Written by Tyler DiGiovanni | BSBM
Fact checked by Kirsten Yovino, CPT Brookbush Institute
FACT CHECKED
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Abs. Six-pack. Abdominal muscles. Whatever you want to call them, they are one of the most desired and difficult to achieve body parts.
Getting them takes an incredible amount of discipline, hard work, and focus. Maintaining them even more so. While doing sit-ups and crunches at home is a great way to exercise your core muscles, a sit-up bench can take your ab training to a whole other level.
We've found the 9 best sit-up benches on the market today to have your midsection looking its best.
SFS Pick
Titan
Best Budget Bench
Marcy
Best Amazon Bench
XMark
**There may be affiliate links in this post where we might receive a small commission on purchases you make. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**
- Overall Best Sit Up Bench: Titan Max Adjustable FID Bench
- Best Budget Sit Up Bench: Marcy Utility Bench
- Best Sit Up Bench On Amazon: XMark Utility Slant Bench
- Best Multi-Functional Sit Up Bench: FINER FORM Bench
- Best Premium Sit Up Bench: TARGET ABS
- Best Compact Sit Up Bench: HARISON Compact Bench
- Best Decline Sit Up Bench: Valor Fitness DF-2
- Best Sit Up Bench With Bands: HANSTORM Sit Up Bench
- Best Sit Up Bench For People With Back Issues: GYMAX Sit Up Bench
1. Overall Best Sit Up Bench: Titan Max Adjustable FID Bench
The Titan Fitness Max Adjustable FID Bench takes the top spot for overall best sit-up bench. The Max Adjustable sit-up bench can be used for a variety of exercises making for an extremely versatile bench. This is not your average abdominal workout bench.
The bench can be adjusted into ten different incline positions, so you can find the ideal angle for whatever exercise you are doing. Whether you are using it for incline bench press, overhead press, decline bench press, or almost any exercise that requires a bench, you will be able to find a comfortable position to be in.
When you are ready to hit some ab exercises, there is a removable foot roller attachment that can be put into place at the head of the bench. This heavy-duty attachment turns your bench into an adjustable decline bench. With the ten different positions available, you can really challenge yourself with how steep you want to attempt doing decline sit-ups.
The head or seat (depending on which way you are facing) has seven adjustable levels so you can find the best support for your head while in decline positions.
With double frame construction and a 600 lb weight capacity, this bench can handle almost any user. That high capacity also comes with a pretty hefty bench weight at 92 lb. Luckily the folks at Titan had enough foresight to put wheels on one end to make moving this ab bench a lot easier.
One downside we found is that the bench pad itself is only eleven inches wide, making it one of the skinniest on our list. The total dimensions of the bench are 70 inches L x 23.5 inches W x 17.25 inches H (when the back pad is completely flat).
This adjustable sit-up bench is on the pricey side at almost $500, but given the ten different bench angles and seven head positions, there is a lot you can get done with this home gym equipment.
Pros
- Removable foot roller attachment so it can be used as a standard bench
- 600 lb weight capacity
- Adjustable seat/head rest for ideal neck angle
Cons
- On the expensive side
- Bench could be too thin for some people
Get the most out of your workout with the Max Adjustable FID Bench. Our innovative design allows for 10 possible bench positions and 7 possible head/set positions – that is up to 70 custom positions...
2. Best Budget Sit Up Bench: Marcy Utility Bench
The Marcy Utility Bench is our top pick for best budget sit-up bench costing only $71 at the time of writing this article. While the design is simple, it can still be an extremely effective tool in your ab workouts.
There are four adjustable positions for a decent variety of angles, with the steeper the angle, the higher the difficulty. This ab bench also features an adjustable thigh roller, so you can find the perfect position to lock into.
If you decide you want to do decline bench presses or other decline upper body exercises, there is a convenient contoured foam head rest for a comfortable resting position. All the foam rollers are made from a high density material that will keep their shape and provide a pleasant feel.
The back pad is covered by a leather upholstery which is extremely easy for upkeep. The back pad measures at 12.5 inches wide and 41 inches long which is suitable for users into the low six feet range.
