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One simple yet effective piece of home gym equipment is the plyometric box AKA the plyo box. If used properly, a plyo box can transform your body and boost athletic performance, but with all the options on the market, it can be challenging to know whether you're buying the right ones.

To help you in your search to find the best plyometric box, we put together a thorough list of the 9 best plyo boxes on the market today. From the best wooden plyo box to the best soft plyometric box, we have you covered with this post; find the perfect option for you down below.

** This post may contain affiliate ads where we make a small commission on purchases made at no cost to you. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**

9 Best Plyo Boxes For Home Gyms

1. Overall Best Plyo Box: Fringe Sport Wooden Plyo Box
2. Best Budget Plyo Box: Yes4All Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box
3. Best Adjustable Plyo Box: Titan Fitness Adjustable Plyo Box
4. Best Plyo Boxes On Amazon: Yes4All 3 in 1 Plyo Box
5. Best 3 In 1 Foam Plyo Box: Fringe Sport Multi-Sided Plyo Box
6. Best Traditional Plyo Box: Fringe Sport Traditional Plyo Box
7. Best Foam Stackable Plyo Boxes: Rep Stackable Foam Plyo Boxes
8. Best Wooden Stackable Plyo Boxes: Titan Stackable Wooden Plyo Boxes
9. Best Steel/Metal Frame Plyo Box: Body Solid Steel Frame Plyo Boxes

1. Overall Best Plyo Boxes: Fringe Sport Wooden Plyo Box

The Fringe Sport OneFitWonder Plyo Box is our pick for the overall best plyo box. Fringe Sport is known for building high-quality fitness equipment, and this wooden plyo box doesn't let us down.

With this multi-sided wooden plyo box there are three options for sizes Mini ( 16x18x20"), Small (20x24x30") and Large (20x24x30"). Using a three-sided wooden box from Fringe Sport, you can run through the toughest plyometric workouts.

They claim that the box will hold any person who can get on the box. The boxes are constructed from Birch 3/4" plywood which will stand just about everything you could throw at them. Plus, they included internal bracing that contacts the 4 largest faces to provide extra durability.

The only possible flaw with these wood plyo boxes is that they ship flat, and you'll have to put them together on arrival, but it's pretty easy with the help of some simple tools. On the other hand, the flat pack shipping reduced the price you paid for the high quality.

PROS:

• Built with 3/4" Birch plywood for extra strength
• Routered corners to provide rounded edges just in case you "miss"
• 3 different heights with one product
• Max weight capacity could handle anyone able to use it

CONS:

• Requires assembly
• 1 Year warranty

Overall Best Plyo Boxes

Fringe Sport Wooden Plyo Box

These OneFitWonder multi-sided plyo boxes were designed in Austin. They come in 3 sizes - 16x18x20" (Mini), 16x20x24" (Small) and 20x24x30" (Large)...

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2. Best Budget Plyo Boxes: Yes4All Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box

Yes4All is a familiar name for fitness products when shopping on Amazon as they make budget-friendly equipment with good quality. The Yes4All wooden plyo boxes are built from high-grade plywood to produce a maximum capacity weight of 450 pounds!

They also added a non-slip surface to help ensure your safety when performing plyometric exercises like the box jump or toe touch. With this wooden plyo box, you get three different heights of 20 x 18 x 16" to save you the space and money instead of buying multiple boxes.

Last but not least, this wood box also has large handle openings, making it easy to move around your gym space if needed.

PROS:

• Budget-friendly price tag
• Anti slip surface
• 3 in 1 height plyo box

CONS:

• It might not be the most durable plyo box
• 1-year warranty

Best Budget Plyo Boxes

Yes4All Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box

Made of high-grade plywood with puzzle joints and internal bracing, Yes4All Non-Slip Wooden Plyo Box is extremely durable and can handle up to an amazing 450lbs of weight...

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3. Best Adjustable Plyo Box: Titan Fitness Adjustable Plyo Box

Titan Fitness is a mainstay in the industry, and with this Adjustable Plyometric box, they gave us another great piece of equipment. This adjustable plyo box features a strong frame made of 11 gauge heavy-duty steel and is covered by a powder coat of red paint to maintain its fresh looks.

With this box, you get 4 different heights from 12 to 24 inches, and you have a wide 18" landing platform to take advantage of. The top of this metal plyo box is covered by a non-slip surface and has rubber feet to help you keep your balance during your plyometric training.

If you want a plyometric box that gives you optimal functionality while ensuring a steady and stable surface to land on, then don't miss this adjustable height plyo box from Titan Fitness.

PROS:

• Maximum adjustability with 4 different heights
• Wide landing platform
• Built from heavy-duty 11 gauge steel

CONS:

• Some people think adjusting the height could be an easier process

Best Adjustable Plyo Box

Titan Fitness Adjustable Plyo Box

This Plyo Box is going to give you the edge you need in your cross-training, aerobic exercises, or physical therapy. It doesn’t matter if it’s box jumps, push-ups, dips, or step-ups, this box has you covered...

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4. Best Plyo Boxes On Amazon: Yes4All Foam 3 in 1 Plyo Box

Yes4All makes our list again for the best plyometric boxes, but this time it's their heavy-duty 3-in-1 foam box. With this affordable option, you get the benefits of having three different plyo boxes in one piece.

This foam plyo box has a thick, durable PVC leather so that you can keep it clean from shoe prints and dirt. The covering also helps with its anti-slip surface to reduce your chances of falling.

The dimensions of this heavy-duty foam plyo box are 20" (L) x 24" (W)x 30" (H), and it is built to withstand up to 350 pounds. This is one of the best plyo boxes on the market if you're looking for a 3-in-1 box with ultra-dense PE foam to reduce impact when doing step-ups, box jumps, or other plyometric exercises. Just make sure you go for the heavy duty model not the regular!

PROS:

• 3 in 1 box
• Constructed of PE foam that's covered by PVC leather for extra durability
• Holds up to 350 lb
• No assembly required

CONS:

• Avoid the lighter version as they are listed together

Best Plyo Boxes On Amazon

Yes4All Foam 3 in 1 Plyo Box

Perfect for plyometric & HIIT exercises, MMA & CrossFit workouts, 3 different height settings let you control the difficulty levels...

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5. Best 3 In 1 Foam Plyo Box: Fringe Sport Multi-Side Plyo Box

This 3-in-1 foam box from Fringe Sport won't disappoint. Although this isn't a cheap plyo box, you're in for a treat.

With this one box, you get three different heights of 16 x 20 x 24" with the Small size or 20 x 24 x 30" with the Large option. With these different sizes, you'll undoubtedly be able to challenge yourself.

This box is made with a soft foam outer shell and 95% solid, dense foam core. The soft foam will save your shins in case you slip. The foam is covered by vinyl PU leather, so you can keep it clean.

What's more, is the 330-pound max weight capacity that makes it the best plyometric box made from foam.

PROS:

• Top quality construction with 95% dense foam
• 330 lb weight capacity
• 3 different heights in one box saves space

CONS:

• 1-year warranty
• A tad expensive

Best 3 In 1 Foam Plyo Box

Fringe Sport Multi-Side Plyo Box

Constructed of both dense and soft foam. 95% solid dense foam core. Heavier weight makes this plyo sturdy and prevents tipping. 5% soft foam padded outside forgives your shins...

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6. Best Traditional Plyo Boxes: Fringe Sport Traditional Plyo Box

These traditional wooden plyo boxes from Fringe Sport might be just what you need to take your training to the next level.

If you want an extra durable wood plyo box, then this might be a good fit for you. This wooden plyo box is constructed from 3/4" Birch plywood, not some cheap plywood that will break after a few hard training sessions. This wood plyo box, no matter the size, can hold up to a whopping 400 pounds!

Here's a wooden plyometric box that is designed for long-term usage. Searching for a wood plyo box that's built in the USA, this is it! You have 5 options to choose from 12, 16, 20, 24, and 30 inches.

One point to mention is that, like Rogue wood plyo boxes, Fringe Sport also ships them out in flat packs, so they'll have to be assembled when you receive them.

PROS:

• Solid construction
• 5 different sizes to choose from
• 400 lb max user capacity
• Wide base

CONS:

• It needs to be assembled (wood glue not included)
• It takes up more space if you want multiple sizes.

Best Traditional Plyo Boxes

Fringe Sport Traditional Plyo Box

These traditional plyo boxes were designed in Austin. They come in 5 sizes - 12", 16", 20", 24", and 30". All sizes are specifically designed and manufactured to ship flat and be assembled with ease...

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7. Best Stackable Foam Plyo Boxes: Rep Fitness Stackable Foam Plyo Boxes

This isn't just a Rep Fitness box; with this product, you can stack the foam boxes on top of one another to test your limits.

Composed of ultra-dense foam covered by durable vinyl, the Rep stackable foam plyo boxes are soft yet stable and come in 5 sizes of 24, 20, 12, 6, and 4-inch heights, making it possible to build a plyo box tower up to 66"! In addition, the Velcro flaps on each section allow you to add the sections to each other without worrying about instability.

Rep Fitness marked the size of each section is printed on 2 sides, making it easy to identify which soft plyo box you want to use. Moreover, they added cross-stitched handles on the sides to make moving them around a seamless task.

Take your jumping ability to new heights with these soft plyo boxes, and have no worries about scraping your shins if you don't make your dream jump.

PROS:

• Save space by stacking multiple sections together
• Build a platform up to 66"
• Constructed with dense foam to prevent injuries

CONS:

• Over time Velcro straps may become less effective in securing the soft plyometric box sections together

Best Stackable Foam Plyo Boxes

Rep Fitness Stackable Foam Plyo Boxes

Protect your shins and joints by jumping onto a soft, impact-absorbing surface. Unlike similar products on the market, our boxes are heavier...

