Shopping For a Workout Bench

MandyMH80
MandyMH80 Posts: 20
in Fitness and Exercise
I'm starting to look at workout benches to try to find one that will fit my needs. I prefer to work out at home as opposed to the gym which is why I'm shopping for one. I won't be doing any serious weight lifting aside from normal strength exercises. The problem is that my budget won't allow me to get a top of the dollar bench. I'm trying to stay within a $50 - $150 tops range. Oh, and yes I know this may end up being a "you get what you pay for" type of scenario, but as I said this is just to add something extra to my workout.

Would any of you mind taking a look at these and let me know what you think? Would you choose one of the others and why?

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Gold-s-Gym-XR-6.1-Bench/17164460
http://www.walmart.com/ip/CAP-Barbell-Deluxe-Standard-Bench-with-100-lb-Weight-Set/17217218
http://www.walmart.com/ip/CAP-Strength-Olympic-Bench/19226053
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Body-Flex-Weight-Bench/16827568

Replies

  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    These all look like the same bench to me and without touching them I really can't give an opinion on them. If you're just starting out and lifting relatively light I guess they will do, but they aren't suited for frequent heavy work.

    My only suggestion is if they have a bench at the top of your price range that does NOT have that leg lift apparatus, that would probably be the one I'd select.
  • MandyMH80
    MandyMH80 Posts: 20
    Why not the leg lift? That was one of my primary reasons for getting a work bench so I could work on my legs. Do these types of benches not offer a good enough workout?
  • DavPul
    DavPul Posts: 61,406 Member
    get squat stands to work your legs. that leg lift thingy on the bench isn't very effective at all. the squat stands are on the same site. you may be better off with squat stands and an adjustable bench than these type benches.
  • rapat
    rapat Posts: 108 Member
    If you're not in a rush, look on craigslist -- you'll likely find higher quality stuff for cheaper; esp if you can get it off someone who is moving and doesnt seem like they used it all that much.

    But to answer your question. if you're not going to be lifting heavy, then any cheap bench should be fine
  • alpha_andy
    alpha_andy Posts: 160 Member
    The most important feature in a home bench set is to have safety catches in case you get in trouble with no spotter. This is an absolute must in my opinion.

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