8 Incline Benches Recommended by Professionals | How to Buy the Best Bench
"I want to find a recommended incline bench, but which one is best?"
"There are so many options, I don't know which one to choose..."
If you are considering purchasing an incline bench, you may find it difficult to choose a recommended product and find it difficult to make a purchase.
Here are some recommended incline benches:
Product name [Manufacturer] | image | Price (incl. tax) |
Multi-position bench LE-B80 [LEADING EDGE] |
14,400 yen | |
Adjustable bench LE-B100R [LEADING EDGE] |
24,400 yen | |
AB-3100 FI Adjustable Bench [REP Fitness] | 34,500 yen | |
MBC Adjustable Bench Compact [MBC POWER] | 45,880 yen | |
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench [REP Fitness] | 54,500 yen | |
MBC Adjustable Bench [MBC POWER] | 76,760 yen | |
AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench [REP Fitness] | Standard 89,900 yen wide 93,200 yen |
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BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench [REP Fitness] | Standard 103,500 yen wide 132,300 yen |
There are certain criteria for a recommended incline bench, and it is important to keep the following points in mind.
It is essential to have stability that does not disrupt your concentration while training, and versatility that allows you to train the specific parts of your body you want to train .
In fact, there are probably many people who say , "When my concentration is disturbed, my motivation to work out decreases."
Choosing a bench that suits the type of training you want to do and your physique will not only ensure your safety during training, but it will also help you maintain your motivation.
However, some people may find it difficult to understand even if only the main points are shown.
Therefore, in this article, we will introduce actual products and provide a professional perspective on what kind of incline benches are recommended.
What you will learn by reading this article:
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If you read to the end, you will be able to choose the inclay bench that is best suited for you, so please use this as a reference.
1. List of recommended incline benches
Let's start by taking a look at a list of the best incline benches.
The products we are introducing this time were selected based on the criteria in " 2. 10 points to consider when choosing a recommended incline bench " which will be explained later, and are listed in order of lowest price.
Click on the product name to jump to the product introduction page, where you will find detailed information about each point. If you want to check out the products you are interested in first, please make use of this feature.
*The table can be scrolled horizontally.
Product name | Maker | image | Price (incl. tax) | Size (width x length) | Bench height when flat | Load capacity |
Multi-position bench LE-B80 | LEADING EDGE | 14,400 yen | Width 54 x length 125 cm | 42cm | 300kg | |
Adjustable bench LE-B100R | LEADING EDGE | 24,400 yen | Width 65 x length 157 cm | 42cm | 300kg (120kg when doing sit-ups) |
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AB-3100 FI Adjustable Bench | REP Fitness | 34,500 yen | Width 58 x length 128 cm | 43cm | 320kg | |
MBC Adjustable Bench Compact | MBC POWER | 45,880 yen | Width 51 x length 129 cm | 44cm | 500kg | |
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench | REP Fitness | 54,500 yen | Width 66cm x Length 144cm | 43cm | 454kg | |
MBC Adjustable Bench | MBC POWER | 76,760 yen | Width 61.5 x length 141 cm | 44cm | 500kg | |
AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench | REP Fitness | Standard 89,900 yen wide 93,200 yen |
Width 66 x length 146 cm | 44cm | 454kg | |
BLACKWING™ ADJUSTABLE BENCH | REP Fitness | Standard 103,500 yen wide 132,300 yen |
Width 66 x length 151 cm | 44cm | 454kg |
*Prices as of May 2024.
2. 10 points to consider when choosing a recommended incline bench
What is the recommended incline bench?
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It refers to something that satisfies these three points. The third point can be chosen based on your preference depending on the situation, but the first two are essential.
Without stability, it is difficult to concentrate on your training, and if you are unable to train the parts of your body you want to work out, it can lead to a loss of motivation .
The specific items are as follows:
Let's explain each point.
2-1. The load capacity must be greater than or equal to the weight of the body plus the weight
First of all, when choosing an incline bench, it is important to check the load capacity. This is an indicator of how much weight the bench can withstand.
It is important to choose a weight capacity that is at least as large as your body weight plus the weight of the weights (dumbbells or barbells) you are using for training .
[If a person weighing 90 kg does weight training with a total of 60 kg] → Choose a product with a load capacity of 150 kg or more. |
If the load capacity is insufficient, the bench will not be able to support the weight of your body and weight, and you will likely feel unstable and it may wobble or fall over. In some cases, the bench may break, and there is a risk of a serious accident.
If the structure can support the weight firmly, it will be useful in allowing you to concentrate on your training.
2-2. The "width of the rear base" should be at least twice the width of the back pad.
