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As a home gym owner with a keen eye for budget-friendly strength equipment, getting great value is one of the most important factors when deciding whether to pull the trigger on a potential purchase. However, when it comes to the uber-competitive adjustable bench market, it’s tough to contend against Rogue and REP Fitness — companies known for producing highly-rated options like the Adjustable Bench 3.0 and the AB-5200. Yet despite being better known for their power racks than their weight benches, Titan raised their standards and finally delivered a fully adjustable version that can more than hold its own against the giants of the industry.

In this Titan Series Adjustable Bench review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this newly released model arguably the best value in the industry. From its attractive price point to its sleek appearance to its wide range of adjustable positions, this well-designed Titan bench can handle all your heavy bench presses and other lifts without taking a huge bite out of your garage gym budget.

Key Takeaways

• The Titan Series Adjustable Bench costs $449.99, making it one of the best budget-friendly options if you’re looking for a high-quality adjustable bench that won’t break the bank.
• This newly released bench features nine back pad positions and three seat pad positions, giving you 27 custom configurations to perform a variety of free-weight exercises.
• Tipping the scales at 120 pounds, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a 1,000-pound weight capacity for the flat position and a 600-pound max for the incline position.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench

4.3

• Dimensions: 17” H x 56.5” L x 24.75” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds (flat), 600 pounds (incline)
• Materials: 11-gauge steel frame, HeftyGrip Vinyl
• Warranty: One-year warranty

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Titan Series Adjustable Bench Pros

• Made with 11-gauge steel, this heavy-duty adjustable bench is incredibly sturdy. Titan took the stability factor to the max by welding the entire frame together (other than the back foot), leaving essentially zero wriggle room and creating ultra-tight tolerances.
• Titan’s HeftyGrip Vinyl compares favorably to the material used on more expensive weight benches like the REP Fitness BlackWing. Thick and durable, it provides an extra grippy surface for you to perform your lifts so you don’t have to worry about sliding around or feeling unsafe.
• With a $450 price tag that includes free shipping, this Titan bench provides excellent bang for your buck. You can use those extra savings to invest in better bumper plates, an Olympic barbell for CrossFit-style workouts, or other strength equipment to round out your home gym.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Cons

• Despite a solid overall design, this adjustable weight bench isn’t quite as comfortable as some of its competitors when used in a flat position due to the 1.5-inch gap between the seat pad and back pad. The hinge that moves both pads can dig into your back if you’re positioned lower on the bench.
• Unlike the BlackWing model from REP Fitness, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench does not accommodate attachments like a leg roller. This limits your ability to use the bench to perform accessory exercises such as sit-ups, crunches, and Nordic curls.
• Titan only offers a one-year warranty period for all products. On the other end of the spectrum, Rogue includes a limited lifetime warranty on all frames and a three-year warranty on sewn items.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Rating

From price to padding to portability, our Breaking Muscle Team assesses weight benches using a propriety scoring system we developed from testing dozens of different benches to perform a variety of free-weight exercises. We look for critical factors that lead to a positive purchasing experience, including how well the bench is made, how easy it is to use, and how many adjustable positions you have at your disposal.

Here’s how the Titan Series Adjustable Bench fared across each category:

Titan Series Adjustable Bench In-Depth Review

It’s never too late to change your reputation. While Titan hasn’t earned a ton of praise for their benches before, that will surely change once more lifters get a chance to try out their newest creation. Safe, sturdy, and supportive, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench seems more than capable of serving as the only bench in your home gym for years to come.

Not only does it give you the versatility to adjust the seat pad and back pad, but it’s also designed to store vertically — a neat feature that cuts down on the bench’s footprint. Most importantly, though, Titan’s latest release comes in at a price point that makes it the best value, even in a crowded market full of high-quality adjustable bench options. 

Price and Value

It almost seems too good to be true for an adjustable bench built to International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards to be available for well under $500. Yet thanks to Titan, you can enjoy the benefits of having a flat, upright, and incline bench all in one for the tidy price of $449.99. Plus, you don’t have to leave any room in your budget for freight costs, as Titan offers free shipping on all orders.

Compared to other similar adjustable benches, the Titan Series comes at a more affordable price point. For example, although REP marked its popular AB-5200 model down to $449.99 as part of a Black Friday sale, it typically costs about $500. Meanwhile, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 normally costs $50 more than its current sale price of $545.

Considering you get two more back pad adjustment choices with the Titan Series for less money, it’s hard to put the AB-5200 above its competitor from a value standpoint. Plus, Titan offers two- and three-year protection plans for $54.99 and $64.99, respectively, along with flexible payment options.

Overall, Titan deserves a tip of the cap for pricing their top-end bench at a budget-friendly rate. We rated it 5 out of 5 stars for price and value.

Construction Quality

The aptly named Titan Series certainly meets the mark from a quality standpoint. Despite being priced rather aggressively, Titan didn’t go the cheap route with the materials on what should become their signature bench.

Built with 11-gauge steel that’s known for holding up well over time, it epitomizes the word “sturdy.” Actually, our team found the Titan Series Adjustable Bench to outrank the Rogue AB 3.0 from that perspective, highlighting that the bench did not budge an inch during testing. That type of stability speaks volumes about Titan’s innovative engineering, as the decision to weld the base into one solid piece contributes to the bench’s sturdiness.

Titan also went the extra mile in other areas. A knurled handle in a powder-coated black finish on the front post plate feels rock-solid and makes maneuvering the bench much easier. Meanwhile, a plate with UHMD plastic on the top of the back pad allows you to store the bench upright securely.

Finally, the HeftyGrip vinyl that covers the durable padding made our team feel right at home. With ample support from the steel frame, thick padding, and extra-grippy vinyl, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench scored 5 out of 5 stars for construction quality.

Delivery and Assembly

Titan takes some of the financial burden off your shoulders by offering free shipping on all orders. Eager to try out the brand’s newest foray into the adjustable bench world, our team did not encounter any issues during the delivery process. Sent to our Springfield, MO, headquarters via UPS/FedEx in one box that was sturdy but still easily movable, it didn’t take long for our testers to have the Titan Series Adjustable Bench up and running.

In fact, the assembly process proved far easier (and quicker) than past experiences with other benches that require multiple tools and a ton of patience. Because the base is all in one piece, you only need to attach the pads and wheels on the back. 

That smart design choice by Titan — which also likely reduced the manufacturing and shipping costs — helped this bench score 5 out of 5 stars for delivery and assembly.

Dimensions

At 17 inches tall, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench meets the IPF standard for height. A 40-inch-long back pad and a 12-inch long seat pad make it one of the longer benches in its category. With a total length of 56.5 inches, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench measures 4.5 inches longer than the REP AB-5200. However, it actually weighs five pounds less (120) than one of REP’s most popular models.

Unfortunately, one dimension-related flaw stood out for our testing team: the 1.5-inch pad gap. Having that space between the back and seat pads can cause discomfort, especially because the hinge that moves both pads sits fairly high and digs into your back. If you don’t want to deal with a seat gap at all, the REP BlackWing or the AB-5000 are excellent options that still give you plenty of adjustable positions.

All in all, this bench scored 4 out of 5 stars for dimensions, as the potential discomfort from the hinge inside the pad gap knocks the rating down a notch.

Padding

If sturdiness matters most in a bench, then comfortability doesn’t fall far behind. While budget-friendly benches on Amazon often come with cheaper, thinner padding, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench features the exact opposite.

Measuring 2.5 inches thick, both the seat pad and the back pad provided plenty of support for our testers as they performed rows and the flat bench press. Plus, lifters with broader frames won’t have to worry about pad width problems, as the back pad is a great size at 12 inches. As someone with a wide upper body, I can appreciate Titan’s decision to use a wide enough back pad that allows you to bench without having your shoulders roll off.

Part of that also has to do with the extra-grippy HeftyGrip Vinyl that envelops the thick padding. Our testers said it felt similar to the vinyl REP uses on their benches, which shows Titan is serious about contending with the big-time bench manufacturers. From a padding perspective, we gave the Titan Series Adjustable Bench 5 out of 5 stars.

Footprint and Portability

Based on its dimensions, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a footprint of 9.71 feet. As one of the longer adjustable benches on the market, it has a more sizable footprint than the REP AB-5200, which checks in at just 8.25 square feet. On the other hand, the REP BlackWing has a far larger footprint than the Titan Bench at 10.7 square feet.

Tipping the scales at 120 pounds, this well-built bench surprisingly wasn’t too difficult to maneuver. Our testing team took advantage of the knurled handle in the front and the oversized rear wheels in the back to move the bench around and store it upright using the rubber stopper on the back. Titan’s space-saving design allows you to reduce the overall footprint from 9.71 to just 2.92 square feet, making it a great fit if you have a smaller home gym. 

Despite being a longer bench, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench should still fit well into your space, and having the ability to store it vertically can save you valuable room. Plus, Titan smartly used an enclosed ladder system to prevent the adjustment arm from sliding out of place when the bench is stored upright. We scored it 4 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability.

Performance and Ease of Use

Although our team has been left disappointed in the past by some Titan benches, this model made them reconsider their stance. They were already impressed by its rugged look before using it for a single lift. The Titan Series Adjustable Bench backed up its impressive appearance with a flawless performance.

Utilized for both single-arm dumbbell rows and dumbbell bench presses, our testers had no trouble using the ladder-style adjustment system to go from a flat position to an upright angle. The inclusion of red anodized knobs also made it simple to go from one position to the next. Our team also enjoyed being able to anchor their feet securely thanks to the inclusion of a single front post plate that’s fairly narrow. Meanwhile, the bench’s rubber feet keep it firmly anchored to the floor.

However, Titan did drop the ball a bit by using a metal joint between the back and seat pads that comes up a little too high. If you are too low on the bench, the hinge can cause discomfort in your back and create an unnecessary distraction that could affect your performance.

Overall, though, this straightforward, no-nonsense bench was easy to use and seems more than capable of being the only bench in your home gym. The Titan Series Adjustable Bench received 4.5 out of 5 stars for its impressive performance and ease of use.

Incline Levels

Because it’s not an FID bench, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench does have some limitations. Still, it’s tough to complain about a sub-$500 bench that gives you nine back pad positions (0, 15, 30, 38, 45, 55, 60, 70, and 85 degrees) from which to choose. Plus, seat angles of 0, 15, and 30 degrees open the door to 27 configurations for your home workouts.

The ladder-style adjustment system on this bench will look familiar if you’ve ever used a Rogue bench. Nearly identical in design, it features a bolt wrapped in heavy-duty UHMW plastic that made a pleasing clicking sound when our testers changed the position of the bench. The laser-cut numbers on the seat and back pads also made it simple for our team to identify the angle they wanted to set the bench.

By comparison, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 provides slightly more flexibility with your angle options, as it has 10 back pad positions. Meanwhile, the REP Fitness AB-5200 only offers seven, along with the same three seat pad angles.

Overall, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has enough options to get the job done and utilizes a user-friendly ladder system that feels secure. Although it would be great to have decline position options, we still gave this bench 4 out of 5 stars for incline levels.

Warranty

Titan Fitness falls short of the competition with their warranty policy. The company only offers a one-year limited warranty with all of their products, including the Titan Series Adjustable Bench. According to Titan’s website, the warranty coverage only includes defects in material or workmanship and excludes accidents, damage, negligence, improper assembly and maintenance, abnormal operating conditions, and alterations.

On the other hand, REP Fitness includes a 10-year warranty on bench frames, plus a one-year warranty on sewn items. Rogue takes customer service even further with a limited lifetime warranty on frames that voids if a product has been damaged due to negligent or faulty use, alteration, maintenance, storage, or handling by the user. In addition, Rogue covers sewn items for up to three years.

Finally, Force USA backs up its benches with a lifetime warranty for frames, a 10-year warranty on moving parts, and one year of coverage for upholstery and attachments. This applies to equipment used exclusively in private indoor home settings, such as basements and garages.

Ultimately, Titan doesn’t come close to other bench manufacturers from a coverage perspective. Since you only get a one-year warranty protecting your $450 investment, we scored the Titan Series Adjustable Bench 2 out of 5 stars in this category.

RELATED: Titan X-3 Power Rack Review

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Specs

Not only did Titan produce a bench that meets International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards, but they did so at an excellent price point. Built to handle all your lifts without busting your home gym budget, this adjustable bench looks, feels, and performs like one that should be more expensive. From its pad dimensions to its weight capacity, here are the full specs for the Titan Series Adjustable Bench.

Dimensions

The Titan Series Adjustable Bench measures 56.5 inches long, 24.75 inches wide, and 17 inches tall for a total footprint of 9.71 square feet. This 120-pound heavy-duty bench has a back pad that’s 40 inches long and 12 inches wide.

Meanwhile, the seat pad measures 12 inches long and 12 inches wide. There’s also a 1.5-inch gap between the back and seat pads.

Materials

Titan built its newest adjustable bench with high-quality materials, including 11-gauge steel for the frame — the same material used in REP’s AB-5200 and BlackWing models and the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. This helps give the bench its sturdy feel and 1,000-pound weight capacity, with the powder-coated black finish providing a badass overall look.

For the padding, Titan used their HeftyGrip polyurethane vinyl, which our testers found to be extra grippy and comfortable. Red anodized knobs add a nice visual and tactile touch to the design. Plus, a knurled stainless steel handle makes transporting the bench a breeze.

Pad Thickness

Titan Fitness didn’t skimp on the padding, as both the back pad and seat pad measure 2.5 inches thick. This makes for a comfortable lifting experience, as you feel fully supported from end to end.

