Equipment
The 10 Best Weight Benches
What are the best weight benches?
Weight benches are a type of padded gym equipment you can lay or sit on, offering much-needed support for a wide range of weight training exercises.
Commercial gyms have weight benches for exercises like bench press, shoulder press, dumbbell flyes, and curls, and many people with home gyms like having the same support.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home workouts, there are a lot of weight benches out there to consider.
We put together a list of the best weight benches so you can enjoy the safest support for effective strength training.
Check out our top choices for the best weight benches that can help take your weight training to the next level.
The Best Weight Benches Compared
Our equipment lists are created by researching the best-reviewed products from the most reputable web sources.
Here’s our list of the 10 best weight benches:
In A Rush? Here’s Our Top Pick:
10. MCNBLK Weight Bench
If you’re just starting on your weight training journey, MCNBLK has the best adjustable weight bench for beginners.
With a 400 lb. capacity and an incline/decline design, this utility bench is ideal for full-body weightlifting workouts as it supports folding dumbbells and elastic ropes.
Take your pick of seven backrest pad positions, supported by a heavy-duty, commercial-style steel construction and sleek leather material.
The 6-in-1 dumbbell bench has a comfortable backrest that can be used sitting or laying down for effective exercises like bench press, sit-ups, push-ups, dumbbell lifts, and seated cable lateral raises.
Non-slip rubber pads on the footpads improve stability for safe, comfortable strength training sessions every time.
The MCNBLK weight bench measures 31.8 x 12 x 13 inches and easily folds for convenient storage; plus, it comes with two pairs of elastic ropes.
Pros
- Multi-position utility bench for full-body workouts.
- Incline/decline bench with seven adjustment options.
- Sturdy, heavy-duty structure that folds for storage.
- Great for folding dumbbells and elastic ropes.
- Used to train chest, shoulders, abs, back, and legs.
- 500mm thick, soft foam with non-slip surface.
- Comfortable back and foot pads for extra stability.
Cons
- Some users find the bench too tall for shorter heights.
9. DERACY Weight Bench
The DERACY adjustable weight bench is incredibly durable with an alloy steel construction and comfortable foam cushioning.
Effective upper and lower bodyweight training is made easier with this heavy-duty weight bench that has a maximum capacity of 660 lb.
The incline and decline weight bench supports full-body workouts with seven backrest pad positions and three front seat positions.
Not only does this bench have an ergonomic design for premium comfort, but it’s also easy to move as you can lift and drag it forward or use the back wheels to change your home gym setup.
Plus, the dense foam padding offers a soft yet firm surface for extended chest, shoulder, back, and abs training sessions.
This adjustable bench measures 47.6 x 18.3 x 6.7 inches, so it fits nicely in most home gyms.
Pros
- Flat, incline, decline, and vertical positions.
- Backrest has seven adjustable levels with premium PU leather.
- Comfortable front seat with three adjustable levels.
- Heavy-duty steel construction with unique triangle design.
- Holds 660 lb. with back wheels for smooth movement.
- Firm padding helps with long workouts.
- Durable binding design lasts for years.
Cons
- Some users say attaching the seat to the frame is difficult.
8. Gold’s Gym Weight Bench
Gold’s Gym has the top weight bench for incline/decline as its lightweight and easily adjusts into a seated or a flat weight bench.
The brand says its 4-roll leg lockdown bench helps to define abs, obliques, and hip flexors, while the sewn seats are comfortable and long-lasting.
With ample foot and ankle support, you can do sit-ups and dumbbell flyes or use the flat setting for crunches and dips.
Two padded sections also ensure a safe and supported workout that minimizes soreness after extended exercises.
The bench dimensions are 33.46 x 14.57 x 6.3 inches, and it’s easy to change positions for effective strength training routines.
Pros
- 4-roll leg lockdown workout bench.
- Easy incline/decline adjustment for beginners.
- Comfortable sewn seats with two padded sections.
- Great for ab definition with flat seating for crunches and dips.
- Super lightweight bench and easy to move around a home gym.
Cons
- Doesn’t fold up for storage.
- Plastic end caps on the footrests may be uncomfortable.