The base of the bench should be at least twice as wide as the back pad at the rear support . The width of the rear base can be measured as the overall width of the bench.
Because the support is wide, even if weight is applied unevenly to the left and right sides of the bench during training, it is less likely to wobble sideways and remains very stable.
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
In addition, we especially recommend products that have a rubber cover like the one in the photo that makes them less slippery .
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
Not only does it provide a good grip on the floor to prevent it from slipping, it also helps protect the floor.
The pad material should be non-slip. |
When choosing a pad, choose one that is made of a material that is non-slip . If the material has a strong grip, the part that comes into contact with the pad will not slip easily, and your body will be more stable. If you slip, you will have to keep returning your body to its original position, which will likely disrupt your concentration on your training. We recommend choosing an incline bench with a high grip, like the product shown in the video below. BlackWing™ Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) |
2-3. Choose a pad width that does not interfere with shoulder movement.
Choose a pad width that does not restrict shoulder movement. The specific length is the length between the two ends of the collarbone .
If it's too wide or too narrow, it can easily become stressful during training.
If the pad is too wide, it will limit the range of motion of your shoulders when training, and conversely, if it is too narrow, the area that supports your body will be smaller, which could cause you to wobble when training.
Losing your balance and falling off the bench can cause injury, especially if you are carrying weights.
Below is a comparison between the standard size (31cm) and wide size (36cm) of the REP Fitness BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench .
The model is based on someone with average shoulder width, measuring 42cm and 60cm from the base of the arm.
For 31cm pad | For 36cm pad |
→ Well balanced with shoulder width, the padding does not get in the way of training | → The padding extends all the way to the back of the shoulders, limiting the range of motion. |
The Japan Powerlifting Federation's standard size is approximately 25 to 32 cm*.
Therefore, as a rough guideline, people with average shoulder width should be around 30cm, while people with larger builds and broader shoulders should be more than 30cm .
*Source: Japan Powerlifting Association Rulebook
2-4. Choose a back pad that is long enough so that your head does not stick out.
When choosing a back pad, choose a length that will ensure that your head does not extend beyond the edge of the pad when you lean back.
If there is not enough surface area to support your head, your head will become unstable when you lean back, and trying to position it can put strain on your neck.
Another advantage is that since your head does not wobble, it is easier to support your body firmly during training.
When you actually use the bench, your posture may differ slightly from when you measured it, so we recommend choosing a length that is about 2 to 5 cm longer .
2-5. "Height when flat" should be below knee length
When flattened, the height of the incline bench should be lower than the length from your knees to the soles of your feet . This is so that the soles of your feet can land firmly on the floor when you sit on the bench.
If the height is not appropriate and only the toes touch the floor, it will be difficult to push down with the whole foot. In order to concentrate during training, it is necessary to land on the heel.
The standard height for a flat bench set by the Japan Powerlifting Federation is 42 to 45 cm*, so use this as a rough guide.
*Source: Japan Powerlifting Association Rulebook
2-6. The gap between the pads when flat should be as narrow as possible.
We recommend checking the condition of the pads when the back and seat are flat, and choosing one with as small a gap as possible .
If there are gaps, you may feel as if you are partially floating when you lean your body against the bench, which can lead to discomfort during training. Since the area with the gaps does not come into contact with your body, it cannot support the pressure on that area, which can result in extra strain on your body.
This may also lead to stress because there are gaps where you can't put your hands or feet.
Because of the need to adjust the angle of the back pad, gaps are likely to occur, but it is better to choose a bench that has been designed to reduce this space as much as possible.
For example, the product below uses ZeroGap™ technology, which allows the seat to slide back and forth to eliminate gaps between the pads.
BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
2-7. The shape of the pad should be flat and have parallel long sides.
Choose a pad with a simple, straight shape. A clean, rectangular shape with parallel long sides is more suitable for a wide range of training .
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
Some back pads have distinctive curves designed to make them more comfortable to sit on, but these may get in the way when the chair is flat.
For example, look at the posture used when doing a reverse push-up.
If the bench is not one with a flat pad with parallel long sides as shown in the photo, but one that is bulging and not flat around the waist or has slanted edges, you will have trouble finding a place to place your hands.
2-8. We recommend that the adjustable angle be set to 8 or more levels.
Regarding the adjustable pad angle, we recommend an incline bench with many adjustment stages. This is because you can choose the muscle parts to put stress on more precisely, and the range of training will be wider.
If you are going to start serious home training, it is a good idea to choose a level 8 or above .
In addition, it would be even more convenient if the back pad not only had an "incline" function that raises the head position from a flat position, but also a "decline" function that allows it to be adjusted downward.