Weight Capacity

The Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a max weight capacity of 1,000 pounds in the flat position. This puts it right on par with the BlackWing and the AB-5200 models from REP Fitness. In addition, the Titan Series has an angled weight capacity of 600 pounds, which is just 100 pounds shy of how much the REP AB-4100 can support in a flat position.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

Ironically, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 seems to be one of the sources of inspiration behind the design of Titan’s newest adjustable bench. Built to nearly the same specifications using almost the same exact materials, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench compares favorably to one of Rogue’s most popular models.

Still, there are some important differences to note between the two models. First, the Titan Series costs significantly less, checking in at $450. On the other hand, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 requires a more substantial investment of $595. Plus, upgrading to a stainless steel frame increases the total cost to nearly $700.

Second, the Titan Series doesn’t offer the same flexibility when it comes to adjustments and finish options. While having 27 configurations should be enough for most home gym owners, Rogue’s model provides 30 thanks to 10 incline positions ranging from 0 to 85 degrees and three seat positions (0, 15, and 30 degrees). In addition, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench only comes in a powder-coated black finish, whereas the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 is available in 10 colors: black, gun metal, blue, bright green, red, white, dark red, burnt orange, dark blue, and satin clear.

Finally, consider where your bench comes from. If you prefer USA-made fitness products, Rogue is the way to go. If you’re comfortable investing in a bench that’s made overseas, there’s certainly nothing wrong with opting for the more affordable Titan Series Adjustable Bench.

Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

4.5

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 52” L x 11” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel, vinyl cover, rubber feet
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on the frame

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Titan Series Adjustable Bench Customer Reviews

Because it’s a new release, there are currently no reviews available for the Titan Series Adjustable Bench. However, given its impressive spec list, high-quality build materials, and ability to be used in 27 configurable positions, we expect it to earn high marks from customers who get a chance to explore all of its capabilities. 

Final Verdict: Is the Titan Series Adjustable Bench Worth It?

Even though Titan benches typically fall short of expectations, that’s simply not the case with their newest model. The design team deserves major props for putting together a true FID weight bench that provides 27 possible configurations in a well-priced package. Built from high-quality materials that should prove durable over time, this bench packs a serious punch, especially considering how cheap it is compared to similar offerings from REP and Rogue.

While the seat gap issue shouldn’t be overlooked, it’s difficult to find any other obvious flaws with what should become the company’s flagship bench. If you’re looking to preserve some of your home gym budget, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench is an ideal solution that will allow you to still have the financial flexibility to purchase other fitness products and strength equipment accessories.

FAQs

The post Titan Series Adjustable Bench Review (2023) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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As if attempting to match Ronnie Coleman’s best lifts wasn’t challenging enough, Mitchell Hooper also tried to keep pace with another all-time great’s signature workout. Although the reigning World’s Strongest Man typically doesn’t focus on getting a pump during his training, he had no choice but to embrace that satisfying feeling Arnold Schwarzenegger strived for during his legendary gym sessions.

In a video posted on his YouTube page on Nov. 13, 2023, Hooper tried the seven-time Mr. Olympia winner’s iconic back and biceps workout. Needless to say, the high-volume style of training gave the Canadian strongman an even deeper appreciation for Schwarzenegger’s accomplishments.

Always up for a challenge, Hooper tested his upper-body strength and stamina via a series of back and biceps exercises that left his muscles thoroughly taxed. Paying homage to arguably the most popular bodybuilder ever to live, it didn’t take long for the talented strongman to understand the differences between how athletes from each sport benefit from their specific training modalities.

Hooper kicked off the session with four back exercises before finishing up with several curl variations. The workout begins about 40 seconds into the video.

Wide-Grip Pull-Up

Tipping the scales at about 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, Hooper recruited his lats to lift his sizable frame to the top of the assisted pull-up machine. Going with a wide grip led to enhanced lat engagement and allowed the Ontario native to better utilize his rhomboids and trapezius muscles.

After completing his second set, Hooper took a look at some of Schwarzenegger’s best lifts, which included a 498-pound (226-kilogram) bench press and a 709.9-pound (322-kilogram) deadlift. Despite not being overly impressed by those numbers, Hooper acknowledged that bodybuilders have a distinct advantage in one key area.

“Upper body strength is disproportionally good in bodybuilders because their muscle mass is so high up there,” he explained. “I don’t know what that is. Maybe strongmen should do a lot more upper body accessory work than we do because bodybuilders are so strong comparatively.

Following that brief rest period, Hooper wrapped up the first portion of the workout by completing three more sets of wide-grip pull-ups.

T-Bar Row

Next, Hooper went with a variation of one of Schwarzenegger’s favorite exercises: the T-bar row. Starting with three 45-pound (20.4-kilogram) plates, the big man explosively pulled and squeezed each rep, noting that his upper-body strength isn’t on the same level as his lower body.

“Like 80 percent of everything we do is quad, hamstring, glute,” Hooper said about strongmen. “Leg drive, if you’ve got that, you’re going to do very well.”

Subsequent sets of T-bar rows included heavier loads, which forced the Canadian athlete to use his core and legs to maintain stability throughout the movement.

Single-Arm Dumbbell Row

Hooper then went over to the dumbbell section to perform single-arm rows. A classic back exercise that’s great for building thickness, he made quick work of 130-pound (59-kilogram) dumbbells for his first two sets. However, just because it looked easy doesn’t mean Hooper enjoyed this part of the workout.

“I think this might be my least favorite exercise,” he explained. “The difficulty is a lot in your core, not a lot in the actual pulling. So it’s like a core workout with an arbitrary dumbbell movement.”

Still, Hooper pushed (or in this case, pulled) on to finish two more sets with the same weight, making sure to maintain a neutral spine as he completed the heavy dumbbell rows.

Close-Grip Lat Pulldown

The final back exercise of the workout put Hooper’s lats to the ultimate test. Having already accepted the reality that he would be “sore as hell” the next day, he mustered up the energy to complete four sets of close-grip lat pulldowns. Hooper leaned back slightly during the movement, pulling the handle down to just above chest level.

Once he finished on the cable machine, he moved on to the second half of his session.

[Related: The Best Arm Workouts for Beginners, With Dumbbells, and More]

Biceps Circuit

With about 20 minutes left to train, Hooper wrapped his biceps in blood restriction cuffs, which have been shown to help increase hypertrophy. (1) Although he performed fewer working sets than Schwarzenegger’s protocol, Hooper still achieved an excellent muscle-building stimulus.

Aiming to hit his biceps from multiple angles, the reigning WSM completed four rounds of a four-part circuit that included the following exercises:

• Standing Barbell Curl — Used a 70-pound (31.8-kilogram) curl bar
• Barbell Preacher Curl — Used the same 70-pound (31.8-kilogram) curl bar
• Alternating Dumbbell Curl — Used 50-pound (22.7-kilogram) dumbbells
• Concentration Curl — Used 45-pound (20.4-kilogram) dumbbells

By the time he cranked out his final rep, an exasperated and vascular version of Hooper seemed happy with the pump he achieved during the expedited biceps session.

Schwarzenegger-Style Back and Biceps Workout

Here’s a complete breakdown of the Arnold Schwarzenegger-inspired back and biceps workout Hooper performed.

• Wide-Grip Pull-Up — 5 x 8-12
• T-Bar Row — 5 x 8-12
• Single-Arm Dumbbell Row — 4 x 8-12
• Close-Grip Lat Pulldown — 4 x 8-12
• Standing Barbell Curl — 4 x 8-12
• Barbell Preacher Curl — 4 x 8-12
• Alternating Dumbbell Curl — 4 x 8-12
• Concentration Curl — 4 x 8-12

While you shouldn’t expect to see Mitchell Hooper enter a bodybuilding show anytime soon, the fact he’s willing to try different styles of training and share his honest feedback shows why he’s one of the more well-respected and popular strength athletes today. Already a world-class strongman, anything he does to improve in other areas will only make him a more fierce competitor moving forward.

Featured Image: Mitchell Hooper / YouTube

References

1. Wortman RJ, Brown SM, Savage-Elliott I, Finley ZJ, Mulcahey MK. Blood Flow Restriction Training for Athletes: A Systematic Review. Am J Sports Med. 2021 Jun;49(7):1938-1944. doi: 10.1177/0363546520964454. Epub 2020 Nov 16. PMID: 33196300.

The post Mitchell Hooper Tackles Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Brutal Back and Biceps Workout appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Thanks to a titanic effort from Evan “T-Rex” Singleton, Team USA took down Team UK in a tightly contested battle for the title of 2023 World’s Strongest Nation.

The showdown between an American squad led by 2019 World’s Strongest Man Martins Licis and a British side headlined by legendary English strongman Eddie Hall featured seven events during a single-day competition that took place on Nov. 18, 2023, at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England. After watching their home team claim the crown in 2022, UK fans witnessed Team USA put together a winning effort that included a record-setting performance by Kevin Faires in the latest show from the Giants Live World’s Strongest Man Arena Tour.

Both teams had a mix of female and male athletes squaring off in a series of challenges that tested their strength, power, and conditioning. Teams earned three points for an event win, with a bonus point given to the team that had the top overall performer in each of the first six events. Despite a furious comeback attempt by Hall’s squad, Singleton — winner of both the 2023 Giants Live Strongman Classic and the 2023 Giants Live World Open — sealed the victory for the Americans by hoisting a 551-pound (250-kilogram) weight onto the final step of the “Power Stairs.”

Here are the full results from the seven events, along with an overview of what each entailed.

Event 1: Sandbag Steeplechase

Each competitor had to pick up a sandbag and move quickly to drop it over a hurdle set at the 10-meter point. After retrieving it from the other side, the athlete had to go another 10 meters before heaving it onto a table placed at the 20-meter mark. Men worked with 330.7 pounds (150 kilograms), with women using 220.5-pound (100-kilogram) sandbags.

Team USA won the Sandbag Steeplechase by a sizable margin of nearly 35 seconds for a total of four points.

Team USA (Total Time — 2:39.39 seconds)

• Inez Carrasquillo — 18.20 seconds
• Rob Kearney — 21.39 seconds
• Nadia Stowers — 22.69 seconds
• Kevin Faires — 20.44 seconds
• Erin Murray — 19.59 seconds
• Spenser Remick — 21.39 seconds
• Inez Carrasquillo — 18.19 seconds
• Evan Singleton — 17.56 seconds (bonus point)

Team UK (Total Time — 3:13.87 seconds)

• Andrea Thompson — 33.57 seconds
• Gavin Bilton — 17.66 seconds
• Lucy Underdown — 32.47 seconds
• Mark Felix — 29.63 seconds
• Donna Moore — 24.43 seconds
• Luke Stoltman — 18.00 seconds
• Rebecca Roberts — 19.99 seconds
• Tom Stoltman — 18.12 seconds

[Related: The Best HIIT Workouts With Bodyweight, With Kettlebells, and More]

Event 2: Farmer’s Walk

A classic strongman event, the Farmer’s Walk featured 40 meters of a grueling test of grip strength and endurance. The female athletes worked with 198.4 pounds (90 kilograms) in each hand, with the males carrying 308.6 pounds (140 kilograms) on each side.

Team USA defeated Team UK in the second event thanks to another top performance by Singleton that gave his squad a second bonus point.

Team USA (Total Time — 3:04.90 seconds)

• Inez Carrasquillo — 21.68 seconds
• Spenser Remick — 23.26 seconds
• Nadia Stowers — 34.25 seconds
• Martins Licis — 21.12 seconds
• Erin Murray — 24.65 seconds
• Kevin Faires — 20.36 seconds
• Gabi Dixson — 21.48 seconds
• Evan Singleton — 18.10 seconds (bonus point)

Team UK (Total Time — 3:13.65 seconds)

• Andrea Thompson — 21.87 seconds
• Gavin Bilton — 25.17 seconds
• Lucy Underdown — 26.55 seconds
• Luke Stoltman — 20.11 seconds
• Donna Moore — 32.53 seconds
• Tom Stoltman — 19.94 seconds
• Rebecca Roberts — 20.87 seconds
• Mark Felix — 26.61 seconds

[Related: 11 Loaded Carry Variations Worth Trying]

Event 3: Axle Deadlift

A test of deadlift proficiency had the men use 793.7-pound (360-kilogram) axles — a weight that proved incredibly challenging. Meanwhile, the women put together some impressive totals utilizing 485-pound (220-kilogram) axles.

Team UK secured the win over Team USA by five total reps on the back of a bonus point-earning showing by Lucy Underdown.

Team USA (Total Reps — 23 reps)

• Gabi Dixson — 10 reps
• Nadia Stowers — Six reps
• Rob Kearney — Four reps
• Evan Singleton — Three reps

Team UK (Total Reps — 28 reps)

• Lucy Underdown — 13 reps (bonus point)
• Andrea Thompson — Eight reps
• Gavin Bilton — Four reps
• Tom Stoltman — Three reps

[Related: 7 Tips to Perfect Your Deadlift Form]

Event 4: Circus Dumbbell

Arguably the most technically difficult event on the schedule, the Circus Dumbbell tested the athletes’ explosive power and coordination with an overhead press. Licis smartly used his joker card to maximize the potential point haul for his squad — and the move paid off.

Team USA won by three total reps, with Singleton earning his third bonus point by topping all competitors with seven reps. The joker card allowed the Americans to earn double the points.

Team USA (Total Reps — 22 reps)

• Nadia Stowers — Four reps
• Inez Carrasquillo — Five reps
• Rob Kearney — Six reps
• Evan Singleton — Seven reps (bonus point)

Team UK (Total Reps — 19 reps)

• Donna Moore — Four reps
• Andrea Thompson — Six reps
• Luke Stoltman — Six reps
• Gavin Bilton — Three reps

[Related: 8 Overhead Press Variations for Stronger Shoulders]

Event 5: Wrecking Ball Hold

First held at the Giants Live Strongman Open earlier this year, this event tested the athletes’ grip power and willpower. Kevin Faires, who placed ninth at the 2023 Giants Live Strongman Classic, cemented his place in strongman history books by setting a World Record by keeping the wrecking ball in place for nearly two minutes.

