Get some weights and a bench. It’s not rocket science: these are two main parts of nearly any strength-training routine. Without variable resistance and a solid base to work from, your choices in exercises rapidly narrow to very little.
Don’t make the error of buying what you find cheapest on market. That will cost you money (and time) down the road. A good combination increases functionality while taking up less room and allowing you to expand as you gain more strength.
Top Weight Bench and Weight Set Combos
Essential Gear for Strength Training
A basic bench is deceptively engineered. It has to holds weight (lots of weight) without being wobbly and be able to adjust or fold up without being flimsy. The weights should not only matches the quality of the bench but also be useful.
Your expensive dumbbells will turn into paperweights if your bench give out when you squat 300 pounds. More important then some spec sheet number is how the two work together for combined use. For those at home, the most versatile option are an adjustable weight bench.
Benefits of Adjustable Benches
A flat bench confines you to simple presses. With an adjustable bench, you can do inclines for chest work, declines, and even seated overhead presses. The Bowflex SelectTech Bench 5.1S impresses in this category with a solid steel frame that adjusts smoothly to lock in various positions.
That’s important because you’ll be doing step-ups and other dynamic moves as well as pressing heavy weights. You don’t want to have to worry about your body staying level and instead should concentrates on engaging the muscle. A flimsy bench will distract from form and put you more at risk of getting hurt.
Space-Saving Dumbbell Solutions
To get the best value, combine adjustable dumbbells with an adjustable bench. Space tends to be the limiting factor in home gyms. A rack of old-school dumbbells requires a lot of floor space.
Replace them with an adjustable set such as the Bowflex SelectTech 552 or the PowerBlock Elite, which holds dozens of different weight plates within one tidy package. Adjusting the amount of weight is simple, just slide in some pins or turn a dial, and it fits smoothly into any workout with an adjustable bench or even just a flat bench. No need to shift bulky racks when you’re ready to go from chest presses to bicep curls.
Consistency trumps intensity, and that convenence helps consistency. For others, the appeal lie in a good old-fashioned barbell and fixed flat bench, simple and durable. Those whose workouts focuses primarily around squats, deadlifts, and heavy bench presses may find they’re best served by going this route.
Traditional Barbell and Bench Setup
A bench without moving parts won’t break down. Case in point: The CAP Barbell FB-3225 is about as solid as you can get and will stand up to some serious abuse. Combine that with a standard Olympic barbell (Rogue or Rep Fitness offer high-quality plates that stack nicely) and you’ll have yourself something not unlike what you’d expect on a commercial gyms floor.
No angles to play with here, though, just rock-solid stability for maximum lifts. Your ultimate choice will come down to floor space. Do you have a full room?
Go big. Are you using it in the corner of the living room? Prioritize foldability.
Choosing Based on Room Size
For small rooms, the Marcy Smith Machine Combo includes a bench, lat pulldown, and pull-up bar all on one frame. This make it a great all-in-one option for smaller areas. It may be overkill for some, but perfect for those looking for variety without clutter.
All-In-One Combo Machines
Take inventory of what you’ll actualy use; do you truly need seven different bench angles? Or would three do? An honest assessment of your own usage habits will help you avoid buyer’s remorse.
Budget-Friendly Equipment Choices
Compromises will be made on the budget side of things, but that doesn’t mean you should of go out and buy the most expensive stuff around. A simple set of dumbbells and the CAP Barbell adjustable bench provide great bang for your buck. If your budget is limited, put your cash into something nice such as a quality barbell or a pair of lifting shoes.
The equipment won’t get you anywhere, your work does. A good set of weights and bench are an investment. Having quality equipment nearby makes you more inclined to work out and takes some of the frustration out of your training sessions.
Get something that fits your needs and your space, then upgrade as necessary. Gear that gets used is the best gear.
