Nowadays, workout bench (sometimes called “Olympic weight bench”) has become a very popular piece of home gym equipment that can replace an entire gym, thanks to the best adjustable backrest.
This function allows you to do all the exercises you need to strengthen your body’s main muscle groups as you can incline/decline the backrest. From the comfort of your own home, you can keep yourself in great physical shape. And the best part, workout benches don’t take much space, they’re easy to store as well as easy to assemble and dissemble.
Now let’s take a look at what makes up a good adjustable weight bench for a home gym.
Why buy a weight bench for a home gym?
The multi-purpose utility weight bench is one of the main components of any home gym. The product has a straightforward design. However, this does not prevent you from doing full-body training on it, just like you would on a multi-gym or a squat rack.
There is no need to spend a lot of money on expensive fitness equipment, which can take up a lot of space, simply get a flat bench that is easy to move around and store.
Most manufacturers such as Rogue place a lot of emphasis on the functionality of their products. Last but not least, usability and practicality. For this purpose, the sports equipment can be equipped with additional options. This can include back and seat angle adjustments, a biceps desk, other racks, dumbbells and barbells.
All this will help you work the main muscle groups in your workout. The wide range of products available will allow anyone to find a product to suit their needs.
Types of adjustable weight bench fixtures
Adjustable weight benches, like most other fitness equipment, come in a variety of designs. There are four basic designs: horizontal, vertical, inclined configuration and negative angle fixture. Universal products are available that accommodate all of the above types.
With horizontal layout
The product is available as a stationary or folding unit. The weight bench is equipped with strong metal legs (this is the most common option, especially in the gyms).
This trainer is suitable for use in the home. Dumbbells and barbells with low weights are also commonly used here. The weight bench can be of different widths. This affects your comfort when exercising.
With vertical positioning
This kind of projectile looks more like a chair with a backrest. The weight bench is mainly used for squeezing dumbbells from the shoulders. The device reliably supports the spine, which prevents excessive strain on the lumbar spine muscles.
Inclined weight bench
Such a product has its own unique feature. Its rear component can be raised. This makes it possible to sit upright on the weight bench or lie down horizontally. Your back can be held at any angle. The load for a particular muscle group depends on this position. As the angle changes, the entire musculature of the body will change.
Tilted weight benches
This piece is lowered to the floor with one side. With the adjustment, the head can be positioned lower and the legs higher. This position strengthens the chest muscles well. Training your abdominal muscles will also do the trick. In this case, however, the apparatus must be equipped with special rollers that fix the feet.
Weight bench design (flat bench, incline and decline bench)
The entire installation consists of several steps. Racks and bars are connected to the weight bench, and optional equipment may be included with the training machine. Additional attachments may include telescopic strut length adjustment, raising and lowering the projectile, and safety devices. All of the above equipment improves the quality of training and ensures safety during sporting activities.
Some beginners do not like to use this device. They find it uncomfortable to lie down and stand upon. When lifting the bar, you need someone to back it up.
Basic requirements for the weight bench
A lot of pressure is exerted on the weight bench during sporting activities. The entire structure is under severe strain. Therefore, a sports weight bench must have the following parameters:
- The installation must be assembled securely.
- The structure must be able to support the weight of a person with a barbell.
- The metal must have a specific stiffness.
- The substrate must be resistant to high humidity.
- If the weight bench is of a tilted design, there must be the highest reliability of the adjustment locks.
- Care must be taken to ensure that the paint finish does not cause allergies.
In addition to the above, it is worth paying attention to the upholstery material. It must be of good quality.
What to consider when buying a weight bench
The purchase of a projectile should be taken very seriously. You should not purchase an item that first comes into your sight. You should study all the features of the model presented in detail and compare them with your needs. The following recommendations should be heeded to choose the correct installation:
- The first thing to know is the maximum weight the trainer can support. The higher the figure, the heavier the equipment can be used on the weight bench. However, such a product will cost more. For beginners, a setting of 150 kg or more is suitable.
