Update6 months and I'm still loving this bench. czcams.com/users/postUgkxo_64lVTGMk7y4aXTPxPOcQ3YTLyQ6kYV I use it almost daily. I've gotten used to the small wobble and it's no problem at all. Love the storage, it folds right next to my weight set in the garage and hardly takes any space. I wish the covering material was a little bit tougher. I have a feeling that in a couple years it'll tear, but the bench is very well priced that I would just buy a new one.3 month usage review. Awesome bench for someone looking for compactness and storage. I did have to drill a couple holes to adjust my preferred seating position and leg bar position but that's only due to my personal preference. It's very sturdy for normal workouts, but for anyone going above 100# dumbbell press it wobbles ever so slightly. I would probably go with a fixed bench if that's the case. That being said i can accomplish 99% of my normal gym workout with this setup. Very happy with the purchase.
Bowflex 5.1S 👉 amzn.to/387Us0C All of My Bench Recommendations ↓↓↓↓ ➡ Favorite Bench Under $100: czcams.com/video/HZFuKUWgxMc/video.html ➡ Favorite Bench Under $150: czcams.com/video/lV5c3q7uL3o/video.html ➡ Favorite Bench Under $200: czcams.com/video/9zqqY2Ezbgo/video.html ➡ Favorite Foldable Bench Under $200: czcams.com/video/wwSYLkjP6N0/video.html ➡ Favorite Mid Price Bench: czcams.com/video/9zqqY2Ezbgo/video.html ➡ Favorite Leg and Preacher Curl Bench: czcams.com/video/3TYXrNSyWds/video.html ➡ Favorite High End Bench: czcams.com/video/TDawkVaRqbM/video.html ➡ All My Bench Reviews: czcams.com/play/PLV9FpqA21ROBNrlstHC-9QlcOL4fKlh6C.html
Thanks for your awesome flat bench reviews. I am wondering what you would recommend for a FID bench that is "IN STOCK" - AB5000 is out of stock. I was looking at the Vulcan products and I feel that Rogue is a bit too expensive. Thanks in advance for your advice!! Would you consider that Fitness Reality 2000?
i should add I am 5'8" weigh around 175# and bench roughly 300#. So am fairly aggressive with weightlifting. (I also have a rogue cage built, smrtft adjustable dumbbells - just looking for that last piece of equipment)
I’d recommend getting the Fitness Reality 2000 for now since it’s cheap and in stock and when the ab5000, Vulcan FID bench or one of the others come in stock you can get that. The Fitness Reality 2000 is a serious bench for the price, the only negative I can see with it is the back rest isn’t very wide. If it’s any issue for flat bench you can sit upside down on it so the wider part is at top and with it being a no gap it doesn’t matter. You can’t go wrong with that bench
@@MattTolbers Thanks a ton Matt. Great site and fantastic reviews. Lots of garbage fitness equipment out there so it is important to have reliable resources and reviewers. I should mention that I bought the NUOBELL 80# adjustable weights and am very pleased with them.. Not sure if you have had a chance to review those as well. Lastly two more questions: re Fitness Reality 2000 have you found it is really stable (doesn't shake) when lifting? What is the footprint (total length)?
Yeah there is a lot of garbage equipment out there, I stick to reviewing stuff that is at least pretty good or very popular to review. The Fitness Reality 2000 is super solid and length is about 54” not including leg attachment which ads just over another foot to total length. I have 4 more benches that have just arrived that I will be reviewing over then next few weeks but none of them will be better for you then the Fitness Reality 2000
Yeah I can see it being an issue for people that like to keep there feet out front. I usually put mine more to the side so doesn't bother me much. If you don't do much decline I'd probably just remove it
You are the Man!!! You saved me from paying to much for a Bowflex Bench and now I got a better bench in the Fitness Reality 2000 which I think will last a long time.
Love all of your videos and awesome review on this bench, I was going to pull the trigger on the XL2000 but decided to get the Bowflex 5.1S just so it matches my Bowflex home gym equipment with the signature black and red colour. After looking at your video I ended up making a custom metal plate 3/16 thick and mount it underneath the seat to support most of the seat. With this plate I shouldn’t have any issue with breaking the wood inside the seat. Thanks again for review of this bench!!!