7. PASYOU Weight Bench
PASYOU has the most adjustable weight bench with a weight limit of 500 lb and seven back positions for premium comfort.
This foldable, full-body workout bench has 127-190 degree incline/decline settings with cushion and backrest protection for the head, neck, back, and waist.
This weight bench supports a wide variety of upper and lower body workouts to build and maintain muscles, including sit-ups, shoulder press, bicep curls, one-arm rows, and dumbbell flys.
The adjustable backrest, stable foot tube, and high-density foam padding helps with stability and reduce muscle fatigue after a big workout.
Thick heavy-duty steel makes up this ergonomic triangle design, which measures 55.12 x 15.75 x 20 inches and comes nearly fully assembled. You just need to add the front and back support tube and foam rollers.
Pros
- Fully adjustable design and heavy-duty steel construction.
- Seven comfortable back positions with ample protection.
- Padded backrest and foot tube minimize muscle fatigue.
- Sturdy bench base supports up to 500 lb.
- Folds easily for quick storage.
- Comes with installation tools.
Cons
- Base feels too narrow for some exercises.
- May be too short for extra-tall users.
6. Marcy Flat Utility Bench
If you’re looking for a flat weight bench for ab exercises and weight training, Marcy has you covered.
This popular fitness brand combines high-strength steel and padded foam for effective workouts with a 600 lb. weight capacity.
The fixed design offers sturdy, steady support, while the vinyl boxed upholstery and non-slip rubber caps ensure excellent comfort and functionality.
In addition to the heavy-duty construction, this bench offers practical storage and is reinforced with powder coating to resist wear and tear.
You can do plenty of exercises on this flat weight bench, including lying triceps extensions, grip bench presses, and dips.
The versatile Marcy flat utility bench measures 43 x 14 x 17 inches, and this space-saving design is built to last with a powder-coated finish.
Pros
- Flat weight bench for ab and weight training.
- Heavy-duty steel tube for stable workout surface.
- High-density foam and non-slip rubber caps.
- Powder-coated finish for durable performance.
- Space-saving design is great for smaller home gyms.
- 2-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- No incline/decline options.
- Doesn’t fold up.
5. Body Champ Weight Bench With Rack
When it comes to weight benches with racks, Body Champ delivers. This Olympic weight bench amps up home workouts with a preacher curl, leg developer, and crunch handle.
This heavy-duty bench is made with 2.5-inch square tubing to support complete workout circuits, and it comes with attachments and accessories for an efficient setup.
Foam grip handles on the ab crunch attachment and the dual leg developer offer a great opportunity for strength building, while the backrest has seven positions for fast adjustment and extra comfort.
Other special features include built-in safety hooks and an Olympic adaptor so you can use standard or Olympic plates.
This large bench measures 76 x 56 x 55 inches and offers a U-shaped front-leg stabilizer and a safe-grip rack feature to prevent pinched hands.
Pros
- Ideal for Olympic bench press and full-body workouts.
- 7-position adjustable backrest for optimal training.
- Includes ab crunch attachment and foam grip handles.
- Full-action leg extension and leg lift developer.
- Arm curl bar has ergonomic foam rollers.
- Compatible with most 6- and 7-foot weight sets.
- Comes with a plate adaptor and spring clip.
Cons
- Takes up a lot more space than other weight benches.
- Longer installation time.
4. Bowflex Weight Bench
Bowflex offers the best incline weight bench for small spaces, measuring 49.5 x 28.1 x 61.3 inches with super-sturdy steel construction.
This heavy-duty surface has six adjustable angles ranging from -20 to 90 degrees, so you can choose the ideal incline, decline, or flat setting for your workouts.
The 600 lb. load capacity is ideal for strength training and the removable leg hold brace adds extra support when in a decline position.
Firm cushioning provides the right level of support for dumbbell curls, shoulder press, front raises, and similar exercises.
Plus, it’s easy to store with a simple button, click, lift, and go setup, ensuring you save space when not using it.
Pros
- Comfortable weight bench with six positions.
- Removable leg hold brace for extra support.
- Offers over 50% space maximization when not in use.
- Incline, decline, and flat levels.
- 600 lb. weight capacity.
- No locking pin required.