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8. Best Stackable Wooden Plyo Boxes: Titan Fitness Stackable Wooden Plyo Boxes

Titan Fitness created these wooden stackable boxes to give athletes a versatile and durable option when training. The plyo box they designed is composed of .7" thick, high-quality plywood that employs interlocking puzzle joints to ensure their stability.

Each plyo box is covered by a black textured non-slip surface to give you an added sense of security when pushing your workouts to the max. Additionally, you can purchase a plyo box set with 5 different heights of 4, 6, 8, 12, and 16 inches. This complete plyometric box set will result in the option to create 21 different heights from 4 to 46 inches high.

These plyo boxes are the perfect addition to your home gym. With their cut-out handles, you can move them around without any issues.

Other plyo boxes might top out at a 300 lb weight capacity but not these; they can hold up to 400 pounds with ease!

PROS:

• 21 different height possibilities
• Durable .7" thick plywood

CONS:

• Have to buy multiple boxes if you want different heights

Best Stackable Wooden Plyo Boxes

Titan Fitness Stackable Wooden Plyo Boxes

Built for performing plyometrics training exercises, this plyo box is designed from high-quality plywood with interlocking puzzle joints laminated with a black textured...

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9. Best Steel/Metal Plyo Boxes: Body Solid Steel Frame Plyo Boxes

Body Solid is known for manufacturing top-notch gym equipment, so it's no wonder these are some of the best boxes on the market. Some types of plyo boxes are constructed from cheap materials, but these aren't.

Body Solid's metal plyo boxes are built with a heavy-duty 1" square steel frame covered by a red scratch-proof powder coat finish. The platforms of these metal boxes are reinforced .5" plywood that's blanketed by a non-slip rubber surface.

With these plyometric boxes, you can choose one or all of the six different heights from 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, and 42 inches. Needless to say, these plyo boxes should withstand years of punishment.

PROS:

• Steel frame
• Non-slip surface
• 6 different heights are available

CONS:

• Requires assembly
• 300 lb max weight capacity

Best Steel/Metal Plyo Boxes

Body Solid Steel Frame Plyo Boxes

Heavy duty steel construction with non-slip rubber surface for explosive jump and speed training, available from 6 to 42 inches tall...

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9 best Plyo Boxes Side By Side Comparison

Below we stacked up the plyo boxes next to each other to help you distinguish which option would be the best for your needs. 

TYPES Of plyo boxes

Multiple types of plyo boxes are available to choose from online, but to find the best plyo box for your needs, you should know the subtle differences between them.

Materials

Most plyo boxes will be made from the following materials, which all have some pros and cons.

• Wood Plyo Box: Probably one of the most common types of boxes you'll see in gyms are composed of wood. These boxes are often very sturdy if the manufacturer uses proper materials. Wood plyo boxes are often competitively priced and will last a long time. The only real issues with wood boxes are that you could hurt yourself if you miss the box or land awkwardly on it, and you will usually have to assemble them when they arrive as they're often shipped in flat packs.
• Dense & Soft Foam Plyo Box: Foam plyo boxes are composed of high-density foam that provides a softer platform to perform exercises on. These types of boxes usually have a dense foam core inside that makes the box stable. The benefits of buying a soft plyo box are that they are lighter, and they produce a soft surface that can reduce injuries if you fall or slip off of the edge. On the other hand, foam boxes can potentially be less stable than heavier wood or metal boxes which could actually cause a fall. They can also degrade faster than wood or metal boxes.
• Metal Plyo Box: A metal plyometric box is precisely what it sounds like. These boxes are constructed from metal or steel, which offers a solid base to take off from or land on. These boxes are usually heavier than their counterparts and are highly stable. However, one issue with metal boxes is that if you fall or misjudge a step, you might scrape or injure yourself. Another downside of metal boxes is that they are usually more expensive and are limited in their functionality—more on that below.
• Resin Plyometric Box: This is the least common type of plyo box, but some manufacturers are now offering them as an alternative to the other boxes. A resin plyometric box is made of recycled plastic shaped into a mold. These boxes are incredibly durable and can be stacked to create a solid tower. There aren't many faults with these boxes apart from they can be a little slippery and the cost, which can be high. If you're looking for this type, check out Rogue Fitness for the best resin plyometric box.

Type

Now that you know the common types of materials used for plyo boxes, you'll see they can appear in different forms that offer a variety of features. 

Here's a brief look at the categories of plyo boxes that you might come across.

• Traditional Plyo Box: Traditional plyometric boxes are usually made from wood or metal, which results in a stable platform to perform your intense workouts with. These boxes usually have a wider base compared to the platform. 
• Multi-Sided Plyo Box: Multi-sided or 3-in-1 plyo boxes are super functional because, within one box, you get three different height platforms to work from. You will see these made from wood or foam.
• Adjustable Plyo Box: With an adjustable plyo box, you can raise or lower the platform. These boxes are usually made of steel or metal and are not the cheapest option, but an adjustable box gives you plenty of opportunities to work with.
• Stackable: Like the name describes, this type allows you to stack one box on top of the other to build a platform height that's perfect for the person or exercise that's being done. You will see stackable plyo boxes made from foam or wood. 

Benefits Of Plyometric Boxes

Plyometric boxes provide several benefits for those looking to get into tip-top shape or improve their athletic performance. Whether you're doing box jumps, step-ups, or even incline pushups, this humble piece of gym equipment can propel you to the next level.

Let's look at some of the benefits of a plyo box.

Lose Weight

Most likely, people use plyo boxes while doing HIIT training. This type of training with a plyometric box will burn a vast amount of calories in a short time, which leads to those pesky pounds coming off of your waistline.

Improve Jumping Ability

The plyometric jump is one of the best exercises to do if you want to enhance your jumping ability. To perform this exercise, you start on top of the plyo box, then drop down off of it, and as soon as your feet hit the ground, you jump as high as you can. Plyometric jump training began decades ago to improve Olympian performances, and it's still used these days by professional athletes to gain a competitive edge.

Enhance Athletic Performance

There's a reason why you'll see extreme athletic competitions like the CrossFit Games use plyometric boxes. These simple jump boxes can test the toughest of athletes. Most plyo box exercises are based on explosive movement, translating to better performance in most dynamic sports.

What to Look for when buying a Plyo Box

You may think that plyo boxes are all the same, but there are a few factors to consider before buying a single box or a box set.

Size

Plyo boxes aren't big, so most people won't have trouble fitting them into their home gym space. But if you're short on space, you should opt for either a 3-in-1 box or stackable boxes.

Think about your current athletic ability before deciding whether you can take full advantage of the bigger boxes. larger boxes will have a height of up to 40+ inches but if you're just a beginner you can opt for one with a max height of 6-16 inches.

Build

We covered the primary materials that plyo boxes are made of, but the build quality can vary from brand to brand. So besides looking at just the warranty, you should also check what materials were used; as a rule of thumb, the heavier boxes will be more durable apart from the resin boxes, which are light and durable.

Some key points to look at with each significant type of box are:

• Wood: At least.5" thick plywood with internal bracing that allows for over 300 lb weight capacity while having a non-slip surface.
• Metal: Heavy-duty steel that's 1 " thick with powder coat paint that offers a high weight capacity with a non-slip surface.
• Foam: Dense foam core with soft foam outer shell that's covered by PU leather; the heavier the product, the more stable it will be.

Usage

The planned usage of your plyo box will guide you in the direction of what type you should consider. The harder materials such as wood and metal might be better suited to people who plan to use the box frequently as they can generally withstand more of a beating.

If you're a little unsure of your balance and coordination then a soft plyo box made with foam might be a better choice to dampen any potential falls or missteps.

For those who want the most variety of heights available to work with then stackable boxes good be a good fit.

Price

Plyo boxes range in price just like every other piece of fitness equipment. Most will range anywhere from $50-$150 for individual boxes. If you're strapped for cash then you should consider a 3 in 1 box rather than buying 3 separate boxes.

Online Ratings

As with almost all products you buy, it makes sense to take 10-20 mins to check out the main consensus on verified user reviews. Usually, the better products are from reputable manufacturers, but it's always best to check with your circle of friends to see if anyone has first-hand experience.

PLYO BOX FAQ

Are PLYO boxes worth it?

Absolutely, if you have some spare cash and want to really challenge yourself then a plyo box is a great piece of equipment. For less than $100 you can get a decent plyo box that will provide you with ample workout options apart from just a box jump.

What is the best height for a plyometric box?

The best height range for a plyo box is between 12-24 inches for the average person who likes to workout. That said, athletes or those more experienced might opt for 30 inch box or stackable boxes that can reach up to 60+ inches. For beginners, you'll probably be ok with a box that ranges from 6-12 inches so you can progress in time to a bigger box.

How heavy should a PLYO box be?

There's not a standard weight for plyo boxes but usually the heavier they are the more stable and durable they will be. Unless you're looking at a very small height box you should look for boxes that should weigh at least 15 pounds but the heavy-duty boxes whether foam, wood or metal will range from 25 -50 pounds.

SUMMARY

You made it this far, so chances are you're serious about finding the best plyo box for your home gym. Plyometric exercises are an excellent way to improve your athletic performance, get shredded and enhance your home gym workouts.

We hope you found our list of the 11 best plyometric boxes helpful in your search to take your training to the next height!

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The latissimus dorsi muscle, or "lat", is one of the most commonly associated muscles with building a powerful physique. A common sight in commercial gyms is the well-known "V"-taper, the broad, wide as a barn-door back, leading down to a narrower waist. For some, chasing that iconic look can be daunting, but you don't need to lose hope!

Keep reading to see the fantastic list we've put together of the 10 best lat pulldown machines that will help you grow your "wings" and achieve the back you have been striving for!