If you have a bench that can adjust both the incline and decline (called an adjustable bench), you can easily perform exercises that put a lot of strain on your abdominal muscles, such as decline sit-ups.
[Example of decline sit-up]
In addition, being able to adjust the angle of not only the back pad but also the seat pad will make it easier to sit comfortably on the bench.
BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
Stable posture also reduces strain on the lower back, which has the advantage of allowing you to focus on only the areas you want to apply stress to.
Choose how to adjust the angle |
There are three main ways to adjust the angle, so you can choose whichever you prefer. ・"Bolt type" that is firmly fixed with bolts If you rarely change the angle, you can use a bolt to fix it. If you don't usually change it, but you don't want to go through the trouble of using tools when you do, the lock pin type is also an option. If you want to adjust the angle according to your training, the ladder method is the easiest. Although this won't cause any problems during training, if you are worried that the back pad will come off the ladder if you push it from behind while moving around, you should consider a product that incorporates a "ladder fixing mechanism (closed ladder)" like the one shown in the photo below. AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) We recommend storing it upright as there is no risk of the frame coming off the ladder. |
2-9. The attachments allow for a wider range of training
Some incline benches come with attachments, while others have options that can be added later, allowing you to expand their functions.
[Example of built-in leg roller]
AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
For example, if you have a leg roller, you can attach it as shown in the photo below and do decline sit-ups, making your training safer.
Adjustable Bench Leg Roller Attachment (REP Fitness)
There's no need to force yourself to choose one if you don't need it, but there is a chance that you may want to train using attachments in the future, so feel free to choose what you like.
2-10. It is easy to use if it has functions that make it easy to move and store.
Some incline benches come with features that make them easy to move and store.
It's one thing if you put it in a room and don't want to move it, but there may be times when it's inconvenient to leave it out.
A sturdy bench will be quite heavy, so if it has casters, for example, it will be easy to move .
We also recommend benches that can stand upright , as this will save space.
AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
It's a good idea to check whether it requires assembly and the difficulty level! |
Product information pages usually include information such as whether the product requires assembly. We wouldn't go so far as to say that this is "the key points to consider when choosing a recommended incline bench," but since assembly will be done by the purchaser, it's a good idea to check the product page and reviews to see how difficult it is. All the products introduced here are self-assembly required. |
3. [Budget: 20,000-40,000 yen] 3 recommended incline benches
From here, we will introduce some recommended incline benches from among the actual products. First, let's look at three incline benches that can be purchased within the budget of 20,000 to 40,000 yen.
3-1. Multi-position bench LE-B80 (LEADING EDGE)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 14,400 yen |
Maker | LEADING EDGE |
Load capacity | 300kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 54 x length 125 cm |
Back pad width | 27cm |
Back pad length | 85cm |
Bench height when flat | 42cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 6 levels (-12, 0, 30, 45, 60, 70) Seat padding: 3 levels (0, 10, 20) |
With or without attachment | none |
Other features available | Foldable |
remarks | Assembly required (simple tools included) |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The multi-position bench LE-B80 (LEADING EDGE) is the most affordable incline bench we introduce this time.
It weighs just 18kg and is the most compact of the products we are introducing here. When folded, it is 24cm high and 123cm long, making it easy to store.
The angle of the back pad can be adjusted in six steps, and it also supports incline and decline, and the seat can also be adjusted. You can do basic training.
"I want to start working out at home, but I'm worried about whether I can keep it up..."
"I want to buy an incline bench, but I want to start with an affordable one."
This is a product that I would recommend to those who:
Recommended points
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3-2.Adjustable bench LE-B100R (LEADING EDGE)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 24,400 yen |
Maker | LEADING EDGE |
Load capacity | 300kg (120kg when doing sit-ups) |
Size (width x length) | Width 65 x length 157 cm |
Back pad width | 28cm |
Back pad length | 80cm |
Bench height when flat | 42cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 10 levels (-15, 0, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90) Seat pad: 5 levels (-30, -20, 0, 10, 20) |
With or without attachment | With footrest |
Other features available | With casters |
remarks | Assembly required |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The adjustable bench LE-B100R (LEADING EDGE) comes standard with a footrest above the back pad. It can be adjusted to four different angles and can also be removed, making it easy to use.
Source: Amazon
The back can be adjusted to 10 positions, including incline and decline, allowing for a wide range of training.
The fact that it has casters makes it easy to move around, which is a nice feature.
When using the sit-up position, the back pad can be tilted between 0° and 30° (load capacity is 120 kg).
