Adding an adjustable sit-up bench to your home gym is an investment you definitely should be considering. And to lend you a helping hand in picking the best sit-up bench for you, I’ve listed some of the best out there. I also added a thorough buyers guide and FAQ section to help you discover the bench of your dreams.
Erik Larsen, Owner of Hometraininghero.com
So, what is the best sit up bench of 2024?
If you do not have the patience to read my complete article, here is a quick look at the top contenders:
- Apex Utility Bench: THE EDITORS CHOICE
- Fitness Reality X-Class: The Affordable Choice
- FEIERDUN Sit Up Bench: The Premium Choice
If you want to check out the complete buyer’s guide and equipment reviews, feel free to read on:
Contents
- 1 Comparing The Best Sit up Benches of 2024
- 2 The Ultimate Buyers Guide to Purchasing a Sit Up Bench
- 3 What is The Best Sit Up Bench? 2024’s Reviews of The Best Sit Up Benches
- 4 5 Amazing Benefits Of Using a Sit-Up Bench
- 5 Sit Up Bench FAQ
- 6 Final Words: A Sit Up Bench is Worth Every Penny
- 7 Other Helpful Resources
Comparing The Best Sit up Benches of 2024
Before looking at the buyer’s guide and reviews section, let’s compare the different sit up benches to see if any of them stand out.
Okay.
Before we move on to the reviews, let’s look at the buyer’s guide.
You don’t want to end up with a bench not living up to your expectations, do you?
The Ultimate Buyers Guide to Purchasing a Sit Up Bench
Curved vs Flat Sit Up Bench, The Differences
The curved sit up benches will give your back extra support by “filling” the arch of your back when you lay down. This is great for both comfort and injury prevention.
By having the curved board, though, you will lose the ability to do a range of exercises:
The flat bench, if possible to adjust to a vertical position, will allow you to extend the bench usability by allowing you to do exercises like dumbbell chest press, dumbbell rows, and more.
In other words:
If you are looking to use the bench for other than sit ups, one of the flat sit-up benches should be your preferred choice.
These are more versatile and universal and ideal for other workouts than your standard abs workout.
Where Are You Going to Store Your Bench?
Do you need a bench that folds? Will the bench stay “permanent” at the same spot?
These are things to consider before splashing the cash, as having a bench not suited to your “tuck away need” could be quite frustrating…
You can get a practical fold-away sit up bench, which makes for easy storage under your bed both at Amazon or your local sports warehouse.
What is Your Weight?
Some sit up benches are constructed to carry heavier loads than others.
Make sure the bench is suitable for your weight.
There are special benches engineered for users weighing more than 300 pounds. Do you need one of these?
Are You a Beginner or “Pro”?
If you are a beginner, your primary criteria might be comfort and ease of use.
If you’re a “pro,” you might want a bench where you can do exercises while adding extra resistance by holding dumbbells.
Make sure to check out the bench features to avoid purchasing a piece of equipment that does not match your needs.
What is Your Budget?
Are you a millionaire?
Well, buy yourself a complete gym and install it in your 300 square feet basement.
Anyways, be sure to find a bench that matches the dollars in your pocket. You might be just as fine with a bench costing 80$ as one costing 300$…
As mentioned earlier, be sure to identify a bench suited to your needs – don’t pay 200$ extra for features you might not need.
Do You Need Extra Resistance?
If you need extra resistance while doing your exercises, make sure to get a bench that can handle the added weight.
Some benches are constructed to carry the bodyweight of one person, and hardly so.
Be sure to check out the weight capacity of the bench before logging in to your PayPal account.
What is Your Fitness Level?
Do you need a sit-up bench at this stage?
Or would you do with a stability ball?
Be sure you are actually ready to use the bench before buying. If not, it will most definitely be utilized as a coat stand instead of your workout mate…
Your Height
Some of the benches come with a relatively short board size.
If you’re a tall person, be sure to verify that the bench will fit your long limbs!
Are You Going to Use The Bench For Other Than Sit-Ups?
Did you know that some of the benches can be used for far more than ab and back exercises?
Before pressing “order,” make sure to consider if you want to use the bench for more than sit-ups…
Investing in a solid steel frame construction will provide you with a workout bench where you can do everything from regular sit ups to bench presses!