However, Team UK still emerged victorious thanks to 18-time WSM competitor Mark Felix recording a highly impressive time of his own that gave his squad the decisive edge.

Team USA (Total Time — 4:01.84 seconds)

• Gabi Dixson — 6.84 seconds
• Nadia Stowers — 46.01 seconds
• Kevin Faires — 1:53.00 seconds (World Record)
• Evan Singleton — 1:15.99 seconds

Team UK (Total Time — 4:23.30 seconds)

• Lucy Underdown — 46.43 seconds
• Rebecca Roberts — 57.47 seconds
• Gavin Bilton — 1:02.02 seconds
• Mark Felix — 1:37.38 seconds

[Related: The 10 Best Medicine Ball Exercises for Power, Conditioning, and More]

Event 6: Tug of War

Eddie Hall confidently used his joker card in an old-fashioned tug-of-war contest. The three-part battle started with separate showdowns between four-person male and female teams and concluded with an eight-a-side mixed-gender dual.

Unfortunately for Team USA, all three rounds went to Team UK, who closed the gap to just three points heading into the last event.

Pull 1: Women

Team UK (Moore, Roberts, Thompson, and Underdown) defeats Team USA (Carrasquillo, Dixson, Murray, and Stowers)

Pull 2: Men

Team UK (Bilton, Felix, L. Stoltman, and T. Stoltman) defeats Team USA (Kearney, Licis, Remick, Singleton)

Pull 3: Mixed

Team UK (Moore, Roberts, Thompson, Underdown, Bilton, Hall, L. Stoltman, and T. Stoltman) defeats Team USA (Carrasquillo, Dixson, Murray, Stowers, Faires, Kearney, Licis, and Remick)

[Related: Australian Strongman Smashes World Record by Pulling 44,753-Pound Crane]

Event 7: Power Stairs

The last event had three men and two women alternate carrying a weight each to the top of a set of stairs. While the men worked with 496-pound (225-kilogram) and 551.2-pound (250-kilogram) weights, the women used 275.6-pound (125-kilogram) and 286.6-pound (130-kilogram) weights.

Between having a 1.5-second head start due to their three-point lead and executing the challenge with excellent technique, Team USA stormed to the top of the stairs and secured the World’s Strongest Nation title.

[Related: The 8 Best Upper Body Pulling Exercises]

Ultimately, all the athletes showcased tremendous class and respect for one another while putting their bodies on the line for the sake of national pride. With the teams splitting the first two matchups, the third iteration of the World’s Strongest Nation should be even more competitive. Only time will tell whether Team USA can become the first back-to-back winners in the contest’s brief history.

Featured Image: Giants Live Strongman / Instagram

The post Team USA Topples Team UK for 2023 World’s Strongest Nation Title appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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If you’re short on space, lifting weights at home can seem practically out of the question. And I know this from experience. I remember living in a one-bedroom apartment and just knowing that a set of traditional dumbbells and its accompanying rack wouldn’t fit anywhere. Fortunately, one day, I discovered adjustable weights, and they’ve been an essential part of my strength training routine ever since. So if you’re in a similar situation, you might be looking for a suitable solution too. 

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells are a space-saving and cost-effective option for adjustable weights. However, like all fitness equipment, they aren’t going to check the box for everyone. Therefore, to help you decide if it’s a practical choice for you, the Breaking Muscle team has put them to the test. Plus, as a health and fitness writer who loves sharing my honest home gym workout experiences, I’ll also be spilling the tea. So, let’s jump right into this NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell review!

Key Takeaways

• These can replace 15 individual dumbbells, so you can really maximize your home gym space. They range in weight from 10 to 55 pounds (4.53 to 24.94 kilograms).
• The handle diameter is fixed, which may not be ideal if you prefer a more ergonomic handle.
• The sliding pins weight selection system is easy to use, but adjusting the weight may take longer than it does on other adjustable dumbbells. 

NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbell

4.1

• Weight range: 10 to 55 pounds
• Weight increments: 2.5 to five pounds
• Adjustment type: Sliding pins
• Dimensions: 19.4” L x 11.4” W x 8.5” H with storage tray 
• Materials: Steel, plastic
• Warranty: 90 days

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NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Pros

• NordicTrack’s adjustable dumbbells are some of the more affordable adjustable dumbbell choices.
• They can be adjusted in 2.5-pound increments, which is ideal for those who prefer to make smaller jumps in weight.
• The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells are compact and take up less room than a full set of high-quality dumbbells. They can fit into most small gym spaces with ease.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Cons

• The plastic parts may cause durability issues.
• During our testing, we noticed that the weight plates can shake and rattle when in use.
• The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells can’t be dropped, so they may not be suitable for CrossFitters or lifters who like to train to failure.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Rating

The Breaking Muscle team has tried out A LOT of adjustable dumbbells, so we know what a real high-quality one looks like. We use our proprietary factor methodology system to rank everything from price for value to the variety of weight increments.

Here’s how the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells score. 

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Overview

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells come as a pair and provide a combined 110 pounds (49.89 kilograms) of weight. With a handy-dandy weight selection system and 15 different weight assortments, you can do a variety of home workouts from squats and lunges to bicep curls and overhead presses. Plus, if combined with an iFit membership (for around $39 per month), beginners and intermediate trainees can access hundreds of weightlifting workouts. 

In this second iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells, you get a less bulky product that feels a little more like a fixed weight. The original version, which had blue weight selector tabs, featured more plastic and felt less sturdy. Some consumers even questioned its safety and reliability. But in NordicTrack’s new and improved version of this set of adjustable dumbbells, it seems to be a lot better. 

Who Should Buy the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

• New and intermediate trainees who are looking for dumbbells they can progress with. 
• Individuals who don’t have a spacious home gym and need a compact solution. 
• Home gym lovers who enjoy interactive training — these dumbbells are an excellent choice for strength training workouts through iFIT (which requires a subscription of about $39 per month)

Who Should Not Buy the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

• Those who prefer the feel and functionality of traditional dumbbells 
• Advanced weightlifters who need more than 55 pounds 
• Trainees who’d prefer longer warranty coverage. NordicTrack only offers a 90-day warranty.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Review

Before you even think about swiping your card to order this product, there are a few things you should know. While this set of adjustable dumbbells will check the box for some people, it may be completely underwhelming for others. To give you some perspective, we’ll jump into the price, construction quality, warranty, and more. 

Price and Value

As of this writing, the 55-pound (24.94 kilograms) NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell costs $399, but is that reasonable? The short answer is yes, and here’s why we ranked these 4 out of 5. 

When compared to similar options, their price actually seems to fall in the middle. For instance, when we compared options, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 was $429, The Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set was $359, and the Nuobell Classic Adjustable Dumbbell Set was $595.

They’re all compact and have comparable weight options and increments, but the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight set is the only one that goes up to 55 pounds. On top of that, you’d get free shipping and a 30-day iFIT trial. Financing may be an option, too, if you’re not ready to pay it all upfront. There are 12 and 39-month 0 percent APR payment options, meaning you could end up paying a little over $10 or $33 per month.  

So, if you’re comparing those and trying to determine which one would provide the most value, I’d recommend NordicTrack. For the quality, price, and functionality, these are one of the best adjustable dumbbells. However, if you want a set of dumbbells with a greater weight range or higher quality, expect to pay more. 

Also, let’s not forget that traditional dumbbells cost about $1 to $4 per pound. A set of five to 50-pound (22.67 kilograms) rubber hex dumbbells could easily cost you $800, and these are practically half the price. In short, these just might be worth replacing a whole rack of dumbbells. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

Construction Quality

The first iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells had plastic handles and, according to some consumers, cheaply made weight selector tabs that would occasionally break. If those broke, the product became virtually useless, as you couldn’t select a different weight. 

While it’s unclear if they improved this in the newer version, which now has orange adjustment pins, I can say that I haven’t seen nearly as many negative reviews about them breaking. I did come across one poor review on Amazon where the buyer stated that they dropped the adjustable 2.5/5 pound (1.13/2.26 kilograms) section on a horse mat. Afterward, they were no longer able to adjust the five-pound setting and had trouble getting a replacement. 

You should also be aware that the inside of the weight plates are made of plastic as well. In terms of durability, they should work fine for a while but will likely wear down over time. This could cause the plates to stick and not lock into place correctly. My advice is just to be careful. If you’re aggressive when using them or set the weight plates or tabs down too hard, they’ll probably break down much sooner. 

What I really like about the new NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells is the metal handle with moderate knurling. This upgrade means you’ll be able to maintain a better grip when completing different exercises. It’s very uncommon to see metal handles on adjustable dumbbells at this price point, so this is truly a standout feature.  

Overall, the construction is pretty good for the price, and that’s why we made it a 4 out of 5. It’s clear that NordicTrack has made some efforts to improve this set of dumbbells so buyers can get more use out of them. Although it’s a bummer when gym equipment like this breaks, we must remember that these aren’t traditional dumbbells. Many lifters have a habit of dropping their weights down after an intense set of reps, but you shouldn’t do that with adjustable dumbbells with plastic parts. 

Ergonomics

These aren’t the most comfortable pair of dumbbells in the world, but they’re by far not the worst, either, so we gave these a 4 out of 5. 

To start, the handles don’t have a thick center that tapers down at each end, which is considered “ergonomic.” Many people find ergonomic handles more user-friendly as they are better at distributing the weight in your hands. This is especially noticeable when using heavier weights. 

However, while those may feel better to hold, a fixed-diameter handle, like the one here, offers more contact and a firmer grip. The moderate knurling assists with maintaining your grip as well and does so without hurting you. More aggressive knurling is sharper and makes it challenging to do high-rep training. 

Although NordicTrack hasn’t disclosed the exact diameter of these 10-pound handles, the Breaking Muscle team assumes they’re about 30 millimeters. This isn’t terrible, but it’s on the thicker side for a smaller dumbbell and possibly not wide enough for a heavier one. To give you some perspective, Rogue’s Rubber Hex Dumbbells that are 12.5 pounds (5.66 kilograms) or heavier sport a 35-millimeter diameter handle. For any less than that, the handle is 25 millimeters thick.

“Fat gripz” on heavier dumbbells are more common because large dumbbells require you to utilize more muscles. Muscle growth is stimulated with thicker grips because they make the forearm, bicep, and hand muscles work harder. Over time, this may make you more effective at handling heavier weights. 

Unfortunately, the diameter of NordicTrack’s Adjustable Dumbbells doesn’t change when you make a weight adjustment, but this is common among adjustable dumbbells. Therefore, we can’t completely zonk it. The brand likely picked 30 millimeters because it’s in the middle and should work for those with small and large hands. 

Now, let’s consider the weight plates from a comfort perspective. When the Breaking Muscle team tried these out, they noted that the round weight plates slightly shook and made a click-clacking noise. While that won’t physically interfere with your workout, it could be problematic if you’re sensitive to such noises and sensations. Once again, this is the sort of thing that just comes with the adjustable dumbbell territory. 

For the most part, these are shaped and perform a lot like traditional dumbbells, but you shouldn’t use them for push-ups. The plate’s rounded design just doesn’t support that, so stick to lifting instead. 

Ease of Use

A lot of people are intimidated by adjustable dumbbells, but these are pretty easy to use. The storage tray has clear weight markings, so you can move the four adjustment pins to select the amount of weight you want. Then you have to do the other dumbbell, so it’s not the quickest process and could take some getting used to.

I personally prefer the twist-lock technology found on the Core Fitness dumbbells that I own. With those, I just set my dumbbells in the cradle and twist the handle until I reach my desired weight. 

Weight Options

What makes the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells really attractive are the 2.5 and five-pound increments. If you’re anything like me, making a five-pound (2.26-kilogram) leap is challenging, especially when it comes to doing bicep curls. I’d much rather progress in 2.5-pound increments because it allows me to maintain a better form and reduces my risk of injury. 

However, do note that 2.5-pound increments are not available across the board, so if you’re hoping for 7.5 (3.40 kilogram) or 17.5 (7.93 kilogram) weight options, it’s not possible. In some cases, you’ll just have to be okay with a five-pound increment, such as when you go from 15 (6.80) to 20 pounds (9.07 kilograms). 

RELATED: Best Kettlebells for CrossFit, Beginners, and More

Adjustment Mechanism

When you’re ready to adjust the weight of these dumbbells, all you have to do is pull out the orange weight pin selector and slide it to your preferred weight. The markers on the storage tray are set up in 10-pound (4.53 kilogram) increments (e.g., 10, 20, 30 pounds/4.53, 9.07, 13.6 kilograms), etc.), so you know where to place them. 

However, here’s where it gets tricky. There’s a slider inside of each dumbbell for the smaller 2.5 and five-pound increment options, but it’s not exactly clear which way you’re supposed to slide those to select the one you want. Over time, you’d probably figure it out; however, it’s annoying to be doing this in the middle of a workout. 

Also, adjustments can probably be done in five to ten seconds with these, but this is annoying when you’re doing supersets. The dial method is more attractive in terms of speed, which is why this adjustment mechanism gets a 3.5 out of 5 rating. 

Warranty

One area that NordicTrack could’ve done better is the warranty. Compared to other companies that provide two and five-year warranty coverage on parts and labor, they only offer 90 days. 

Such short coverage will make some consumers raise their eyebrows and question the product’s durability. This is especially concerning because the plastic weight-changing pin is susceptible to breakage. Therefore, don’t be forceful when making weight changes because if you break it, it’s not covered under warranty, and finding a replacement may be incredibly challenging. 