Thanks freaking sweet! I love the simplicity and color combination of this bench, it just had that weak point at the seat. You being able to fix the issue and match your other bowflex equipment is awesome 😀
Every one should usually sit on the middle of the seat it won't crack.i tested it at the store and pushed very hard on each side its very solid no crack.
Diggin the foldable bench review series!!! Think you an get your hands on the RitFit Foldable bench? I’ve been eyeing it for a while. Appears to be sturdy enough. Also the seat clearance is a lot better for shorter guys. get that nice planted feel.
Thanks bro, the RitFit is on my list for benches to review in near future. Only negative I see so far is the weight capacity being only 510lbs. I have some benches and a pair of dumbbells to review, but after that I'll try to get a review on the RitFit out.
No problem and thanks bro! I actually had the last 2 months off from lifting because driving for UPS around Christmas is to crazy. I just got back into lifting on the 1st, trying to get in pretty good shape this year.
@@MattTolbers I had 6 weeks off from the gym also. Overhead pressing got stronger while not training, which was weird. 2021 looking for PRs! Let's go get 'em.
Costco had them in stock, I’m 6’1, 351 pound guy. I tried it on the store and sit on the edge just because of your video. I can assure you it will break. I heard the crack 😂
Great Bench. Just picked this up at Costco in Bayonne NJ for $206.61 including Tax. It was originally for $269.00 . Costco have this with a $70.00 off original price.
I’m picking this one up. The adjustable benches at my old gym had major gap and like you, I’d just stick my ass in there and lift. I was close to getting the Fitness 2000 but this just looks slightly beefier.
Your review was very helpful to me. What stuck out for me was your mention that it weighs about 70 pounds and to be cautious of the seat. I'm thinking for myself as a man in his mid 50's that wants to maintain at home and prepare for gym closures that this bench will be fine for me. I'm assuming China, but where is this bench manufactured? Thank you!
Hey Bruce, yes it’s made in China like almost all home gym equipment lol. It helps keep the price down but doesn’t necessarily mean it’s built bad. Bowflex does a good job of making things simple and clean to use. I think this would be a great choice for you
Thanks so much for this review Matt. Really helpful! One of the pluses fir me was the stand-up (or fold up) option to easily use and stow against a wall. Which bench would be your recommendation for quality + stowing? Thanks again!
The Bowflex is really nice quality and very steady when standing up. The negative would be the chance of the seat breaking overtime, but if your careful and treat it well it could last many years. The fitness Reality 2000 is cheaper, super sturdy when lifting with a higher weight capacity but when standing up it can tip over if bumped easier then the Bowflex. It’s not quiet as convenient as the Bowflex either. So it’s kind of depends what’s most important to you and if 600lb capacity is enough for you
If you knew what you now know about both benches (Bowflex 5.1s & Fitness Reality 2000) and let's just say they where the same price which one would you buy ?
The whole point Bowflex made the 5.1s is that it's a stowable bench. There's no point comparing it to the rep bench etc because they dont fold for storage. And yup the Fitness Reality 2000 is the only other decent heavy duty foldable bench in this price range. So I agree with you on that one.
Actually the Rep AB5000 does stand up on its side, just like the Bowflex and it’s even more stable on its side. The Fitness Reality 2000 is still my favorite bench under $200
@@MattTolbers yeah but Rep AB5000 costs $600 so can't really compare it with the Bowflex its in a different price range altogether. Bowflex 5.1s on amazon is $277 at mo
It was not compared in a sense of this vs that, it was used as a reference point of quality and strength. The Rep Ab5000 is definitely on another level, but the Fitness Reality 2000 is much cheaper even while Bowflex is on sale and is built much more solid with higher weight capacity. I like to mention weak points in what I review because I believe it strongly benefits the person researching their next purchase.
My bowflex 3.1 and 5.1 both can stand up without those rubber pads.. it stands sturdy. So not sure what the purpose is.. lol. I suppose over time it could reduce wear but you'll mess up the top of the bench faster than you'll mess up the place it sits on .
out of all your adjustable benches, which one would you recommend the most for home gym? i was looking into the inspire SCS and saw your video on it, and then saw these other reviews on other benches.