What is The Best Sit Up Bench? 2024’s Reviews of The Best Sit Up Benches
Apex Utility Bench Slant Board
EDITORS CHOICE
With its fair price and high quality – the Apex sit up bench JD-1.2 is the perfect choice if you are looking for a slant board to target your upper body muscle.
This piece of equipment offers many of the same features that the way more expensive models do.
With a heavy-duty steel frame, perfect board angle, and comfortable roller pads, it is designed for training all of your abdominal muscles.
Sit ups, crunches, leg raises, and even decline bench presses – Apex has got you covered!
Suitable for both beginners and professional athletes – the Apex Utility bench brings all the required attributes to the table for a top home gym sit up bench!
The Features:
- Assembly size; 53L x 22,5H x 13,5W inches.
- Board size; 42L x 12W x 2H inches.
- 250 lbs max weight.
- Weight; about 19,5 lbs.
- Special durable powder-coated finish
- Comfortable foam padding
- Heavy duty steel tubing
- Adjustable thigh support
THE PROS
- The price
- Sturdy construction
- Adjustable rollers
- High Durability
- Ergonomic design
- Easy to assemble
THE CONS
- Cannot be folded
- A fixed angle on board
FEIERDUN Adjustable Sit Up AB Bench
MOST BANG FOR YOUR BUCKS
Having a folding sit-up bench tucked in under your bed is a perfect way to shape that core of yours.
Well, at least when it’s in use.
This smart adjustable decline ab bench from Feierdun combines features, quality, and price in an excellent way.
You’ll get a bench that folds in two easy steps – to easily store away either in a cabinet or under your sleeping equipment, aka your bed.
The build quality is also okay, with a maximum user weight of 220 lbs.
You even get a piece of resistance bands in the package, though these do not provide much resistance if you are semi-fit and beyond.
Looking at its features vs. price, this innovative folding sit-up bench from Feiedrun is awarded the “most bang for the bucks” price. A nice affordable bench suitable for beginners as well as trained individuals.
The features:
- Assembly size; 55,1L x 24,8H inches.
- Board size; 40 3/4L x 11 3/4W x 1H inches.
- 220 lbs max weight.
- Weight; about 8 lbs.
- Quick, two-step fold & store.
- Easy to set up.
- Ergonomic adjustable decline, 4 positions.
- Padded for comfort and support.
- Comfy leg rollers.
THE PROS
- Comes with resistance bands
- Folds to 8,5 inches, easy to store away
- Affordable
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- 4 different positions
THE CONS
- The added resistance provided by the resistance band is not suited to seasoned trainers
- Max weight only 220 lbs
Fitness Reality X-Class
BEST PREMIUM SIT UP BENCH
Okay.
There are many different benches out there – even if you’re looking for a top-notch bench for experienced trainers.
This bench from Fitness Reality looks towards the commercial gym design. The curved board has been replaced by the traditional flat design, and the fold-away feature has been replaced by transportation wheels.
Build quality, adjustments, and usability – all at a different level than the other reviewed benches.
14 gauge steel? Peanuts compared to Fitness Reality X-Class super-strong construction supporting up to 1500 lbs. That is really something special, or what?
Using this bench you will most definitely get the gym feel, even when in your own home!
As the board is flat, and you can tilt the bench to a vertical position. In no time, you suddenly open a completely new range of exercises compared to the curved benches:
- Dumbbell/ resistance band bench press
- Dumbbell rows
- French press
- Flyes
- Shoulder press
The list goes on.
If you are looking for more than an “easy” bench – but instead would like a commercial-quality multi-usable bench, this is your choice!
Okay, enough bragging. Here are some of the reasons why users love this piece of equipment:
- Assembly size; 64L x 28,8W x 35H inches.
- Product weight; 55,6 lbs.
- 650 lbs maximum user weight.
- It comes with push up and dips bars.
- 4 inches roller pads with 2 adjustment levels.
- Transportation wheels.
- 4 optimal bench adjustments, 1 flat, and 3 decline bench positions.
- 2-inch thigh foam cushions with 14 adjustments.
- Sweat and moist-resistant. 2,5-inch quality foam.