** This post may contain affiliate ads where we make a small commission on purchases made at no cost to you. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**

10 BEST LAT PULLDOWN MACHINES

1. Overall Best Lat Pulldown Machine: Titan Plate Loaded Lat Tower V2
2. Best Budget Lat Pulldown Machine: GDLF Lat Pulldown 
3. Best Premium Lat Pulldown Machine: Pro ClubLine Series 2 Lat Pulldown & Seated Row
4. Best Lat Pulldown Machine On Amazon: XMark Lat Pulldown
5. Best Lat Pulldown Machine With Weight Stack: Titan Lat Tower
6. Best Lat pulldown Machine For Strength Training: Pro Clubline Lat Pulldown
7. Best Rack With Lat Pulldown Machine: Fitness Reality Power Cage with Lat Pulldown
8. Best Leverage Lat Pulldown Machine: Pro Clubline Leverage Lat Pulldown
9. Best Wall Mounted Lat Pulldown Machine: ARCHON Wall Mounted Cable Station
10. Best Functional Trainer With Lat Pull Down: Force USA G9

1. Overall Best Lat Pulldown Machine: Titan Plate Loaded Lat Tower V2

The Titan Fitness Lat Tower V2 is a space efficient lat machine designed to focus on building your back and shoulder strength. This first-rate Lat Tower combines high and low pulleys, ideal for high pulley lat work as well as a low row, making it a great addition to any home gym.

With two, 13-inch loadable sleeves for weight plates, you can build your upper body strength with a weight capacity of up to 400-pounds making it comparable to other lat pulldown machines you would find in a local gym. The tower comes equipped with a lat pulldown bar, low row bar, and thigh pads with four adjustable positions to make room for athletes of all sizes.

Stack on the weight plates and use lat pulldowns to efficiently build your upper body and back muscles by performing multiple lat pulldown exercises, bent-over rows, seated rows, and more.

PROS:

• Space efficient design
• High weight capacity on par with a commercial gym
• Dual pulley system for a higher versatility of exercises
• Strong steel construction
• Angled weight posts to keep weight plates from sliding off during exercises

CONS:

• Can only be used with weight plates
• Extra work of bolting the machine to the floor to safely perform upright cable rows

Overall Best Lat Pulldown Machine

Titan Fitness Lat Tower V2

The Plated-Loaded Lat Tower is a space-saving strength trainer designed to build your back and shoulder strength. This high-quality Lat Tower combines lat pull down and a low row position...

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2. Best Budget Lat Pulldown Machine: GDLF Lat Pulldown 

The GDLF lat pulldown machine is a great addition to anyone's garage gym for strength training exercises that are designed to develop the lats. 

The 4-position thigh pad foam rollers adjust to fit a variety of leg sizes, and the 4-position adjustable seat pad ensures that you can find the correct settings to keep locked in during your high pulley set.

This lat machine comes equipped with both high and low pulley stations which results in more exercises being able to be performed, such as bicep curls, forearm strengthening, as well as low rows. This machine will put you in the right direction to build your biceps, lats, forearms, and rear deltoids.

This machine is made from heavy duty steel and and has a sturdy non-slip base. Olympic weight plates as well as standard weight plates will fit on this machine, with a maximum weight recommendation of 350lb.

PROS:

• High and Low pulley system
• Very low priced
• Small footprint for home gyms
• Can take standard and Olympic plates

CONS:

• A little bit on the shorter side, so taller people might have an issue with full extension
• Assembly can be on the challenging side
• Can only be used with weight plates

Best Budget Lat Pulldown Machine

GDLF Lat Pulldown

This affordable plate loaded lat pulldown machine has a 4-position adjustable foam rollers to fit your height and lock you in position for high pulley lat work...

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3. Best Premium Lat Pulldown Machine: Pro ClubLine Series 2 Lat Seated Row

This state of the art Pro Clubline Series 2 was designed to give an intense workout while decreasing strain that could lead to injury. Ample bench room design makes getting into position almost effortless while also providing enough room for all size users to effectively use the mid row station. The DuraFirm™ padding provides a comfortable and support bench to allow for longer training sessions without worry of added fatigue and discomfort.

The 11 gauge steel frame makes this machine's body solid as a rock with stability to match. The sleek look of this piece of fitness equipment is enhanced by the fully shrouded weight stack. Included with this machine are two cable handles, a traditional lat pulldown bar, and a straight bar.

This lat pulldown machine offers a 5 position adjustment on the leg hold down making sure that any and all sizes will be able find their perfect setting. This machine also boasts independent lat pulldown pulleys, ensuring uniform development of the lats. The Pro ClubLine Series 2 comes equipped with a 160lb weight stack, with the option to upgrade to a 235lb weight stack.

With an In-Home Lifetime Warranty and Full Commercial Warranty, anyone buying this machine can rest easy, whether it be for a home gym or a commercial gym.

PROS:

• Safety of a fully shrouded weight stack
• Independent lat pulldown movements
• Mid row pulley system for targeting the rhomboids, posterior deltoids, and middle trapezius
• Solid construction
• In-Home Lifetime Warranty

CONS:

• On the more expensive side
• Large footprint, especially for a home gym

Best Premium Lat Pulldown Machine

Pro ClubLine Series 2 Lat Seated Row

Designed for intense use, the Series II machines come with Full Commercial Warranties. Heavy-gauge steel frames and all-4-side welded construction ensures ...

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4. Best Lat Pulldown Machine On Amazon: XMark Lat Pulldown

The XMark lat pulldown machine features both high and low pulley stations making a high variety of exercises besides lat pulldowns possible. Easily perform tricep pushdowns or bicep curls to target the arms, or stick to rows and pulldowns to build a wide, powerful back. This lat pulldown machine has an 11 gauge 2"x3" frame construction and can use both standard and Olympic plates.

With a 400lb maximum load capacity, and nylon-coated cables that have a 2,200lb tensile strength rating, you won't have to worry about if the machine can support you during your most grueling workouts.

The XMark lat pulldown also boasts a thick 3in sweat and tear resistant Duraguard seat, with 4.33in thigh pads, making sure you can get your workout done in comfort. The flip up footplate guarantees a solid foundation to perform seated rows with the included lat pulldown bar or low row bar.

PROS:

• Compact footprint
• Works with standard and Olympic plates
• High weight load capacity
• Moderately priced

CONS:

• Plates are not included
• People over 6' might have issues with full extension

Best Lat Pulldown Machine On Amazon

XMark Lat Pulldown

With nylon-coated aircraft quality cables that have a 2200 pound tensile strength rating and a 400 pound maximum load capacity, XMark has...

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5. Best Lat Pulldown Machine With Weight Stack: Titan Lat Tower

The Titan Lat Tower is a compact, high poundage, lat pulldown machine designed to build the back you've always wanted. This standalone lat pulldown machine offers a lat pulldown pulley as well as a low row pulley, making it a versatile piece of equipment.

The 300 lb weight stack provides plenty of weight for a grueling session of various grip pulldowns, bent-over rows, seated rows, and whatever other exercises you can come up with.

The Titan Fitness Lat Tower comes equipped with a lat bar and band pegs to be able to increase the workload even higher! This machine provides six thigh pad positions and eight footplate positions, making finding your perfect settings easy.

The high build quality also ensures that this will be the only home lat pulldown machine you will have to purchase for a life time.

PROS:

• Heavy 300 lb weight stack with 10 lb increments
• Six thigh pad and eight footplate positions
• Band pegs for adding additional resistance bands if desired
• Extremely solid construction

CONS:

• Only comes with one handle attachment
• High product weight

Best Lat Pulldown Machine With Weight Stack

Titan Lat Tower

With a 300-pound single-weight stack, you can efficiently perform various pulldowns, bent-over rows, seated rows, and more. It comes with a Lat bar and band pegs...

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6. Best Lat pulldown Machine For Strength Training: Pro Clubline Lat Pulldown

The Pro ClubLine SLM300 machine is a versatile machine that will be sure to become a favorite in your home gym. The direct overhead high pulley is set at the optimal position for back and shoulder isolation. This, paired with the extra long lat pulldown bar makes it easy to use multiple hand grips to hit all angles of your lats.

The no-cable-change design makes going from an overhead pulldown exercise to a seated row effortless without even having to leave your seat. The Pro ClubLine SLM300 comes with DuraFirm™ upholstery for a tough, tear resistant workout surface with matching hold-down pads to keep you in place during your workout.

High quality oversize nylon bushings paired with nylon-coated, self-lubricating high quality steel cables make sure this machine will work smoothly during your training sessions.

The 2" x 4", 4-side welded, high-tensile strength steel provides a solid base for effective strength training. The 210 lb weight stack is able to be upgraded to a 310 lb weight stack, for those who are looking to take their training to the next level.

PROS:

• Lifetime Home Warranty
• Optimal overhead position of the high pulley
• Easy switch from a pulldown to a seated row
• High build quality

CONS:

• Seat is on the smaller side for seated rows
• Only comes with one lat pulldown attachment

Best Lat pulldown Machine For Strength Training

Pro Clubline Lat Pulldown

Get a high pulley directly overhead for optimum back and shoulder isolation. Structurally and biomechanically designed for intensive club use...

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7. Best Rack With Lat Pulldown Machine: Fitness Reality Power Cage with Lat Pulldown

The Fitness Reality Power Rack with Lat Pulldown is a great addition to anyone's home gym that is getting serious about their strength training. Included with this monster lat pulldown machine are a 39" lat bar and a 20' low row bar paired with a high and low pulley system.

This plate loaded machine works with both standard and Olympic weight plates ( Olympic adapter sold separately) making an excellent inclusion to a power lifter's garage gym. The extended lower rear cross bar gives ample room for fitting in a bench. The two 6.5" weight posts can hold up to 270lb with the included spring clip collars.

The leg hold-down can shift along the power cage's safety bars, allowing you to find your ideal position away from the pulley. Adjusting the height of the leg hold-down is as easy as moving your safety bars up or down the cage as needed.

