A weightlifting bench is an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to put on muscle, get stronger and shed fat. Benches are extremely versatile and can be used with dumbbells or barbells to train any muscle group in the body, or on their own to complement body weight routines. Choosing the right bench to suit your needs is very important. All prices are as of February 2011.
York Barbell 48003 FTS Adjustable Weight Bench
The York 48003 bench is an excellent choice for beginners. It retails at $250, and while it may not have all the add-ons and features of a pricier bench, it is sturdy, it can be adjusted from a 0- to 90-degree incline, and it can be disassembled for easy storage. FitDay.com advises that adjustable benches that can be stored are ideal for any home gym.
Elite FTS 0-90 Walk-Up Incline Bench
Elite FTS is the company of former elite powerlifter Dave Tate, and the Elite equipment is designed for more advanced lifters. The 0-90 walk-up bench has all the features of a basic adjustable bench, but it also has a platform for spotters, which can help if you need some help while lifting heavy weights. The Elite FTS is on the pricey side at $675, but it's worth it if you're an advanced lifter and can spare the cash.
TDS Titan Competition Bench
If you're a serious powerlifter or bench presser, then you may wish to opt for a specialist competition bench press. These benches do not adjust, as they are made solely for flat bench pressing, but they are capable of handling very heavy loads, and they have supportive safety bars if you train alone. At $820 this bench is not cheap, but it is one of the best options if you want to train in a powerlifting style and build a big bench press.
Iron Master Super Bench
The Iron Master Super Bench is one of the most versatile weight benches on the market. It adjusts to 11 different increments between 0 and 90 degrees, and it can handle up to 1,000 lbs. With a recommended retail price of $259, it's a good value, but it has the added benefit of being able to accept attachments. If you choose to do so, there are also various attachments you can purchase for this bench that can enable you to do chinups, dips, leg extensions, leg curls and crunches on it.
References
- Fit Day: Why You Should Install a Weight Bench In Your Home
- GTech Fitness: York Barbell 48003 FTS Adjustable Weight Bench
- elitefts: 0-90 Walk Up Incline Bench
- Increase Max Bench Press: Bench Press For Sale
- The Bench Press: TDS Titan Competition Bench with Safety Stand Attachment
- Ironmaster: Super Bench
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