The tube steel frame has a powder coated finish, and a maximum weight capacity of 250 lb.
Conveniently, this exercise bench can fold up to save some space while not in use, and makes storage much easier. Fully set up, this ab bench measures in at 59 inches L x 18 inches W x 29 inches H.
Weighing in at only 22 lb, this simple sit-up bench is an absolute breeze to move if needed.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Will not take up a lot of room in your home gym
- Collapsible and only weighs 22 lb
Cons
- Weight limit tops out at 250 lb
- Tall users may have an issue fitting on it
This board features four incline or decline positions, making it perfect for a wide variety of fitness routines. It enables you to perform muscle-building exercises without having to leave the comfort of your home...
3. Best Sit Up Bench On Amazon: XMark Utility Slant Bench
The XMark Utility Slant Bench features twelve levels of decline adjustment. With that many selections, someone from every level of fitness will be able to find the position that works for them.
The four 4.3 inch x 8 inch foam rollers are sleeved with a double stitched Duraguard vinyl covering, which can also be found on the 3 inch thick back pad. This covering is tear and sweat resistant, so you can expect your utility bench to look as good as the day you got it after multiple workouts.
Also included, that not all adjustable sit-up benches have, is the bull horn handlebar. This handlebar makes getting on and off of your sit-up bench a lot easier to accomplish. This handlebar is also a huge help when it comes to doing decline leg raises, as you can hold on and really concentrate on hitting your abdominal muscles.
The back pad measures in at 11.5 inches wide by 43.5 inches long, which should accommodate almost all users. All together this sit-up bench measures in at 66.3 inches L x 22.4 inches W x 43 inches H (according to their website).
The solid steel construction gives a very sturdy base, so you won't have to worry about shifting around while you are working out. The 2 inch x 3 inch back support gives plenty of stability to your back.
This ab bench weighs in at approximately 71 lb and while there isn't an official weight capacity listed, there have been reviews claiming it can handle users over 300 lb without issue.
At this time of this article, this bench can be purchased for under $400.
Pros
- Bullhorn handle
- Sturdy steel frame made from 11 gauge steel
- Twelve adjustable positions
Cons
- No weight limit listed in any information
- While not the most expensive, the price may be high for some people
With 12 levels of decline adjustment on a 43 inch rail using a pop-pin and a leg holder, XMark’s top-of-the-line Adjustable Ab Bench will target your ab muscles...
4. Best Multi-Functional Sit Up Bench: FINER FORM Bench
The FINER FORM sit up bench snagged our pick for the best multi-functional sit-up bench. This fine piece of gym equipment is a dream (or nightmare depending on how you look at it) for your core muscles.
Not only do you get the benefit of an adjustable sit-up bench, but you can also take advantage of the thigh pads to hit some low back strengthening hyper extensions.
The back pad can be utilized as a flat bench, or a decline sit-up bench with three total adjustable positions. Meanwhile the thigh pads or calf pads, depending on which way you are facing, have a total of eight positions, so users of all sizes can take advantage of both the ab bench and the Roman chair.
The foam leg rollers have four adjustable positions so changing positions from ankle holds during an ab workout to calf supports during hyperextensions or side crunches is as simple as moving a pin.
The high grade steel frame boasts a static weight capacity of 600 lb and a dynamic load capacity of 400 lb. So this piece of exercise equipment can handle all the weight you can throw at it for chest presses or any other exercises to work your upper body muscles. The triangle base shape helps keep a stable and secure bench, so you can focus on whatever muscle groups you are working and not trying to balance on a wobbly bench.
The FINER FORM ab bench measures in at 55 inches L x 20 inches W x a maximum height of 34 inches. The back/head pad measures a total 42.5 inches and has a tapering width of 11.8 inches down to 7.8 inches.
Also included with the bench is a free digital workout chart, so you can really take advantage of everything the FINER FORM sit-up bench has to offer. With a price tag of under $200 at the time of this writing, this not just an ab bench is an absolute steal.
Pros
- Flat bench, decline sit-up bench, and Roman chair all in one package
- Super heavy weight rating
- Superb value
Cons
- The tapered bench may be a turn off for some
- Product weight is listed as 8 kilograms (17-ish pounds) which seems low for a bench with such a high weight rating
All-in-one Adjustable Weight Bench is designed for full body workouts to shape your arm, abs, back, chest, glutes, hamstrings and core...