This cable machine will allow you to more room to do exercises such as a straight arm pulldown, overhead tricep extensions, and bicep curls.

PROS:

• Power racks are extremely versatile for all types of exercises
• Ample room to perform a variety of exercises
• Able to add other attachments to cage making it a possibility for a total home gym

CONS:

• Weight plates and bench are not included
• Large home gym footprint
• Olympic weight plate adapters not included

Best Rack With Lat Pulldown Machine

Fitness Reality Power Cage with Lat Pulldown

Includes high and low row pulley systems. High tensile strength nylon coated cable. Easy glide 2” x 2” chrome guide rail for smooth operation...

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8. Best Leverage Lat Pulldown Machine: Pro Clubline Leverage Lat Pulldown

The Pro ClubLine Leverage Lat Pulldown machine is a body solid piece of equipment, perfect for your home gym. The durable upholstery and 2" x 3" 11-gauge steel mainframe makes sure you have a steady base for your workout that's made to last.

The frame comes equipped with plate holders for storage, keeping your home gym looking clean. The dual axis independent arms provide a biomechanically correct lat pulldown. While the hands with a 360 degree capability make sure you can find a comfortable position for your hands on each rep.

This leverage machine comes equipped with adjustable leg holds and a gas assisted adjustable seat.

This solid machine is sturdy enough to handle your tough workouts, while being light enough for one person to move in the home gym if necessary.

PROS:

• Lifetime Home Warranty
• 360 degree rotating handles for ideal hand placement
• Fixed motion for an ideal pulldown
• Independent arm movement for isolation reps

CONS:

• Only can do one movement with it
• Weight plates required

Best Leverage Lat Pulldown Machine

Pro Clubline Leverage Lat Pulldown

The LVLA offers the natural feel and resistance of free-weights with the control of a machine. This commercial grade lat pulldown machine...

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9. Best Wall Mounted Lat Pulldown Machine: ARCHON Wall Mounted Cable Station

The ARCHON Wall Mounted Cable Station is a cable machine that makes up in versatility of what it lacks in size. The dual pulley system has 17 possible vertical adjustments, making targeting every angle you could imagine possible.

Isolation exercises are simple to do in this plate loaded machine, making this an outstanding option for all of your upper body workouts. This cable machine comes with two commercial handles, but is also available with a cable accessory kit which includes a tricep rope, a lat bar, and a V-handle for cable t bar rows, making the possibilities of what exercises you want to accomplish up to your imagination.

Unlike most competitors, the pulley carriage is constructed with linear ball bearings instead of nylon bushings that can easily wear out due to friction. The weight posts can handle up to 125lbs each making a total of 250lb weight capacity.

The ARCHON gives you more possibilities than other similarly priced lat machines. Easy mounting right into your studs keeps the station secure and sturdy.

PROS:

• Extremely versatile
• 4x Linear ball bearing pulley carriage for reduced friction and longevity
• Very small footprint
• Easy to mount

CONS:

• Lat bar isn't included in base package
• Exercises such as chest flys may be difficult with a singular tower

Best Wall Mounted Lat Pulldown Machine

ARCHON Wall Mounted Cable Station

Dual swivel pulley station: 17 Vertical positions providing bilateral and unilateral training. Vertical upper and lower wall mount: Ability to mount to one stud...

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10. Best Functional Trainer With Lat Pulldown: Force USA G9

The Force USA G9 All-In-One Trainer is the ultimate home gym strength training system. Most lat pulldown machines do not have the adaptability that this multi-use machine offers.

With a combination of a power rack, a counterbalanced smith machine, dip station, chin-up station, leg press and more, this lat machine goes above and beyond what you could desire in a piece of equipment for your home gym. With six weight plate posts, there's more than adequate storage for all of your weights.

The advanced pulley system ensures you are lifting a true 1:1 weight ratio so you know exactly where you stand with your strength level. The G9 has your lifting progress in mind, once you've mastered your lat pulldowns, you can make your way up to full pull ups, taking your back training to the next level.

If you're looking for a functional trainer that can do it all, then look no further than the Force USA G9.

PROS:

• 1:1 Cable Pulley Ratio
• 11 Attachments includedPro ClubLine Series 2 Lat Seated Row
• Super high weight rating which even advanced lifters would have trouble achieving
• Combines 8 strength training machines into 1

CONS:

• Expensive
• Doesn't come with weights

Best Functional Trainer With Lat Pulldown

Force USA G9

Introducing the Force USA G9 All-In-One Trainer—The Ultimate plate loaded all-in-one trainer. The Force USA G9 All-In-One Trainer combines a power rack, functional trainer, smith machine, dip station, chin up station, core trainer, low row...

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10 Best Lat Pulldown Machines Side By Side Comparison

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF Lat Pulldown Machines?

Lat pulldown machines allow you to develop your latissimus dorsi muscles in a safe and gradual way. For people that can't perform a full pull-up yet, a lat machine is the perfect way to build upper-body strength that will carry over into other exercises. Another benefit of lat pulldowns are the posture correcting effect they can have. One of the main motions of a lat pulldown is the depression and adduction of the shoulder blades, which in strengthening will lead to a straighter back.

Another benefit of a lat pulldown machines are the variations of pulldowns that can be performed such close grip pulldowns, reverse grip (supinated) pulldowns, wide grip pulldowns, and behind the neck pulldowns. All of these variations of lat pulldowns target slightly different muscle groups and can help achieve a well developed back.

Types of Lat Pulldown Machines

Lat pulldown machines come in different designs and when shopping for one you should understand the differences so that you can choose the best one for your situation.

Let's have a look at the different types of lat pulldown machines below:

Stand-alone

This machine is made to do one specific exercise and do it perfectly. Most stand-alone lat machines you see at the gym usually comes with weight stacks, but there are also plate-loaded versions. A stand-alone lat machine typically has only have an overhead pulldown, but there are machines that do offer a version with a seated-row or low row pulley.

Power Rack Attachment

A power rack attachment is an add-on piece of fitness equipment to a weight cage. Power racks are generally used by powerlifters, or people getting serious about their strength training.

Weight Stack

A weight stack lat machine is pre-equipped with weight plates stacked on top of each other, hence the name. The weight plates usually come in increments of 10lb and are easily changed with a weight stack pin. There are some versions that have places to add resistance bands if you need more of a challenge.

Plate Loaded

A plate loaded lat machine is one that needs standard or Olympic plates to function properly. These machines are generally lower cost for the actually machine, but the weights themselves can add up quickly, which is another factor to consider.

Leverage

Leverage lat machines are great for keeping a very strict range of motion for your lat pulldowns. These machines generally have rotating handles that provide a comfortable grip and natural feel to performing the exercise. Leverage machines are also great for focusing on isolation movements and will make it easier to identify strength inequalities in your back.

Wall Mounted

Wall mounted lat machines provide an extremely small footprint for someone looking to add to their home or garage gym. Just as the name implies, these machines are bolted to the wall to keep them from moving.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING LAT PULLDOWN MACHINE FOR HOME GYM

When looking to buy a lat pulldown machine you should consider a number of factors to make sure you end up with a machine you're happy with. We listed some of the main factors you should consider before buying this piece of gym equipment. 

Size

Once you've figured out that you want a lat pulldown machine, now you need to figure out how much space you have to put one in. Some lat pulldown machines can reach close to 8' tall, so making sure you have adequate ceiling space is a must before buying this piece of fitness equipment.

Build 

Build quality is also a very important aspect to consider when shopping for any piece of fitness equipment. If you're someone that's looking to move 300lb of weight around, the material of the frame is going to matter more to you than someone whose target weight range doesn't break 200lb.

For heavier lifters, a thicker steel frame is going to be key to keep that machine in use for years to come. One of the most important pieces of a lat machine are the cables. If a cable breaks down, it will render the whole piece of equipment inoperable, so somethings to keep in mind are if the cables are coated, and what the strength of the cables are.

Are you looking for a plate loaded or weight stack machine? If you already have a serious gym in your home, you may already have weights ready to use, and a plate-loaded machine would fit your needs perfectly. If you're just getting started on your home gym and don't necessarily have the space for extra weights laying around, a weight-stack machine may be the way to go.

Weight capacity is also a very important aspect that plays into your decision. What is the heaviest weight you think you will need? It's important to check the weight capacity of these machines against the construction quality to make sure that the machine will actually be able to handle what you plan on throwing at it.

Something else to keep in mind are the adjustment options available on the machine. A machine can tick all the other boxes but if you can't comfortably use the machine, the only person you are short changing is yourself.

Price/Budget

This can be one of the biggest factors in the decision on which machine to buy. As you can see from our list, price can vary dramatically for very similar machines. Just because something is the most expensive, doesn't necessarily make it the best machine for you. Which leads into the next section.

Usage

What are your goals with this machine? If you are looking for a machine that only does lat pulldowns, then looking at a functional trainer might not be for you. If you're looking for something that can do multiple exercises, then it might be worth spending the extra money and getting a little more machine than you originally planned.

Online Ratings

One very important aspect of researching the best lat pulldown machines is checking out user reviews. It's always good to get perspective from people who have hands on experience with the product you're interested in. Don't just look at the 5 star reviews, look at some of lower and middle reviews to get an idea of what people might not have liked in the product.

Lat Pulldown Machine FAQ

Is a Lat Pulldown Machine Worth It?

If you are someone that isn't able to do a chin up or pull up on your own, lat pulldown machines are great for building the strength foundation you need to perform those more intense movements. Lat machines can be extremely versatile in terms of variations as well as being able to perform exercises from other muscle groups such as tricep pushdowns and curls.

How Much Does A Lat Pulldown Machine Cost?

The price of a lat machine can vary greatly. The cost can be from a few hundred dollars up to a few thousand dollars. Whatever your price range, you can find a piece of equipment to match your budget.

