For how inexpensive this thing is, it is very well built. I left mine at the local Y for nearly a year because several friends were also using it for weighted dips and pullups. It got a LOT of use but none of the stitching has come out and, other than getting a bit dirty and chalky, it doesn't look any the worse for wear so far. The cordura straps on each side that hold the D rings have gotten a bit smashed and now the D rings spin freely, but that hasn't affected function at all. I've had three 45lb plates hanging on it for heavy dips and it remains stable and comfortable. I haven't felt any need to change the chain or carabiners, they are working just fine. Folds up compactly and tucks into my gym bag easily. This is a no-brainer purchase if you're looking to increase the weight on your dips and pullups.

robustly built, likely more than would ever be needed in a home gym. I've used this bench several times at Jacked & Jilled gym; very sturdy and the thick pad is very comfy, though not something to get used to if you plan to compete. Outside of a busy commercial gym, I don't see the appeal for this particular design. There are a number of dedicated bench press racks that have similar footprint with integrated weight plate storage and other features that this bench lacks. I'm happy to use it at someone else's place, but this isn't what I'd select for my own gym with its very limited space.

At only 1.5 lb, this is hardly an alternative to the real Heavy Mug, which is 22 lb. But of course this one is much easier to actually drink from on a regular basis.

Nice vintage plates with accessible prices, typically a few hundred bucks for a pair of 45s in good shape, even less if you're going to have to restore them yourself. They may not be ultra accurate but at least they're usually not too light. Great deep dish plates with a classic style. and you can't beat made in the USA.

Beautifully made and definitely eye catching, but they won't make your muscles any larger than run of the mill iron DBs. Still, if aesthetics matter and you believe in the "buy once, cry once" principle... these could be your ticket.

Imported iron plates from Taiwan made in the 1980s. These are different than the Lou Ferrigno plates, which are nominally collectable whereas these are not (but that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy them). These were created by other members of Lou's family but he was not directly involved. They're not horribly inaccurate and are quite reasonably priced on the secondary market, commonly found for $1/lb or less. I have one pair of 45s that is almost dead-on for weight and a couple others that are slightly light.

Inexpensive old vintage iron. They have very minimal lips and can be hard to hold with a pinch grip. The heavier plates make for good grip training when held vertically. If you bore them to 2" the 50lb. plates are excellent for deficit deadlift and barbell rows.

Mass produced pig iron plates, made in both 2" and 1" bore sizes. Usually very inexpensive, can often be found on FMP for less than $1/lb. They hold no real collector value but they are still worth having in the gym just out of respect and admiration for their namesake. Jack Lalanne was an absolute beast and legend, a true pillar of the strength and fitness community -- he focused on longevity and functional fitness long before it was ever cool. Look up his swims in the SF Bay, towing rowboats behind him well into his 7th and 8th decades! Legend!