building exercises.
- Adjustable weight benches do not have any uprights or obstructions. You can even perform other types of activities, such as using dumbbells.
- These benches come with built-in wheels for mobility. So, you can move them around the gym or workspace conveniently.
- Since adjustable weight benches are compact, they have less manufacturing cost than the heavier traditional ones. Hence, one can purchase them without straining their pockets.
Summing it up, the adjustable weight benches are certainly worth every single penny you pay!
Types of adjustable weight benches
You’ll indeed come across various types of adjustable weight benches during your search. Different companies would’ve used different terminologies for their particular product. But, in essence, all of these adjustable weight benches fall into two fundamental categories only:
1. Flat to Incline Benches
These adjustable benches offer you two functionalities; flat (0-degrees) and incline. You can incline the bench to various angles, depending on the model. Ideally, a flat to incline weight bench can go up to 90-degrees.
2. Flat-Incline-Decline Benches (FID)
The FID benches go one level ahead and offer you the decline functionality too. So, you have three modes; flat, incline, and decline. Even in these, you’ll find further categorization into traditional and non-traditional FID benches.
Typically, a traditional FID bench will go down to a certain angle (-10 to -20-degrees). Meanwhile, the non-traditional ones can go down to several angles.
Features of the Best Adjustable Weight Bench
Do not purchase an adjustable weight bench based on type only. Several other important features need consideration. Below, we’ve brought together a comprehensive list of all the essential-most factors. Read more!
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity refers to how much load an adjustable weight bench can withstand. Ideally, it should be sufficient to support your weight as well as the load that you’ll be holding or pressing.
However, it is better to opt for the highest weight capacity possible. It is recommendable to consider weight benches with 1000lbs+ weight capacity.
Dimensions
The dimensions of an adjustable weight bench affect the comfort level offered. Purchase an inappropriately sized bench, and you’re likely to suffer from back pain. Here are some core dimensions to evaluate:
1. Backrest width
The backrest or pad supports your back during exercises. And so, you must pay immense importance to it. Find an adjustable weight bench that is wide enough to prevent your shoulders from spilling. It should provide adequate support and stability.
2. Length
The length of a bench measures both the back pad and seat together in a flat position. You should look for one that is neither too tall nor too short, such as 50-inches.
3. Height
If you plan to do special exercises like powerlifting, then bench height consideration is a must. It is the distance from the backrest top to the floor. Typically, a 16 to 17-inches tall weight bench is ideal for all exercise types.
Adjustment Style
Let’s not forget the essential-most feature of all; the adjustment style. Up till now, there are two fundamental types of adjustment styles.
1. Pop-pin arc adjustment: Uses a large metal arc with holes for angle adjustment.
2. Ladder adjustment: Uses a metal post with grooved slots for adjustment.
Both types offer the same functionality. Hence, you should select either of the two based on convenience.
Durability
Another weight-relevant quantity that you need to consider is the weight of the bench. Unlike most products, a heavy adjustable weight bench indicates strength and quality. Do not select the lightweight models for portability since these weight benches have wheels. Hence, go for a heavier bench that weighs at least 70lbs.
How much should I spend on an adjustable bench?
With such a variation in the market, figuring out how much you should be investing in an adjustable workbench can be confusing. But, worry not. The answer to this question depends on your budget, exercise type, and frequency. Here is a breakdown of all these features;
Budget
Generally, an adjustable weight bench can be anywhere between $100 to $500+. Most mid-range benches are available from $120-$150. So, you need to consider your budget restraints and select the one best in your range.
Do not adopt that pricier means better ideology. Sometimes, companies charge for their reputation and brand name too.
Exercise Type
The nature of your exercises also determines how much you should spend. If you aim to do a diversity of exercises, you would probably require a non-traditional FID bench that costs more than a traditional one.
Frequency
People, who are fitness enthusiasts and work out intensively, require a more durable adjustable weight bench than others. And, since durable ones come at a higher price, you should be investing more.
Best Adjustable Weight Bench FAQS
What does FID bench mean?
FID is simply an abbreviation used for a type of adjustable weight bench. Its full form is Front-Incline-Decline, which refers to the three functionalities offered. Hence, one can perform a number of activities on it. We’ve explained it in detail above.
What is usable as a gym bench at home?
You can use a lot of things as a gym bench at home, such as a table and armrest. The surface must be flat and broad enough to support you.
It is possible to use the floor as a gym bench too. However, if you work out frequently, then it is better to invest in a quality gym bench.
How many degrees is a decline bench?
For certain exercises, you need to set your adjustable weight bench to a decline setting. Usually, it is 15 to 30-degrees downwards so that you’re on a slope. This particular decline setting is great for developing defined pecs.
