Why are Weight Benches So Expensive?

Weight benches are an excellent investment for your home gym. But with so many different types and brands, you might wonder, “Why are weight benches so expensive?”

This article will cover how much weight benches cost, why they are so expensive, and what you should look for when buying the best weight bench. 

If you’re interested to learn more, keep reading!

How Much Does a Weight Bench Cost?

A weight bench’s average price varies based on the manufacturer and its features. For instance, a budget flat-weight bench can range in price from $40 to $50. Meanwhile, a mid-range bench can go from $75 to $150, and a more quality bench can cost $200 to $500. 

However, note that these costs are applicable only for brand-new weight benches. You might get second-hand weight benches for a much lower price. You do not want to overpay for a bench that won’t support your training objectives. 

Flat Benches $40 – $300

A flat-weight bench supports heavy weights and is typically small. They are simple and pretty easy to maintain because they lack adjustable elements. 

However, they prevent the user from changing angles, limiting the number of workouts you can do. Some exercises you can perform with it include a flat bench press and an incline dumbbell press.

Below are the following cost ranges of budget flat-weight benches:

• Budget-friendly models: $40 – $300
• Entry-level models: $40 – $50
• Mid-range models: $70 – $150
• Premium models: $160 – $300

Typically, a heftier price tag comes with more stability and high weight capacity.

Adjustable Benches $60 – $500

Adjustable weight benches have many types of adjustment, but the two most important ones are the ladder-style adjustment mechanism and the pop-pin arc adjustment mechanism.

An adjustable weight bench is suitable if you want to increase your fitness level and lower your risk of injury. Compared to the traditional flat bench, it allows you to exercise several muscle groups because of its adaptability.

Additionally, the adjustable weight bench is a superior choice for most individuals simply because this functionality gives you access to many more workouts. Moreover, higher prices typically come with more security and comfort.

Some great adjustable benches include the Rogue Adjustable Bench, Vulcan Prime Adjustable Bench, and the FlyBird Adjustable Weight Bench.

• Budget-friendly adjustable bench: $60 – $90
• Mid-range adjustable bench: $100 – $170 
• Luxury flat bench: $200- $500 

Olympic Bench $350 – $1500

Olympic benches are the costliest. This type of weight bench is made of robust, high-grade composite steel and is expertly constructed. The apparatus combines an Olympic bar with high-capacity support cradles and can withstand the strain of the hefty weight.

Remember that more convenient weight plates are typically offered at a higher price.

• Budget-friendly Olympic bench: $350 – $500
• Mid-range Olympic bench: $600 – $800 
• Premium Olympic bench: $900- $1500

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Weight Bench

If you’re wondering why weight benches are so expensive, below are the factors that affect their cost:

1. Design

Weight benches come in three different designs: one front-leg weight bench, two-front legs, and weight benches with no gap on FID. 

The one-front-leg weight bench may be more expensive than the two-leg bench. However, it is the best choice since it gives lifters enough room to place their feet when performing a bench press. 

If you can put your legs correctly, you can generate a lot of power for a bench press. But if the bench’s front legs are vast, placing your feet in the proper position may be difficult. This design is a crucial factor in raising the cost of a bench by one front leg.

Meanwhile, weight benches with no gap on FID cost significantly more than other adjustable benches, which was the last noteworthy discovery. Purchasing an adjustable weight bench with a small space between the two pads while the bench is flat has become rather fashionable. 

You probably won’t even notice any difference. However, some people report that the space is uncomfortable because as they lift, their bum slides into it.

2. Weight Capacity

There is a suggested maximum weight capacity for each bench. The best weight benches are strong and can support over 800 lbs, whereas a cheaper weight bench is less solid and frequently only supports less than 500 lbs.

3. Materials

Price increases for weight benches of 11 gauge steel or above. The heavy-duty steel tube is used to construct most benches. While less expensive benches are often built of high-gauge steel, more costly benches are usually made of low-gauge steel.

The foam padding is another factor that can increase the price of the weight bench. Foam padding can be either high or low density. The seat and backrest are always padded for your comfort. 

The cushioning on expensive benches is made of high-density foam, which can withstand compression. In contrast, the padding on inexpensive benches is made of low-density foam, which is susceptible to warping.

4. Shipping

Weight benches are often both light and hefty. As a result, it affects the sale price because the manufacturer pays a high shipping fee to deliver the bench to the merchant.

Only some reputable vendors offer free shipping, but some do (including the cost of freight in the final price). Therefore, you should do your research before buying the best weight bench.

How to Choose the Right Weight Bench For You

Here are some factors to consider when looking for a good weight bench for your home gym: 

1. Weight Capacity

One of your first steps when looking for a weight bench is to check the weight capacity. Make sure it can support more weight than you can, resulting in increased weight exertion on the bench during exercise. 

2. Price

Although you can buy weight benches for about $100, we advise spending a little more to locate a better durable bench. A tremendous standalone bench will cost you between $250 and $300, but these are durable enough to last many years and support a lot of weight.

3. Comfort

When using the equipment, ensure you are comfortable enough not to overwork or stress any portion of your body. Therefore, finding a bench with adjustable cushioning that is comfortable for even lengthy workouts is crucial.

You can feel unsteady if the cushioning is too soft or thick, especially if you’re lifting a lot of weight. So, ensure the cushioning doesn’t compress or change shape with repeated use. Do not get one with padding that’s too firm. Otherwise, it could be uncomfortable.

4. Type of Weight Bench

Contrary to popular belief, flat benches are incredibly versatile weight benches. They allow you to conduct a range of exercises without needing a backrest that can be adjusted. Moreover, a flat bench is less likely to malfunction than adjustable weight benches because they don’t have any moving parts. 

Despite this, weight benches with adjustable height will always be more adaptable than flat benches. On an adjustable bench, you may perform all flat bench exercises in addition to a ton more, like a decline bench press, dumbbell fly, incline press, and many more.

So, make sure you know the requirement for those additional exercises before spending your hard-earned money because an adjustable bench frequently costs more than a flat bench.

5. Durability

Most adjustable benches have a powder coating, strengthening their toughness and preventing scratches. To test its durability, check the steel frame’s strength. Also, read the reviews to ensure they can withstand demanding and prolonged workouts.

6. Bench Height

Most benches have a fixed height. You’ll be significantly more stable for most exercises if you can firmly place your feet on the ground. 

Additionally, you risk hyperextending your lower back if you have to stretch to get to the floor, which could result in an injury. At the very least, it could also make your exercise position unstable.

Conclusion

This guide helped you understand why weight benches are expensive and how to buy the right one for your home gym. The cost of a weight bench depends on its quality, material, and features. The more features there are, the heftier it will be. 

When looking for a weight bench, there are many things you should take into account. Above all else, it must fit into the available space and be strong enough to support the weights you intend to utilize. 

If you found this article helpful, check other fitness-related articles on ExpertFitness.org.

Other related articles:

• Do I Need a Weight Bench?
• Flat Bench Vs. Adjustable Bench
• Exercises To Do On a Weight Bench