5. Best Premium Sit Up Bench: TARGET ABS
Target Abs from the Abs Company is our choice for top premium sit-up bench.
The Target Abs bench is an abdominal focused slant board that is set at a fixed angle. Setting this product apart from other sit-up benches are the three color-coded targets at the top of the bench.
These colored targets provide a goal that you can see and feel during your workout. Being able to touch the target at the top of your movement ensures that you are getting a full range of motion while working out and not cheating yourself.
You may recognize the Touch Target Technology from the very popular AB SOLO, which is another type of abdominal machine made by the Abs Company. The idea behind it is to optimally train the upper and lower abs, as well as the obliques for a truly full ab workout.
Provided on the machine is a grip handle to make getting on and off the machine easier. Basic use of the machine is to get into a traditional crunch starting position, extend your hands over your head and touch the red target at the top of the movement. The two targets on either side can be used for side taps or twisting sit-ups to absolutely incinerate your obliques.
If you are looking to make your workout more difficult, you can also incorporate a medicine ball or any other type of weighted ball and tap the targets with it.
The Target Abs bench can also be used to effectively train those often neglected lower abs. The reverse crunch handle makes an excellent anchoring point to be able to perform leg raises, twisting bent knee lifts, and reverse crunches, which you could probably infer from the handle name.
The Abs Company suggests creating a color routine that will ensure you hit every angle that may be hard to assess on most ab benches.
Unlike the other sit-up benches on our list, this one has a fixed angle of 45°, and is full commercial rated. Meaning that if it can take the use and abuse from a commercial gym setting, being part of your home gym should give you years and years of use.
The high grade steel frame comes either in a high gloss silver or black powder coated finish. The foam roller pads are covered with a black vinyl upholstery.
The assembled dimensions of this ab bench are 64 inches L x 32 inches W x 43 inches H, and weighs in at 85 lb. The good news is that there are wheels on the front of the machine, so if you need to move the bench around, it makes life a little easier.
There is not a weight capacity listed, but given the solid construction and no moving parts, you can assume that it will be able to handle most users.
Coming in at a price of over $1k this certainly is a premium priced product, but the high quality construction and almost foolproof ease of use to get the most out of your ab workouts, might make it worth the investment.
Pros
- Touch Target Technology takes the guess work of full range of motion out of the equation
- Reverse crunch handle for decline sit-up exercises
- Full commercial rated
Cons
- Can't adjust the angle or leg roller positions
- Very expensive
TARGET ABS is an abdominal training bench that incorporates the Touch Target Technology popularized by the Ab Solo...
6. Best Compact Sit Up Bench: HARISON Compact Bench
The HARISON compact bench is our pick for best space-saving sit-up bench.
The HARISON compact bench may not look like one of the most advanced ab benches, but it more than makes up for it in functionality.
At just 44 inches long total, this small scale flat bench can be used for a host of exercises. Not only can you use it to perform sit-ups, but it also can be used for other upper body exercises such as dips, seated movements such as dumbbell shoulder press and bent over lateral raises, and can even be used to perform dumbbell flyes (this one is dependent on your height).
The 19 inch height makes it easy to onboard and offboard after you are finished with your workout. Your legs are held in place by four 3.5 inch padded rollers, with the bottom roller able to be adjusted from a low position to a high position accommodating for users of differing heights.
This versatile, compact piece of gym equipment can also be used quite literally as a weight bench. There is a built in weight rack underneath the seat, which only helps add to the stability of the sit-up bench when it is loaded up.
The seat adjusts from a flat position to decline bench for an added challenge. Also more challenging when it comes to a compact ab bench is that you will not really get a break at the bottom of the movement, since you can't relax (even briefly) on the pad.
Weighing only 30 lb, this workout bench can be easily moved when needed which makes it a great choice for someone with limited home gym space. The hardened steel frame is rated for 220 lb, but there are reviews of heavier users saying they have been able to use it without issue.
