The Best Adjustable Lifting Benches

Buying Guide

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many to rethink their workout routines. Being unable to go to the gym had many consumers purchasing equipment and online subscriptions to exercise at home. As pandemic restrictions lifted, though, some chose to continue their home workouts, whether they combined it with gym visits or skipped the gym altogether.

The switch to home workouts has built awareness of the many tools now available. There are apps, websites and, of course, top-quality equipment that you can get at reasonable prices. But with so many options, it can be tough to choose. Workout equipment can vary in quality and setup requirements, so it’s important to know what to look for before you start building your gym.

For weightlifting, it can be easy to focus all your efforts on choosing barbells and weights. But the weight bench that supports you while you lift is equally important. You’ll need a bench that offers the support you need while also keeping you comfortable. The wrong weight bench could have you cutting your workouts short due to discomfort.

Probably the most affordable bench is the basic flat bench, which is exactly as the name implies. But many weightlifters prefer an adjustable weight bench. Unlike the flat bench, an adjustable one provides back support while you’re lifting in a seated position. Adjustable weight benches often come with foot rollers that hold your feet in place while you’re lifting or doing crunches. They experience more wear and tear than flat benches, though, since they have moving parts.

Check to see how easy the bench will be to move around. Some adjustable weight benches will fold up for easy storage. If you’re limited on space, this is a great feature.  Some have wheels, so you can move them around the house without carrying them everywhere.

• Weight benches generally feature a heavy-duty steel frame with a padded bench. The durability of the frame is essential, as it determines how much weight the bench can withstand. You’ll want a capacity that exceeds your weight plus the heaviest weight you’ll lift.
• If you opt for an adjustable weight bench, check the various positions that the product allows. You’ll likely want to adjust your back, but some make the seat adjustable as well. You might even find some that let you adjust the position of the foot rollers.
• Assembly is required with most weight benches. Some can be tougher to put together than others. Make sure all hardware is included, as well as instructions. You might find it well worth your time to search for a weight bench that can be assembled in just a few easy steps.
• The padding and covering of the seats and backrest play a direct role in comfort and durability. Look for one with genuine leather over foam padding for best results.
• Consider your workout routine, your fitness level, your experience, your size, your body type and your fitness goals. You’ll want a weight bench that will support your weightlifting efforts not just now, but into the future.
• If weightlifting is just one part of your workout, make sure you have enough space in your home gym to accommodate the other activities you want to incorporate into your fitness routine. Some weight benches can help with your abdominal and leg workouts, saving you from having to purchase additional equipment.
•  Check the mechanism you’ll use to move your weight bench from one position to another. Some are easier to adjust than others.
• Steel can be prone to corrosion over time. Some manufacturers coat the steel in a protective powder to extend the lifespan of the weight bench.