Weight Benches

These are the two types of basic weight bench. Notice the pivot points. The bench in the top photo has a "low" pivot point, while the bench in the bottom photo has a pivot point much higher in relation to the part of the bench you lie on.   Either type is fine. A low pivot point bench concentrates leg extensions on the area right around the knee while the high pivot point bench works the whole front thigh.   On leg curls for the back of the legs, a low pivot point bench allows a more complete "flex." If using a high pivot point bench, don't flex as far or you will put strain on your lower back (you still get a very good workout).   All benches should be rated - how many pounds (including person) it will hold in all 3 positions: flat, inclined, and declined. I recommend a bench with a 600 pound rating for the flat position and 350 pounds in the other positions. If you are large, get a higher-rated bench.   Don't be fooled by a bench's simple or complex look. The black bench in the second photo is a higher-quality and easier-to-use bench than the grey bench, even though it looks simpler. It also was much easier to assemble. For other viewing angles of these two weight benches, see this photo and this photo.

The photo above shows a bench in inclined position. A decent bench will lock at various incline angles and will also decline.   If you are not going to do squats, get a bench with a high pivot point so you work the entire front thigh with leg extensions. If you are going to also do squats, go with a low pivot point bench.

All information on this site is opinion only. All concepts, explanations, trials, and studies have been re-written in plain English and may contain errors. I am not a doctor. Use the reference information at the end of each article to search MedLine for more complete and accurate information. All original copyrights apply. No information on this page should be used by any person to affect their medical, physical, legal, educational, social, or psychological treatment in any way. I am not a doctor. This web site and all its pages, graphics, and content copyright © 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Jon C.