Priced at less than $200, this is an extremely affordable option. The HARISON Compact bench is a great option for one of the best sit-up benches you can get your hands on.
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Built-in weight rack
- Comes fully assembled out of the box
Cons
- Taller users may have difficulty using this bench to its full potential
- Somewhat low weight capacity
Special compact design makes it lightweight and portable, easily to store under desk or similar space. Ergonomic design perfect support your petite body. High quality and firm enough for long term use...
7. Best Decline Sit Up Bench: Valor Fitness DF-2
Valor Fitness DF-2 provides the best decline sit-up bench in our opinion. The DF-2 has four different decline positions and one flat bench setting. The decline bench adjustments go from flat to 10°, 16°, 25°, and finally 35°. Between all of these settings, the ideal angle is easily accessible.
Like some other sit-up benches, the DF-2 can be used as a workout bench from its flat setting, but really shines during an ab workout. Rather than two sets of foam rollers, it features a single set of rollers for your ankles/shins and a wide pad that uses your calves for leverage, not the back of your knees for superior leg support. The roller can be adjusted forwards or backwards to find a comfortable position to have your legs in.
The back pad measures in at 47.5 inches long and tapers from 13.75 inches down to 9.75 inches by the head of the pad. With a 2 inch thick pad, it definitely is not the thickest back pad that is out there, but is more than suitable to perform sit-ups and other weight training exercises.
The full dimensions of this workout bench are 63.5 inches L x 18 inches W x 34 inches H, which seems to be about average for comparable sit-up benches.
The frame is made from a steel 2x2" tubing and has a maximum weight capacity of 600 lb. This sit-up bench weighs about 50 lb, but is relatively easy to move with the built-in transport wheels.
For just over $200, this ab bench is priced competitively with other similar products and would make a great addition to any home gym.
Pros
- Four incline angles plus is able to go flat
- Calf support pad instead of rollers
- Built-in transport wheels
Cons
- Lack of a handle makes leg raises or similar exercises more difficult
- No adjustment for the calf pad
The DF-2 Bench adjusts in 5 different positions to fit your exercise needs. Includes a flat position that measures 18.5 in. from the top of the pad off the ground...
8. Best Sit Up Bench With Bands: HANSTORM Sit Up Bench
The HANSTORM sit up bench is our pick for best sit-up bench with resistance bands.
This piece of gym equipment not only has resistance bands attached to it but also has a pulley sled which is perfect for crunches and a little lower back support while doing leg lifts.
This is much more than a basic slant board. With dual handles at the top getting on and off is a breeze, not to mention them being a great place to grip while using the sled for crunches and to use as a reverse crunch handle. The top two leg rollers can also double as a narrow grip incline push-up station, which just adds to the flexibility of this home gym equipment.
The connected resistance bands are perfect for being able to perform resistance exercises for your abs as well as pretty much all the major muscle groups. Being able to hit reps of lateral raises at the top of a sit-up can bring your workouts to a whole new level.
The .6 inch thick steel can support a weight up to 330 lb. This adjustable sit-up bench has three positions with decline angles between 30° and 45° for added variety. The board size is a little bit short at 33 inches, but more than makes up for in width with a 16 inch span.
The HANSTORM also differs from most of the other sit-up benches on our list due to the fact that it is foldable, which is a nice option to have in a piece of gym equipment. Also between the handlebars is a built-in timer, which is perfect for keeping track of intervals.
Priced under $200, you get a lot of bang for your buck in terms of exercise options.
Pros
- Included resistance bands
- Knee sled pulley
- Foldable design
Cons
- Padding seems a bit thin on the leg support and bench
- Back pad length is a bit on the short side
Designed with 3 back positions for full body workout. The adjustable bench contains the function of normal sit up, lying leg raise, elastic rope, slant board, weight bench, learned over a back, waist bench and push up...
9. Best Sit Up Bench For People With Back Issues: GYMAX Sit Up Bench
The GYMAX Adjustable sit up bench offers something that other benches don't, a curved back rest. This design allows your back to assume its natural curve, you will feel extra supported and will be able to get a bit of an extra stretch that isn't possible on a weight bench.
