subject: Bench Press Equipment: What Are Your Options? [print this page] The bench press has been popular among weight lifters and bodybuilders. The bench press is what's often used to measure one's upper body strength. It helps build strength not just in the just, but the triceps and shoulders as well. Not to mention that it will enhance your reputation.
The bench press can be done in several ways, and each one is used for different reasons. If you would prefer to workout from home as opposed to a gym, then here is a guide to the bench press equipment that is available.
Standard or Flat Bench
It's commonly found at home and commercial gyms. For those who want to do bench press, getting one with supports might be the way to go. A lot of the benches nowadays have a shorter and taller racking heights. Some spotter arms come with the ability to adjust them vertically. You also have the option to buy a basic flat bench with no spotter arms. Doing so would mean using dumbbells instead of a barbell. I actually prefer the latter because each side gets worked equally.
Incline Bench Tool
An incline bench press is recommended if you want to focus on the middle and upper part of the chest. Anyone who wants a thick, bulky chest should do the incline variation. The change in position allows you to work the upper pectoralis muscle and anterior deltoids more effectively than the flat bench press does. Quite a few bodybuilders prefer the incline because of the results you get, and because they claim it's a more natural motion.
Multi-Exercise Bench
You can also buy bench press equipment that has more functionality, such as a leg attachment and possibly a preacher curl pad. These are very uncommon at gyms, and are advertised a lot more towards homeowners. If you do not have enough space for your home gym, this equipment would do fine.
Weights and Bar
As a consumer, you have a variety of options when it comes to weights and bars. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes from Olympic bar, Olympic bench, and barbell.
Bench press equipment is available in many different variations. If you have come up with a decision to buy a complete set of bench press equipment, think of how much you are willing to spend first. Consider all the options.
If you want cheap and versatile, then consider a flat bench that can also incline and using dumbbells as opposed to a barbell. This way, you can work various muscles in your chest. It all boils down to what you prefer and can afford.