In addition, there is a 30-day return policy, but here’s the kicker. You’ll be charged a $250 non-refundable return shipping fee and a 10% processing fee.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Specs

When looking for a pair of adjustable dumbbells, it helps to look at certain factors and be aware of your own preferences. For example, you’ll want to know about a dumbbell’s dimensions and materials so you can assess if the size and feel will work for you. Also, knowing its weight range and whether or not it has mobile app capabilities is crucial, especially for beginners. Below, we’ll dive into what you can expect from the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells.  

Dimensions

The newest version of these NordicTrack dumbbells is much more compact. The older one was 26.59 inches long, 21.25 inches wide, and 10.53 inches high when the dumbbells were set inside the plastic tray. This one is 19.40 inches long, 11.40 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. Length-wise, it’s a whole seven inches shorter. Therefore, if you don’t have a dedicated home gym space, these are small enough to hide under the bed or in the closet. 

RELATED: Best Budget Barbells

Materials

This iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable dumbbells has steel handles and weight plates, which is a considerable improvement. It gives them a more premium feel. There is some plastic in the top middle of the plates where the weight selector tabs are meant to be placed. However, compared to the hardened plastic-coated weights on the blue ones, this isn’t so bad. The fitted storage trays are still made of plastic, so you must be careful with those. If you slam the weights down too hard, it may break.  

Weight Range

Each dumbbell is between 10 and 55 pounds (4.53 and 24.94 kilograms). There are 15 weight adjustments, which are as follows: 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5, and 55 pounds (4.53, 5.66, 6.80, 9.07, 10.20, 11.33, 13.60, 14.74, 15.87, 18.14, 19.27, 20.41, 22.67, 23.81, and 24.94 kilograms). 

Mobile App Compatibility

If you like having access to live and on-demand video workouts from iFIT personal trainers, you’re in luck. There are multiple strength exercises on there. This is helpful for beginners who might not know what to do and even more experienced persons who are looking to switch it up. 

When you purchase this adjustable dumbbell set, you’ll get a 30-day iFIT family membership that includes up to five profiles. There’s even a leaderboard to log your workouts and track your progress. As long as you have WiFi and a compatible TV screen, tablet, and/or phone, you should be good to go. Once the trial ends, it’ll be around $39/month plus tax.  

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells vs. BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

The BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells are very popular, and this is partially because BowFlex is a name people trust in the fitness space. Seriously, when I think of my childhood, 1990s BowFlex commercials come to mind. 

There are areas where the BowFlex dumbbells outshine the NordicTrack dumbbells, such as with their simple and quick dial system and two-year warranty. In addition, they’re quieter since the metal plates are encased in a molding. 

I personally like that it starts at five pounds (2.26 kilograms) and has 2.5-pound (1.13 kilogram) increments up to 25 pounds (11.33 kilograms). This may be important for those new to training, who might appreciate 7.5 and 17.5-pound (3.40 and 7.93-kilogram) weight options. NordicTrack has more adjustable increments between 20 and 50 pounds, though, so it really depends on your preference and fitness goals. 

Here’s where BowFlex lacks in comparison, though. Their max weight caps at 52.5 pounds (23.81 kilograms), the handles lack knurling and have a subpar rubber grip, and it’s made with a lot of plastic. In fact, several of their customers have complained about the plastic breaking. At around $429, they’re still considered a relatively affordable option, but you have to ask yourself if you may get more value out of the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells.  

Neither of these options comes with an expansion kit, which may be a deal-breaker for anyone looking for much heavier weights.

BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

4.5

• Weight range: Five to 52.5 pounds
• Weight increments: 2.5 to five pounds
• Adjustment type: Sliding pins
• Dimensions: 16.9″ L x 8.3″ W x 9″ H 
• Materials: Steel, nylon, ABS, thermoplastic rubber
• Warranty: Two-year parts warranty

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NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Customer Reviews

NordicTrack doesn’t feature any reviews on their website, but Amazon has over 1500. At the time of this writing, almost 80% are 5-star ratings, and only four percent are 1-star. 

One customer stated, “Best adjustable dumbbells in this price range! Top features are that they are dumbbell shaped with flat weight ends, and the handles are very well done.” Another said, “Best investment I’ve made in my own gym, and I’m happy I went with these…not sure if anything above this is really worth it unless you need 80lbs dumbbells and have a large budget or just want to super nice dumbbells that are $700 to $800.”

Among the negative reviews, some stated that the product arrived broken. One customer said, “The weights arrived broken, with one of the disks having noticeable cracks that prevented the selector switch from moving past it, making it impossible to adjust the weight properly; a critical feature for this product.” One other customer mentioned, “Item arrived in a beat-up box with no styrofoam packing or insulation really of any kind. Weights inside were banged up and scratched though not damaged nearly as badly as other people seem to have gotten.” 

Final Verdict: Are NordicTrack Dumbbells Worth It?

NordicTrack is mainly known for its high-end treadmills and ellipticals, so when I found out they sold dumbbells as well, I was slightly taken aback. I mean, could they really be a leader in the adjustable dumbbell space, too? As it turns out, they’re making a name for themselves as being one the most valuable options out there for its price range.    

The NordicTrack dumbbells are winning in a few areas. They’re cost-effective, space-saving, and feel a lot like regular dumbbells. While they cannot utilize Alexa to respond to voice commands that change the weights like the NordicTrack iSelect Adjustable Dumbbells, it offers other notable features. It’s certainly not every day that you’ll see 2.5 (1.1 kilogram) and 5-pound (2.26 kilogram) weight increments or a dumbbell set that goes up to 55 pounds (24.94 kilograms). Plus, adding iFIT could take your workout game to an entirely different level. 

So, are they worth it? For someone who doesn’t mind the quirks that come with adjustable dumbbells and is short on space, yes. There are definitely options with greater durability and more than 110 pounds (49.89 kilograms), but given the price tag here, the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells are winning. 

FAQs

The post NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Review (2023): Are These Value Dumbbells Worth It? appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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As a home gym owner and someone who reviews fitness equipment for a living, I’ve become a huge fan of REP Fitness over the years. I have a sandbag, a plyo box, and a weight bench that I love from REP. Many of my colleagues praise the brand’s squat racks, barbells, and weight plates. What’s more, REP’s equipment frequently tops our holiday gift guides for men and women because it’s top-notch without costing an arm and a leg.

We know that most shoppers enjoy a good deal, and using a REP Fitness discount code can help you save even more money. Below, we’ve compiled all the ways you can score special discounts on the equipment you need to build the ultimate home gym.

REP Fitness Discount Codes

Because their products are already reasonably priced, you won’t find too many REP Fitness promo codes. That said, there are ways you can still get the best discount possible on their equipment. Here are all the ways you can save money when shopping on REP Fitness’s website:

• Rewards points: Get points for spending money, leaving reviews, following REP Fitness on social media, or signing up for texts. You also receive points each year on your birthday. For every 100 points you earn, you’ll receive a $5 reward.
• Local pickup discounts: If you live near REP’s showrooms in Moreno Valley, California, or Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and can pick up your items yourself, you may get up to 15% off your order.
• Customer referrals: Refer a friend and offer them $10 off their purchase of $100 or more. Earn $10 in points for every successful referral.
• Free shipping: There’s no need to enter any promotional code for free shipping. As of this writing, REP offers free shipping on all orders made within the lower 48 states.
• Financing: If you prefer to pay for your purchase in smaller installments, choose PayPal or Shop Pay as your payment method at checkout. Financing through Affirm is also available for purchases over $650.

How to Apply REP Fitness Coupon Codes

1. Visit repfitness.com.
2. Sign up for rewards on REP’s Loyalty Program page with your name and email address. You’ll get points just for creating an account (don’t worry — it’s free) and then earn points for each dollar you spend on the REP Fitness website. Other ways to earn points include following REP’s social media accounts, leaving reviews, and signing up for text alerts. You’ll also receive points on your birthday. One hundred points equals $5 in rewards.
3. Redeem your eligible points when completing your order on REP’s checkout page.
4. At checkout, selecting PayPal or Shop Pay as your payment method will allow you to pay for your purchase in installments. REP also offers financing through Affirm on orders over $650.
5. Save money by picking up your items from one of REP’s showroom locations, if possible. Their showrooms are located in Moreno Valley, California, and Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Discounts start at 10% off purchases up to $2,500 and go up to 15% off purchases of $7,500 or more.

REP Fitness

REP Fitness offers commercial-quality yet affordable gym equipment for home gym owners. From barbells to weight benches to adjustable dumbbells, you can find almost everything you need to get stronger and fitter at home.

Get REP Fitness Discounts

When Are REP Fitness Products on Sale?

Like most major fitness equipment brands, REP Fitness offers sales around major shopping holidays, such as Cyber Monday. They don’t always offer sitewide sales, but they do usually have daily and weekly deals on select items.

Signing up for REP Fitness’ email newsletter is the best way to get notified when their products go on sale. It’s also an excellent way to get alerts about new products. Alternatively, you can learn about REP Fitness coupons and special discounts by following their social media pages.

For information on fitness equipment deals from all of our favorite brands, keep checking our holiday sales guides below.

• Labor Day Fitness Sales
• Black Friday Fitness Deals

Why We Love REP Fitness

I’ve owned several items from REP for nearly four years, and our Breaking Muscle product testers have tried dozens of REP Fitness barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight benches, functional trainers, and power racks. Almost everything we’ve tested has received high marks for quality, durability, and performance.

Some of our favorite REP Fitness products are listed below:

• Colorado Bar
• Double Black Diamond Bar
• BlackWing Adjustable Bench
• The FT-5000, which topped our list of the best functional trainers
• The AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench, which we consider a high-quality piece of budget-friendly home gym equipment

Why Shop at REP Fitness?

As mentioned, the Breaking Muscle staff is frequently impressed with the quality of REP Fitness’s products, especially considering how reasonably priced much of it is. We also appreciate that REP Fitness offers the following perks:

• A loyalty program with rewards points for completing certain actions on the REP Fitness website or their social media pages
• Free shipping on all orders within the lower 48 United States (as of this writing)
• The ability to finance purchases over $650 through Affirm
• The ability to pay in installments with PayPal or Shop Pay
• Local pickup discounts
• Discounts for successful customer referrals

FAQs: REP Fitness Discount Code

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Although he came up short in his quest to win the 2023 Mr. Olympia, it’s taken less than 10 days for Samson Dauda to add two more titles to his blossoming bodybuilding resume.

Coming off a first-place finish at the 2023 Romania Muscle Fest Pro, the Nigerian Lion looked fantastic in yet another dominant performance from across the pond. After capturing top honors in the Men’s Open division in Romania on Nov. 12, 2023, Dauda stood atop the podium again at the 2023 EVLS Prague Pro, securing an IFBB Pro League show victory and a $10,000 check for the second straight weekend.

2023 EVLS Prague Pro Division-by-Division Results

The 2023 EVLS Prague Pro featured athletes from six divisions competing for a coveted championship, first-place prize money, and automatic qualification for the 2024 Olympia. Here are the final results based on the official scorecards made available by the IFBB Pro League.

• Men’s Open
• Men’s 212
• Classic Physique
• Men’s Physique
• Figure
• Bikini

Men’s Open

Between placing third at the 2023 Olympia and beating out defending Romania Muscle Fest Pro champion Behrooz Tabanai Abarghani for the 2023 title, Samson Dauda had all the momentum heading into the EVLS Prague Pro. However, he faced some stiff competition in the form of Michal “Krizo” Krizanek, who took home top honors at the 2022 show.

Ultimately, though, Dauda’s muscular frame and tighter look helped him fend off an impressive field that also included Rubiel Mosquera and Nathan De Asha, who finished third and fourth, respectively, behind the Columbian native.

1. Samson Dauda (United Kingdom)
2. Michal Krizanek (Slovakia)
3. Rubiel Mosquera (Columbia)
4. Nathan De Asha (United Kingdom)
5. Jan Turek (Czech Republic)
6. Liang Yan (China)
7. Roman Fritz (Germany)
8. Rob Cannon (United Kingdom)
9. Hameed Juma (Bahrain)
10. Pavel Beran (Czech Republic)

212 Bodybuilding

Just like Dauda, Ahmad Ali Ashkanani followed up a solid showing at the Olympia with a win in Romania. And just like the Nigerian Lion, the Kuwait native finished first in his division for the second consecutive weekend.

Once again, Ashkanani earned the nod over Italy’s Giuseppe Zagarella, who also settled for second at the 2023 Romania Muscle Fest Pro.

1. Ahmad Ali Ashkanani (Kuwait)
2. Giuseppe Zagarella (Italy)
3. Lucas Goncalez (Brazil)
4. Dawid Cnota (Poland)
5. Giorgi Adikashvili (Georgia)
6. Daniel Vasilica (Romania)
7. Damian Kryszpin (Poland)
8. Vincent Alliot (France)

[Related: Iain Valliere Believes the 212 Division Should No Longer Exist in Bodybuilding]

Classic Physique

The clash for the Classic Physique division title in Prague came down to two competitors who performed well at the 2023 Olympia. Urs Kalecinski, who finished third at the Olympia before winning the 2023 Texas State Pro on Nov. 11, 2023, went toe-to-toe with Michael Daboul, who placed sixth at the Olympia.

Despite a strong showing from Daboul, “The Miracle Bear” emerged victorious, further cementing his status as one of the best Classic Physique competitors in the world.

1. Urs Kalecinski (Germany)
2. Michael Daboul (United Kingdom)
3. Alexander Westermeier (Germany)
4. Sebastien Theurel (France)
5. Karol Rogaczewski (Poland)
6. Jordi Romero Marsal (Spain)
7. Ruben Lopez Reyes (Spain)
8. German Pastor (Spain)
9. George Acheampong (Denmark)
10. Matthias Hollweck (Germany)
11. Manuel Moisel (Germany)
12. Karar Aljalabi (Belgium)
13. Tunde Chris Taylor (Germany)
14. Sebastian Guncik (Czech Republic)
15. Ali Khan (Afghanistan)
16. Alberto Milani (Italy)
17. Fernando Gornals Margol (Spain)

[Related: Chris Bumstead Claims Fifth Consecutive Classic Physique Championship at 2023 Mr. Olympia]

Men’s Physique

In another example of why momentum matters, Miroslav Juricek joined Samson Dauda and Ahmad Ali Ashkanani in winning the Romania Muscle Fest Pro and the EVLS Prague Pro. Both he and fellow Czech Republic native Ondrej Kmostake represented their country well by claiming the top two spots in the Men’s Physique Division.