THE PROS
- Commercial gym-quality.
- Flat adjustments for extended exercise opportunities.
- Thick cushions for high comfort.
- Transport wheels for easy moving.
- Optimal adjustment positions.
- High range of satisfied customers.
- Great warranty.
THE CONS
- Do not fold.
- Hard to assemble.
Finer Form Sit Up Bench
BEST SIT UP BENCH WITH REVERSE CRUNCH HANDLE
With its integrated reverse crunch handle, the decline sit up bench from Finer Form bring variety to the table!
The handle gives users the possibility to do a whole set of different exercises to strengthen the upper body – including reverse crunches.
The fitness equipment also comes with three-level adjustable positions, a sturdy steel frame containing a special support bar, rubber feet, padded foam rollers, and a comfortable extra-thick backboard.
Sounds good?
And to top it off, Finer Form has included a 100% satisfaction guarantee with their product!
Now, let’s look at the dimensions and features:
- Assembly size; 56L x 17W inches.
- Board size; 43L x 13W x 2H inches.
- 300 lbs max weight.
- Weight; about 24 lbs.
- 4-way steel frame
- Support bar for added stability
- PU-wrapped reverse crunch bar
- 3-level angle adjustability
THE PROS
- Large exercise variety
- High stability and durability
- Comfortable
- Adjustment possibilities
- Built from high-grade materials
THE CONS
- Heavy unit
- The Price
XMark 12 Position Ergonomic Adjustable Decline Sit-up Bench
THE CUSTOMERS CHOICE
With its 12 positions ergonomic adjustable decline, XMark is in a league of its own when it comes to angle adjustments.
Beginner, seasoned trainer, old, young – it does not matter. With this adjustable decline ab bench, you can rest assured you will enjoy tons of workout hours.
Made from 11-gauge heavy-duty steel and a 2 by 3-inch backboard, it provides you with all the necessary stability no matter your fitness level.
And to ensure maximum comfort, the bench has been equipped with extra thick 3-inch cushions and two pairs of oversized vinyl-covered foam rollers.
Yeah, XMark went “all in” when designing this bench… But it all comes at a cost.
Anyways, here are some “nice to know” facts:
- Assembly size; 66,3L x 22,4W x 43H inches.
- 500 lbs max weight.
- Weight; about 67,5 lbs.
- 12-position ergonomic adjustable decline
- Oversized foam rollers
- 3″ Cushioning
- Transport wheels
- 11-gauge heavy steel construction
THE PROS
- LOTS of adjustment possibilities
- Comfortable
- Comes with a reverse crunch handle
- Super-durable
THE CONS
- A bit pricey
- Heavy
5 Amazing Benefits Of Using a Sit-Up Bench
So, why should you even consider buying a sit up bench?
It’s time to take a look at the benefits:
They are Adjustable
By using an adjustable sit up bench instead of the floor, you will have the opportunity to exercise in many different angles – adding further challenge to your exercise.
Most benches also offer feet/ thigh support and a foam padded board, letting users perform their daily exercise safely on a comfortable surface.
Universal Multi Usage Equipment
The sit-up bench can be used for far more than traditional sit-ups, crunches, and ab training.
In many ways, you can say it is one of the most versatile pieces of exercise equipment on the market.
Back extensions, leg raises, push-ups, dips, dumbbell exercises – the list goes on.
Adding a bench to your home gym brings a broad range of new exercise possibilities – both for beginners and pros!
Builds Your Core
A strong core is a vital part of a healthy body.
The sit-up bench is excellent at strengthening those core muscles of yours.
Keep back pains away, and make sure your posture is sturdy and strong!
RELATED:
Offer Support to Your Crunches
Unlike the floor, a sit-up bench offers support and comfort to your training.
While providing support to your back, the bench helps you stay injury-free when doing your “ab-day”.
Builds strength
As the bench can be used for a large range of exercises, a sit-up bench will help strengthen your whole body:
By adjusting the angle during your training, you target different parts of your abdominal muscles to shape and tone every part of the ab region.
Sit Up Bench FAQ
Is a Sit Up Bench Effective?
I’ll be short. Yes, sit up benches are an effective piece of equipment!