Hey Oscar, I replied to this same comment on the other video, but will copy my response here also so it can help others wondering the same thing. It kind of depends what you’re looking for in a bench. Like price range, foldable, able to do leg exercises, need it for ab work, just using dumbbells or barbell work, how long you want it to lasts, how big you are, how much you lift and so on. I don’t want to tell you what work best for me and not you and your situation. My two personal benches are the inspire fitness scs and the rep ab5000 because those work best for me and my situation. If you want a bench that can do leg workouts, decline, incline and don’t need it for ab work the inspire fitness scs is a super good choice. If you want a super heavy duty bench that does crazy ab work but doesn’t have an attachment for leg curl or extensions the ab5000 is great. If you want the best bench under $200 that is strong and sturdy, able to do deep ab work comfortably with the step under it, incline, decline, but won’t last quite as long because of lower leather sticking quality based on price point the Fitness Reality 2000 is the best. If your tall and need a super foldable bench for traveling or storage in closet and only lift with dumbbells the larger FlyBird is a great choice. If you want something that is super easy and quick to use, looks great, good quality materials and you don’t lift a ton of weight the Bowflex 5.1S is a great choice.
Good Review - especially towards the item Construction issues - which I think many more should point out, just as you have done. If the sides break whilst doing a heavy weight fly that could be a serious problem, but how often does that happen ? You mentioned the Fitness Reality bench, could you provide a link to it please as I am currently unable to find it.
Hi Matt, Have you tested the Body-Solid Powerline’s PFID125X or GFID225? How do they compare to the Fitness Reality and Bowflex at that price band? Thanks
Hi Matt, Thanks for the time you put into making this review. I just got my Bowflex adjustable dumbbells in. Really want to get the bench as well, but I'm a small guy - and I'm concerned that it won't be too comfortable for me when flat on my back. What do you think? Thanks again.
Dang, everytime i see something that i really like visually, it has wierd issues. i love that red black vibe and it can go perfect with the bowflex adjustible weights, but why did they have to make such huge gap and that wide wooden seat that can break??? why couldnt they just make it like any other average bench? i just dont get it. who thought that it would be a good idea to make it that way. its like your favorite very tasty food that you prefer to skip because other foods have better nutritional value for you.
Lol I know bro. The Red and Black is my favorite color combo also. It's still a nice bench, just have to keep in mind the weakness of it when using it and it should last for quiet some time. I'm sure Bowflex will see this if they haven't already and hopefully either update it or fix that issue in future benches. If they do I'll gladly make an updated video with the new version.
Hello, I’m new to your channel. I’m 6’1, 350 pound guy, I’m trying to buy my 1st bench. Which one would you recommend, Boxflex 5.1 (300.00 Costco) or fitness reality 2000 (200.00 Amazon) Thank you
I have a question, if i add an 4mm (1/8 Inch) thick plate under the seat that covers a wider area. Would that solve the possible issue with the seat being instable or possible break?
Hi! Thank you for this detailed review - very helpful! I was also looking at the Bowflex 4.1S Stowable Bench... What are the differences? I need a bench that is heavy enough to withstand the weight of heavy barbell hip thrusts and not shifting. Have you found that to be a problem with either the 4.1S or 5.1S models? Thanks!
Hey, the 5.1s is rated at 600lb and 4.1s is rated at 550lbs. The 5.1s has 6 adjustment angles where 4.1s only has 5. The 5.1s uses a pop pin to adjust angle where 4.1s you just move the bar. You should be fine using either for hip thrusts
Both are very nice benches. The fitness reality 2000 is a little bit better bang for buck, but Bowflex is very nice with only concern being the seat possibly breaking overtime if not careful. Bowflex is more sturdy when standing up on side, so less likely to tip and break or hurt someone. Bowflex is also more quick and convenient to use. If your sons lifting a lot of weight for his age and weighs a lot go with Fitness Reality. If he’s more average weight and strength Bowflex is very nice choice also.
thank you. just pulled the trigger and purchased the 2000. seemed like a better overall product. not worried about storage as it will go in the basement and if we need to upgrade to a better more $$ bench in a couple years, well this one is only $190 or so after taxes. thanks again.
It’s great, I have a bunch of videos on it in my Inspire Fitness FT2 playlist you can watch. My main 2 benches are the Rep Ab5000 and Inspire Fitness SCS bench
Hey bro, it’s basically a re branded Bowflex 5.1 non s version with different colors. I think it’s a pretty good choice for the price if you only intend to do lighter dumbbell work.
Definitely a large gap, doesn’t bother me much but if it does I’d put a towel or something there. The seat getting wider is just to help hold your legs behind ankle pad.