What muscles does a lat pulldown machine work?

Based on traditional use, a lat machine works the latissimus dorsi (a.k.a. lats), rear deltoids, the trapezius, rhomboids, biceps, and forearms.

What lat Pulldown Variation is The Best?

Studies have shown that a pronated (palms facing away from you) grip is more effective on stimulating the lats than a supinated (palms toward you) grip. As far as narrow, wide, or medium hand placement, medium has shown a minor advantage.

Do Lat Pulldowns Build Mass?

Yes! With proper form and technique, lat pulldowns will increase the size of your back. In order to see results, increases in weight over time are necessary to breakdown the muscle tissue so it can heal stronger and larger.

Can Lat Pulldowns Replace Pull-Ups?

Yes and no. A lat pull can simulate the motion of performing a pull-up, but it doesn't stimulate the support muscles for upper body strength a traditional pull-up will. Another important aspect is correct form to maximize the effectiveness of the exercise.

How to Do Lat Pulldowns?

Keeping your upper body stationary, position your hands approximately 6in wider than your shoulders. Bring the bar down to your chest by pulling with your elbows (as opposed to pulling with your hands), squeeze your back together like you're trying to hold a pencil between your shoulder blades for a moment, and slowly bring the weight back up to your starting position.

What are the Common Mistakes When Using a Lat Pulldown Machine?

Some common mistakes when doing lat pulldowns are:

• Using body momentum to bring the bar down
• Pulling with the hands rather than the elbows
• Not keeping your shoulders rolled back while bringing the weight down
• Not using the full range of motion
• Not controlling the weight on the way back up

SUMMARY

If you're looking to build a strong, wide back and don't quite have the strength to do traditional pull-ups, then a lat pull machine may be a great investment for you. As we've highlighted, there are a copious amount of options that you can choose from to make sure you pick the right machine. For people with already established home gyms, a plate-loaded machine may be the best match because they don't have to buy plates to use the machine.

Someone just starting to build their gym may want to use a weight-stack machine to cut out having to buy more equipment. Size of the equipment will also play an important part of your decision-making, adequate space is essential in picking the right equipment. Making sure you get a machine that is built from high tensile steel as well as quality cables will ensure that your investment into your fitness lasts.

With our top ten best lat pulldown machines, you're bound to find a multi-faceted piece of gym equipment that can help you take your home training to the next level.

More Best Equipment Roundups:

• Best Cable Machines
• Best Leg Press Machines
• Best Leg Extension Machines

You can get a pump going with light weights, but if you want to build muscle and strength, barbells are what you need.

A high-quality barbell is one of the most versatile pieces of gym equipment you can own, and it doesn't take up much space. With just a barbell and some basic equipment, you can create an entire home gym for less than the cost of a year's membership at a traditional commercial gym.

In this review, we'll take a look at 15 of the best barbells for your home gym on the market, all of which offer great features at a reasonable price.

** This post may contain affiliate ads where we make a small commission on purchases made at no cost to you. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**

15 Best Barbells for Home Gyms 

1. Best All-Around Barbell: Force USA Gunner Barbell
2. Best Budget Barbell: Body-Solid Extreme Olympic Bar
3. Best Premium Barbell: Fringe Sport 20 KG Midas’ Revenge Bar
4. Best Barbell on Amazon: Synergee Cerakote Bar
5. Best Barbell for CrossFit: American Barbell California Bar
6. Best Barbell for Women: Fringe Sport Passion Wonder Bar
7. Best Barbell for Olympic Weightlifting: American Barbell SS Bar
8. Best Barbell for Powerlifting: Force USA Powerlifting Barbell
9. Best Barbell for Beginners: Force USA Patriot Barbell
10. Best Barbell for Squats & Deadlifts: Lone Star Power Bar
11. Best Barbell Under $100: CAP Barbell Classic
12. Best Trap Bar: Force USA Walkthrough Trap Bar
13. Best Multi-Grip Swiss Barbell: Body-Solid OMG86 Bar
14. Best Farmer’s Walk Barbell: Fringe Sport Farmer’s Walk Bar
15. Best Kid’s Barbell: Fringe Sport Kid’s Mini Barbell

1. Overall Best Barbell: Force USA Gunner Barbell

The Gunner Barbell is our pick for the best Olympic barbell overall. It's a versatile piece of gym equipment that can be used for various exercises. It features a tensile strength of 235,000 PSI, making it durable and able to withstand heavy loads up to 1500 lb!

The overall length of 86.6 inches also makes it usable for taller individuals. With a standard weight of 20 kg (44 lb), it has 16 inches of loadable sleeve length making it perfect for Olympic lifts or powerlifting.

The Gunner Barbell has a great whip that will snap back into place after each rep. This makes it an ideal choice for athletes who are looking for a reliable and sturdy barbell that can satisfy all your lifting needs.

With a zinc sleeve coating and stainless-steel bushings, it is built to last. It also features 5x needle per sleeve bearings resulting in a smooth rotation. 

Whether you're looking to build muscle or improve your cardiovascular fitness, the Gunner Barbell is a great choice. Because it is a multi-purpose barbell, it is ideal for both home and commercial gyms. So, if you're looking for a top of the line durable barbell, the Gunner Barbell is a perfect choice!

PROS:

• Top Quality Specs: With ±0.25 mm straightness accuracy and ±1% weight tolerance, it is perfect for those who want to be sure they are getting the most out of their workouts.
• Multiple Options: Gunner Barbell is a multipurpose barbell that is ideal for those looking for an all-in-one solution. With dual knurl marks, you can get your Olympic lifting done or hit some max bench pressing.
• Resistance Power: Its static weight rating of 1,500 lbs (680 kg) makes it suitable for lifting heavy weights.
• High-Quality Materials: Made with high-quality steel, it has a tensile strength of 235,000 PSI, making it handy for a variety of strength training workouts.

CONS:

• Standard Knurling Style: The knurling on Gunner Barbells is not a deep cut.

Overall Best Barbell

Force USA Gunner Barbell

The Gunner Barbell is a weightlifting, Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and multipurpose barbell ideal for moderate and experienced lifters. The 1,500 lb. weight rating gives you confidence...

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2. Best Budget Barbell: Body-Solid Extreme Olympic Bar

Barbells are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in a gym, and the Body-Solid Extreme Olympic Bar is no exception. This Barbell can accommodate up to 1,500 pounds, making it a great option for competition training.

The tensile strength of 205,000 PSI makes this Barbell durable and long-lasting. In addition, the 4 needle-bearings sleeves provide a smooth, consistent rotation that makes it easier to perform Olympic lifts with proper form.

With a loadable sleeve length of 16.25", it can handle more weight than most people can manage. Like the best Olympic barbell above, this one has dual knurl marks without a center knurl. It has a comfortable medium knurling grip, so you can maintain a good grip even when your hands are sweating.

This barbell is made of high-quality materials, and the pivot points are designed to provide a smooth and even lifting experience.  

The bar also features a black oxide finish, which not only looks great but also provides protection against rust and corrosion.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the Body-Solid Extreme Olympic Bar is an excellent choice for your workout needs!

PROS:

• Value: The budget-friendly price makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to get started with weightlifting at home.
• Knurl with 28.75mm grip diameter: Provides a secure grip for heavy lifts while also being comfortable to hold during long workouts.
• Coordination: Allows you to load a heavy weight onto each end, giving you the opportunity to work with very heavy weight without having to worry about balance. This is particularly important when working with Olympic lifts, which require a great deal of coordination and power.
• Long-lasting: The sleeves are hardened chrome, making them resistant to wear and tear.

CONS:

• Not Many Reviews: This is a quality product from a reputable manufacturer but there aren't many reviews to find online.

Best Budget Barbell

Body-Solid Extreme Olympic Bar

Needle Bearing Sleeves! A hardy 1,500lb. weight capacity with a tensile strength of 205,000 PSI, this bar is perfect for competition training...

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3. Best Premium Barbell: Fringe Sport Midas’ Revenge Bar

Midas' Revenge Barbell is a top-of-the-line barbell that features dual aggressive knurling to provide superior grip and prevents the barbell from slipping during use. The black Cerakote coating is a high-quality finish that is scratch and chip-resistant.

The total length of the barbell is 86.75", making it perfect for use in a home gym or commercial facility. With superior construction and attention to detail, Midas' Revenge Barbell is the perfect choice for any lifting enthusiast.

The Midas' Revenge Barbell is designed for strength and performance, with a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI and a weight capacity of 1,500 lb. The barbell also features a light whip, making it ideal for explosive lifts such as the snatch and clean and jerk.

The barbell has a loadable sleeve length of 16.40 inches that's covered by gold titanium making it look super cool. This is the best Olympic barbell from FringeSport which is saying something considering the fact that they are known as being one of the best barbell manufacturers out there.

The Midas' Revenge Barbell features a number of unique design elements that make it a superior choice for serious lifters.

PROS:

• Gold-Titanium Coating: The barbell's sleeve is coated with gold titanium, which helps to reduce wear and tear.
• Easy Assembly: The barbell comes with a snap ring assembly. It makes it easy and quick to take apart and put together.
• Warranty: With a lifetime warranty, you can be sure that your barbell will withstand years of heavy use.
• Aerospace-Grade Bushing: The spin design of this premium barbell ensures smooth rotation, making it ideal for any lifting routine.
• Heavy-Duty Spring Collars: This barbell comes with two heavy-duty spring collars to keep the weights securely in place.

CONS:

• Limited Colors: Midas Barbell is only available in a limited number of colors, so if you're looking for something specific, you may be out of luck.

Best Premium Barbell

FringeSport Midas’ Revenge Bar

The Midas’ Revenge Bar boasts a massive 1,500lb weight capacity and is coated in sleek black Cerakote for maximum performance for beginners and world record holders alike....

