How to Choose a Weight Bench

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Each weight bench offers its own benefits for different types of exercises. The flat bench is necessary for triceps kickbacks and rows, while decline benches really punish abs. But the best benches are the ones that move into every possible position They are known as multi-purpose or adjustable weight benches. If you can only add one weight bench to your home gym, why not get one that does everything you want it to.

Attachments

• Leg curl attachment - Some weight benches have padded attachments at one end for isolating the front of the thighs with leg curls. These attachments usually require weight plates for resistance. Since there are so many other lower body exercises you can do without this attachment, it’s not necessary.
• Preacher curl attachment - This attachment is a padded, angled surface that allows you to do isolated bicep curls with more weight. It’s not something most people would consider essential.

Important considerations

• Foldable - Some benches are stationary and very sturdy, but if you’re a relatively small women who doesn’t plan to lift several hundred pounds, it’s safe to say you can get a bench that folds up for easy storage.
• Sizing - Find out how big the bench is and what body size it was made for. Some companies sell benches tailored to men or women of different sizes. Certain benches will also be adjustable for different user heights - good if the husband or kids decide they want to start working out too.
• Easy adjust - If your bench is multi-purpose you’ll want to make sure it’s easy to move quickly between back pad positions. Some use a simple ladder-style adjustment system, while with others the back pad rests on a separate bar that attaches to a stand behind the bench.
• Dumbbell storage - Some benches come with a place to store your dumbbells. It’s something to consider if you don’t already own a weight rack.
  

Now that strength training is becoming more popular than even with women, companies are responding and creating equipment that’s just for us. Not only is the Empower weight bench for women an attractive champagne shade, one model also comes with a range of colorful vinyl-coated dumbbells. Who says you have to work out in a drab black on black room to get in shape.