We are a seller of weight benches. Your video is very nice. Invite you to do a professional helpful honest professional review for the product sincerely.
I got the Fitness Reality 2000 bench because of your review. Absolutely fantastic bench. That gap on the Bowflex is Grand Canyon level!
Awesome bro glad you love it! The BowFlex gap is definitely large, but surprisingly doesn't bother me when using it lol
Update6 months and I'm still loving this bench. czcams.com/users/postUgkxo_64lVTGMk7y4aXTPxPOcQ3YTLyQ6kYV I use it almost daily. I've gotten used to the small wobble and it's no problem at all. Love the storage, it folds right next to my weight set in the garage and hardly takes any space. I wish the covering material was a little bit tougher. I have a feeling that in a couple years it'll tear, but the bench is very well priced that I would just buy a new one.3 month usage review. Awesome bench for someone looking for compactness and storage. I did have to drill a couple holes to adjust my preferred seating position and leg bar position but that's only due to my personal preference. It's very sturdy for normal workouts, but for anyone going above 100# dumbbell press it wobbles ever so slightly. I would probably go with a fixed bench if that's the case. That being said i can accomplish 99% of my normal gym workout with this setup. Very happy with the purchase.
Bowflex 5.1S 👉 amzn.to/387Us0C
All of My Bench Recommendations ↓↓↓↓
➡ Favorite Bench Under $100: czcams.com/video/HZFuKUWgxMc/video.html
➡ Favorite Bench Under $150: czcams.com/video/lV5c3q7uL3o/video.html
➡ Favorite Bench Under $200: czcams.com/video/9zqqY2Ezbgo/video.html
➡ Favorite Foldable Bench Under $200: czcams.com/video/wwSYLkjP6N0/video.html
➡ Favorite Mid Price Bench: czcams.com/video/9zqqY2Ezbgo/video.html
➡ Favorite Leg and Preacher Curl Bench: czcams.com/video/3TYXrNSyWds/video.html
➡ Favorite High End Bench: czcams.com/video/TDawkVaRqbM/video.html
➡ All My Bench Reviews: czcams.com/play/PLV9FpqA21ROBNrlstHC-9QlcOL4fKlh6C.html
Thanks for your awesome flat bench reviews. I am wondering what you would recommend for a FID bench that is "IN STOCK" - AB5000 is out of stock. I was looking at the Vulcan products and I feel that Rogue is a bit too expensive. Thanks in advance for your advice!! Would you consider that Fitness Reality 2000?
i should add I am 5'8" weigh around 175# and bench roughly 300#. So am fairly aggressive with weightlifting. (I also have a rogue cage built, smrtft adjustable dumbbells - just looking for that last piece of equipment)
I’d recommend getting the Fitness Reality 2000 for now since it’s cheap and in stock and when the ab5000, Vulcan FID bench or one of the others come in stock you can get that. The Fitness Reality 2000 is a serious bench for the price, the only negative I can see with it is the back rest isn’t very wide. If it’s any issue for flat bench you can sit upside down on it so the wider part is at top and with it being a no gap it doesn’t matter. You can’t go wrong with that bench
@@MattTolbers Thanks a ton Matt. Great site and fantastic reviews. Lots of garbage fitness equipment out there so it is important to have reliable resources and reviewers. I should mention that I bought the NUOBELL 80# adjustable weights and am very pleased with them.. Not sure if you have had a chance to review those as well.
Lastly two more questions: re Fitness Reality 2000 have you found it is really stable (doesn't shake) when lifting? What is the footprint (total length)?
Yeah there is a lot of garbage equipment out there, I stick to reviewing stuff that is at least pretty good or very popular to review. The Fitness Reality 2000 is super solid and length is about 54” not including leg attachment which ads just over another foot to total length. I have 4 more benches that have just arrived that I will be reviewing over then next few weeks but none of them will be better for you then the Fitness Reality 2000
I subscribed because you point out your concerns and the cons, not just the a rundown of the features.
Thanks bro and forsure, I feel it’s a vital part of video
Thanks man! Just bought one because you just mentioned exactly the properties I was looking for in a solid bench.
No problem J! Hope you love it
I wish the leg extension was removable (without disassembling) because it gets in the way when getting on the bench for each set.