- The construction of the adjustable weight bench must be studied. All structural elements must be made of metal. The exception is the upholstery. Be sure to inspect all fasteners. The weld seams must be continuous, and the bolts and nuts must be well tightened. The flimsy construction may crumble beneath the athlete during exercise.
- Familiarise yourself with the adjustments of the fixture. The backrest tilt mechanism must be checked manually. If the adjustment is challenging, it is better to look at other types of installation. There’s quite a lot to choose from. If you do not like the overall design, you should look for a similar product with similar parameters.
- The upholstery material must be made of durable material. A quality item will last much longer. The ottoman must have a specific stiffness and softness. You can lie down on the adjustable weight bench and thus test the comfort of the projectile. The assembly of the installation will need to be sorted out. After all, most models are delivered to the recipient in a disassembled state. The person will need to assess their own strength, as they will have to assemble the structure themselves.
- The assembly instructions must be read. If there are many parts, it is better to consider models that the manufacturer brings in.
These simple guidelines will enable anyone to navigate and choose the right product for their needs. You can use them to buy a product that will last for a long time.
An overview of the best weight benches for your home gym
To make it a part of your home gym, we have ranked the best weight benches and made recommendations to help you choose the product with the best features.
Best weight bench for the pectoralis major muscle group
Sport Elite SE-510
The brand’s devices feature a convex shape that allows you to work your abs and pecs much more effectively.
The unit can be height-adjusted so that a suitable angle of inclination can be set. Everyone who trains on the machine can fully adjust it to their individual parameters.
The legs rest on soft rollers during exercise, avoiding injury and discomfort. The rollers also make it much easier to work your abs.
Another plus is that it can be folded up. Thanks to its small dimensions, it is suitable even for owners of small flats.
Sport Elite SE-510 Advantages:
- * small parameters;
- * Can be adjusted in height;
- * can be folded in.
The downside:
- * has not been identified.
Best weight bench for the leg strength training
DFC D008
This weight bench has a backrest that can be repositioned, it is a high utility bench. It is suitable for abdominal and leg exercises as well as dumbbell workouts.
The backrest has 5 lockable positions, including a negative tilt angle for a more efficient workout.
The platform is provided with soft padding and artificial leather upholstery, so you can adopt a comfortable position. A sufficiently rigid surface is good for the spine.
The trainer has fixation and hamstring rollers with foam padding, allowing you to work out in comfort. The spandrels included in the kit help to make your workout varied.
DFC D008 Advantages:
- * 5 fixed positions;
- * convenience;
- * comfort.
The downside:
- * has not been identified.
Best multifunctional weight benches
Original Fitness
In third place was a bright and versatile model, endowed with many functions. It is ideal for beginners and professional athletes alike. It has a strong steel frame that is securely welded.
The cushions are soft, comfortable and practical and resistant to dirt. The model is lightweight and small in size, only 142 cm long and weighs about 20 kg. It fits easily, even in a flat with little space, and it’s easy to hide after your workout. The unit can support a person with a total weight of up to 200 kg. The trainer is best suited for beginners and amateurs.
Up to 30 different exercises can be performed on this device. The backrest has 6 positions. Unfortunately, the leg and arm rollers cannot be adjusted here, so the weight bench is only suitable for a certain height. If desired, more functions can be added to the standard set. Removable wheels make it easy to transport the weight bench if you need to move it.
Original Fitness weight bench advantages:
- * convenience;
- * compactness;
- * Removable wheels;
- * You can do up to 30 different exercises.
The downside:
- * No possibility of adjusting the rollers;
- * Inaccessibility for people weighing more than 200 kg;
- * The design is not foldable.
WEIDER 150 TC
This model has a stylish look and versatility despite its budget price. The sturdy steel frame serves the purpose reliably.
The fitness equipment is compact with dimensions of 137x46x102 cm.
The weight bench is characterised by stability and long service life, provided it is not overloaded. The soft and comfortable seat and bolsters allow you to work out in comfort. The grey-red vinyl cover is stitched in good condition, so it will last a long time.
