As an exercise physiologist and someone who often includes strength training in my workout routine, I know how helpful a quality weight bench can be for adding variety to my workouts, providing support, and offering a spot to rest between sets. I'm always on the lookout for the best weight benches that are versatile, easy to use, and fit into my home gym. As a fitness editor, I test weight benches with bodyweight, dumbbell, kettlebell, and resistance band exercises. I'm looking for benches that are durable, easy and quick to adjust, won't wobble or slide, and are easy to move around in tight spaces.
Top Picks
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What We've Updated
Since we last published this article, we've tested four new weight benches. Based on their features and performance, we added the following superlatives: Most Versatile, Best for Full Body Workouts, and Best Budget Flat Bench.
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What to Look For
- Style: There are three main styles of weight benches: ones with backrests that can only incline or remain flat; ones with backrests that can incline, decline, and remain flat; and flat benches with backrests that can't be adjusted to different angles. If you want a truly versatile bench that allows you to do all sorts of strength training exercises at all angles (think incline chest presses, decline chest presses, decline situps, and more), you may want to opt for the second, fully adjustable bench style. If you're a beginner and don't think you'll need the added challenge of a decline backrest, you'll probably be satisfied with a bench that only inclines or remains flat.
- Weight Capacity: Any time you’re buying a piece of fitness equipment, you need to make sure it’s sturdy enough to support you and all the weight you’ll be lifting. Double-check a bench’s weight capacity before purchasing and factor in the total weight you'll be putting on the bench—your body weight plus the weight of your barbell, weight plates, or dumbbells.
- Special Features: Depending on your exercise needs, you may want some special features in your weight bench. If you’re navigating a small space, consider a foldable weight bench or a bench with built-in storage. If you want to use your bench to accommodate a wide range of exercises, look for an option that has a built-in curl bar, leg extender, or squat rack.
Some weight benches can be used for step-ups and other exercises. Verywell Fit
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How We Tested
To narrow down the best weight benches for home gyms, we tested 35 benches by performing various exercises on each. When testing weight benches, we evaluate them for the following seven key attributes.
- Ease of Assembly: If the weight bench requires assembly, we note how clear and comprehensive the instructions are. We time how long it takes to assemble the weight bench, and note if any tools are required that are not included, and if assembly takes two or more people.
- Ease of Use: To assess how easy the bench is to use, if it's adjustable, we check how easy it is to adjust the components. Can it be adjusted one-handed? Does the bench support a variety of exercises? Does it support proper form and posture? If there are accessories, are they easy to attach and use?
- Stability: We first note if the bench sits flat and has rubber grips to prevent sliding. We use each weight bench to complete workouts, including exercises like bench presses, dumbbell incline rows, chest flys, lying tricep extensions, and dumbbell step-ups. We note how stable and secure we feel with each exercise: Does the bench feel wobbly or slide around?
- Portability: To test the portability of each weight bench, we first pay attention to the overall weight of the bench and whether it includes a handle or wheels. If the bench is foldable, we note how easy the folding process is and whether it needs two people to fold or carry it.
- Comfort: Weight benches should be supportive and firm. To evaluate the comfort of each bench, we take note of the material used, the thickness of the padding, and whether it's easy to wipe clean. When using the weight benches, we note if the bench feels soft and supportive but firm enough to be stable.
- Durability: We assess the durability of the bench by checking for wear and tear on the padding and frame throughout the duration of the test. We also check if the padding maintains its cushioning over time.
- Value: After evaluating each weight bench for the other key features, we consider the cost and determine whether the bench is priced fairly for the features and attributes it provides. Weight benches that score well for overall value have what we believe is a fair price or a price that is even lower than what we would consider paying.
We tested adjustability of weight benches that could be used in an inclined position.
Our Favorite Weight Benches, at a Glance
Compare Top Picks
Best Overall Adjustable Weight Bench Flybird Adjustable Bench | Best Overall Adjustable Weight Bench Flybird Adjustable Bench | Amazon | $110 | Adjustable (incline, flat, decline) | 600 pounds | 21.3 pounds | 6 backrest positions, 4 seat positions | Frame: One year; Pad: 30 days | Full Review | ||||||
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Best Budget Adjustable Weight Bench Pasyou Adjustable Weight Bench | Best Budget Adjustable Weight Bench Pasyou Adjustable Weight Bench | Amazon | $76 | Adjustable (incline, flat, decline) | 500 pounds | 26 pounds | 8 backrest positions | One year parts-replacement | Full Review | ||||||
Best Folding Weight Bench Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench | Best Folding Weight Bench Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench | Amazon | $349 | Adjustable (incline, decline, flat) | 600 pounds | 70 pounds | 6 backrest positions | Frame: 30 years; Parts and Upholstery: One year | Full Review | ||||||
Best Budget Flat Bench Titan Fitness Single Post Flat Bench | Best Budget Flat Bench Titan Fitness Single Post Flat Bench | Amazon | $190 | Flat | 1,000 pounds | 56 pounds | None | One year | Full Review | ||||||
Best Incline/Decline Weight Bench Flybird Weight Bench | Best Incline/Decline Weight Bench Flybird Weight Bench | Amazon | $110 | Adjustable (flat, incline, decline) | 800 pounds | 28.5 pounds | 8 backrest positions, 3 seat positions | Frame: One year; Pads/Upholstery: 30 days | Full Review | ||||||
Best Weight Bench for Tall Users Fitness Reality SuperMax XL Weight Bench | Best Weight Bench for Tall Users Fitness Reality SuperMax XL Weight Bench | Amazon | $225 | Adjustable (flat, incline, decline) | 850 pounds | 63 pounds | 7 backrest positions, 3 seat positions | One-year, limited | Full Review | ||||||
Most Versatile Weight Bench Flybird Olympic Weight Bench | Most Versatile Weight Bench Flybird Olympic Weight Bench | Amazon | $300 | Adjustable (flat, incline, decline) | 900 pounds | 65.3 pounds | 8 backrest positions | Frame/Accessories/Parts: One year; Cushion: 30 days | Full Review | ||||||
Best Weight Bench for Small Spaces Titan Fitness Elite Series Adjustable FID Bench | Best Weight Bench for Small Spaces Titan Fitness Elite Series Adjustable FID Bench | Walmart | See Retailer | Adjustable (flat, incline, decline) | 1,000 pounds (flat), 500 pounds (incline) | 71 pounds | 6 backrest positions, 4 seat positions | One year | Full Review | ||||||
Best Overall Flat Weight Bench Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench | Best Overall Flat Weight Bench Rogue Fold-Up Utility Bench | roguefitness | See Retailer | Flat | Not listed | 48 pounds | None | Frame: Limited lifetime; Upholstery: 90 days | Full Review | ||||||
Best Weight Bench for Full Body Workouts KingSmith Tone Up Workout Station | Best Weight Bench for Full Body Workouts KingSmith Tone Up Workout Station | walkingpad | See Retailer | Adjustable (flat, incline) | 330 pounds | 60 pounds | Three backrest positions | One year | Full Review | ||||||
Most Stable Weight Bench Valor Fitness Utility Weight Bench | Most Stable Weight Bench Valor Fitness Utility Weight Bench | valorfitness | See Retailer | Adjustable (flat, incline) | 1,200 pounds | 95 pounds | 7 backrest positions, 3 seat positions | Frame: Three years; Upholstery: 90 days | Full Review |