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4. Best Barbell on Amazon: Synergee Cerakote Bar

The Synergee Cerakote Barbell is a great option for athletes who are looking for a durable and reliable barbell. It features a 52-inch shaft and 28-millimeter grip size, making it ideal for a range of exercises. This barbell is made from high-quality steel to withstand heavy use.

The Synergee Cerakote Barbell is designed to offer a superior level of performance with a sleeve length of 16.4 inches.

This barbell is made from high-strength steel with a tensile strength rating of 190,000 PSI. Its weight capacity of 1500 pounds makes it perfect for powerlifters and other serious athletes. It features a 1.2 mm medium knurling for better grip.

Additionally, it has 10 needle bearings for smooth operation. This barbell is an excellent choice for those looking for an Olympic weightlifting barbell but have a limited budget. 

Whether you are trying to build muscle or simply get stronger, Synergee Cerakote Barbell can help you reach your goals effectively!

PROS:

• Durable Coating:  Cerakote is a durable coating that is resistant to corrosion and wear and protects the barbell.
• Complimentary Pack: The Synergee Cerakote Barbell has a complimentary pack of wrist wraps and lifting straps, making it even more versatile.
• Frictionless Rotation: It has 10 bearings total (5 per sleeve), giving it a frictionless rotation that is ideal for Olympic weightlifting movements.
• Easy Replacement: With the better-than-money-back guarantee, you can be sure that you're getting a quality product that will last.

CONS:

• Medium Knurling: One potential downside is that it comes with passive knurling. Getting a firm grip on the barbell during your workout becomes difficult if you're drip sweating.

Best Barbell on Amazon

Synergee Cerakote Bar

Our Synergee Games Bar is built to handle your toughest workouts. From Olympic lifting to powerlifting to body building, its high-grade steel and cerakote composition, tensile strength rating of 190,000 PSI, 1500 lb weight capacity...

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5. Best Barbell for CrossFit: American Barbell California Bar

The California Bar is a unique type of barbell with two rings instead of the traditional one. The design helps to distribute weight more evenly, reducing the risk of injuries.

The California Bar is also shorter than standard barbells, providing a greater lifting control. It also facilitates a range of motion and is perfect for exercises such as curls and triceps extensions. People have compared this bar to the Ohio bar from Rogue fitness and have found less side-to-side movement when performing Olympic lifts.

This barbell is extremely strong, with a tensile strength of up to 190,000 PSI. This makes them suitable for heavy lifting, as they are less likely to bend or break under stress.

The California Bar is made from high-quality steel designed to withstand heavy use. The bar has a diameter of 28mm and a length of 2000mm, and it's covered by Cerakote which will help it look great for years to come. It is sure to revolutionize the world of weightlifting by providing lifters with a safe and effective way to achieve their fitness goals.

Overall if you're looking to upgrade from a Rogue fitness Ohio bar this might be the perfect choice for your functional training.

PROS:

• IWF Specified:  This bar is built to have the ideal specs all-around.
• Hard-Chrome Coating on Sleeves: This makes it more resistant to wear and tear and gives it a unique look. The hard chrome coating also enables the bar easier to grip, which can be beneficial for lifters who have sweaty hands.
• Intense Workout: This barbell is made from 190,000 PSI tensile strength steel, meaning it can handle even the most intense workouts.

CONS:

• Pricey: You get a limited lifetime warranty for a high-priced barbell

Best Barbell for CrossFit

American Barbell California Bar

The California Bar is our first dual-ring barbell built specifically for functional fitness athletes. It has the nuances and sought after specifications of a top-quality 28MM weightlifting bar...

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6. Best Barbell for Women: Fringe Sport Passion Wonder Bar

While there are many great barbells on the market, the Passion Wonder Bar from FringeSport is specifically designed for women. These barbells are made from high-quality materials and feature a unique Cerakote coating that is resistant to corrosion and abrasion.

In addition, the Fringe Sport Passion Wonder Bar has a smaller diameter than most other barbells, making them more comfortable for women to grip. The Fringe Sport Wonder Bar weighs in at 15 kg (33 lb) but has a max load capacity of 1000 lb making it a great training bar for any woman who wants to get serious about their gains.

They also have a Bronze Oillite bushing that helps to prevent the bar from rusting. The collar is also easy to adjust and is made from a durable material that will not break easily.

The rotation on the bar is also very smooth, making it easy to use for a variety of different exercises. Overall, the Fringe Sport Wonder Bar is a great choice for women looking for an easy-to-use and maintain barbell that is built to last!

PROS:

• High-Quality Built: The bars are made from a special alloy that has a tensile strength of 160,000 PSI and a yield strength of 199,000 PSI.
• IWF + IPF Knurling: This barbell is specifically designed for women, with a dual knurling pattern that is perfect for both IWF and IPF organizations.
• Unique Design: A perfect design for women's workouts with the stiff whip that helps in generating more power with each lift. Bronze bushings to help maintain smooth rotation.

CONS:

• Expensive: This barbell is at the higher end of the price spectrum

Best Barbell for Women

Fringe Sport Passion Wonder Bar

These Passion Pink and Purple Power wonder bars are the best addition to your gym in a long time. Perfect for new or seasoned lifters, these bars can take you from couch to competition without breaking a sweat or the bank...

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7. Best Barbell for Olympic Weightlifting: American Barbell SS Bar

The SS Precision Training Bar is one of the best options on the market and is often compared to the stainless steel version of the Ohio bar from Rogue fitness but many would say that American Barbell is the one to go with if they had to make the choice.

With SS Precision, you'll get the precision straightened stainless steel shaft. This ensures that the barbell will rotate freely and not get stuck during your lifts. The premium bushing system helps the sleeves free rotation. You won't have to worry about the barbell getting damaged during heavy use.

The aggressive knurling on the stainless steel barbell is a enough to provide a firm grip and avoid any serious injuries. SS Precision Barbells uses only the highest quality stainless steel and welding techniques. The barbells are precision welded to eliminate failure, and they're backed by a lifetime warranty.

So you can rest assured that your workout is safe and your investment is protected. This is without a doubt one of the best barbells available today.

PROS:

• Stainless Steel: Great for Olympic lifting as it's comprised of stainless steel with a 190,000 PSI tensile strength but still provides excellent whip. If you're looking for a great barbell, your search is over.
• Superior Knurling: Stainless steel knurling provides a grip like no other barbell and once you get it in your hands you'll understand why this might be the best multi purpose barbell around.
• Elite Power Bar: This barbell is made from high-quality materials and features a 29mm power bar shaft that's designed to handle heavy weights.
• Warranty: The lifetime warranty makes it a great investment for any serious weightlifter.

CONS:

• Expensive: This steel bar is a high-end piece of equipment that might break the bank.

Best Barbell for Olympic Weightlifting

American Barbell SS Bar

Our Stainless Steel Precision Training Bar is our highest performing multi-use barbell. The shaft is made from precision straightened stainless steel and the sleeves rotate freely via our industry-changing composite bushing system...

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8. Best Barbell for Powerlifting: Force USA Powerlifting Barbell

The Force USA Powerlifting Barbell is a great option for lifters looking for a durable and powerful barbell. It features aggressive knurling that provides a fantastic grip for heavy lifts. The center knurl provides extra traction when performing squats allowing you to lift more weight safely.

With a massive tensile strength of 200,000 PSI, it can easily handle as much weight as you can lift. Some people would compare it to the Texas power bar but instead of bare steel Force USA 's power bar has a black zinc coating.

The aggressive knurling on this power bar makes it comparable to other more specialized deadlift bars.

The Force USA Powerlifting Barbell stands out from the rest with stainless steel bushings and 5x needle bearings per sleeve, making it incredibly smooth and durable.

Additionally, the barbell comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure that it will last you for many years to come. As far as power bars go, this one is one of the best no matter how much weight you can lift.

PROS:

• Zinc-Plated Sleeves: The zinc-plated sleeves are resistant to corrosion and help prevent the sleeves from rusting, even if they are exposed to sweat or moisture.
• Heavy-Duty Bar: It has a Static Weight Rating of 2,000 lb. (907 kg), making it one of the most durable powerlifting bars on the market.
• Aggressive Knurling: The Powerlifting Barbell is a 29mm diameter bar with aggressive knurling and a massive 0.45mm knurling depth.

CONS:

• Lack of Reviews: This power bar doesn't have the history of competitors like the Texas power bar. 

Best Barbell for Powerlifting

Force USA Powerlifting Barbell

A full commercial grade barbell for the HEAVY powerlifter. Ideal for lifting heavy at home or in commercial gym environments. With a massive 2,000LB weight rating...

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9. Best Barbell for Beginners: Force USA Patriot Barbell

The Force USA Patriot Barbell is truly in a class of its own. With an overall length of 86.6 inches (2200 mm), it's perfect for athletes of all sizes. This multipurpose bar has IWF/IPW knurling positioning and offers good whip and they say it's better than the Force USA ranger barbell if you want to push heavy weights.

The Force USA Patriot Barbell is a great choice for those looking for a quality barbell that is durable and easy to use. The Patriot Barbell has a 28 mm grip diameter and a loadable sleeve length of 16 inches (410 mm).

The Patriot Barbells are made with a black zinc shaft coating and bright zinc sleeves coating. This unique construction gives the barbells a sleek, modern look that is sure to turn heads in any gym. But more importantly, the black zinc coating provides superior corrosion resistance, while the bright zinc sleeves offer an extra layer of protection against wear and tear.

One of the things that set this barbell apart is the weight tolerance ±1%. It makes them perfect for competitions or other weight-sensitive applications. Overall this multipurpose bar is great for Olympic lifting and powerlifting alike.  