Yeah I can see it being an issue for people that like to keep there feet out front. I usually put mine more to the side so doesn't bother me much. If you don't do much decline I'd probably just remove it
@@MattTolbers would you still be able to stowe it away if the leg extension is removed? or is the leg extension part of the base when stowed?
Nice review, thank you. Cool would be to see some exercise options done on it.
You are the Man!!! You saved me from paying to much for a Bowflex Bench and now I got a better bench in the Fitness Reality 2000 which I think will last a long time.
Awesome, glad it was helpful Ricker! Hope you're enjoying your Fitness Reality 2000
Love all of your videos and awesome review on this bench, I was going to pull the trigger on the XL2000 but decided to get the Bowflex 5.1S just so it matches my Bowflex home gym equipment with the signature black and red colour. After looking at your video I ended up making a custom metal plate 3/16 thick and mount it underneath the seat to support most of the seat. With this plate I shouldn’t have any issue with breaking the wood inside the seat. Thanks again for review of this bench!!!
Thanks freaking sweet! I love the simplicity and color combination of this bench, it just had that weak point at the seat. You being able to fix the issue and match your other bowflex equipment is awesome 😀
Any chance you’d like to make another plate and sell it to me?
Was just about to buy the 4.1s but I think you convinced me to go to the Fitness Reality XL 2000
Great choice, super solid!
Every one should usually sit on the middle of the seat it won't crack.i tested it at the store and pushed very hard on each side its very solid no crack.
Utterly superb review from an experienced astute dude. Thx a billion.
No problem, thanks for watching!
Diggin the foldable bench review series!!! Think you an get your hands on the RitFit Foldable bench? I’ve been eyeing it for a while.
Appears to be sturdy enough. Also the seat clearance is a lot better for shorter guys. get that nice planted feel.
Thanks bro, the RitFit is on my list for benches to review in near future. Only negative I see so far is the weight capacity being only 510lbs. I have some benches and a pair of dumbbells to review, but after that I'll try to get a review on the RitFit out.
Always appreciate the details and comparisons.
Arms looking big!
No problem and thanks bro! I actually had the last 2 months off from lifting because driving for UPS around Christmas is to crazy. I just got back into lifting on the 1st, trying to get in pretty good shape this year.
@@MattTolbers I had 6 weeks off from the gym also. Overhead pressing got stronger while not training, which was weird. 2021 looking for PRs! Let's go get 'em.
Nice bro, let’s make 2021 a great year!
I got the rep 3000 fid bench. It's pretty good and feels like it'll last 20 years or so.
Yeah that's a great bench for the price
Costco had them in stock, I’m 6’1, 351 pound guy. I tried it on the store and sit on the edge just because of your video. I can assure you it will break. I heard the crack 😂
Great Bench. Just picked this up at Costco in Bayonne NJ for $206.61 including Tax.
It was originally for $269.00 . Costco have this with a $70.00 off original price.
Wow, very thorough. Great job! Thanks.
I’m picking this one up. The adjustable benches at my old gym had major gap and like you, I’d just stick my ass in there and lift. I was close to getting the Fitness 2000 but this just looks slightly beefier.
Yeah If you have a little meat on your butt it won’t bother you at all lol
Your review was very helpful to me. What stuck out for me was your mention that it weighs about 70 pounds and to be cautious of the seat. I'm thinking for myself as a man in his mid 50's that wants to maintain at home and prepare for gym closures that this bench will be fine for me. I'm assuming China, but where is this bench manufactured? Thank you!
Hey Bruce, yes it’s made in China like almost all home gym equipment lol. It helps keep the price down but doesn’t necessarily mean it’s built bad. Bowflex does a good job of making things simple and clean to use. I think this would be a great choice for you
great review buddy. looking to getting one because of covid. But ill get the fitness reality one
Thanks man, great choice!
I did the same. Almost bought the Bowflex 4.1. Matt's reviews are so honest and helpful. He is the best reviewer by far.
Thanks Brad!
Thanks so much for this review Matt. Really helpful! One of the pluses fir me was the stand-up (or fold up) option to easily use and stow against a wall. Which bench would be your recommendation for quality + stowing? Thanks again!
The Bowflex is really nice quality and very steady when standing up. The negative would be the chance of the seat breaking overtime, but if your careful and treat it well it could last many years. The fitness Reality 2000 is cheaper, super sturdy when lifting with a higher weight capacity but when standing up it can tip over if bumped easier then the Bowflex. It’s not quiet as convenient as the Bowflex either. So it’s kind of depends what’s most important to you and if 600lb capacity is enough for you
Great review! Mine is coming on Wednesday. Hope it lasts for awhile!