1. Miroslav Juricek (Czech Republic)
2. Ondrej Kmostak (Czech Republic)
3. Furkan Er (Turkey)
4. Adeyemi Awoyani (United Kingdom)
5. Andrea Amato (Italy)
6. Dawid Wachelka (Poland)
7. Dylan Crane (France)
8. Jeffrey Darko (United Kingdom)
9. Viachaslau Tarasevich (Belarus)
10. Mohammad Almutawah (Kuwait)
11. Alessandro Cavagnola (Italy)
12. Panek Alexandru (Romania)
13. Ramzi Boubaker (Germany)
14. Oskar Tchorzewski (Poland)
15. Aryan Ali (Germany)

[Related: The Ultimate Chest and Back Workout for Upper Body Muscle]

Figure

It was another rinse-and-repeat situation with the Figure division, as Romania Muscle Fest Pro winner Tereza Linhartova locked up her second title in as many weeks. While Spain’s Rejoice Godwin claimed third in her second straight show, Romania’s Stefana Sandu went from finishing in second to falling to fourth, as USA’s Maria Luisa Diaz earned the No. 2 spot in Prague.

1. Tereza Linhartova (Czech Republic)
2. Maria Luisa Diaz (USA)
3. Rejoice Godwin (Spain)
4. Stefana Sandu (Romania)
5. Behnaz Nasrollahi Azar (Germany)
6. Zulfya Bitiyeva (Kazakhstan)
7. Kamara Graham (United Kingdom)
8. Karine Hajjar (Qatar)
9. Tamires Silva (Brazil)
10. Sonja Ivanov (Germany)
11. Anna Kohckar (Ukraine)
12. Natalia Sharapova (Russia)
13. Gabriela Linhartova (Czech Republic)
14. Vanessa Happle (Germany)
15. Gabriela Hejna (Czech Republic)
16. Alina Yaman (UKR)

[Related: Superset-Style Upper Body Resistance Band Workout for Muscle Gains]

Bikini

The battle for the Bikini division title turned out differently in Prague than it did in Romania. After earning the title the weekend prior, Italy’s Alice Marchisio fell to third, as Romania Muscle Fest Pro runner-up Valerya Fedorenko stormed ahead to claim the win and a $10,000 prize.

Fellow Ukrainian Violeta Palamarchuk also enjoyed a successful showing, vaulting up from eighth at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro to second at the EVLS Prague Pro.

1. Valerya Fedorenko (Ukraine)
2. Violeta Palamarchuk (Ukraine)
3. Alice Marchisio (Italy)
4. Dorottya Zoe Toth (Hungary)
5. Renata Nowak (Poland)
6. Sara Punzetti (Italy)
7. Lisa Reith (Germany)
8. Sara Lujza Rogacsi (Hungary)
9. Olivia Pohankova Kovac (Slovakia)
10. Petra Voldanova (United Kingdom)
11. Andrina Scharli (Switzerland)
12. Mara Carro
13. Ka’Tai Luca (Hungary)
14. Johanna Durr (Germany)
15. Irene Iravedra Cunarro (Spain)

[Related: Everything You Need to Know About How to Burn Fat]

Overall, Samson Dauda deserves major credit for continuing to compete after putting everything on the line at the 2023 Mr. Olympia. While he could have easily rested on his laurels and been satisfied with a third-place finish at the biggest bodybuilding show of the year, he’s done the exact opposite.

So, even though the Nigerian Lion didn’t leave Orlando, FL, with a $400,000 prize and the most coveted title in the sport, he’s certainly made the most of his trip to Europe by taking home titles in back-to-back contests.

Featured Image: Samson Dauda / Instagram

The post  2023 EVLS Prague Pro Results: Samson Dauda Dominates Second Straight European Show  appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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If there’s one piece of equipment you need in your home gym, it’s a weight bench. But not just any type of weight bench. You need an adjustable weight bench, like the new and improved REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0. FID weight benches are a versatile, portable, and economical choice for beginners and athletes who want to spruce up their dumbbell workouts. Plus, if you have a squat rack and some barbells, you’re pretty much good to go.

Today, many brands, like REP Fitness, Rogue, Sorinex, and Titan, produce high-quality benches. However, none of them will be a good fit for everyone. Therefore, you have to evaluate your budget, fitness goals, and preferences to ensure you pick the right one for you. 

As a 5+ year Public Health Professional and Writer, I’ve researched and written on several weight benches. I’ve also had a chance to try out a few for myself. In this REP AB-5200 adjustable bench review, I’m giving you all the deets so you can decide if this is personally worth the buy. 

Key Takeaways

• On their website, the bench is automatically set to the fixed post option, making it a flat-incline bench. If you’d prefer a FID bench, select the “adjustable post” option. 
• If you don’t like the bench, REP Fitness offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but there will be a 15 percent restocking fee applied if it’s not returned in its original packaging. 

REP Fitness AB-5200

4.1

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 57.6” L x 25.8” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty

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REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Pros

• Six different color options are available for the frame and rails. You can add a pop of color to your home gym or coordinate your bench with your other equipment.
• The AB-5200 can be stored in an upright position, which is beneficial for those with small spaces who want to tuck it away when they’re done working out.
• The bench has a 1,000-pound weight capacity, making it suitable for the majority of lifters.

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Cons

• The wide pad doesn’t meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) requirements, so the AB-5200 may not be ideal for powerlifters who want to train at home.
• No compatible attachment options are available. The REP AB-5200 isn’t as versatile as other adjustable benches we’ve tried, which can be limiting for lifters who want to perform a wider variety of exercises at home.

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Rating

At Breaking Muscle, we’ve been fortunate enough to try out some of the best weight benches on the market. From flat and FID benches to foldable weight benches – we’ve put them to the test. Here’s how the REP AB-5200 2.0 scored after we put it through our proprietary factor methodology system. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Overview

If I’m being honest, I think REP Fitness did their thing in this second iteration of the AB-5200. It’s evident that they listened to their customers and aimed to improve on the things they previously missed. 

To start, the customization options are out of this world. It’s rare to find a weight bench that allows you to select from a plethora of frame and guide rail colors. Next, they’ve implemented their proprietary padding that’s grippy but also comfortable. Then, one of their most significant changes is to the adjustable back post, which is a win for those who like doing certain exercises, like decline bench presses. 

This FID bench (flat-incline-decline) is attractive, high-end, and nice enough to pass as commercial gym equipment. Their attention to detail is undeniable, as you’ll find the laser-cut REP logo on the ladders and black hardware and stainless steel parts in various places. This space-saving bench has a lot going for it, but if we’re being honest, it’s certainly not the most budget-friendly option on the market. Plus, some things may make this a dealbreaker for you.

We’ll get into who should buy it and who might be better off looking for something else below. 

Who Should Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench

• Those who prefer ladder-style adjustments over pop-pin adjustments.
• Elite lifters who want a weight bench that’s stable enough to handle heavier weights.
• Individuals who prefer to customize their adjustable bench so that it fits their preferences/needs.

Who Should Not Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench

• Trainees planning to do core exercises that may require leg rollers. 
• Individuals who are looking for a budget-friendly bench. 
• Anyone who likes adding attachments to their weight bench to increase exercise versatility. 

RELATED: REP Fitness BlackWing Adjustable Bench Review

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review

In order to make a sound purchasing decision, there are a few things you should know. Therefore, in the following few sections, we will go over different factors, like price, construction, footprint, and more. We’ll expand on why we ranked each factor the way we did and address things that are easy to overlook. That should help you discern if this bench makes sense for your lifestyle. 

Price and Value

At the time of writing this, the REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0 is $549.99, but that price is for the fixed post only. The fixed post version only works as a flat-incline bench, but if you upgrade to the “adjustable post,” you’ll get three additional decline angles. That’ll cost you an extra $30, bringing the price to $579.99. There’s also an option to get wider back and seat pads for $20. So, if you add that along with the adjustable post, you’re looking at $599.99. 

This may be completely out of some people’s budgets, but with it being a higher-end product, it will cost more. Products like the FLYBIRD weight bench on Amazon cost around $149 and can get the job done, but, as someone who owns that, it’s missing features that the AB-5200 2.0 has. 

For one, this wobbles when I’m doing most workouts, which limits its versatility. I don’t feel 100% comfortable using it to do step-ups with my adjustable dumbbells because of this. While it’s very maneuverable, since it’s only 28.5 pounds (12.92 kilograms), it lacks stability. It simply wouldn’t work for those wanting to use heavier weights, like a powerlifter. Plus, the pop-in adjustment slows me down. These are things you have to consider when you go cheaper. 

Overall, I’d say you’re getting a very good amount of value for the price with the AB-5200 2.0, which is why we ranked it a 4.5 out of 5. If you want to pay a little less, check out the REP AB-3000 FID bench (for around $319.99) or the REP AB-5000 Zero Gap adjustable bench (for about $449.99). 

RELATED: Best Budget Barbells

Construction Quality

When it comes to the overall build quality of this weight bench, we’ll easily give it a 4.5 out of 5. 

The frame comprises 11-gauge steel and heavy-duty bolts, which can support over 950 pounds (430.9 kilograms). This type of material makes for a heavier bench (i.e., 115 pounds), but it also means it should be more stable. The AB-5200 2.0 is a solid piece of equipment that should remain sturdy no matter what back pad and seat pad adjustments you make. It’s the type of stability I wish my FLYBIRD had. 

Although this weight bench is kind of heavy, it’s still on the lighter side compared to other high-end options. Heck, even the previous model of this was 10 pounds heavier. It’s also very maneuverable, thanks to the knurled, stainless steel handle that you can use to pick up the front of the bench. The ladder system and adjustment post have knurled handles as well. The older model just featured a stainless steel metal handle that wasn’t knurled. 

REP Fitness also upgraded the pad material. The original one had premium, grippy vinyl, but this new one has proprietary CleanGrip pads, which we’ll expand on later.

RELATED: REP Fitness Colorado Bar Review

Delivery and Assembly

If you order the AB-5200 2.0 directly from the REP Fitness website, you’ll get free shipping. Be sure to select the frame and rail color you desire to customize it to your liking. There are six color options to choose from: metallic black, blue, army green, white, matte black, and red. 

Once they ship it, your product will likely arrive in three to four well-packaged boxes. It’s a bolt-together bench, which cuts down the cost of shipping and lets the brand send the product in smaller packages. 

As a consumer, I find that bolt-together benches are easier to pack when moving, but that also means assembly is required when you first get it. Fortunately, that’s not difficult to do. In fact, a team member said all they had to do was attach the back adjustment piece, the pads, and the feet. 

In our book, the delivery and assembly process deserves a 4.5 out of 5 since the whole experience was straightforward. 

Dimensions

Before you buy the AB-5200 2.0 for your home gym, it’s crucial that you know how much space it’ll take up and if it’ll work for your body type. When assembled, it’s 57.6 inches long, 25.8 inches wide, and 17.5 inches high. To give you perspective, it’s about ¾ as long as a twin-size bed, four US dollar notes wide, and about two women’s size five shoes high. 

If you’re a competitive powerlifter, knowing these details is essential, as it’s best to train on benches that meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) height requirements. Interestingly, many weight benches are too low, which can interfere with your form and cause your hips to sit too far down. The wrong height can also compromise leg drive and your ability to push back into the bench, making it hard to correctly perform exercises like bench presses. 

Whether you’re tall or short, the length of this bench should accommodate you. It’s a tad bit longer than some other benches, which is an advantage. With this one, you’ll have good head support when in an incline position and still be able to put your feet flat on the ground if you’re lying on your back. 

Now, let’s switch gears to the pad dimensions. At 41.7 inches long, the back pad makes up much of this bench’s length, and its width depends on which version you select. 

The standard version is 12 inches wide and will work for most people. But if you’ve got wider shoulders and lift big weights, consider the 14-inch one. Otherwise, you risk overhanging, which isn’t safe or stable when lifting heavy weights. If you opt for the wider pad, it won’t meet the IPF width requirements, and some people believe that getting a wider pad interferes with their range of motion. So keep that in mind before you buy. 

The seat pad length is 11.4 inches long with a standard width of 12 inches that tapers to 8.9 inches. The wide version is 14 inches and tapers to 11 inches. Both the back pad and seat pad are 2.5 inches high. 

One other thing you have to pay attention to with adjustable benches, in particular, is the pad gap. The pad gap is the distance between the back pad and the seat pad when it’s in a flat position, which is only 1.4 inches here. This is considered a “little gap,” so it shouldn’t feel like you’re sitting on a hole. If you’re trying to avoid pad gaps altogether, consider a flat bench or the REP Fitness AB-5000 zero-gap bench. 

Based on the information above and our knowledge of weight benches, the dimensions here receive a 4.5 out of 5.  

Padding

Experience has taught me that not all weight bench pads are created equal, so it’s refreshing that REP Fitness has put a lot of energy into this. As previously mentioned, the new iteration features the CleanGrip Pads. This is said to be grippier, firmer, and easier to clean than others. The brand says they made this upgrade in response to customer feedback, as trainees wanted something to stop them from sliding when bench pressing. 

We had a member of the Breaking Muscle team give it a try, and they enjoyed using it during their workout. They said the pad was thick and firm, and it wasn’t uncomfortable at all, whether they were seated, on their chest, or on their back.