You’ll get various angles from which to challenge your muscles, and you will also be able to use them to do a wide array of different exercises.
How to Assemble a Sit Up Bench?
The sit-up benches come disassembled, whereas you will need to do the assembly yourself. But mounting and dismounting usually go like a breeze.
They all come with instructions, making it mostly pretty non-complicated to put them together.
After all, we are not building spaceships here! As long as you know how to use a spanner and a screwdriver, you should be fine.
How to Use a Sit Up Bench Correctly?
Instead of writing a lot of words explaining how to use a sit up bench, I’ll just refer to this video instead:
As you can see, doing sit ups on bench demands concentration and effort. You need to keep your core engaged at all times and make sure your form is intact throughout the whole movement.
Can I Get Injured While Using Sit-Up Bench?
As with all exercise equipment, I’m sorry to say the answer is yes…
If you do not use the equipment properly, there is a risk of hurting your back. You should NEVER “cheat” or do an exercise without keeping the correct form.
Make sure you know how to use the equipment before going at it like you’re Superman!
Consulting a personal trainer or someone with exercise experience might be a good idea before using the bench.
Learning the correct technique should ALWAYS be your number one priority when engaging with new forms of exercise!
Are Sit Up Benches Good or Bad?
If a sit up bench is good or bad depends on the individual owning it:
If you know how to use it, and you have brought a bench suited to your needs – owning a bench is definitely a good thing.
But buying a bench and not using it is, on the other hand, a bad investment.
Be sure you both are ready to use it and that you get a bench that covers your expectations. If both of these boxes are ticked off, you will build loads of muscles – especially in your upper body area.
What is Best, Sit Up Bench, or Ball?
Choosing between a sit up bench or a stability ball really depends on a couple of factors:
A ball costs a fraction of the price but still provides a lot of the same as the bench.
The difference is mainly that working out with a ball, you are continually working your balance as the ball works as an unstable surface.
The bench, on the other hand, provides you with a stable surface giving your stabilizing muscles “a day off” while focusing on strengthening the muscles you target.
Which one is better is hard to answer as it all depends on your goals and preferences. As for me, I own them both!
RELATED:
Sit Up Bench vs Floor. What is The Best?
Bench sit ups are way better than floor sit ups – period!
Usability, comfort, and efficiency all weigh in favor of benches.
For abdominal exercises such as sit-ups, this can be done by using decline boards — also called slant or incline boards — and exercise balls — also called Swiss balls — in your workout. There are advantages to both. Each activates muscles that might not be engaged by performing the exercises lying on the floor.
Reference: livestrong.com – Are Decline Bench Sit-Ups or Exercise Ball Sit-Ups Better?
But if you do not have the money to invest in a bench, you can come pretty far by using your wooden floor as well!
Final Words: A Sit Up Bench is Worth Every Penny
Whether you aim to build abs of steel or get into whole-body exercises, a decline sit up bench could be an excellent addition to your home gym equipment tool pool.
You get them in a lot of different models, all with their own pros and cons.
But by knowing and understanding your need, your chances of finding a bench you will be satisfied with raises vastly.
By reading my best sit-up bench review, I really hope you at least got a little bit less uncertain and that deciding on which bench to buy will be a little bit easier.
If, for some reason did not fancy any of my reviewed sit-up benches, here are a couple more worth looking into:
- Nautilus Sit up Bench
- Stamina Pro Ab Hyper Bench
- Crane Sit up Bench
- Deltech Fitness Sit up Bench
- Lamar Sit up Bench
Among the lot, the Stamina bench just missed a spot in this review by half an inch…
Oh, wait up!
Before you leave, make sure to check out my at-home strength-building archive – LOADED with actionable tips, hacks, and exercise guides!
Other Helpful Resources
- Is The Ab Wheel Effective? 5 Amazing Benefits of Doing ab Rollouts
- 4 Superb Benefits of Owning a Fold-Away Sit up Bench
- What is the Best ab Roller to Buy? Reviews and Top Picks
- Why is it Important to Strengthen Your Core? 7 Reasons Why YOU Should do Core Exercises!
- How to Build Core Strength From Nothing: The Beginners Guide
- 8 Super-Effective Exercises to Tone Stomach, Bum, and Thighs