It should, just try not to sit on the edge of the seat or drop down hard on it. Other than that it's a very nice bench.
@@MattTolbers Just got it set up! I'm guessing I probably shouldn't do step-ups on this bench. 😕
Nice! You should be fine doing step-ups, just step on the back rest not the seat.
If you knew what you now know about both benches (Bowflex 5.1s & Fitness Reality 2000) and let's just say they where the same price which one would you buy ?
The whole point Bowflex made the 5.1s is that it's a stowable bench. There's no point comparing it to the rep bench etc because they dont fold for storage.
And yup the Fitness Reality 2000 is the only other decent heavy duty foldable bench in this price range. So I agree with you on that one.
Actually the Rep AB5000 does stand up on its side, just like the Bowflex and it’s even more stable on its side. The Fitness Reality 2000 is still my favorite bench under $200
@@MattTolbers yeah but Rep AB5000 costs $600 so can't really compare it with the Bowflex its in a different price range altogether. Bowflex 5.1s on amazon is $277 at mo
It was not compared in a sense of this vs that, it was used as a reference point of quality and strength. The Rep Ab5000 is definitely on another level, but the Fitness Reality 2000 is much cheaper even while Bowflex is on sale and is built much more solid with higher weight capacity. I like to mention weak points in what I review because I believe it strongly benefits the person researching their next purchase.
Excellent detailed review, thanks.
Good info. Thank you.
No problem, thanks for watching!
Good stuff.
Thanks bro
My power block decline to incline bench has the same amount of wood hanging out. close to it.
Yeah it's definitely the weak point of the bench, but most people should be fine.
My bowflex 3.1 and 5.1 both can stand up without those rubber pads.. it stands sturdy. So not sure what the purpose is.. lol. I suppose over time it could reduce wear but you'll mess up the top of the bench faster than you'll mess up the place it sits on .
Thinking of Getting it
Great review Tks much
out of all your adjustable benches, which one would you recommend the most for home gym? i was looking into the inspire SCS and saw your video on it, and then saw these other reviews on other benches.
Hey Oscar, I replied to this same comment on the other video, but will copy my response here also so it can help others wondering the same thing.
It kind of depends what you’re looking for in a bench. Like price range, foldable, able to do leg exercises, need it for ab work, just using dumbbells or barbell work, how long you want it to lasts, how big you are, how much you lift and so on. I don’t want to tell you what work best for me and not you and your situation. My two personal benches are the inspire fitness scs and the rep ab5000 because those work best for me and my situation. If you want a bench that can do leg workouts, decline, incline and don’t need it for ab work the inspire fitness scs is a super good choice. If you want a super heavy duty bench that does crazy ab work but doesn’t have an attachment for leg curl or extensions the ab5000 is great. If you want the best bench under $200 that is strong and sturdy, able to do deep ab work comfortably with the step under it, incline, decline, but won’t last quite as long because of lower leather sticking quality based on price point the Fitness Reality 2000 is the best. If your tall and need a super foldable bench for traveling or storage in closet and only lift with dumbbells the larger FlyBird is a great choice. If you want something that is super easy and quick to use, looks great, good quality materials and you don’t lift a ton of weight the Bowflex 5.1S is a great choice.
Good Review - especially towards the item Construction issues - which I think many more should point out, just as you have done. If the sides break whilst doing a heavy weight fly that could be a serious problem, but how often does that happen ?
You mentioned the Fitness Reality bench, could you provide a link to it please as I am currently unable to find it.
Hey bro, here’s this link czcams.com/video/9zqqY2Ezbgo/video.html
Hi Matt, Have you tested the Body-Solid Powerline’s PFID125X or GFID225? How do they compare to the Fitness Reality and Bowflex at that price band? Thanks
I’m personally not a fan of either one because they have nothing really gong for them besides the fact they can fold up and fit under a bed.
In your opinion what's the best bench that can also be used for upside down crunches?
Hi Matt,
Thanks for the time you put into making this review.
I just got my Bowflex adjustable dumbbells in. Really want to get the bench as well, but I'm a small guy - and I'm concerned that it won't be too comfortable for me when flat on my back. What do you think? Thanks again.