Cons
- Legs don’t fold for storage.
- Doesn’t include leg extension or curl attachments.
3. Marcy Exercise Utility Bench
Marcy offers weight benches on a budget with the ideal setup for upright incline, decline, and flat exercises.
This utility bench weighs just 25 pounds, so it’s easy to maneuver and features an adjustable seat height and backrest.
Thanks to the powder-coated steel frame and ergonomic design, this bench is ideal for maximizing exercise mobility without compromising too much space.
The high-density foam rollers and double-stitched vinyl cover keep you comfortable during workouts, and the surface is easy to clean too.
The bench has a weight limit of 400 lb. and measures 53 x 19 x 42 inches, It may be used with a rack, cage, or barbells and dumbbells for free weight workouts.
Either way, comfortable roller pads support thighs and ankles so you can work out for longer.
Pros
- Compact and multifunctional budget workout bench.
- Powder-coated steel frame with ergonomic design.
- Easily adjustable seat height and backrest.
- Comfortable foam rollers and vinyl cover.
- Works well with a weight rack or cage.
- Incline, decline, or flat angles.
Cons
- Lower weight limit compared to other benches.
- No exercise attachments.
2. Steelbody Weight Bench
If you want a weight bench made of premium material, Steelbody is the best brand, offering a deluxe six-position utility bench for strength training and weightlifting.
The brand says this platform works well for ab workouts, bench presses, arm lifting, and back training.
The 2-inch thick padding and sturdy faux vinyl canvas provide suitable comfort, while the non-marking foot pads and end caps stop floor scraping, especially when moving the bench.
This bench measures 47 x 25.5 x 45 inches with a weight limit of 300 lb. and a max incline of 70 degrees.
It works well for both beginners and experienced trainers, as it can be used to work the chest, core, arms, and legs.
Also, the seat pad rearranges into five positions to match the backrest to give you the best angle for quality workouts.
Pros
- Military, incline, and flat positions.
- Premium faux vinyl canvas material.
- Comfortable 2-inch thick padding.
- Non-marking foot pads prevent floor scuffing.
- Good for ab workouts and bench presses.
- 70-degree max incline.
Cons
- Heavier than some other brands at 53 lb.
- Doesn’t feature attachments.
1. FLYBIRD Weight Bench
The FLYBIRD weight bench is the best overall thanks to its fast-folding design and adequate support for full-body workouts.
Made with thick steel pipe, this strong frame has a fast-folding design to save 80% space.
You can choose from seven backrest positions and three seat levels using the easy adjustment and automatic lock, as this bench supports up to 700 lb.
2-inch soft foam padding and high-quality leather make this the most comfortable adjustable bench, as it’s non-slip, wear-resistant, and long-lasting.
The triangular frame of this commercial-style weight bench provides the right mix of stability and support to maximize strength training potential.
This bench measures 35 x 16 x 11 inches and comes ready to use with minimal assembly required.
Pros
- Seven backrest and three seat positions.
- Heavy-duty commercial steel construction.
- Fast adjustment and automatic lock.
- Comfortable faux leather surface.
- Folding design saves 80% space.
- Supports up to 700 lb.
- No assembly needed.
Cons
- May be too short for users 6 feet or taller.
FAQs About Weight Benches
Now that you’ve seen the top 10 weight benches, let’s take a look at the most frequently asked questions about weight benches.
Q: What Does a Weight Bench Do?
For the estimated 8.9 percent of Americans who participate in weightlifting every day, weight benches make a big difference as this equipment enables different types of exercise and helps to prevent injury.
A weight bench offers a safe, stable surface for a wide range of strength training exercises, from dumbbell curls to bench presses and so much more.
Instead of standing with every exercise, you can sit or lay down on a weight bench, ensuring you stay comfortable and can push yourself to reach your full workout potential.
You have the choice of a flat weight bench or a fully adjustable one where you can change the incline or decline for the most effective fitness routine.
When set up in a home gym, a weight bench offers a versatile surface for full-body workouts, so you can build muscle and add definition in your arms and legs.
Q: What Is a Weight Bench Good For?
Weight benches are popular for the 23.2% of adults who meet the CDC Physical Activity Guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening exercise.
