Are you looking for the most reliable and robust bench for your home gym setup? Workout benches are one of those pieces of equipment that suffer the most amount of stress because they have to support both your body and the weight of dumbbells, barbells, and other equipment. This can range anywhere from 200lbs, all the way up to 600lbs or more.
So, to help you avoid making mistakes, we reviewed 7 products to find the best workout bench for your home gym. We will also answer commonly asked questions to help you make the most informed decision possible when choosing your bench.
The Best Workout Bench For Home Reviews and Comparison Chart
Comparison Chart
SuperMax Adjustable Weight Bench for Incline Decline Workouts, 800 lbs Weight Capacity by Fitness Reality, Full Body, Foldable Exercise Equipment for Weightlifting, Compact for Home Gym Use
FLYBIRD Weight Bench, Adjustable Strength Training Bench for Full Body Workout with Fast Folding-New Version
Soges Multi-Functional Dumbbell Bench Adjustable Height Incline Bench, Multi-Workout Abdominal Hyper Back Extension Bench, Home Strength Training Fitness Workout Station, PSBB004
FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench,Utility Weight Bench for Full Body Workout- Multi-Purpose Foldable incline/decline Bench (Black)
Marcy Multi-Position Workout Utility Bench for Home Gym Weightlifting and Strength Training SB-10115, Black
Fitness Reality 1000
Super Max Weight Bench
The Fitness Reality 1000 made the number one spot on our list because it checks off all of the boxes that make a great quality workout bench. What we liked most about this product was the unique triangular design combined with high-grade steel, allowing the bench to support up to 800lbs of weight.
This bench offers 12 different levels of decline and inclines angle positions that are easy to adjust when changing up or combining workouts. In addition, the bench includes a 3 position leg hold-down mechanism which can also be easily adjusted, providing additional stability and comfort.
Another bonus feature we thought was handy to have was the wheel attachments on the foot of the base and the ability to fold the bench. This is great for moving the bench around the gym with ease, as well as having the ability to store it away when trying to maximize the space in your home.
Pros
- Supports up to 800lbs
- Sturdy construction
- Comfortable padding
- Supports taller individuals up to 6’5”
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavier than most fitness benches on the market.
Key Takeaway
If your looking for a robust bench that will last you for decades, then the Fitness Reality bench is your go to. It is the best value for the money and is ideal for both large and small home gym setups.
FLYBIRD
Adjustable Weight Bench
The FLYBIRD adjustable weight bench is a safe and sturdy weight bench that is made from commercial-grade steel. It offers 7 back positions and 3 seat positions that can be adjusted quickly by simply pulling on a bolt handle that locks each angle in place.
What we liked most about this bench was the materials used on both the seat and backrest. The cushion is made from 2-inch medium density foam which provides a good balance of comfort and support. The padding is also wrapped in real leather to prevent cracking and peeling later down the road, which is a common problem with materials such as bonded leather or cheap vinyl.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Safe and sturdy
- Supports up to 620lbs
- Light weight
- Compact design
Cons
- Customers complained that the seat is too wide, making it difficult to spread your legs comfortably. Would not recommend for individuals with short legs.
Key Takeaway
If you are looking for a compact and sturdy bench for medium to high weight loads, then this is a great option. The use of leather and quality metals can almost guarantee that this product will look and perform like new for years on end.
Soges
Multi-Functional Dumbbell Bench
If you are looking for more than just a workout bench, then the Soges multifunctional workout bench includes a dumbbell/barbell elbow pad that offers 3 different height adjustments, allowing you to work on those biceps.
The construction of this fitness bench supports up to 500lbs and is made from heavy-duty steel for maximum durability. The frame is also power-coated to prevent chipping and surface damage that is typically caused by banging weights and equipment against the bench.
You will find that padding uses a thick layer of breathable foam which helps increase comfort when training while reducing that sticky feeling when you sweat.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Very durable
- Supports up to 500lbs
- No wobble (sturdy construction)
- 2 in 1 product. (great value for money)
Cons
- No optional folding options for storage.
- Can take up to 30 min to assemble
Key Takeaway
If your looking for a 2 in 1 workout bench with a curling elbow rest add on, then this can be both a space and money saver. However, if your looking for something small and compact, then this may not be the best option for you.
Weider
Incline Weight Bench
The Weider incline/decline weight bench can support up to 410 pounds, which is ideal for the intermediate trainer who isn’t expecting to lift crazy amounts of weight. The incline and decline can be adjusted for up to 6 levels, allowing for a more versatile workout.
When it comes to comfort, the padding is made up of high-grade foam that is firm enough to provide exceptional back support, and soft enough to prevent you from feeling like your laying on concrete. We also found that the seat doesn’t get too hot while training, a problem that typically ends in a sweaty and sticky situation.