PROS:

• Bronze Bushings: Help to reduce friction and make it easier for the barbell to glide smoothly through your hands. Also comes with 4 needle bearings per sleeve for smooth operation.
• Sturdy with Whip:  Some powerlifting bars are too stiff for Olympic lifts while other Olympic weightlifting bars have too much whip, this one hits just right where you can use it for multiple training styles.
• Budget-Friendly: This Barbell is also relatively inexpensive, making them a great option for budget-conscious lifters.

CONS:

• Standard Knurling Style: The Force USA Patriot Barbell comes with the standard knurling style.

Best Barbell for Beginners

Force USA Patriot Barbell

The Patriot Barbell is an All-Rounder with features to meet Weightlifting, Olympic Weightlifting, Powerlifting, and multi-purpose barbell requirements to perform a vast array of barbell...

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10. Best Barbell for Squats & Deadlifts: Lone Star Power Bar

The Lone Star Power Bar 4000 series is one of the best barbells for squats and deadlifts. It's made from turned, ground, and polished steel with an aggressive/alligator knurling pattern. This ensures a good grip even when your hands are sweaty.

The deep IPF knurling also helps to keep your hands from slipping during heavy lifts. And the toothy center knurl provides extra traction for your thumbs when doing deadlifts or squats.

With a weight capacity of 2,000 pounds and a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, this bar is designed to withstand even the most intense workouts. The yield strength of 165,000 PSI ensures that the bar won't bend or break under pressure. So, whether you're lifting for strength or trying to get ripped, the Lone Star Power Bar will help you reach your goals safely and effectively.

The power bar is made from high-quality steel designed to withstand heavy weights and has a stiff spin that helps keep the weight balanced. Additionally, the four Oilite bushings help to keep the bar smooth and steady, making it perfect for lifting heavy weights.

The Lone Star could be considered the best power bar on this list and in general. If you want a steel bar that will scoff at how much weight you load the bar up with then this is the one for you.

Pros:

• Loadable Sleeves: The sleeve is made of steel with a bright zinc plating, and it is 16.50" long with a 50 mm diameter. The sleeve fits snugly over the barbell, and the textured surface provides a firm grip.
• Warranty: The Lifetime Warranty gives you peace of mind knowing you're using the best possible products.

Cons:

• Expensive: The Lone Star Power Bar is a high-end and expensive barbell that is designed for experienced lifters.

Best Barbell for Squats & Deadlifts

Lone Star Barbell

The Lone Star is made of turned, ground and polished steel with aggressive knurl. Built for those who push the limit...

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11. Best Barbell Under $100: CAP Barbell Classic

CAP Barbell Classic has been around for some time, and it shows no signs of going out of style anytime soon. The CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar is a perfect example of why this fitness staple remains so popular.

This barbell sports a tensile shaft strength of 63,800 PSI. It also features a center knurl on the and sides to help ensure a secure grip during your workout.

In addition, the loadable sleeve length of 15.3” makes it easy to add weight plates as needed. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, the CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar is sure to meet your training needs.

This is the best Olympic barbell you'll find at this price point so get your bumper plates ready and crush your Olympic lifting session.  

Pros:

• Perfect for Beginners to Professional Athletes: It has a 63,800 PSI tensile strength steel, making it ideal for the average lifter.
• Sleek Finish: The black powder-coat finish gives it a sleek look that will make you feel like a pro.
• Medium-Depth Diamond Knurling: The medium-depth diamond knurling provides a secure grip, and the sleeves are fitted with bushings for smooth rotation.
• Under $100: At just under $100, it's one of the most affordable barbells on the market.

Cons:

• Limited Warranty: It offers 30 Day Warranty.
• Weight: This training bar comes in at 16kg (~35 lb) making it lighter than most Olympic weightlifting bars.

Best Barbell Under $100

CAP Barbell Classic

Made from solid cold rolled steel with a black finish this bar is a great pick up for those with low budgets but want a well performing barbell...

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12. Best Trap Bar: Force USA Walkthrough Trap Bar

Barbells are a popular choice for strength training, but they're not the only option. Trap bars, also known as hex bars, offer a number of advantages over traditional barbells. For one thing, this specialty bar is more comfortable to hold, thanks to its ergonomic design when doing deadlifts or trap raises the weight is closer to you in the center.

The Force USA trap bar is easier to balance, making them ideal for exercises like lunges. And because they're shorter than barbells, they're less likely to get in the way when you're working out in a confined space.

However, one of the biggest benefits of trap bars is that they're compatible with Olympic plates and bumper plates. You can use the same plates on your trap bar that you would use on a barbell, making it easy to mix and match weights. As a result, trap bars are a versatile and convenient option for strength training.

PROS:

• Ergonomic Lifting Handles: The low and high rotating lifting handles are machined with medium knurling, creating it easy to grip the bar even when your hands are sweaty.
• Built-In Bar Jack: This innovative bar features built-in bar jacks that make it easy to add or remove weight plates.
• Walkthrough Design: The bar is designed to be walked through, so you don't have to worry about hitting your shins on the plates as you move it around.
• Counterbalanced Bar: The bar is counterbalanced and has an open design that makes it ideal for exercises such as lunges and carries.

CONS:

• Assembly:  It can take over 20 minutes to put together. 

Best Trap Bar

Force USA Walkthrough Trap Bar

The Walkthrough Trap Bar offers an innovative and counterbalanced open design to allow for a wide range of exercises such as lunges and carries, without...

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13. Best Multi-Grip Swiss Barbell: Body-Solid OMG86 Bar

The Body-Solid OMG86 Olympic Multi-Grip Bar is designed to give you a great workout while also protecting your hands. The bar features knurled handles that provide a secure grip, even when your hands are sweating.

The Multi-Grip Bar is a great option for those who want to build strength and definition in the upper or lower body. The barbell features multiple grip options, enabling it to target the chest, triceps, back, shoulders and biceps differently.

This isn't your standard barbell, it features two sets of grips, each with a different diameter. This allows you to choose the grip that best fits your hand size. In addition, the barbell has a loadable sleeve length of 16.5", that's perfect for building muscle mass.

The Olympic-grade construction ensures that the barbell can withstand even the most intense workouts. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner, this Multi-Grip Bar is a great choice for building strength and definition in your upper body.

PROS:

• Compatible with Power Rack: This bar is compatible with both power racks and Olympic plates, which makes it a fit for a home gym.
• Built-In Weight Collars: Make it easy to add or remove weight plates. 
• Targets Different Angles: This barbell features three separate neutral grips to enable you to work on several muscles from different angles. This not only helps to target specific muscles, but it also allows you to mix up your routine and keep your body guessing.

CONS:

• Limited Exercises: With this weightlifting bar you won't be able to perform some of the core exercises properly.

Best Multi-Grip Swiss Barbell

Body-Solid OMG86 Bar

Body-Solid’s Olympic Multi-Grip Bar features three separate neutral grips allowing you to work muscle groups from unique and different angles...

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14. Best Farmer’s Walk Barbell: Fringe Sport Farmer’s Walk Bar

Farmer's walks are a great way to build grip strength and overall body stability. Certain specs make this Fringe Sport farmer's walk barbell better suited for farmer's walks than others.

With a longer length handles (9 inches) and a smaller diameter (1 1/4 inches), it is easier to grip and control than a shorter, thicker barbell. Additionally, a barbell with a smaller width (5 1/2 inches) is less likely to slip out of your hands than a wider one.

This barbell is ideal for carrying heavy loads, exactly what the best farmer's walk barbells are designed to do. Made of powder-coated steel, these barbells can handle 440 pounds per handle, making them perfect for those farmers who need to carry a lot of weight. And because they are powder-coated, they will also resist rust and corrosion, ensuring they can withstand the elements.

PROS:

• Sleeve Specs: With 11 1/2 inches long and 2 inches in diameter sleeves specs, it is the perfect size for most barbells. The sleeves are made of durable materials that will withstand the elements and the wear and tear of daily use.
• Specialized Workouts: Farmer's Walk Handles are a great exercise tool for overall fitness and conditioning.
• Weight Capacity: These barbells have a weight capacity of 440 pounds per handle, making them ideal for those who want to add some serious weight to their farmer's walk routine.

CONS:

• Limited Warranty: The Farmer’s Walk Handles are packed with a 1-year warranty.

Best Farmer’s Walk Barbell

Fringe Sport Farmer’s Walk Bar

These Farmer's Walk handles are sure to provide you with a tough workout. With up to 440 lb max capacity with each handle see if you have what it takes...

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15. Best Kid’s Barbell: Fringe Sport Kid’s Mini Barbell

The Kid's Mini Bar Barbell is a great option for beginners who are just starting to lift weights. It weighs only 5 pounds — much lighter than standard barbells. This makes it easier to control and less likely to cause injury.

Most barbells are designed for adults, with shafts that can be difficult for smaller hands to grip. The Kid's Mini Bar Barbell is the perfect solution, with a smaller 7/8" diameter bar that is easy for kids to grip. The bar also has knurling, which helps to prevent the bar from slipping during lifts.

The barbell comes with a good spin that helps to prevent the weight from becoming unbalanced. As a result, the Kid's Mini Bar Barbell is an ideal tool for helping kids learn how to exercise safely and effectively.

The Kid's Barbell comes with standard weights that can be added or removed as needed. In addition, the small size of the bar is perfect for kids or adults with smaller hands.

PROS:

• Perfect for Beginners: The perfect choice for those looking to teach the basics of lifting. It is made from lightweight material and comes in a variety of vibrant colors. This makes it perfect for kids who are just starting to learn about working out and lifting weights.
• Knurling Style: Offers a light knurl close to the sleeve. This barbell features no center knurl, ideal for those who prefer a lighter grip.
• Durable: With Kid's Barbell, you can be sure that your kids are getting the best possible workout equipment that is durable and perfect for their needs.

CONS:

• Limited Weight Capacity: This barbell can accommodate 50 lb.