Both experienced fitness trainers and those who are just starting out on their fitness journeys can benefit from a weight bench to add more stability and support into workouts.
Rather than constantly standing up for weightlifting workouts, a weight bench lets you sit or stand whenever you want, which could mean the difference between ending a workout early or going strong for the ultimate weight gains.
Also, weight benches are ideal for bench press workouts to strengthen arms and shoulders, and you can incorporate dumbbells or barbells into a bench routine.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home gym and add new exercises into your strength training, then a new weight bench is the way to go.
Q: What Should I Look For in a Gym Bench?
Two or three 30-minute weight training workouts every week are enough to make an impact on your strength training journey, and a gym bench can certainly help.
When shopping for a gym bench, consider where you want a flat bench or a fully adjustable one.
If you prefer laying down for a bench press, then a flat surface should suit you. Otherwise, if you prefer more flexibility, look for a gym bench with six or seven adjustable levels.
Different angles for the backrest and seat enable an excellent variety of exercises so you can boost your strength training and come closer to your gym goals.
Also, keep in mind that the best bench press bench has ample cushioning to keep you comfortable for extended workouts, and a smooth surface that’s easy to clean.
Another important feature of home gym benches is a folding design. If you want to save space and get the most out of a home gym, then a lightweight, fast folding design is ideal.
Don’t forget to consider attachments and accessories too.
Some weight benches are simple designs with the standard setup, while others come with special attachments like leg developers and preacher curls.
Q: Do I Need a Gym Bench?
A gym bench is great if you’re working on your strength training goals and wanting to meet the minimum recommendation of two lifting sessions a week, if not much more.
8 to 12 repetitions of each exercise is ideal, but it can get tough if you are always standing on your feet and struggling to maintain good posture.
In that case, you need a gym bench so you can sit at an incline or decline, or even lay down flat depending on the exercise.
Most people find that a home gym bench completes their workout space and adds an element of comfort and support, which in turn encourages stronger and longer exercises.
If you’re on the fence about investing in a home gym bench, just think about your trips to a commercial gym and how often you used the bench press or did seated dumbbell rows.
You’ll find that having the option of an incline, decline, or flat surface can take home workouts to the next level and keep you comfortable and motivated.
Q: What Exercises Can You Do With a Weight Bench?
There are so many strength training exercises you can do with a weight bench, as this equipment supports full-body workouts.
Some of the most popular weight bench exercises include bench press, both fiat and incline, skull crushers, dumbbell rows, reverse dumbbell flys, shoulder press, and concentration curls.
Weight benches are ideal for strength training, which provides plenty of benefits such as increased lean body mass, metabolic rate, and bone density.
Having a weight bench gives you more flexibility for different exercises, as you can choose between standing, sitting, and supine positions.
Q: How Much Should I Spend on a Weight Bench?
The good thing about buying weight benches is how many options and price points there are, usually ranging from $500-$1,500, although this varies by brand and style.
If you’re just starting out and looking for something on the lower end of the price range, try a standard flat bench.
While a flat weight bench may be more affordable compared to a top-of-the-line Olympic weight bench, it’s up to you at the end of the day how many special features you want.
Generally, the more features a weight bench has, the more expensive it will be. This could include leg attachments, space-saving designs, premium material, and more.
Just remember that you want this to be a smart investment you can take advantage of in your home gym, so choose the equipment you’re comfortable with at a price you’re happy to pay.
Q: Is an Adjustable Weight Bench Worth It?
Considering strength training is linked to improved physical performance and movement control, an adjustable weight bench is almost always worth it.
As long as you find the right weight bench for you and it’s something that makes you feel comfortable and supported, then you should find this to be a worthwhile investment too.
Buying a weight bench means you’ll have extra support in your home gym, so you can sit, stand, or lay down for effective strength training.
Sometimes you may want to do a flat bench press or seated rows, and a weight bench lets you do these exercises and many more with the ideal support and ergonomic cushioning.
By preventing injury and maintaining comfort during long workouts, weight benches can bring you one step closer to your gym goals.
Q: How Much Weight Can an Adjustable Bench Hold?
Each weight bench brand has a slightly different design, and the maximum weight capacity varies accordingly.