Based on our proprietary rating system, the padding on this bench gets a 4.5 out of 5. 

Footprint and Portability

When the AB-5200 2.0 bench is fully assembled, it only takes up 10.33 square feet. To help you visualize how it might fit into your home gym space, consider this. The average bedroom is 132 square feet, and a one-car garage is about 240 square feet, so if you have that much area to work with, you probably can give this bench a dedicated space. Of course, this also depends on the other equipment you have in the room, like power racks, furniture, etc. 

Now, if you’re short on space and need to stow your bench after use, say hello to vertical storage. You can stow it vertically, and it’ll only take up 3.1 square feet. To do this, just pull up the knurled, stainless steel front handle until it stands all the way up. 

Although it’s 115 pounds (52.1 kilograms), the actual roll weight is more like 54 pounds (24.49 kilograms), so it’s not difficult to maneuver. To protect your floor, there’s UHMW plastic on the end of the bench to prevent scratches. This feature wasn’t on the last model, so it’s nice that REP Fitness made an update here. Lastly, the closed ladder design further ensures the pads are protected and stay in place. 

All in all, it’s a solid space-saving choice and isn’t challenging to move around, so we gave it a 4.5 out of 5. 

Performance and Ease of Use

Performance-wise, this bench may actually be better than some commercial gym options. It’s tough and can handle a powerlifter doing some serious barbell bench presses. REP Fitness says this bench was designed to allow for optimal performance no matter what position you’re in.

For example, they say that this bench only declines up to -8 because that level still lets you maintain proper leg drive for specific exercises. As a result, leg rollers aren’t even required for this bench. However, the lack of leg rollers might be a dealbreaker for those who want to use their bench to do a lot of core exercises and Nordic curls.  

This bench uses a closed-ladder mechanism to make angle adjustments to the seat and back pads. All you have to do is use one hand to move the ladder to one of the steel-cut grooves. It’ll fall in place so you can return to your workout without worrying about the bench flimsily moving around. Sadly, I can’t say the same for my FLYBIRD weight bench. 

Please note: If you get the adjustable post, there is an extra step you have to take. You’ll need to loosen the pop-pin on the post, pull it to adjust the angle, and twist it to tighten. Beginners may prefer the fixed post since it has fewer moving parts. 

Because it’s so simple to use and doesn’t impede one’s workout experience, we’re giving it a 4.5 out of 5. 

Related: Do This To Increase Your Bench Press

Incline Levels

If you stick with the fixed post, the bench will provide ten different back pad angles and four seat pad angles. The back pad angles are 0, 20, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, and 80. If you upgrade to the adjustable post, you’ll have three additional decline angles, which are -8, -6, and -4. The seat pad angles are 0, 8, 20, and 30.

The original AB-5200 only had seven back pad angles and three seat pad angles, so the 2.0 model is a definite upgrade.

Available Attachments

At this time, the AB-5200 2.0 is not compatible with their leg roller or spotter platform attachments. Based on REP Fitness, the decline angle just isn’t aggressive enough to require a leg roller to help you hold your position. If that’s something you’d want, it might make sense to consider one of their other weight benches. Since attachments aren’t an option, we’re giving this a 1 out of 5. 

Warranty

The warranty on this FID bench isn’t bad, but we’ve seen better. For instance, there’s a ten-year warranty on the frame but only 30 days on the upholstery. We would’ve liked to see at least a 90-day warranty on the upholstery, like what you’d find on the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. Because of this, we rate it a 4 out of 5. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Specs

As you’re comparing the REP AB-5200 2.0 to other weight benches, there are some specs you need to keep in mind. Below, we’ll provide a quick overview of its dimensions, the materials it was made with, its weight capacity, and more. 

Dimensions

The REP AB-5200 2.0 has the following dimensions:

• Length: 57.6”
• Width: 25.8” 
• Height: 17.5”

Materials

The frame is made of 11-gauge steel, and the pads are created with their proprietary CleanGrip material. The latter is sticky enough to rip a paper towel, so it’s best to clean it with cloth. Even easy-to-overlook details are well-made, like the stainless steel handles and heavy-duty bolts. 

Pad Thickness

The seat and back pad are 2.5 inches thick. This foam pad is denser than the original AB-5200, but it’s still comfortable. 

Weight Capacity

This weight bench can support a 1,000-pound weight capacity, making it a good choice for beginners and advanced trainees alike. 

Compatible Attachments

Currently, there are no available attachments for the REP AB-5200 2.0 weight bench. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

A comparable option to the REP Fitness AB-5200 is the made-in-the-USA Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. It’s a quality-built adjustable weight bench with an 11-gauge steel frame that provides different color options, includes ten back pad angle positions, and is stowable. 

However, this product, which has a smaller back pad width (11 inches) and doesn’t feature a decline option, costs around $595. On top of that, it’ll cost you an extra $100 if you want stainless steel rails and premium wheels. Those are very neat features, but they’re ones that many people might not care a whole lot about. 

If you’re trying to decide which one of these would be the best adjustable bench to buy, I’d say the REP AB-5200 2.0. It will give you similar functions and quality as the Rogue 3.0 but at a better price. Now, the Rogue 3.0 bench may be a better option if you’re super tight on storage space (it’s slightly smaller than the 5200) and want hardly any pad gap (one inch versus four inches)  Both are great options, though. What you pick comes down to personal preference and budget. 

Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

4.5

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 52” L x 11” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel, vinyl cover, rubber feet
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on the frame

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Related: Best Home Gym Machines

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Customer Reviews

Currently, REP Fitness has no authorized resellers in the United States, so you can only purchase products from their website. As a result, the only customer reviews we could find on the AB-5200 2.0 were on their own website. 

There are only 53 reviews at this time, and all of them are positive. Forty-nine of the reviews had 5-star ratings, with customers making remarks like, “The bench was exactly what I was hoping it would be. I’m a fairly big guy 6’4″ 290lbs, and the bench doesn’t budge.” Another happy customer said “I’ve been using this for a few weeks now and it’s a MASSIVE improvement over my previous bench. This thing is a tank. Super solid.”

There were four 4-star reviews. One customer said, “Great bench, but doesn’t decline low enough”. One other individual remarked, “I’ve used many benches in the last 14 years, and this one seems to be the most solid! Just don’t order it in red… it’s not really red.”

Final Verdict: Is the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Worth It?

Right now, the new and improved version of the REP AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench is stealing the show. Unlike other benches, this one allows customers to have some creative freedom. They can select colors and even choose whether or not the decline option is something they want. Plus, it’s very well-constructed and attractive to the eye, making it stand out in any home or commercial gym it’s in. 

While the price might cause some people to look elsewhere, this bench packs a ton of value. 

Although it’s missing some versatility since you can’t add any attachments, it would still be worth it to most individuals. The knurled handles will come in handy when your palms are sweaty, and the stowability benefits those short on space. Anyone looking for a high-end FID bench built to promote optimal performance should consider the REP AB-5200 2.0.

FAQs

The post REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review (2023): Expert Tested appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Although he competes in a vastly different sport, Mitchell Hooper can appreciate the superhuman strength and sheer determination it took for Ronnie Coleman to become the most decorated bodybuilder of all time. While the reigning World’s Strongest Man can toss around kettlebells and overhead press heavy logs with relative ease, he had to eat a proverbial slice of humble pie after attempting to match some of the eight-time Mr. Olympia winner’s best lifts.

In a video posted on his YouTube page on Nov. 16, 2023, Mitchell took on the improbable challenge of performing a Coleman-inspired back workout that included three basic exercises using loads that gave him a newfound appreciation for the living legend’s accomplishments in the gym.

Besides boasting an incredibly muscular and symmetrical physique, The King earned plenty of praise for his ability to train with the strength of a powerlifter (which Coleman was at one point). Known for working with extremely heavy weights and pushing himself to the point of failure, Coleman set personal records in some staple lifts that still seem unfathomable years later, including military pressing 315 pounds (143 kilograms) for 12 reps and squatting and deadlifting 800 pounds for two reps. Combining that powerbuilding approach with a high-protein diet and an ultra-disciplined lifestyle helped the Louisiana native collect 26 IFBB pro show wins, including eight consecutive Mr. Olympia titles from 1998-2005.

However, even for Hooper, who became the fourth person to win WSM and the Arnold Strongman Classic in the same year back in April 2023, Coleman’s training style seemed well beyond his capabilities. Still, the Canadian strongman showed he’s no slouch by making easy work of the first back exercise.

The three-part workout begins around the 1:05 mark of the video.

Conventional Deadlift — 800 pounds (362.9 kilograms) for two reps

Coleman famously completed two reps of an 800-pound conventional deadlift in the 2000 documentary Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable. For most people, replicating that feat would be downright impossible. Yet for Hooper, who has pulled 1,000 pounds, matching Coleman’s best deadlift didn’t present much of a challenge.

The 28-year-old started with a warm-up set of 575 pounds (260.8 kilograms), showcasing picture-perfect form by driving his hips forward during the lockout phase. Before performing his next set, Hooper pointed to the peanut tattoo on the inside of his left ankle and noted that he got it to pay homage to Coleman’s “Ain’t nothing but a peanut” signature catchphrase.

After a final warm-up set of 685 pounds (310.7 kilograms), the accomplished strongman raised the stakes and attempted to hit 800 pounds (362.9 kilograms) twice just as Coleman did more than two decades ago. Unsurprisingly, Hooper had no trouble matching The King’s best deadlift, completing two clean reps.

[Related: 7 Tips to Perfect Your Deadlift Form]

Bent-Over Row — 515 pounds (233.6 kilograms) for 10 reps

Six years after setting his deadlift PR, Coleman smashed 10 reps of barbell bent-over rows with a total of 515 pounds (233.6 kilograms) in the 2006 documentary Ronnie Coleman: Relentless. A taxing exercise that targets your lats, spinal erectors, glutes, hamstrings, and scapular stabilizers, this row variation requires excellent core strength to execute safely.

Despite his strongman background, Hooper didn’t have nearly the same level of confidence about being able to match Coleman’s bent-over row record as he did during the deadlift. Starting with a warm-up set of 405 pounds (183.7 kilograms) that already looked challenging, Hooper added another 50 pounds (22.7 kilograms) to the barbell.

“It’s funny how this is a really light deadlift, but when you pick it up and you’re now in the context of “you have to row it” the feeling is completely different,” he explained during his rest period.

Ultimately, Hooper didn’t even attempt to match the weight Coleman used in his prime. Instead, he topped out at eight reps of 455 pounds (206.4 kilograms) before moving on to the final exercise.

[Related: Legendary Ronnie Coleman Explains the Four Bodybuilding Poses That Built His Career]

T-Bar Row — 505 pounds (229 kilograms) for 12 reps

The session concluded with Hooper trying to go toe-to-toe with Coleman’s T-bar row record of 12 reps of 505 pounds (229 kilograms) set in 2006. He began with an easy warm-up set of 315 pounds (142.9 kilograms), which set the stage for a short discussion about the impact of lifting heavy.

“It’s a reality that every strength athlete has to face — that if you push yourself to the limit over and over and over it can result in long-term damage,” Hooper explained. “All you’re doing is shifting risk profiles. It’s important to recognize that pushing yourself to the limit does increase the risk of certain musculoskeletal issues down the track but it also completely diminishes the risk of others.

After sharing his insight about the dangers of training to the extreme, Hooper shifted his focus back to the corner of the gym for what turned out to be his final set of T-bar rows. As was the case with the bent-over rows, Hooper didn’t come close to matching one of his icons.

The winner of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition maxed out at 10 reps of 405 pounds (183.7 kilograms), proving that The King truly was (and still is) on another level.

Featured Image: Mitchell Hooper / YouTube

The post Mitchell Hooper Attempts 3 of Ronnie Coleman’s Heaviest Lifts Ever appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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If you want to improve your performance and protect your wrists from injury, you should consider investing in a pair of wrist wraps. Wrist wraps are a type of support gear that wraps around your wrists to provide extra stability and support. The best wrist wraps can even help you lift heavier weights and improve your technique!

But not all wrist wraps are created equal. Depending on your goals, preferences, and type of training, you’ll need a different style of wrist wrap. Some wraps are longer and stiffer, while others are shorter and more comfortable. Whether you’re into bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, or CrossFit, you’ll find the ideal pair of wrist wraps on this list for you.

How We Chose the Best Wrist Wraps

We’re a diverse team of certified fitness experts, exercise enthusiasts, and knowledgeable product testers. We have dozens of years of combined experience using wrist wraps for various activities and sports, and we tried out more than a dozen different pairs of wrist wraps specifically for this guide.

To help you choose the best wrist wraps for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the eight top-rated wrist wraps on the market. We’ve reviewed their features, benefits, pros, and cons and compared them. During testing, we judged wrist wraps on their materials and construction, length and stiffness, closure mechanism, price, and more — rating each wrist wrap with a score between 1 to 5.

Our Top Picks for the Best Wrist Wraps

• Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
• Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps
• Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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The Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps offer great wrist support. They’re 18 inches long, which gives you at least two wraps around your wrist if you have an average build. I find the 18-inch length to be just right; it’s not so long that there’s a ton of bulk on my wrists due to the extra material, and their support is adequate for most weight training exercises.

Their three-inch width provides plenty of wrist coverage, covering enough of the base of your hand and wrist area for the wrap to do its job. Also, the cotton-elastic blend gives enough stretch for solid compression and wrist support in your workouts. I especially like the blended material of these wraps  — they’re soft, and the cotton breathes enough to help avoid excess sweating in the first place.

Moreover, the Velcro closure system of the Classic Wrist Wraps is intuitive and easy to use. The thumb loop offers an excellent anchor point to help put them on tightly, and, unlike other brands, the double-stitching is high quality. I especially like how the Velcro section is sticky and well-sized. Some brands use such a long strip that can cause the extra material to hang off the end, which can get caught on things and unravel your wraps. Plus, the thumb loop makes it easy to hang over a hook to dry between workouts. 