"I want a relatively affordable bench that's easy to use for sit-ups."
This product is recommended for those who:
Recommended points
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3-3.AB-3100 FI Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 34,500 yen |
Maker | REP Fitness |
Load capacity | 320kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 58 x length 128 cm |
Back pad width | 30-23cm |
Back pad length | 88cm |
Bench height when flat | 43cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 6 levels (0, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90) Seat padding: 3 levels (0, 10, 20) |
With or without attachment | none |
Other features available | With casters |
remarks | Assembly required |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The AB-3100 FI Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) is relatively compact among the benches introduced here, and is a size that makes it easy to store in your home.
All of REP Fitness' benches feature an easy-to-use ladder system and non-slip textured pads. The AB-3100 FI Adjustable Bench is the manufacturer's most affordable bench, but it's sturdy and can support up to 750 lbs (320 kg).
It has a clean design and is available in four color variations: metallic black, red, blue, and matte black.
The angle of the back can be adjusted in six incline steps, and the seat can be adjusted to three positions.
"I want a bench that I can use for basic training and that is easy to incorporate into my home workouts."
This is a product that I would recommend to those who:
Recommended points
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4. [Budget: 40,000-60,000 yen] 2 recommended incline benches
Next, we will introduce two recommended incline benches that can be purchased within a budget of around 40,000 to 60,000 yen.
At this price range, you can easily get a full-fledged bench that can be used for commercial purposes. The bench we will introduce this time is durable and stable, and can be used for a wide range of training.
4-1.MBC Adjustable Bench Compact (MBC POWER)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 45,880 yen |
Maker | MBC POWER |
Load capacity | 500kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 51 x length 129 cm |
Back pad width | 30.5cm |
Back pad length | 90cm |
Bench height when flat | 44cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 10 levels (0, 15, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, 85) Seat padding: 3 levels (0, 15, 30) |
With or without attachment | none |
Other features available | Can be placed upright and has casters |
remarks | Assembly required (simple tools included) |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The MBC Adjustable Bench Compact (MBC POWER) is the bench introduced here that can withstand a load of up to 500 kg, the heaviest of all the benches.
It can be stored upright, taking up little space when not in use, and it has casters so it can be moved around easily.
The padding is made of grippy vinyl, which has a non-slip texture, and combined with its high load-bearing capacity, it can be used safely and easily even during weight training.
The padding is only available in black, but the frame is available in three colors: black, gloss red, and silver grey.
This is a product that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a durable bench .
Recommended points
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See details on the official website
4-2.AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 54,500 yen |
Maker | REP fitness |
Load capacity | 454kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 66cm x Length 144cm |
Back pad width | 30cm |
Back pad length | 91cm |
Bench height when flat | 43cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 8 levels (-12, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 70, 85) Seat pad: 5 levels (0, 5, 10, 15, 20) |
With or without attachment | With leg rollers |
Other features available | With casters |
remarks | Assembly required |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The AB-3000 2.0 FID Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) is a bench developed for home gyms and is sturdy enough for commercial use.
This would be the perfect product for anyone looking for a professional bench like the ones you find in a gym at a reasonable price .
It has built-in leg rollers so you can use them to stabilize your feet when doing sit-ups.
Another great feature is that it uses a highly grippy CleanGrip™ pad, which prevents your body from slipping, making it easier to concentrate on your training.
The leg rollers have handles, which, when used with the casters, make them easy to move around.
There are five color variations to choose from: metallic black, red, blue, white, and matte black.
Recommended points
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\If you want to know more about the features and functions, check out the video!/
5. [Budget: 70,000 to 100,000 yen] 3 recommended incline benches
Finally, we would like to introduce a recommended incline bench that can be purchased within a budget of around 70,000 to 100,000 yen.
We are introducing products that will meet the needs of those who say , "I don't mind the high price, but I want a professional, highly functional, stylish bench," so please take a look.
5-1.MBC Adjustable Bench (MBC POWER)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | 76,760 yen |
Maker | MBC POWER |
Load capacity | 500kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 61.5 x length 141 cm |
Back pad width | 30.5cm |
Back pad length | 98cm |
Bench height when flat | 44cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 10 levels (0, 15, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, 85) Seat padding: 3 levels (0, 15, 30) |
With or without attachment | none |
Other features available | Can be placed upright and has casters |
remarks | Assembly required (simple tools included) |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The MBC Adjustable Bench (MBC POWER) is a professional version of the previously introduced " 4-1. MBC Adjustable Bench Compact (MBC POWER) ", and is longer and wider overall.