Pros
- Designed by a certified personal trainer
- Quick and easy to essemble
- Easy to adjust angles
- Sturdy and robust construction
Cons
- Not ideal for individuals over 5’10
- Does not include folding options for storage
Key Takeaway
This is a great bench for intermediate and beginner weight lifters. Not a great option for those who want to be moving the bench around or who want to tuck it away for storage since it doesn’t fold.
FLYBIRD
Adjustable Multi-Purpose Bench
The second weight bench on our list form FLYBIRD. This one provides 6 back positions and 4 seat positions which can easily be adjusted using the locking support bar located behind the seat.
The frame is made from solid steel tubed construction which not only makes this a lightweight bench but allows it to handle weight loads of up to 500lbs. Additionally, the foot base is wrapped in a non-slip protective foot cover which helps to prevent slipping and damage to your floor.
Like all the other gym benches from FLYBIRD, this one also used high-grade quality foam cushioning wrapped in leather to help increase comfort while preventing cracking or peeling. This not only makes the material more durable but helps to increase the longevity of the bench.
Pros
- Supports up to 500lbs
- Light weight
- Comes essembled
- Comfortable
- Sturdy construction
- Can be folded for storage
Cons
- Only supports users up to 5’9”
Key Takeaway
Great bench for supporting high weight loads, and is built to last. However, it was built with only shorter to average height individuals in mind.
Marcy
Multi-Position Workout Utility Bench
Marcy offers a firmly cushioned workout bench that uses high-density foam. The firm foam helps by providing more support for your back, however, this may be a disadvantage if laying on hard surfaces cause you pain and discomfort.
The construction is made from commercial type metals for a solid build that prevents the bench from wobbling and tipping during training sessions. In addition, the bench can also be folded in half, allowing you to tuck it away, making it ideal for smaller spaces.
Pros
- Does not slide when training
- Light weight
- Supports taller individuals up to 6’2 in height
- Angles can be adjusted quickly and easily
- Affordable
Cons
- Padding is firm, which increases support but may reduce comfort
Key Takeaway
Overall, this is an exceptional bench if firmness is your preference. Great for taller individuals and offers average quality for an affordable price.
GYMENIST
Exercise Gym Bench
Last on the list is the Gymenist exercise bench. This bench can be inclined and declined with a total of 8 adjustments that can be changed using a locking pin that helps keep the frame very secure and in place.
What we loved most about this bench was both the weight and height support. It can carry a maximum load of 550lbs and can accommodate persons up to 6’2, making it a great bench for taller and larger individuals.
As a bonus, this bench includes an optional cushion attachment that can be strapped to the back of the seat and can be moved up and down. This can add additional lumbar or head support during your workouts and increase comfort.
Pros
- No essembly required
- Light weight
- Sturdy
- Built for larger and taller individuals
- Can be folded for ease of storage
Cons
- Adjusting the angles of the bench is inconvenient since the bench must be secured using a locking pin.
Key Takeaway
This is a great workout bench for taller individuals who are looking to own a compact bench they can tuck away in order to save space. The only downfall is having to pull the locking pin in and out each time you want to adjust the angle of the bench.
Our Top Pick, And Why!
Our top pick for the best workout bench for home is the fitness reality 1000.
This workout bench made it to our number one spot because it checks off all the boxes when it comes to quality and value. It can support the most weight out of the benches on our list, and the construction ensures years of longevity down the road.
From compact design to solid construction and versatility, the fitness reality bench offers everything that a quality workout bench should without compromising your budget.
Read also: Best Weight Benches Under $300
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Choose The Best Weight Bench for Your Home Gym?
Understanding what to look for when choosing your bench will help you find the perfect product that will last you for years on end. So, to help guide you, we listed some key qualities to look out for when choosing your bench so that you can avoid making costly mistakes.
Safety
The safety of your bench will solely depend on the construction, weight capacity, and stability it provides to you when training. You will want to look for specifications of the max load that your workout bench can handle.
The last situation you want to find yourself in is your barbell falling on you because of your bench wobbling or collapsing. It only takes a slight imbalance to throw you off while lifting, especially if the weight is overly heavy. So, make sure you choose a bench that can handle your maximum expected weight capacity and is stable enough to be deemed safe to use.
Comfort
Having a comfortable bench will help you maintain focus while lifting by preventing pain and discomfort when training. It can be one of the biggest determining factors of whether or not you can get through that last repetition, as it takes a ton of concentration to push through. Something as small as feeling discomfort in your shoulder blade while bench pressing can distract you from the rep that counts most (the last one).
To avoid complications, look for proper padding that is made from memory foam. You don’t want the padding to be too soft that your sinking in, or too hard that you feel like your laying on concrete. You want it to be somewhere in between.
Adjustability
If you want to maximize your workouts when doing exercises such as bench press, fly’s, or other types of resistance training, then we highly recommend going for a bench that can incline and/or decline. This will help you target different muscle groups while performing the same types of exercise.