300 lb. is the minimum weight capacity for the top weight benches, while some of the best weight bench options hold up to 700 lb.
When browsing adjustable weight benches, always check the weight capacity to confirm it suits your needs and your desired lifting power.
If you’re not sure how much you want to lift or you’re planning to boost your lifting potential in the future, an adjustable bench that can hold 400-500 lb. is a good place to start.
Q: Is a Flat Bench Good Enough?
For some people, the best bench press bench is simply flat, which is perfect for traditional bench presses that work the upper and lower pec.
A flat bench press requires natural fluid movement, making it a go-to exercise for many people dedicated to strength training.
If you’re content with a fully flat workout surface, then go for a flat bench. Otherwise, an adjustable weight bench is the better option if you like incline or decline weightlifting.
Most adjustable bench brands offer easy adjustments so you can take your pick of a seated position or laying down flat.
That’s why many people opt for an adjustable bench because it delivers all the benefits of a flat bench but with more options for increased versatility.
At the end of the day, only you can decide which weight bench feels most comfortable for you, so keep in mind your workout goals and budget preferences to find the best weight bench to match your lifestyle and fitness journey.
Q: What Can I Use Instead of a Weight Bench?
It’s always best to use a weight bench for optimal support and stability in a home gym, but you can try out other flat surfaces too.
If you don’t have a weight bench handy, you could use a table, piano bench, or couch armrest to support arm and leg exercises.
A stability ball also offers some support for dumbbell exercises, but otherwise, the floor is a nice hard surface to use in place of a weight bench.
Many people decide to use weight benches after finding the floor to be too uncomfortable for effective workouts, but you can experiment to find what works best for your body and fitness goals.
Q: Are Weight Benches Worth It?
Weight benches are definitely worth it, especially if you are setting up a home gym and want to have the same level of support as you’d find in a local commercial gym.
Most home gyms include weight benches just to offer the option of seated exercises.
It’s always nice to have the chance to work your arms and legs at a slight incline or decline, as well as laying down on a flat surface.
The leading weight bench brands help you get the most out of your money by offering premium materials and durable ergonomic designs.
Finding a weight bench that combines comfort, style, and safety can take your workouts to new heights and give you the support you need to keep working toward your goals.
As with any gym investment, taking the time to find the best weight bench, whether it be a flat bench or an adjustable one, will give you a high chance of success.
Once you find the ideal weight bench for your home gym, you can start working out right away and unlock the full benefits of dedicated strength training.
Q: Which Weight Bench to Choose?
Choosing the best weight bench comes down to the most important features for your exercise goals and home gym setup.
With so many trusted brands making long-lasting weight benches, there are plenty of options you can’t go wrong with.
The best bench press bench usually has fully adjustable features so you can switch between incline, decline, and flat positions.
A flat weight bench can work well too, especially if you prefer a traditional bench press and want gym equipment that takes up less space.
Always check the adjustable positions and overall design of a weight bench before buying, as well as the level of cushioning and foot/back padding.
You may also want to consider whether a flat bench or adjustable bench comes with any special attachments or accessories.
Many people appreciate home gym equipment that combines an incline, decline, and flat bench with leg developer and preacher curl extensions.
One last thing to think about is how much space you want your weight bench to take up and if a folding design is one of your top priorities.
No matter which weight bench you choose, you can get excited about bigger strength gains and effective training regimes.
Summary
Weight benches are a great addition to a home gym, offering a supportive surface to sit or lay down on for a wide range of strength training exercises.
An adjustable weight bench moves into different flat, incline, and decline positions for bench press, shoulder press, dumbbell row, dumbbell fly, concentration curls, and much more.
There are plenty of options out there, but the best workout bench brands offer easy adjustment and comfortable cushioning for optimal performance.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 best weight benches:
- FLYBIRD Weight Bench
- Steelbody Weight Bench
- Marcy Exercise Utility Bench
- Bowflex Weight Bench
- Body Champ Weight Bench With Rack
- Marcy Flat Utility Bench
- PASYOU Weight Bench
- Gold’s Gym Weight Bench
- DERACY Weight Bench
- MCNBLK Weight Bench
