When it comes to building your home gym, one of the most important pieces of equipment to invest in is a weight bench.
Not only does it allow you to perform a wide range of exercises, but it also provides support and stability for your workouts. But, with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start.
In this article, we'll be focusing on the two most popular types of benches: incline benches and flat benches. We'll explore the differences between the two and provide some tips on how to choose the best bench for your home gym. We'll also take a closer look at some of the best options from our own range of flat and incline benches.
Let's get started!
The primary difference between flat benches and incline benches is the angle of the backrest. Flat benches have a completely horizontal backrest, while incline benches have a backrest that is angled up from the seat.
So, why choose one over the other?
Well, it really depends on your fitness goals and the types of exercises you plan to perform. Flat benches are best suited for exercises that require a stable, flat surface, such as bench presses, dumbbell presses, and flyes. They're also great for exercises that require you to sit or lie down, such as tricep dips or step-ups.
Incline benches, on the other hand, are ideal for exercises that target the upper chest and shoulders, such as incline bench presses, incline dumbbell flys, and incline rows. They can also be used for exercises that require you to sit or lie down at an angle, such as incline dumbbell curls.
Another benefit of incline benches is that they allow for a greater range of motion and a deeper stretch in certain exercises, which can help to increase muscle activation and promote growth. Your weight bench will be something you use almost every time you use your home gym.
When it comes to choosing the right bench, there are a few things to consider. If you're primarily focused on flat exercises, such as bench presses and dumbbell presses, a flat bench is likely the best choice for you. However, if you want to incorporate more incline exercises into your routine, an incline bench may be a better option.
Flat benches tend to be less expensive than incline benches, so if you're working with a tight budget, a flat bench may be the way to go. However, keep in mind that an adjustable bench, which can be adjusted to different incline angles, may be a more versatile option in the long run.
A weight bench shouldn't cost you a fortune, but you should be able to find a great bench that meets your needs perfectly. It won’t be cheap, but it won’t break the bank either. If you have limited space, a lighter, more compact bench may be a better choice. However, if you have sufficient space, a heavier, more stable bench may be worth the investment.
Knowing how much space you have to work with will help you choose the best bench for you. Exploring weight benches that store vertically is also beneficial when outfitting a small home gym. At Bells of Steel, we offer a wide range of flat and incline benches to suit every budget and fitness goal. Let's take a closer look at some of our most popular options:
The Flat Utility Bench is our most economical option when it comes to weight benches and is super ideal for those on a tight budget. It has a narrow pad, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more minimalist design. It's also lightweight, making it simple to transport and store. Find out more information on why this one’s a game-changer.
Our Powerlifting Bench is an excellent choice for those looking for a more sturdy, heavy-duty option. It has IPF specifications and a thick, wide pad for added comfort. It also has a single post at the bottom for increased leg drive during bench presses.
The Hero Bench Heavy-Duty Flat Bench is a scaled-up version of the utility and powerlifting benches. It has a thick, wide pad that is extremely durable, as well as feet at the bottom to keep it from touching the ground when stored upright. Check out more info about its unique features here.
The Adjustable Utility Bench is our most affordable incline bench option. It has seven adjustable angles and an adjustable seat, both of which are uncommon in economical adjustable benches. It's also very portable and easy to move around. Check out our article, Adjustable Utility Bench: Get More Done with Less.
The FID Weight Bench is our best-selling weight bench and a Bells of Steel fan-favorite. It has a front leg holder for decline exercises and a great adjustability system with laser-cut teeth on the back for easy adjustments. It also has a large weight capacity of 1000 pounds, making it a sturdy and solid option.
The BuzzSaw Bench is one of the most recent developments from Bells of Steel, and it's quickly becoming a favorite among gym-goers. It has a unique leg attachment, a contoured seat and backrest for added support, an easy storage option, and an eye-catching design. It's built with thick-gauge steel and features multiple adjustment levels, including a full decline position. We talked about the in-depth feature of this weight bench here.
Overall, choosing the right bench for your workout routine can greatly enhance your exercise experience. Whether you opt for an adjustable or flat bench, or an incline or decline bench, it's important to consider your goals, your budget, and your space.
Having a bench you love to use, that is safe, reliable, solid, and comfortable will make every training session enjoyable.