This utility bench has four different height settings for that allow you to hit different angles, at a higher angle, this bench can be used like a much gentler inversion table, allowing you to stretch out your back. With a back pad width of 12 inches, your lower back should get plenty of support.
The GYMAX comes with four padded bars to keep you locked in. Also attached to the top pads are two handles that can be used to carry the machine or even as reverse crunch handles. This ab bench conveniently folds up as well for easy storage. At a weight of only approximately 15 lb, this bench is easy to move if needed.
That being said, the low weight of the bench most likely means that the weight capacity isn't as high as other benches (just speculation). This sit-up bench costs under $100, which is a tremendous value.
Pros
- Very low price
- Curved back pad for back pain relief
- Foldable for easy storage
Cons
- Weight rating is most likely lower than what is advertised
- Taller users may have some issues
With unique folding design, this workout bench can be folded up to compact size and put against wall or store under bed to save more space. And this exercise bench is convenient for daily maintenance simply with a damp cloth...
BENEFITS OF SIT UP BENCHES：
Now a lot of people might ask themselves, why shouldn't I just get a regular exercise bench? Why should I even consider buying something else? We are going to do our best to answers those questions for you down below.
1.Versatile
If you have gone through our list of the best sit-up benches, then you know these pieces of equipment are great for doing other exercises besides a sit-up. Some of these ab benches even offer a flat setting, so it can be used like a traditional weight bench.
Now the decline settings are where an ab bench shines. We will talk about the benefits of a decline angle for ab exercises in the next section, but for now we are going to touch on some other exercises. Most people who weight train usually thrown in some sort of incline work along with their flat workout bench exercises. Often ignored is the decline range of motion.
Decline chest presses and flyes work the muscles you would only be able to hit while standing upright with a cable tower. Now most people don't have one of those in their home gym, so those exercises get overlooked and forgot about. With a sit-up bench you have the ability to work on these movements.
2. Target Core
Most people are looking at this list are trying to find the best ab bench they can and everything else is just an added bonus. Now some may ask, why do I need a specific sit-up bench, why can't I just use the floor?
Well you can, but, having your legs locked into place along with the increased difficulty of starting from below parallel, you are going to get a more difficult and more effective workout in.
Whether you want to do a traditional sit-up to hit your upper abs, some Russian twists to hit the obliques, or flip around in your seat and channel your inner Bruce Lee to do some Dragon Flags for the lower abs, a specific decline bench is going to be the way you will want to go.
Some sit-up benches even offer Roman Chair accessories for hitting your entire core, not just your abs. Hyperextensions work your glutes, hamstrings, as well as your erector spinae (low back) giving your entire midsection strength which leads to better stability and balance to name a couple things.
3. Burn Calories
While sit-up benches aren't going to burn as many calories as a treadmill or elliptical machine, they can still add up. Given how many exercises are possible to perform on a sit-up bench, working super-sets into your routine can help burn calories and keep you in a caloric deficit, which will burn fat and help you lose weight.
5 Best Sit Up Bench Exercises:
You could write an entire book listing out great exercises for sit-up benches, for all of our sakes, we will try to keep it to the best of the best.
1. Sit-ups:
You had to expect to see these on the list. The one abdominal exercise that almost everybody know. Not only do they hit your abs, but performing sit-ups also activates your hip flexors and some leg muscles as well.
2. Crunches:
Probably the second most well known ab exercise, the crunch hits your abs and obliques without bringing in any other body parts.
3. Russian Twists:
One of the most brutal ab exercises you can do. Holding yourself up activates your rectus abdominis (the six-pack), erector spinae (lower back), hip flexors, transverse abdominis (deep core muscles), among others. Add in the twisting motion and your obliques are firing on all cylinders, helping to chisel out the perfect frame for your six-pack
4. Reverse Crunches:
Perfect for hitting the often neglected section of abdomen, this brutal exercise targets the hard to reveal lower abs. While a reverse crunch handle is ideal for this exercise, it isn't necessary. And if you really want to try to kick it up another notch, give Dragon Flags a shot.