One of my favorite features of the Iron Bull wraps is their multi-functionality. They’re suitable for various training styles, from bodybuilding and Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit and powerlifting.  Their 18-inch length and cotton-elastic blend make them lightweight on your wrists for the dynamic workouts of CrossFit and supportive enough for heavier powerlifting. This means that you can continue using them when you want to switch up your training styles without having to buy a different pair of wrist wraps.

Unfortunately, the Iron Bulls aren’t perfect. The 18-inch length is a solid general length, but most people with average wrists will only be able to get two revolutions of the wraps around their wrists. This means you’ll have less support on heavier lifts, which might be noticeable if you’re at an advanced level in powerlifting.

On that note, these wrist wraps are USPA, IPL, IWF, and USAW-approved… but they aren’t approved for use in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). Suppose you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in the highest level of powerlifting in the future and want to use wrist wraps in competition. In that case, this means you’d have to buy a separate pair that’s approved for IPF use — you might want to consider the SBD Wrist Wraps instead if that applies to you.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their great wrist support, easy-to-use Velcro closure system, and multi-functionality for different training styles. 

RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment Essentials for Cardio, Strength Training, and More

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The standout feature of the SBD Wrist Wraps is that they’re IPF-approved. Investing in a pair of wrist wraps that you can practice with allows you to push your training harder, so you can (hopefully) get even stronger while getting comfortable using them before a competition. This way, you’ll step on the platform confidently in your support wear — letting you focus entirely on executing your attempts instead of worrying about your gear and how it’s fitting.

If you live and breathe powerlifting, these wrist wraps will not disappoint. They’re designed specifically for excellent wrist support; the thumb loop is heavy-duty and attached along industrial-grade fastening. But they didn’t stop there. 

SBD crafted them to match the maximum allowable width of 8 centimeters/3.15 inches, so you’ll get the best coverage between your hand and wrist for a solid cast-like level of support. They even have proprietary wide elastics in these wraps. One customer who bought the stiff mediums said they took a few times to break in, but after that, they give you the best protection from heavy weights. I’m seriously impressed and confident that whether you’re pushing new bench press PRs or back squat records, these wraps will help you hit them safely.

What surprised me the most about the SBDs is their range of lengths and stiffnesses. On their product page, they have three different lengths available: small (15.7 inches long), medium (23.6 inches long), or large (39.4 inches long). Combined with their detailed sizing chart, this means that whether you have small, average, or large wrists, you can find a wrist wrap length that will work great for you. 

Their two stiffness options, flexible or stiff, are built with varying amounts of polyester and rubber (elastic). For example, the flexible wraps have a 70% polyester-30% rubber blend that allows some wrist flexion and improved comfort due to the higher amount of polyester. The stiff wraps are woven with significantly more rubber, giving them more stretch and compression to fully immobilize your wrists. SBD mentions that most athletes will prefer the medium-length flexible wraps, but use their size guide to determine the ideal length for you.

These wrist wraps might be uncomfortable, especially if you choose their “stiff” option. One reviewer mentioned that their large-sized stiff wraps are excellent but can get really tight and start to cut off blood circulation to their wrists. 

When I didn’t see the material specs on their product page, a Breaking Muscle staff member reached out through their live chat and discovered that the stiff wrist wraps are 56 percent rubber (elastic) and 44 percent polyester blend. With over half the wraps’ material being elastic and zero cotton included, it’s no surprise these can be a tad uncomfortable.

It should come as no surprise that excellent quality comes at a price. At the time of writing, the SBDs retailed for $42.50. This makes them the most expensive wrist wraps out of all those featured in this article and possibly out of the budget of financially constrained lifters.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IPF approval, excellent build quality and durability, and various length and stiffness options available.

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps

DMoose Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Despite their affordable price, the DMOOSE Wrist wraps have a solid quality construction. The thumb loop features double stitching, so it will stand up to the rigorous Olympic lifts you’ll be performing with them. I found the Velcro fastening strip to be of good quality, so it won’t wear down within a couple of months as the poor-quality wrist wraps do.

These wrist wraps from DMOOSE are the best for weightlifting because, unlike other wrist wraps featured in this article, these have no polyester included. When woven with elastic, cotton is more flexible compared to polyester, and this pays off big time for the Olympic lifts. 

This lack of restriction allows you enough wrist mobility for your wrists to rotate freely in the snatch and to extend fully in the front rack portion of the clean and jerk. Despite its flexibility, the cotton-elastic blend still gives noticeable wrist support when the bar is extended overhead in the final step of both exercises.

I appreciate that these wrist wraps are offered in a 12-inch and an 18-inch option. The latter will fit and work well for average-sized wrists, but the former is still useful. Even though they’ll outgrow them, 12-inch long wrist wraps would be the ideal length for most teenagers because their bones are still growing, and the wrist wrap length they need is significantly smaller than that of the average adult. 

However, you might also find the 12-inch length useful if you are petite and/or have extremely small wrists – make sure to use the sizing chart before ordering a 12-inch size just to be sure it’s the right fit.

Although the 12-inch length is an option, I wouldn’t recommend it if you have average-sized wrists. 12 inches won’t give you enough length on the wraps to get an adequate number of revolutions for the wraps to provide significant support.

Sadly, it doesn’t look like these wrist wraps are approved for any weightlifting federations. This means that if you want to wear wrist wraps in a future weightlifting competition, you’ll have to invest in a separate pair to use them in both your training and your competitions.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their Olympic lifting-friendly design, two length options, and comfortable material.

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These are the best wrist wraps for CrossFit due to their lightweight, supportive design. Out of all the wrist wraps in this round-up article, this pair of 12-inch wraps is the shortest we’ve featured, but that’s good for CrossFit. 

The typical WOD can be up to 30 minutes of continuous movement, so the last thing you want to do is constantly tighten, loosen, and otherwise fiddle with your 18 to 24-inch wrist wraps. Thanks to their 12-inch length, you can’t apply the 2POODs super tight in the first place, so they’ll stay comfortable and non-constricting during the entire workout. 

Plus, the secure hook and loop closure means these wrist wraps won’t randomly fly off during your WOD, whether you’re crushing some dumbbell power snatches or butterfly pull-ups. One of our product testers explained that they could see these being an asset because you can set and forget them. 

Their cotton-polyester-elastic material is great for exercises like thrusters, where some extra wrist support can be helpful, but they won’t hamper the wrist mobility needed for handstand walks. Further, the Velcro part of the fastening system is easy to apply and adjust, so using these for the first time is a piece of cake even for beginners.

Sponsorships aren’t always an indicator of quality, but it’s hard to deny the influence that the 2POOD wrist wraps have on the CrossFit community. After all, these wrist wraps became the official wrist wraps of the NOBULL CrossFit Games. This means that they got a large amount of publicity from the athletes, who presumably ended up wearing them during the events, and the fans who attended in person or those who watched online.

Surprisingly, some customers have left reviews about how the Velcro isn’t quite what they had hoped for. Instead of the Velcro strip being higher quality and sticky, several customers mention that it didn’t last more than a month on their wrist wraps before it began deteriorating and losing its adhesiveness. For example, one customer left a note saying that the wrist wraps perform great, but they’ve been experiencing Velcro issues with one of them, so it’s not gripping as it should and is leaving them slightly disappointed.

Finally, the 2POOD wrist wraps aren’t IPF-approved, but I don’t think that matters much. Unlike the SBD wrist wraps, these aren’t designed to help you excel at powerlifting — they were made to assist your CrossFit performance.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their lightweight support, security, and easy-adjustability tension system.

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The Classic Wrist Wraps from Gymreapers are excellent for benching. They feature a heavy-duty thumb loop, so you can use your thumb to anchor the wrap down before cinching it tight. I especially appreciate the 30/70 elastic-polyester blend; this is stiffer than a cotton-elastic blend. The former is what you want when trying to bench press as much weight as possible because the more rigid polyester material will provide more stiffness. 

One customer said that these wraps have a lot of elasticity, which helps provide better support on heavy pushing movements because they’ll offer better support due to the amount of stretchiness in the material. Also, the three-inch width is generous and offers plenty of hand & wrist coverage for maximal support. 

Gymreapers has made a serious push to get their support wear certified by well-known federations, and it shows. Their wrist wraps are IPF, IPL, and USAPL-approved, which means that if you’re competing in any of these federations, you can practice with the same gear in your training as you’ll compete with on the platform for a competitive edge.

I’m blown away by their warranty, which offers a lifetime replacement — this is practically unheard of for wear-and-tear items. The benefit is that whether they fail due to a factory defect or regular old wear and tear, you have total peace of mind about getting a replacement for free. 

One commenter explained that even when they had a small issue with one of their wrist wraps, Gymreapers just sent another set. So, if you want complete peace of mind, I think these are worth it. Another reviewer mentioned that they used them all the way up to a 385-pound bench press, and they did the job. If they can hold up to a near-400-pound bench press, they can hold up to almost anything.

It’s great that they’re approved in multiple federations, but seriously strong bench pressers might not find the Gymreapers wrist wraps supportive enough. Due to their 18-inch length, these will only wrap around average-sized wrists twice instead of the three revolutions you’ll get with a 24-inch wrist wrap. Because you get one less revolution, these wraps will feel less supportive. On an elite bench press attempt, that lack of stability is not something you’ll typically want.

Compared to cotton wrist wraps, the elastic-polyester blend of the Classics is noticeably less comfortable. If you have sensitive skin or you bruise easily, you might not enjoy using these as much as you would a cotton-elastic wrist wrap like the DMOOSE Wrist Wraps.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their durable materials and construction, their approval for the IPF, IPL, and USAPL federations, and their lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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This is the second time we’ve featured the SBD Wrist Wraps in this article. Compared to the Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting section, we’ve included why they’re also our top choice for premium wrist wraps below.

First, the build quality of the SBD Wrist Wraps is excellent. From the extra-thick thumb loop with commercial-grade stitching to their proprietary wide elastics, these wrist wraps live up to the hype. That’s why we’ve named them twice on this list—their quality makes them worth the premium price point.

I’m impressed that they took note of the maximum allowable width from the IPF rules on wrist wrap dimensions and matched it. The 3.15-inch width means that your hands and wrists will get the most robust support on the market. But the story is far from over; SBD offers their wraps in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit as many lifters as possible while even catering to their wrap stiffness preferences. 

Yes, that’s right — they offer two stiffnesses to their wraps: “flexible” to allow more wrist movement and “stiff” to immobilize your wrist completely. With this quality and range of choice, it’s clear that they’re the premium wrist wrap option.

Many brands source their products from developing countries because it’s cheaper. Unfortunately, these savings often come at the expense of worse workers’ rights and unsafe manufacturing processes. The SBDs are designed and manufactured in Great Britain, so you’re supporting local manufacturing and jobs, which adds to the list of reasons these are the best premium wrist wraps.

Regarding support wear, SBD is the cream of the crop. Even though “SBD” means “Squat, Bench, Deadlift”, which refers to the power lifts themselves, the quality and workmanship that backs this brand could be why many of the top athletes in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and Strongman/Strongwoman decide to sport this gear. 

With that in mind, it’s hard to go wrong with these wrist wraps when the SBD brand is trusted by many athletes at the top of their sport. Oh, and being approved by the most stringent powerlifting federation in the world (the IPF) is a nice touch, too.

For how well-made these are, I’m amazed at their affordability. The SBDs retail at just $42.50 and they have everything you expect in a premium wrist wrap: a sturdy yet flexible material with a secure closure system — all of which is manufactured in Great Britain. Coupled with their IPF approval, two stiffness options, and three lengths, they’re the ultimate choice for anyone who wants the best wrist wraps on the market.

Unfortunately, shipping fees are not waived. I wasn’t expecting the shipping to be free, but considering the premium price and small packaging compared to larger home gym equipment items, shipping could disappoint some shoppers. Full disclosure: I did a mock checkout with these wraps, and the 3-6 business day option with USPS was only $5.00 — nothing to get worked up about.

Lastly, these wrist wraps from SBD are all in metric sizes only. For instance, the lengths are 40, 60, and 100 centimeters for the small, medium, and large wraps — respectively. This may seem trivial, but as the premium wrist wrap option in this article, it would be great to see imperial sizes offered as well for American shoppers.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their excellent quality, sizing, and stiffness options, local manufacturing, and brand trust.

Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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These wrist wraps from Gymreapers are your ticket if you want a stiff level of wrist support. First, they’re made from more rigid cotton that’s less flexible than the Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps. There’s also a reinforced elastic material woven into the cotton that strengthens the main body of the wraps. The end features a longer, flexible area with the Gymreapers logo in silicone so that maximal compression can be applied to your wrist. Even the thumb loop is thicker and has more durable stitching to avoid tears and maximize durability. 

I’m glad there are multiple length options offered for these wrist wraps. Four sizes are available: 12-inch, 18-inch, 24-inch, and 36-inch. This means that whether you have a petite wrist, an average-sized wrist, or a larger wrist thickness, you can find an ideal fit for your wrist wraps. 

However, the extra-long 36-inch wrap also allows regular lifters to size up if they want. Doing so would let you get one or two additional revolutions around your wrists with the wraps, making them even tighter and maximizing their stiffness.

Similar to the Gymreapers Classics, the stiff wraps are backed by an impressive warranty — the lifetime replacement guarantee. This warranty stipulates that you can get a free replacement for your wrist wraps throughout their life. Defect issues are also covered at no cost.

The major downside to these wraps is that they’re simply not as comfortable as standard cotton wrist wraps because of the specific cotton and reinforced elastic materials. Discomfort is just the beginning, though. In the worst-case scenario, an over-zealous wrapping job could cause bruising or minor cuts in your skin.

