A weight bench is an essential piece of weight-lifting equipment that bear a resemblance to an ordinary bench, but is specifically designed for use in weight lifting. Weight benches are useful because of the way in which they adjust the weight as it is lifted. In other words, when the weight is lifted from the floor, the weight is being lowered to the chest or abdomen area. This helps to force the muscles into an involuntary contraction.
Weight lifting benches are an excellent addition to any home gym or fitness center. If one has been a lifter for any length of time, they most likely know how important it is to keep the body in an upright posture, especially when lifting weights. Most people do not realize the importance of maintaining the proper posture while working out on a regular basis and can easily develop bad habits that will prevent them from ever reaching their maximum potential.
One of the best ways to avoid bad habits and keep the body positioned correctly during workouts, according to Fitness Hub is to use one of the many weight benches that have adjustable heights. These benches are built much like the standard bench and consist of a wide bench with either vertical or horizontal rails and a series of arms, usually one per side, that can be raised to the appropriate level for one's workout. Even a novice weight lifter can usually find one that will provide a decent workout without having to spend a lot of time in the gym.
There are a couple of different types of weight benches that are available for home use. One type of bench that is quite common is the flat bench, also referred to as a "floor standing" weight bench. These benches are available in a wide variety of sizes, are very durable, and can provide a comfortable workstation even for those who are unfamiliar with weight lifting. The biggest advantage to a flat bench is the ease in which it can be used and the low risk of injury associated with weight lifting. They are ideal for weight benches used for multiple exercises and are often purchased with a bench press attachment to enable multiple people to use them at once.
A slightly more expensive option is the squat rack, which provides an alternate method of working out that doesn't require the use of weight benches. A squat rack is basically a large and relatively heavy suitcase that can be easily wheeled into a gym and used as a weight bench. They are typically used by those who are members of fitness clubs and wish to add another feature to their workout without having to worry about making the trip to the gym. Squat racks are available in both single and multi-set forms and usually consist of a pair of adjustable benches that are attached together in the back by a long, weighted chain. The adjustable benches are set at a higher height than regular weights and allow individuals to use them for squats as well as other upper body workouts.
For more comfort and added support, many people prefer to use body weight foam weights to exercise on at the gym. Body weight foam weight benches are also quite durable and very comfortable to sit on while working out, making them ideal for long periods of time in the gym. Although they aren't as convenient as having adjustable benches at your disposal, body weight foam weight benches are often a preferred choice for people looking for extra support.
One type of weight bench that is gaining in popularity is the leg weight training weight bench. As the name suggests, these weight benches allow you to put your legs behind the adjustable weight bench while you perform lower-body exercises on the flat bench. They are great for anyone wanting to work the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves and glutes, which are often neglected during regular weight training workouts at the gym. Most leg weight training benches will include a dip bar attachment that will allow you to perform curls and reverse crunches on the bench as well.
Weight benches are often one of the most important pieces of gym equipment to purchase if you want to stay in shape. Even if you do not consider yourself to be a professional athlete or a bodybuilder, you may still want to use weight benches regularly in your home workout sessions. For a variety of reasons, purchasing a good adjustable weight bench that will accommodate all your needs is a great idea. You should definitely consider spending the money if you are serious about staying in shape. With the right workout program, you can reach your fitness goals easily and efficiently, even at your own home gym.