The maximum load of this weight bench is 186 kg, which is sufficient for beginners. You can work out with both dumbbells and light weights. The model is simple and does not offer much in the way of functionality. The backseat has 4 different reclining angles.
Unfortunately, it is challenging to attach additional parts to this weight bench due to its irregularity. This model, on the other hand, is a great way to perform basic exercises in comfort.
WEIDER 150 TC Advantages:
- * low cost;
- * The simplicity and convenience of the weight bench.
The downside:
- * The weight-bearing capacity is only 186 kg;
- * Only the backrest is adjustable;
- * Limited number of backrest positions.
Kettler Axos 7629-800
Although this weight bench looks quite simple, it is comfortable and multifunctional. It’s also one of the best models out there. The unit is made of steel. The cushion and bolsters are very comfortable and sturdy, so they won’t tear or wear out for long. It may look simple, but you can do lots of different exercises on it. But there is a significant disadvantage – the weight bench load must not exceed 130 kg. This is why it should only be used by those who are just starting to strength train, or who prefer to work with light weights.
The model is characterised by a large number of adjustable positions. While the seat can be set in four positions, the backrest can be adjusted in nine different ways. The trainer is wholly inclined, with 4 different incline angles. If the weight bench is assembled, it weighs only 18 kg. Once assembled, it takes up little space and measures 115x45x18 cm.
Kettler Axos 7629-800 Advantages:
- * Folds up compactly, taking up very little space;
- * A wide range of adjustments to the backrest, seat and the entire trainer.
The downside:
- * The low weight capacity of the trainee is only 130 kg.
DFC DZ003
This weight bench has wide floor rests reinforced with anti-slip pads. This prevents it from moving around and allows you to exercise different muscle groups on it.
The platform consists of two parts that are independent of each other. Each is tilted at its own angle, yet securely locked so that no injury hazards are created.
The frame of the weight bench is based on a square steel profile, so it can be used by professional athletes who work with heavier weights. This model is also suitable for use in the gyms and at home gyms.
The adjustable weight bench is a great way to work the biceps and triceps of your arms and pecs, strengthen your abs and do bench presses with a total weight of up to 130 kg.
The soft and thick padding, combined with high-quality leatherette upholstery, guarantee a long life. The device has an optimum degree of rigidity, regardless of the weight of the exerciser.
DFC DZ003 Advantages:
- Long service life;
- Optimum degree of rigidity, regardless of the weight of the trainer.
The downside:
- Has not been identified.
Body-Solid GFID31
Body-Solid GFID31 is considered one of the best professional strength-training, adjustable weight benches out there, the strength-training apparatus can easily handle loads of up to 450 kg. The frame is made from steel of the highest quality and durability. The structure is equipped with a leg fixation device, which is essential for individual exercises. The soft parts of the trainer are made of DuraFirm, a durable and comfortable material.
The backrest can be locked into six different positions, making it suitable for all types of exercise. The seat can be adjusted to your own specifications to maximise comfort during practice. In case you need to move the weight bench, it’s equipped with support wheels, so it’s easy to move it to the side before the next session.
Body-Solid GFID31 weight bench advantages:
* comfortable adjustment: both backrest and seat can be adjusted;
* sturdy, can support up to 450 kg of weight;
* Multifunctional and mobile: easy to move, complete with all kinds of devices.
Weight bench downside:
* doesn’t add up.
DFC SUB018
This weight bench attachment is not designed for professionals with heavyweights, as it can only support 150 kg. It’s sturdy and relatively compact, with an overall size of 155x60x140 cm, so it’s perfect for a flat. The frame is made of sturdy steel, and the comfortable upholstered cushions have durable leather upholstery. The trainer weighs 31 kg and is not equipped with wheels, so changing its location will be quite challenging.