Honestly, I’m shocked that these aren’t IPF-approved. The Classics from Gymreapers are certified for competition use in the IPF and have less robust specs than these, so I thought for sure the same would go for their stiff wrist wraps. Their compression and material would be ideal for competitive powerlifting, warranting a submission to the IPF-approved gear application process… maybe next year?

Lastly, these wrist wraps aren’t the most affordable. They retail closely to the other most expensive pair of wrist wraps in this list, around $30 at the time of writing, but you do appear to be able to save 10 percent on your order by entering your email address into the pop-up window on their website.

All the above considered; we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their stiff, heavy-duty construction, four length options, and lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These Harbinger wrist wraps are the best budget option I found. It should come as no surprise that they’re widely affordable, roughly $16 at the time of publishing. Compared to the most expensive pair of wrist wraps on our list, the SBD Wrist Wraps, these budget-friendly ones cost you about a third of their price — before shipping fees. 

Speaking of shipping fees, these wrist wraps are sold on Amazon, which means that if you’re a Prime member, you can save even more! Two-day (or faster shipping) is often available to Prime members while shopping through Amazon, giving you access to their generous and convenient return policies.

For how well-priced these are, I’m pleasantly surprised with the features they have. They have what appears to be a decent-quality thumb loop, a durable elastic body, Velcro that looks like it will work for at least a few months, and an 18-inch length that will be suitable for most weight-lifting activities.

What caught my eye on the product page was the amount of praise these wrist wraps have received from customers. Harbinger is a well-known brand that’s been in business for years, but it’s comforting to know that most customers are happy with the quality of these wrist wraps. For example, they achieved a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 4,400 reviews. 

One Breaking Muscle staff member also saw a special notice when viewing the page that said, “Customers usually keep this item” and explained that compared to similar products, the Harbinger wrist wraps had fewer returns than average. Perhaps that’s a testament to their excellent quality.

Unfortunately, I had no luck finding their construction material on the product listing. While I wouldn’t be surprised if these were made with an extra-cheap material to cut costs even further to generate a profit, they look like a cotton-elastic blend like many wrist wraps in this list. I think it’s pretty far-fetched to expect these to be IPF-approved, considering their budget-friendly price, so don’t expect to step on a competition platform with them any time soon.

All the above considered, we rank these 3.5 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, inclusion of useful wrist wrap features, and availability of Amazon perks for Prime members.

Benefits of Using Wrist Wraps for Lifting

Wrist Stability and Support

The main benefit of using wrist wraps is stability. When worn correctly around the base of your hand and wrist, the stiffness and compression from the wrist wrap material prevent your wrist from moving — similar to how a cast immobilizes an injured limb. This effect is most noticeable in free-weight pressing exercises like the barbell bench press or barbell overhead press, where they limit wrist flexion and extension even when the weight is heavy.

However, wrist wraps will continue to support your wrists even if they flex or extend under load. For example, some lifters use wrist wraps to keep the wrists extended on their low-bar back squat, holding the barbell in the correct spot across their rear delts. Despite being bent backward with hundreds of pounds pushing down on them, powerlifters continue to set world records with extended wrists while squatting — and their wraps continue to keep their wrists safe even under these extreme loads.

Additional Support After Injury

Injuries to the hand, wrist, or forearm can sometimes prevent you from holding a barbell or dumbbell correctly, even after you’ve healed. In extreme cases, even a slight deviation from a neutral wrist position under heavy weight could cause severe pain and/or further injury. In these situations, wrist wraps may provide enough wrist stability, compression, and support for you to continue to exercise. Always consult your medical doctor to ensure you can train safely after an injury.

After breaking their wrist years ago, one of our Breaking Muscle staff members finds it still bothers them when they perform the barbell overhead press, even though it’s technically healed. Using wrist wraps on their heavier sets allows them to push the movement hard without wrist pain. 

Weight May Feel Lighter in Your Hands

The weight of a barbell in your hands can feel lighter or heavier depending on how tight you grip it. This is because of proprioception, which is how your body senses itself and the world around it. Proprioception is triggered by receptors in your skin, muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to your brain. The more you squeeze the barbell, the more signals you send, and the more aware you are of the weight and body position. 

When applied tightly, the compression on your forearm muscles from wrist wraps can make your fingers curl inward, making your grip stronger than usual. This is why some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. They make you feel more confident and strong — so wrist wraps can provide a psychological benefit that might encourage you to lift heavier or push for more reps than you would without them.

When Should You Use Wrist Wraps?

Generally, you’ll want to wear wrist wraps on exercises where force pushes down into your wrist joint — the most common examples are below.

Pressing exercises

Bench presses and overhead presses are the most popular lifts to use wrist wraps for. During these exercises, maintaining a neutral wrist position is helpful to transfer force more efficiently into the implement you’re lifting. Wrist wraps are often used with the free-weight variations of these pressing exercises, but they can still provide noticeable benefits when used on their machine variations, too.

Back squats

Surprisingly, wrist wraps can also be an asset on back squats — particularly low-bar back squats. Since the low-bar position requires the barbell to be placed lower on your back across your rear delts, this style sometimes forces lifters to hold their wrists in extension to keep the bar in place. Unfortunately, this position can be painful with hundreds of pounds pushing downward — wrist wraps can help absorb the load and make the position painless.

Olympic lifts 

You should also consider wearing wrist wraps on Olympic lifts like snatches and clean & jerks. Although the first part of each lift is a pull from the floor, both movements finish overhead in a position that will put downward pressure on your wrists. The issue is that both exercises, especially the clean and jerk, require a significant amount of wrist mobility during the initial parts of the movement. For this reason, consider using a shorter wrist wrap and/or experiment with the tightness and technique of how you put them on.

Deadlifts

As mentioned previously, some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. This is because the compression on your finger-flexing muscles can cause your hand to close, which can trick you into thinking you have a stronger grip. The key is to make a fist and wrap the wrist wraps as tightly as you can.

Most of the time, you’ll find lifting straps more helpful on deadlifts than wrist wraps. However, they might be worth practicing with and using if your federation allows them to be used in competition — because wrist straps almost certainly won’t be permitted. 

What to Consider When Buying Wrist Wraps

Materials and Construction

Wrist wraps are usually made of a thumb loop on one end, an elastic body, and a Velcro closure system on the other end. The thumb loop helps to secure the wrap around your wrist, while the elastic body provides support and stability for your wrist joint. The Velcro closure system allows you to adjust the tightness and fit of the wrap according to your preference and comfort.

There are different types of materials used for wrist wraps, such as a cotton-elastic blend or a tri-blend of elastic, polyester, and cotton. Cotton and elastic wraps are softer and more breathable, but they may stretch over time and lose their elasticity. Elastic, polyester, and cotton blends are more durable and resistant to stretching, but they may be less comfortable and more prone to causing skin irritation.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the wrist wraps, especially the seams. Since wrist wraps are subjected to a lot of pulling and tension during use, they should have strong and sturdy seams that can withstand the stress. Double-stitched seams are recommended at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, the anchor point that gets the most tension when you put on the wrist wraps. You should also check the quality of the Velcro and make sure it is not too rough or too weak.

Similar to knee sleeves, there’s a significant amount of pulling and tension involved in using wrist wraps. They should have double-stitched seams at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, because that’s the anchor point that gets the most tension when the wrist wraps are being put on.

Length

The length of wrist wraps can range from 12 inches up to 36 inches long. Here are the most common lengths.

• Twelve inches is a good length for teenagers due to their still-developing bones and for adults with extremely small wrists. Additionally, 12-inch lengths are suitable for CrossFit because they provide lightweight support without compromising the high degree of wrist mobility needed in the sport.
• Eighteen inches can be great for those with smaller wrists and Olympic weightlifting; because of the shorter length, they won’t wrap around your wrists as many times, which can give you more mobility in your snatches and cleans while still giving some support for your jerks.
• Twenty-four inches is the sweet spot for most people because this length allows for about three wraps around the average person’s wrist, which is just right for providing a noticeable level of support.
• Thirty-six inches is starting to get excessively long. Ordinary people will find these wrap around your wrists a lot, which can add too much bulk to your wrist area. That said, some folks with large wrists may find that the 36-inch length gives enough revolutions to provide adequate support. Also, experienced powerlifters can sometimes prefer four to six wraps around their wrists than the standard two to three that 20-inch wraps will offer.

Stiffness

One of the main factors to consider when buying wrist wraps is stiffness, which depends on two things: the material and the length. 

Wrist wraps with a blend of cotton, elastic, and polyester will provide more tension than those only made from cotton and elastic. This means they will support your wrists better and prevent injuries, but they will also limit your range of motion and flexibility. 

Longer wraps also allow you to perform more wraps around your wrist, increasing stiffness and stability. However, too many wraps can cut off blood circulation and cause discomfort. Therefore, you should choose the stiffness level that suits your goals and preferences.

Type of Training

Different types of training will require different types of wrist wraps. Depending on your goals and preferences, choose wrist wraps that suit your specific needs. Here are some common types and the corresponding wrist wraps that may work best for them:

• General fitness: If you’re doing general fitness exercises, such as push-ups, dumbbell presses, or kettlebell swings, you won’t need heavy or stiff wrist wraps. You can opt for lighter and more flexible wrist wraps that provide enough support that you’d find in a 12-inch length.
• Powerlifting: If you’re doing powerlifting exercises, such as the back squat and bench press, you’ll need more rigid and supportive wrist wraps to handle heavy loads and prevent wrist injuries. You should opt for thicker and stiffer wrist wraps with more elasticity and less give. 24-inch is a great length or 36-inches for advanced powerlifters.
• Olympic lifting: If you’re doing Olympic lifting exercises, such as snatch, clean, or jerk, you’ll need more flexible and dynamic wrist wraps that can allow you to move your wrists freely and quickly. Opt for thinner and softer wrist wraps made from a cotton-elastic blend and are no longer than 18 inches.
• CrossFit: If you’re doing CrossFit exercises, such as thrusters, burpees, and pull-ups, you’ll need shorter and less compressive wrist wraps that can handle different movements and extended workout periods. You should opt for lightweight wrist wraps that are made from cotton and are between 12 to 18 inches long.
• Strongman/Strongwoman: If you’re doing strongman/strongwoman exercises, such as atlas stones, farmer’s walk, or log press, you’ll need durable and resilient wrist wraps that can withstand extreme pressure and abrasion. Choose stiff wrist wraps made from a tri-blend for high elasticity and low give — the 24 to 36-inch length is ideal for this sport.

Competition Approval

If you plan to compete in powerlifting meets, you may need to check if the governing bodies approve your wrist wraps for those sports. Different federations may have different rules and regulations regarding the specifications and usage of wrist wraps.

For example, the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) is the world’s leading powerlifting federation that organizes international events like the World Powerlifting Championships. The IPF has strict rules on the size, material, design, and brand of wrist wraps that can be used in competitions. The maximum length of wrist wraps is one meter (39 inches), and the maximum width is eight centimeters (three inches). The IPF also has a list of approved brands that can be used in its competitions.

You should always check with the competition organizers before using wrist wraps to ensure they comply with their rules.

Final Thoughts

Wrist wraps are a valuable accessory for anyone who wants to improve their performance and protect their wrists from injury. They come in different sizes, colors, styles, and stiffness levels. When buying wrist wraps, you should consider the material and the length of the wrap, as they affect the tension and support the wrap provides.

Best Wrist Wraps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Wrist Wraps Overall	Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit	Best Wrist Wraps for Benching	Best Stiff Wrist Wraps	Best Budget Wrist Wraps
Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps	SBD Wrist Wraps	DMoose Wrist Wraps	2POOD Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps	Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps
4.5	4.5	4.0	4.0	4.0	4.0	3.5
Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff) Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L) Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 12 or 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend Length: 12 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend  Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Not listed Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No
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Best Wrist Wraps Overall

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

Description:

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting

DMoose Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Stiff
Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Budget Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

Description:

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

FAQs

The post Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting, CrossFit, Bench Pressing, and More (2023) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Research of the Week

Early time-restricted low-carb eating works in type 2 diabetes.

Lithium disrupts locomotor activity in honeybees.

Menopausal women who strength train and take vitamin D have better outcomes for sarcopenia.

Light pollution prevents turtle hatchlings from finding the ocean.

Saying “hello” and “thank you” throughout the day improves your quality of life.

New Primal Kitchen Podcasts

Primal Kitchen Podcast: The Benefits of Medical Marijuana and Psychedelics

Primal Health Coach Radio: Michael Kummer

Media, Schmedia

How math built the modern world.

Interesting Blog Posts

The power of paying attention.

Social Notes

They’re right.

Everything Else

Gargling with salt water is good against COVID.

Nudity pays (on Instagram).

Things I’m Up to and Interested In

Reminder: Fish fat good against allergies.

Of course: Strength training helps everyone, even swimmers.

Not surprised: Company runs live gene editing trial in ten people to lower their cholesterol; 1 dies after a few days and another gets a heart attack right away.

Interesting: Bonobos are good with other bonobos while chimps are good with tools.

Good to know: Nutrient deficiencies related to bruxism.

Question I’m Asking

Do you notice small details throughout the day?

Recipe Corner

• Paleo Thanksgiving recipes.
• Brown butter.

Time Capsule

One year ago (Nov 11 – Nov 17)

• How to Get Over Jet Lag—How to do it.
• Natural and Alternative Eczema Treatments—Worth a try.

Comment of the Week

“Longevity is mobility is something I learned from my mother, who worked as a CNA in nursing homes for over 30 years. Most of the longest-lived residents she took care of were still ambulatory until the end. They were mentally sharp, too. That’s why I (nearly) always take the stairs, and I read everything I get my hands on.“

-Love it!

The post New and Noteworthy: What I Read This Week—Edition 246 appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.