Many benches that offer this feature provide different angels in which you can adjust your bench. Be sure to look at the specifications so that you are not limited as to how far you can position your bench.
Also, make sure that it is easy enough to lock in each position so that you can switch between angles quickly and efficiently.
Durability
It is not every day that you shop for a workout bench, so construction and design are key if you want your bench to last a long time. Your bench should not break or become unstable from moving it around between workouts, or supporting your weight.
To ensure you have a durable and robust bench, look for solid construction made from steel and avoid plastics or weak metals such as aluminum. If your bench has to be assembled or has both decline and/or incline features, make sure the fasteners, nuts, and bolts are secure enough so that the bench doesn’t wobble or come loose.
Weight
If you are going to be moving your bench around often between workouts, you may want to consider choosing one that is easy to move around your gym. Though aluminum is lighter than steel, it reduces the strength of the bench which is why we recommend going for a partial hollow steel construction if weight is important to you.
You can always find the product specifications of your bench from your seller in order to determine the weight. Also, keep in mind that benches with decline and incline features will most likely increase weight due to the use of more materials and added joints.
Dimensions
For those who are taller than 6 feet, it may be a challenge finding a bench that can accommodate that individual’s height while still maintaining support and comfort at the same time.
Be sure to check the specifications from the seller to determine the height and width of the bench. You can use a measuring tape to measure the width of your body in comparison to the width of the bench.
How Wide Should A Weight Bench Be?
Your workout bench should be wide enough that it supports your shoulder blades, but narrow enough that you have full mobility of your arms and shoulders. Aim to have the bench flush with the sides of your torso extending from your armpits to your hips.
The bench should give you the ability and freedom to relax your arms when laying down. This can be useful for exercises that require extended movements that require a full range of motion such as fly’s or when bench pressing. You will also be able to achieve proper form in order to yield greater gains from your workouts.
Should I Buy A Flat Bench Or Incline Bench?
Many people have a hard time determining whether or not they should buy a flat bench or an incline bench.
We recommend an incline bench, and here is why:
- First, a flat bench limits the different types of workouts you can do in order to maximize targeting other muscle groups.
For example, if you are only performing a flat bench press when working out your chest, then you will have a hard time targeting the upper or lower part of your chest muscles. With the option to incline or decline, you will have the ability to target all of those muscle groups, which will result in better gains.
- Secondly, incline benches can work highly in your favor when experiencing a plateau, which is when your muscles are no longer progressing as you workout. This is typically caused by your muscles adapting and becoming too familiar with a particular workout.
With the option to incline or decline, you will have the ability to switch up your workout routines which helps to shock and confuse the muscles, therefore promoting further growth.
How to Use the Weight Bench Correctly?
Using a weight bench correctly isn’t rocket science, however, there are a few things you should pay attention to in order to maximize the amount of support for your body, as well as preventing injury when training.
Here are a few things you can pay attention to:
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If your bench inclines or inclines, always make sure that the bench is properly locked in position so that it doesn’t collapse on you when performing an exercise.
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When either laying down or sitting on the bench, always keep your feet firmly planted on the ground with your knees at a 90-degree angle. This will help with stability and support when lifting weights.
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Make sure your back and head are pressed against the back of the bench when performing your workouts. Doing so will help prevent strain on your neck and lower back.
Aside from laying or sitting down, there are many other ways you can use a workout bench. They can be used to perform a broad range of exercises such as dips, incline push-ups, and even ab exercises. Generally, workout benches are typically one of the most used pieces of equipment in any gym because they can be used for many purposes.
Are Weight Benches Safe?
There are a few factors that help to determine whether or not a specific weight bench is safe or not. The maximum weight load the bench can handle, the construction of the bench, and how well it supports you are all factors that should be considered when evaluating the safety of a fitness bench.
Always weigh in these factors to see if the bench is compatible with how you will be using it and always make sure to maintain proper form when performing workouts when using your bench to prevent injury.
Lastly, always choose a bench from a brand that is reputable and doesn’t have a history of recalls or lawsuits caused by poor construction and design. Luckily, here at HFB, we do all that research for you so that you don’t have to!
How Do You Clean Your Weight Bench?
Cleaning your weight bench is important in order to keep it sanitary and free of bacteria. Remember, you will be sweating frequently and there’s no better environment for bacteria to survive than where there is moisture.
You can simply clean your bench using either disinfectant wipes or a gentle all-purpose cleaner. This will help kill off any bacteria forming on your bench. Avoid using any oil-based cleaners as they can make the surface of your bench slippery and greasy.
Here are 3 easy steps you can follow to clean your bench properly:
- Wipe the surface of your bench with a warm damp cloth or towel.
- Using a surface clear or disinfectant, wipe the surface of the bench thoroughly.
- Make sure that the bench is completely dry before using it so you don’t get any of the chemicals from the cleaner on your clothes. These chemicals can be absorbed by your skin which can lead to irritation.