The backrest can be adjusted in six different positions, the seat in three. There are four options for setting the footrest position. All this allows athletes to choose the best type of training for themselves and work out whatever exercises they like. There are many optional extras for this type of the adjustable weight bench.
DFC SUB018 weight bench advantages:
* Backrest, seat and rollers can be adjusted;
* The simulator has excellent stability.
The weight bench downside:
* can support a small load of up to 150 kg;
* The simulator does not fold;
* For home training.
DFC SJ300 Weight Bench
The structure is designed for a load capacity of up to 120 kg. You can use it to work out your abs and do strength-training exercises with barbells or dumbbells. The frame is made of steel profiles.
The seat is long, so it’s perfect for users of different heights and builds, it ensures a comfortable seating position on the weight bench, and the leg rest can be adjusted in height.
The footrests and foam-covered hamstrings are uncomfortable for weight-training.
Thanks to its folding design, the trainer is aimed at home use. When unfolded, it takes up little space, and when folded, it can be easily stowed in niches or storage space.
DFC SJ300 weight bench advantages:
* The hamstrings do not cause discomfort during strength training;
* Suitable for users of varying heights and builds.
The weight bench downsides:
* has not been identified.
EVO FITNESS HOME LINE DB2 weight bench
The versatile black and red German-made design is inexpensive but is capable of delivering excellent performance.
The trainer is compact – 148x57x46 cm. The weight bench doesn’t fold up, but its dimensions allow it to be placed anywhere, even in a small flat. It weighs just 17 kg, so the trainer has no problem moving around, even if there are no castors.
The frame is welded from 2 mm square steel profiles so that the structure remains stable during any exercise.
A great advantage is that the backrest and seat are upholstered in an unusual combination of ventilated and anti-slip leather.
The adjustable weight bench is very comfortable because the heart and footrests can be adjusted in four positions and the backrest in six.
The court has a load capacity of 250 kg, even though it is light and cheap.
EVO FITNESS HOME LINE DB2 weight bench advantages:
- * Maximum permissible load up to 250 kg;
- * Inexpensive compared to other fitness equipment.
The weight bench downsides:
- The design is not foldable;
- There are no wheels for easy movement of the adjustable weight bench.
Kettler Tergo 7820-550 weight bench
The design of this folding weight bench is exceptionally comfortable and lightweight. Withstands a maximum load of 130 kg. It has padded lumbar support and adjustable outreach. Nine height levels ensure ease of use.
Kettler Tergo 7820-550 weight bench advantages:
* provides a good workout for the lumbosacral spine;
* Regular exercise keeps your muscular corset toned and strengthens your back;
* ensures that the risk of injury to the spine or tendons is minimal.
The weight bench downside:
* has not been identified.
Body solid PCH adjustable bench
Withstands a maximum load of 150 kg. The wide seat of the trainer provides high stability and comfort during your workout. This type of adjustable weight bench is suitable for performing the classic hyperextension in the prone position.
Body solid PCH adjustable bench advantages:
* is used for exercise to prevent back congestion, especially in the lumbar region;
* If you do it correctly, it is possible to work your abs, thighs and buttocks on the trainer.
The downside:
* has not been identified.
InterAtletika GYM ST/BT – 319
Withstands a maximum load of 300 kg. The trainer’s construction is sturdy, the frame is made of stainless steel and is equipped with multi-layer rollers for comfort. The trainer is suitable for classic hyperextension in the prone position.
InterAtletika GYM ST/BT – 319 Advantages:
* People with minor spinal injuries are allowed to use the simulator;
* In strength training, the physical load is distributed exclusively to the muscles that are currently engaged;
* The musculoskeletal system gradually gets used to more challenging exercises.
The downside:
* Training should be avoided by anyone with the severe musculoskeletal disorders, with particular attention paid to the lumbar region.
In such cases, a doctor’s authorisation must determine the patient’s fitness form to perform strength-training exercises on the machine.
The choice of the trainer should be based on the required load and the size of the device.
We’ve looked at all the different types of weight benches for your home gym.
Now, the choice is yours.