Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Bench Series 5.1 Review

Posted by Teresa Ibanez on 12/01/2010 · Leave a Comment

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought the Select-Tech 552 dumbell set w/stand, so I needed a bench to go with it. I saw this was the 'matching' bench and had good reviews, so I went with it without much shopping around. I think I paid $150 with no tax or shipping. As I did not shop around, I don't know if this is a good 'value' compared to other brands. As far as the bench itself, it is very sturdy. No wobbling while you are using it - this is a big plus. It also looks very nice and obviously matches my other equipment. The adjustment options are nice to have, but to me they are mostly unnecessary. I only use it in the flat position and one incline position. I can't imagine what one would do with all the other positions, but maybe someone who is more sophisticated in their work out could utilize them. The leg attachment, again, is very sturdy. I didn't buy it for sit-ups, nor would I recommend this to someone who wanted it solely for sit-ups, but if you want a bench primarily for lifting that gives you a sit-up option, this will work just fine. As to the negatives... This was mentioned by another reviewer, but there is a opening in the bench where it folds up. It is really in a bad place (atleast for me, I am 6' 3") - right on the small of the back. It is uncomfortable and seems like it could cause injury. I am able to get around it by scooting my rear as close to the end of the bench before I lay back. Still, it seems like this could have been designed better. The assembly was simple and consists primarily of using washers and bolts. On mine, on the bottom end, the welds were in the way of one of the holes I needed to put a bolt/washer through. The washer would not sit flat and it was very difficult to get this one tight. Another complaint would be that the wheels are useless the way they are positioned - you will just end up dragging it from one place to another. And the bench does not fold up for storage, so it may not be the most compact bench to tuck away when not in use. Overall, I would recommend the bench and I would buy it again, but it is far from perfect. If you shop around you may be able to find a better option for your individual needs. Hopefully my insight helps with your purchase decision!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Bench Series 5.1

Product Description:
Get more out of your workout using Bowflex SelectTech free-weights with the 5.1 Series adjustable bench. It adjusts to six different positions--with 17-degree decline to 90-degree incline--for positioning support when you're exercising and for maximum workout versatility. Just adjust the bench to one of six positions and you can add a variety of new and powerful exercises. It's the perfect way to transform your space into a personal fitness center. This bench is also great for correcting posture and stabilizing your positioning for a safe, muscle-building free-weight workout. It's built-strong to last with heavy-duty commercial quality steel and durable upholstery. It comes standard with a removable leg hold-down brace for added decline position support. It wheels away for easy storage and measures 26 by 20 by 56 inches (W x H x L). Assembly is required. Specifications: Dimensions: 56" L x 26" W x 20" H (142.25 L x 66 W x 51 H cm) Adjusts to six different positions 17° decline to 90° incline Constructed of heavy-duty commercial quality steel Corrects posture and stabilizes positioning for a safe, muscle-building free weight workout Can be used with more than 30 exercises Comes standard with a removable leg hold-down brace for added decline position support Wheels away for easy storage About Utility Benches Despite the competition from trendy new fitness inventions, free-weight lifting continues to be a popular option for home strength training. Free weights offer a special benefit in strength training because they promote quicker strength gains. Free weights also work a larger number of muscles than resistance machines, which tend to focus on isolated muscles. Specially-designed adjustable pads, grips, and bars help limit and guide movements to minimize the possibility of muscle or joint damage. Plus, from a single utility bench, a vast number of exercises can be performed. Whether it is focusing on the abdomen, arms, chest, or any other muscle group, a utility bench can help you maximize your strength training goals while minimizing your risk of personal injury. Manufacturer's Warranty 30-year warranty on frame, one-year warranty on upholstery