A flat bench is a simple home gym equipment, but it is among the most important ones. With the help of it, you can do the most effective strength training exercises with dumbbells such as bench press or shoulder press. Also, you can use it for bodyweight workouts to do dips or leg raises. So, even if it is a simple tool, it is very versatile.
If you have not bought a flat workout bench before, or you want to replace your old one, you may find it difficult to pick the right bench for you since there are hundreds of products out there.
Here I would like to help you with your purchase by showing you the best models and giving advice on what to look for when shopping to get the most suitable equipment for you.
So, you can find a comparison chart, quick reviews and a buying guide.
Top 5 Flat Weight Bench Comparison
1. Rep FB-3000
2. Titan Fitness
3. PowerBlock Travel
4. Marcy SB 315
5. Marcy SB-10510
1. Rep FB-3000
2. Titan Fitness
3. PowerBlock Travel
4. Marcy SB 315
5. Marcy SB-10510
Flat Bench Reviews
1. Rep Flat Bench – The Winner
This is the absolute winner considering the stability, the weight capacity and workout experience.
The maximum weight capacity is 1000 lbs. Hence, it is suitable for serious weight lifters and bodybuilders. Even if you are over 200 lbs like me, and want to lift hundreds of pounds, you can use it without being afraid of breakage. The pad is made from plywood base layer and the frame is from 2×2 inch 11 gauge heavy-duty thick steel hardware.
Thanks to the structure of the frame and the stabilizers with rubber caps at the end, it is very stable. People do not complain about wobbling at all.
The upholstery is comfy, not to soft, not to hard even if you lift heavy weights.
Is it for you?
Well, if you are willing to pay a little bit more and need a really robust bench, then go for it. You will not regret it since we are talking about a gym quality equipment.
2. Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench – Transportation Wheels for Easy Mobility
The Titan Fitness Flat Weight Bench bench comes with almost the same features as the previous one such 1000 lbs capacity, comfortable padding and stable functioning. And the its price is also almost the same.
However, compared to the previous one it comes with transposition wheels and handle bar (that can be used for weight bench exercises for abs such as leg lift). Therefore, it is very easy to relocate. This function is particularly useful for women.
The only reason I put it the second on this list is because it is rather new product, and it has less reviews. Although, those customer reviews are very positive.
In case you are willing to pay a little bit more and you are serious about bodyweight training, get it. It will provide an excellent workout experience and support your development in the long run. In my opinion, it is the best pull up tower.
3. PowerBlock Travel Weight Bench – Portable & Folding
This equipment is among those few workout benches that are portable. You can quickly fold it by removing the detainer pins that let you fold legs into the travel position. In that state, it is only 8 inches tall and it has a handle to be easily carried. Of course, this folding function makes it easy to store at home, too. Hence, it is a perfect equipment for those traveling a lot and do not want to miss a workout. (or someone who likes working out outdoor)
You are maybe a bit skeptical now if this bench functions well enough. But, I have to say it is as good as any other flat benches out there.
It has 550 lbs total weight capacity. So, even if you are 200 pounds, you can have 350 lbs to train with safely. That is far enough for most of the people. But certainly not enough for a power lifter.
The next question is wobbling and size. Well, because of the folding legs, it wobbles a little bit, but it is not annoying, so you can use it safely. And, since it is a portable flat bench, it is not the best option for tall people.
Get this bench if you travel a lot or you have a little space to train at home.
4. Marcy Flat Utility Weight Bench – The Cheapest
This Marcy flat bench is the fourth on my list because of its good price /value. It costs under 50 bucks and for that price you get an item which is perfect for an average home trainee. But, I do not have to say, it is not for serious weight lifters.
The total weight capacity of it is 300 lbs which is not that bad. So, if you are an average Joe who is under 200 lbs, you can still lift enough weight to develop. It is good option for beginners or medium level trainees.
Thanks to the well-made upholstery of the backrest, it is comfortable and provides a good flat bench workout experience. However, since it is a compact flat weight bench people taller than 6 feet may find it short.
It would be better if the stabilizers were wider for better stability. But users say the wobbling is minimal, it does not disturb their training.
This is a basic equipment that is suitable for average level exercises to do on a weight bench.
5. Marcy Deluxe Versatile Flat Workout Bench – The middle path
This is the big brother of the previous one with 600 lbs capacity and much better stability. And the difference in price is not that much.
It can be clearly seen from the picture that this bench has a very robust and thick frame (2 inch x 4 inch square 14 gauge tubing). Hence, it is very durable and stable. Its capacity is enough for even stronger users.
2.5 inch high density deluxe vinyl boxed upholstery provides a comfortable surface to work out on. It is not firm for you back, not too soft. Although, the length of the pad is 43 inches, so taller people may find it short.
This bench is for you if you need something stronger at a reasonable price, but you do not want to lift serious weights at home.
What to look for to buy the best flat bench for you?
When you buy a flat weight bench you should check out few factors, besides reading the customer reviews, to get the most suitable item for you.
Dimensions
It is important to know if you have enough space to use in the place you would like to use. Keep in mind that you will need a few feet around the bench to move around and to perform the exercises comfortably. Also, keep in mind the storage. Flat benches are not big, but still needs place. (if you are lack of space, it is maybe better to buy a folding bench).
Also, if you are taller and bigger person, check out the the length and width of the bench. If it is too short or narrow it is going to be very uncomfortable to exercise on it.
Weight capacity
The next very important factor is how much load the bench can stand. In most of the cases the manufacturer tells just an amount like 300 lbs, but in that amount your weight is included. So, if you are a big heavy guy who wants to perform heavy weight bench exercises at home, forget the equipment under 500 lbs.
Obviously, benches with higher capacity costs more, but they are more durable as well. But in the future you will not have to worry about overgrowing your exercise equipment.
Does it wobble?
There is nothing worse when a workout bench wobbles too much. That is not just dangerous but also annoying and does not let your to focus on your flat bench exercises. So, check out the customer reviews.
I hope you found this guide useful and you found the best workout bench for home. I wish you great flat bench workout routine with your new equipment.
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Last update on 2022-03-31 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API