Both chairs share the same basic features, such as the ability to adjust the angle of the backrest in 10 positions and the seat in 3 positions, as well as the use of non-slip "grippy vinyl" for the seat covers.
The first difference is that the gap between the pads is now narrower at 2.7cm. The pad is also longer at the back, at 98cm, so even taller people can use it with confidence.
It comes in three colors: metallic black & stainless steel, gloss red & stainless steel, and silver gray & stainless steel. Compared to the " 4-1.MBC Adjustable Bench Compact (MBC POWER) ", the ladder adjustment parts have been changed to a stainless steel color.
"I want to do some serious heavy weight training at home."
I'm looking for a larger bench.
This bench is recommended for those who:
Recommended points
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See details on the official website
5-2.AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | Standard: 89,900 yen Wide: 93,200 yen |
Maker | REP Fitness |
Load capacity | 454kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 66 x length 146 cm |
Back pad width | Standard: 30cm Width: 36cm |
Back pad length | 106cm |
Bench height when flat | 44cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 13 levels (-8, -6, -4, 0, 20, 30, 37.5, 45, 52,5, 60, 67.5, 75, 85) Seat pad: 4 levels (0, 8, 20, 30) |
With or without attachment | none |
Other features available | ・Comes with casters ・Can be placed upright |
remarks | Assembly required |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) is not only highly functional as a bench, but it also has an overwhelming variety of colors available.
Not only can you choose from seven frame colors - metallic black, blue, army green, white, matte black, red, and clear coat - you can also choose the rail color.
As an example, let's take a look at the metallic black and white frame variations.
The colour of the "REP" logo on the bottom of the seat and the ladder scale can be changed, allowing you to select the colour that best suits your taste.
The carefully crafted, stylish design will look great as interior décor, providing great motivation for working out at home.
It also functions well as a bench, with the angle of the pad being adjustable to 13 positions including incline/decline for the back, and the incline of the seat being adjustable to 4 positions.
It has casters and an upright design, making it easy to move and store. The pad is made of "CleanGrip™", which has good grip and durability, so it is difficult for the body to slip off.
The special feature is the closed ladder design, which allows for easy operation of the ladder system, so you don't have to worry about the frame coming off when adjusting the angle or storing it.
"I want a bench that is both stylish and functional."
"I'm looking for the perfect bench to keep me motivated while working out at home."
This is a product that I would highly recommend to anyone.
Recommended points
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\If you want to know more about the features and functions, check out the video!/
5-3.BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness)
【Product Details】
Price (incl. tax) | Standard: 103,500 yen Wide: 132,300 yen |
Maker | REP Fitness |
Load capacity | 454kg |
Size (width x length) | Width 66 x length 151 cm |
Back pad width | Standard: 31cm Width: 36cm |
Back pad length | 97cm |
Bench height when flat | 44cm |
Angle adjustment stages | Back pad: 12 levels (-8, 0, 10, 20, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, 85) Seat pad: 6 levels (-10, 0, 8, 15, 30, 45) |
With or without attachment | Leg rollers can be retrofitted (optional) |
Other features available | ・Comes with casters ・Can be placed upright |
remarks | Assembly required |
*Prices as of May 2024.
The BLACKWING™ Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness) is the most highly functional of the products we are introducing this time.
There are three notable features, and the first one I would like to mention is "ZEROGAP™ Technology."
By sliding the seat pad, you can eliminate the gap between the seat and back pads, eliminating any discomfort when leaning your body against the bench, allowing you to concentrate on your training without stress.
Next is the ratchet seat. You can easily adjust the angle by simply lifting the seat pad.
It also features a closed ladder, as we mentioned in the " 5-2.AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench (REP Fitness), " and a design that allows it to stay upright, making it easier for users to use and with peace of mind.
The pad angle has 12 positions for the back and 6 positions for the seat, and supports both incline and decline.
Another great feature is that you can attach a leg roller (sold separately) to accommodate a wide range of training.
It is available in seven color variations: metallic black and blue, army green, white, matte black, red, and clear coat.
You can choose the width of the pad to suit your body type: standard (31cm) or wide (36cm).
"I want to set up a professional home gym that rivals those of top athletes."
"I want a high-end bench that is both stylish and functional."
This is a product that I would highly recommend to anyone who:
Recommended points
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\If you want to know more about the features and functions, check out the video!/
summary
In this article, we have introduced how to choose a recommended incline bench and some actual recommended products.
Finally, let's review the contents of the article.
When choosing the best incline bench, it is important to keep the following points in mind:
[10 points to consider when choosing a recommended incline bench]
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Taking the above points into consideration, compare the functions and features of the recommended products and choose the incline bench that is best for you.