Weightlifters use free-weight benches to perform the most popular weight lifting exercise, the bench press, as well as many other exercises. These weight benches usually have extra attachments and adjustments to perform various exercises, such as incline presses and dumbbell presses. If you want to assemble your own weight workout bench, it's not difficult to do if you keep the parts organized. You will need some basic tools like socket sets and adjustable wrenches to get the job done right.
Step 1
Lay out all the frame supports and padding in the area where you are placing the weight bench. Put them on the floor in the order of assembly from the head to the seat of the bench. Have the wrench, socket set and all bolts, washers and nuts next to the frame.
Step 2
Assemble the base by laying the bottom foot supports of the bench in a triangular fashion, with the head of the bench having two foot bases and the seat of the bench having one. Connect the head base supports to the head cross bar base by putting the bolts in the holes of the supports and screwing on washers and nuts. Tighten the nuts firmly, but not too tight.
Step 3
Connect the back frame bar to the foot base support at the seat of the bench, with bolts, washers and nuts. Then connect the head cross bar base to the back frame bar using the same parts as listed for the frame base. The base frame should look like the capital letter "T."
Step 4
Place the upright supports next to the head of the back frame cross bar base, with the help of another person. Lift the upright supports on each side one at a time. While upright, connect them on the side using bolts, washers, and nuts. Repeat this process for the other side.
Step 5
Attach the padded bench to the back frame bar, on the underside of this support piece. Slide the barbell hooks in the holes at the top of each upright support. Go back and re-tighten all the nuts.
Tips and Warnings
- Some weight benches include optional plate arms for storing barbell plates, which requires an additional step to attach them to the upright supports.
- When assembling a weightlifting bench, always have someone help you, as one person needs to hold the upright supports while the other person tightens the bolts and nuts when attaching the parts.
Things You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket set with ratchet
- Bolt, nuts and washers
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