5. Decline Dumbbell Press:
Who would've guessed that one of the best exercises you can do on sit-up benches are a chest press? The angle of the movement mixed with the range of motion dumbbells supply is a recipe for an effective exercise. The angle of a decline press also reduces strain on your shoulders, which is an added benefit.
As we said before, the list could go on and on, but these are five of our favorites.
What To Consider When Buying A Sit Up Bench：
With the huge amount of sit-up benches on the market, it can be hard to navigate through all the choices. Here are some things to look for to find your ideal sit-up bench.
1. Build Quality
This should be a huge factor in whatever sit-up bench you decide to purchase. If you are planning on spending hundreds of dollars on a piece of equipment, you want to make sure that it is going to last.
Having an idea of what material the frame is made from should give you a pretty solid idea of its weight bearing abilities. If the frame only weighs 5 lb, the chance that it will have a 500 lb weight limit is pretty farfetched.
Finding out what the padding is like on the back pad and leg supports will save you some discomfort down the line too. A back pad without sufficient padding is like doing sit-ups on a slab of concrete. Leg supports without adequate padding can feel like you're being locked into a torture device, putting painful stress on your ankles/shins and the back of your knees.
Unrelated to a physical part of the workout bench that some may overlook is the warranty. If something does happen to go wrong with your bench, what is covered and for how long? Finding these things out before you buy could save you a massive headache down the line.
2. Functionality
What are you looking for out of your workout bench? Are you looking for a sit-up bench specifically only for ab work? Our premium pick Target Abs might be exactly what you are looking for.
Maybe you want a bench that you can do a little bit of everything on, in which case the FINER FORM sit-up bench would check that box, or maybe the HANSTORM that comes with resistance bands.
How important is being able to change the angle to you? Someone that is a pretty advanced user probably won't need to lower the angle, but someone just beginning might find it advantageous to start a little easier and work your way up. A bench with more options might mean finding the perfect height for yourself.
3. Price
This is probably the biggest factor on most peoples list. Knowing what your budget is will definitely narrow the scope of what you should and shouldn't be looking at. That being said, just because something has a high price tag doesn't mean that it is actually worth that price. As you've seen on our list, there are plenty of great options running from super low budget to top of the line. With so many options out there, you should be able to find a bench that checks all the boxes.
4. Reviews
These are invaluable. Getting feedback from people that actually have bought and tried the product is a great way to determine whether or not you may want to take the plunge in buying a certain machine. You can also usually get a pretty good idea of a company's customer service based on the reviews.
Sit Up Bench FAQ
Are sit up benches worth it?
In short, yes! Sit-up benches are a fantastic way to strengthen your core while also giving you the option to use it for working out other body parts.
What’s a good sit up bench?
We've given a list of nine of the best sit-up benches to choose from, but our top overall pick is the Titan Fitness Max Adjustable FID Bench for the reasons stated above. As a reminder, it's super functional and can be used for more than just hitting the core. You can use this bench for all your core work plus upper body exercises.
Can you do sit ups on a weight bench?
Absolutely! There are plenty of guides that can show you great ways to do not only sit-ups but a whole host of ab exercises. We're partial to the ab exercises post that we've written with a workout included.
Is it better to do sit ups on a bench or on the floor?
That depends on a couple factors. One of which being beginners are generally recommended to do them on the floor or a flat surface due to the increased difficulty of doing them on a decline. In that same vein, you will get a more intense workout from doing them on a sit-up bench.
SUMMARY
The amount of sit-up benches out there can be a little overwhelming, but hopefully in this guide we've shown you that not all benches were created equal. Whether you are shopping for the crème de la crème or balling on a budget, there are great options out there that will meet all of your requirements.
Hopefully you have also seen that ab benches can be used for much more than just that. Incorporating one of these machines into your regular workout routine can help inject some variety into your workouts that just can't be done on a flat weight bench.
Our favorite sit-up bench comes from Titan Fitness thanks to its rigid build and functionality.
Get the most out of your workout with the Max Adjustable FID Bench. Our innovative design allows for 10 possible bench positions and 7 possible head/set positions – that is up to 70 custom positions...
Looking for more gym equipment that can challenge your core? Check out our post that covers the Best Power Towers on the market.
Tyler DiGiovanni
Author