It should be plenty comfortable for you
Dang, everytime i see something that i really like visually, it has wierd issues. i love that red black vibe and it can go perfect with the bowflex adjustible weights, but why did they have to make such huge gap and that wide wooden seat that can break??? why couldnt they just make it like any other average bench? i just dont get it. who thought that it would be a good idea to make it that way. its like your favorite very tasty food that you prefer to skip because other foods have better nutritional value for you.
Lol I know bro. The Red and Black is my favorite color combo also. It's still a nice bench, just have to keep in mind the weakness of it when using it and it should last for quiet some time. I'm sure Bowflex will see this if they haven't already and hopefully either update it or fix that issue in future benches. If they do I'll gladly make an updated video with the new version.
Hi Matt, I'm looking for a bench for our home, husband/wife/12 year old child. Do you have a suggestion for a bench that has adjustable leg pads?
Hello, I’m new to your channel. I’m 6’1, 350 pound guy, I’m trying to buy my 1st bench. Which one would you recommend, Boxflex 5.1 (300.00 Costco) or fitness reality 2000 (200.00 Amazon)
Thank you
I have a question, if i add an 4mm (1/8 Inch) thick plate under the seat that covers a wider area.
Would that solve the possible issue with the seat being instable or possible break?
Hi! Thank you for this detailed review - very helpful! I was also looking at the Bowflex 4.1S Stowable Bench... What are the differences? I need a bench that is heavy enough to withstand the weight of heavy barbell hip thrusts and not shifting. Have you found that to be a problem with either the 4.1S or 5.1S models? Thanks!
Hey, the 5.1s is rated at 600lb and 4.1s is rated at 550lbs. The 5.1s has 6 adjustment angles where 4.1s only has 5. The 5.1s uses a pop pin to adjust angle where 4.1s you just move the bar. You should be fine using either for hip thrusts
@@MattTolbers Thank you!
No problem!
Awesome video. quick question, is the bench height from ground around 19 inches?
19.5
Costco had it for $199.99 had to get it.
At 90 degrees, what is the height of the back from the seat up?
Thank you. This bench vs the fitness reality 2000 for my 16 year old 6’0 son?
Both are very nice benches. The fitness reality 2000 is a little bit better bang for buck, but Bowflex is very nice with only concern being the seat possibly breaking overtime if not careful. Bowflex is more sturdy when standing up on side, so less likely to tip and break or hurt someone. Bowflex is also more quick and convenient to use. If your sons lifting a lot of weight for his age and weighs a lot go with Fitness Reality. If he’s more average weight and strength Bowflex is very nice choice also.
thank you. just pulled the trigger and purchased the 2000. seemed like a better overall product. not worried about storage as it will go in the basement and if we need to upgrade to a better more $$ bench in a couple years, well this one is only $190 or so after taxes. thanks again.
Great choice and no problem! Amazing bench for price
@@MattTolbers Any idea which one has a longer backrest?
Did you have the absolute worst time putting the caps on the foam rollers?
Any benches that can do back extensions?
Did it come assembled ?
How good is that inspire in the background ?
And which bench do you use the most?
It’s great, I have a bunch of videos on it in my Inspire Fitness FT2 playlist you can watch. My main 2 benches are the Rep Ab5000 and Inspire Fitness SCS bench
Can you do nordic curls on this bench?
Probably wouldn't take much effort to make your own steel plate to put on the seat area and reattach it to the bars.
How do I get a bigger chest without benching?
Did the bench came assemble?
No it doesn’t
@ 3:25 #PAUSE
How was the assembly on this?
It's pretty simple, takes about 30 minutes at a relaxed pace
Wattabout da new Core UB200 bra?
Hey bro, it’s basically a re branded Bowflex 5.1 non s version with different colors. I think it’s a pretty good choice for the price if you only intend to do lighter dumbbell work.
@@MattTolbers just came in today, it’s aight! Good enough for home.
that gap is so large..........that it can't even be used as a bench without hurting your back!!! and the seat getting wider also doesn't help.....
Definitely a large gap, doesn’t bother me much but if it does I’d put a towel or something there. The seat getting wider is just to help hold your legs behind ankle pad.
We are a seller of weight benches. Your video is very nice. Invite you to do a professional helpful honest professional review for the product sincerely.
it doesn't look very stowable.
Nothing crazy, just means you can stow it on its side to take up a 1/3 of the ground space