BowFlex 5.1S Adjustable Weight Bench

My first bench was the Bowflex 5.1 which was the original design. The best way to differentiate this from the S model is the red head pad and 5 degree settings for the back pad. It’s not the best bench, build quality is a bit questionable and the bench sits a bit too high. Not the worst I’ve ever used and is much better quality than the current version being offered.

This is the first bench that I ever got and it served its purpose in a pinch during the pandemic. Fortunately, I received this as a gift and didn’t have to pay for it because I would still be disappointed. It’s obviously an entry level bench but every aspect of it is awkward. The pad sizes and gaps are all out of whack. I wouldn’t pay money for this if you have any actual experience lifting and plan on using a single bench for a while. I used it out of necessity and wouldn’t recommend it considering there are tons of other cheap options out there at this point.

The Bowflex adjustable bench is about as entry level as it gets. It is inexpensive, easy to find, and it will get you started without crushing your budget. If you are just building out a home gym or need something dedicated for dumbbell work, it does the job well enough. That said, you can feel where the cost savings are. There is some instability, especially when you start pushing heavier weight. The gaps between the pad sections are noticeable and can feel awkward depending on the angle. It is not confidence inspiring when you are trying to grind out heavier presses. This is one of those pieces that works as a stepping stone. It will get you going, and for strict budget builds it makes sense. But for most people, it is probably a bench you eventually upgrade from once you start taking training more seriously.

This was a starter bench that I got. It was ok for doing light work and ab crunches.

Just a very basic bench. I don't think padding is all that great. It does fully adjust so you get full FID.