Standard Weight Bench - How Could Something So Simple Work So Well?

One of the most important pieces of gym equipment, whether it is for residential or commercial purposes, is the standard weight bench.  Don't worry about complex gym machinery as it is the simplest possible equipment in the gym - just a piece of sturdy padded board suspended above four equally sturdy legs.

Ways to Use

You will use the weight bench in three ways - either on your stomach to perform leg exercises, on your buttocks for arm exercises and on your back for chest exercises.  Well, of course, you can perform abdominal exercises on your back but the point is that the weight bench provides an excellent platform upon which to perform exercises that may not be possible on the floor. Or an ordinary chair and table, for that matter.

Your choice in accessories runs the gamut from free weights to slide-out racks.  For example, if your standard weight bench is just a simple bench, then you should purchase dumbbells and a barbell with rack to complete the equipment.  Your range of exercises will then increase.

Qualities to Choose

When considering the wide variety of choices available, you have three basic considerations to think about first and foremost - sufficient sturdiness, stability and support.  All other factors like number of accessories possible for attachment, aesthetic appeal and affordability of prices come second - a close second but second, nonetheless.

You want the weight bench to be sufficiently sturdy to support the combined weight of your body and the free weights - barbells and dumbbells, which you will be handling.  Toward this end, the standard weight bench is made of heavy-duty metal preferably inches thick so as not to bend under pressure.

But it is not only the strength of metal carrying metal that matters in a weight bench.  You also have to look at the balance, which is necessary to avoid the bench from tipping over during use.  You will not want to be endured while looking like the gym's clown.

You can then look at the other aspects of the weight bench once stability, sturdiness and support are satisfied.  Look at the seat, which must be thickly padded to provide comfort.  Determine the number of attachments possible like barbell holder, dumbbell racks and leg attachments, for example.  Assess its versatility in terms of incline and decline for various forms of exercises.

Just keep in mind that with each additional feature, you will be paying for more than the price of the standard weight bench itself.  The question will then be if said accessories and attachments are well worth the benefits where your exercise goals are concerned.

Good Quality Products

The following standard weight benches have been reviewed favorably by consumers. You may want to use these products as the standard when choosing your own weight bench.

First on the list is the EF Fitness Flat Weight Bench with Dumbbell Rack.  You have the benefit of a rigid 14-gauge strong steel frame, thickly-padded seat, and practicality of a utility workout station.  Then there is also the Elite Fitness weight bench, which is billed ideal for the beginner and intermediate exercisers. You can change from a flat to an inclined position via an incline bar.

Then again, your choice in a standard weight bench will always boil down to your personal preferences as a fitness fanatic.  If you're happy with it, then go for it.