Best Kid’s Barbell

Fringe Sport Kid’s Mini Barbell

The diameter of the bar it perfect for tiny kid hands so they can easily start practicing their hook grip! This bar is great to teach proper mechanics...

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15 Best Barbells Side By Side Comparison

With so many options of barbells we wanted to show them in a side by side comparison below. Find the features that best match your needs. 

Types of Barbells

There are multiple types of barbells to choose from for your home gym. Some barbells are made for Olympic lifts some for powerlifting and then others for specialized training. 

Olympic

Olympic barbells are designed for competitive sports such as powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and CrossFit. They are typically longer and heavier than standard barbells, with a weight capacity of up to 1500 pounds. 

The extra length provides greater stability during lifts, while the increased weight helps to build muscle and strength. Olympic barbells have special features such as knurled grips and rotating sleeves that make them ideal for use in competitive settings.

Power

Power bars are used for strength training and are made from steel or another durable material. They have a thicker bar diameter, making them easier to grip, and they also have a more robust construction to withstand heavier weights.

In addition, power bars typically have a knurled surface to help prevent the hands from slipping during lifts. Overall, Power Barbells are the best type of barbell for deadlifts and squats alike. 

Women’s

The women's barbells are designed to take their workout to the next level. It is perfect for women's Olympic weightlifting. These barbells are shorter and have a slightly smaller diameter than men's barbells.

They also have a lower center of gravity, which offers more stability and control. As a result, women's barbells are the perfect choice for snatch and clean & jerk — two of the most popular Olympic weightlifting exercises.

Specialty Bars

Specialty barbells, such as those with adjustable weights or handles, can help you target specific muscle groups. You can perform exercises that may not be possible with traditional barbells. Let's look at the most common specialty bars you'll find on the market these days:

• Trap (Hex): The Trap barbell is shaped like a trapezoid, with four sides instead of the traditional two. Trap bars are used primarily for leg exercises such as deadlifts and squats. Their unique shape allows lifters to keep their hands at their sides instead of out in front. This helps in reducing strain on the shoulders and back. Additionally, trap bars tend to be more balanced than other types of barbells, creating them excellent for lifting explosive movements.
• Safety Squat Bar: The safety squat bar is a piece of equipment that allows users to perform squats in an optimal manner due to the design. When using a safety squat bar the user has two forward-facing grips that help with reduced shoulder movement. Also safety squat bars make it possible to stand in a more elevated posture which leads to less tension on the lower back. The best safety squat bar in our opinion is the from American Barbell. Rogue fitness also makes great safety squat bars if the one from American Barbell doesn't suit your fancy.

Specialty barbells can be a great way to add variety to your workout routine and keep your body guessing. So, if you're looking to take your training to the next level, then don't be afraid to experiment with different types of barbells. You may be surprised at what you can achieve.

Standard

With 7ft standard barbells, you can do a range of exercises. They are made of steel or iron and have a smooth, knurled surface to help prevent your hands from slipping. The major downside of a standard barbell is the 1 inch diameter sleeve which is much smaller than an Olympic weight plate. 

Olympic Barbell Sleeves Bushings Vs. Bearings

Barbells have either threaded or smooth sleeves on which weight plates can be added or removed. Olympic barbells have smooth sleeves that are capped with bushings. Bushings are small, cylindrical parts that reduce friction between moving parts.

By reducing friction, bushings help the barbell rotate more smoothly and evenly, which is important for Olympic weightlifters lifting very heavy weights. Barbells with bushings are less likely to develop rust and wear out over time.

However, bushings are not as durable as bearings and can eventually break down under heavy use. For this reason, many high-end barbells feature bearings instead of bushings. Bearings are more expensive than bushings, but they offer a smoother spin and more durability.

What are the Benefits of Olympic Barbells?

The barbell is a quintessential piece of gym equipment that has stood the test of time in the fitness world for the numerous benefits they provide. Below is just a sampling of some perks of owning a barbell. 

Heavy Weight Lifting

Olympic Barbells are specifically designed for heavy lifting and come with various weight options to suit your needs. This makes them ideal for those who are looking to build muscle mass or increase their strength.

In addition, barbells can be used for a wide range of exercises, including squats, presses, and rows. As a result, they are a great choice for creating a well-rounded workout routine. Whether you are just starting out on your fitness journey or are a seasoned athlete, an Olympic barbell is a great addition to your home gym.

Safe and Secure

Olympic barbells are the gold standard for barbells, offering durability and stability unmatched by any other brand. They are also incredibly versatile, which makes them perfect for both beginner and experienced lifters alike.

These barbells are made from high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they're safe and secure. Olympic barbells also have a wide range of options, from traditional black to brightly colored grips. This makes the Olympic barbell a fit for everyone.

Budget-Friendly

Looking for a budget-friendly way to get ripped? Look no further than Olympic barbells! These barbells are perfect for anyone who wants to get in shape without spending a fortune.

Olympic barbells are the perfect choice for any budget-conscious fitness enthusiast. These barbells are made from high-quality materials and construction and yet are priced to fit anyone's budget. So don't break the bank to get a quality barbell. The Olympic Barbells give you the best of both worlds — quality and value. Pick up one up today and see for yourself.

Easy Storage

Olympic barbells are perfect for your home gym, as they offer a space-saving design without compromising on quality or performance. With a variety of weights to choose from, Olympic barbells are sure to meet your fitness needs.

Durable and built to last, the Olympic barbells are the perfect addition to your workout routine. The barbells are also easy to assemble, so you can start working out straight away. 

What to Look for When Buying Barbells for Home Gym?

Barbells are one of the most versatile equipment you can have in your home gym. Whether you're just getting started in weightlifting or a seasoned veteran, the barbells can meet your needs. 

However, not all barbells are created equal. When you're shopping for barbells for your home gym, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind.

Size

When choosing a barbell, it is important to consider the dimensions that are most important for your workout routine. The overall dimensions of a barbell are determined by the shaft diameter, overall length, and sleeve length.

Look out for barbells that hold Olympic weight plates and are long enough that they can be racked if need be. If you come across barbells shorter than 7 feet and with sleeve diameters of less than 2 inches then you should probably look for something else. 

Build Quality

When choosing the best Olympic barbell, it is crucial to consider the build quality and construction material. Make sure the raw materials are of high quality and that the barbell has high tensile strength. This will ensure that the barbell is durable and will not break during use.

Tensile Strength: The best barbells are comprised of hardy materials such as stainless steel and other hard steel alloys. Look for barbells that will last a lifetime by finding ones with high PSI over 130K but if you plan on pushing big weights then 190K PSI is a better bet. 

Knurling: After looking at the the tensile strength you should consider the knurling.  Aggressive knurling is great for grip but might tear into your hands so if you're a powerlifter that might be ok but Olympic lifters and CrossFitters would be better served by medium knurling because the bar needs to move in the hands. Also powerlifters should keep an eye out for center knurling that can help with big lifts like squats whereas Crossfitters should look for dual knurling with out the knurled center. 

Bushings/Bearings: Next up are bushings or bearings, these ensure the bar has adequate spin to make some explosive exercises more fluid. 

Finish: The finish on barbells help mitigate scratches and corrosion from usage over time. Everything from stainless steel to black zinc to Cerakote can help protect your barbell for years to come.

Warranty: It's great to see a manufacturer that stands by their products so if you see a barbell with a lifetime warranty you can be assured that it's of the highest quality.

Price/Budget

Barbells can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. So it's essential to set a realistic spending limit before you start your shopping.

You can find barbells for sale at many online and offline retailers. You may also be able to find used barbells for sale at garage sales or online classifieds websites. When shopping for barbells, be sure to compare prices and features to find the best deal.

Use our list to find the best barbell that fits your budget as well as your requirements. 

Usage

There are many different types of barbells available on the market. So, you can enjoy the maximum benefits by choosing the right one for your needs. If you're planning on doing powerlifting then opt for a power bar without any whip. If you are a CrossFitter then a weightlifting bar with whip is necessary to perform exercises like clean & jerk or snatches. Another usage of a bar with a good whip is to aid in maxing out deadlifts.

If you like powerlifting and performing Olympic lifts then try to find a multipurpose bar that offers the best of both worlds.

When choosing a barbell, it's important to consider your own personal strength and ability level as well.

Online Ratings

Before committing to a purchase, savvy shoppers will always check online ratings. This is true for everything from restaurants to barbells for home gyms.

Barbells are a decent investment, and you want to be sure that you're getting a quality product that will last long. Checking ratings can give you an idea of the overall quality of the barbells and any common issues that have been reported.

It's also a good idea to read the reviews to get a sense of the customer service and return policy in case you have any problems with your purchase. By taking a few minutes to research barbells before you buy, you can be confident you're getting a great product at a fair price.

FAQ

What barbells do most gyms use?

Most gyms will have Olympic barbells for their clients to use. These barbells are specially made for weightlifting and powerlifting. The ends of the barbell will also have either a collar or a sleeve so that the weights don't slide off. The best Olympic barbells are made to withstand heavy weight, and they are very durable.

What type of barbell is best?

Stainless steel barbells are the best type of barbell because they are durable and corrosion-resistant. Additionally, barbells with black oxide, Cerakote, and zinc coating are available to provide additional protection against wear and tear.

What is a good price for a Barbell?

A good quality bar will typically cost between just over $200 to $400. You can find cheaper barbells, but they may not be as durable or as well-made.

What kind of Olympic Barbell should I buy?

If you're a home gym owner, an Olympic bar with 2″ diameter sleeves and medium depth knurl is a good option. This type of bar will work with a variety of weight plates, has a durable design, and provides a decent grip.

What bar do Olympic lifters use?

There are a few different types of barbells that are used in Olympic weightlifting. For the two Olympic lifts of snatch and clean & jerk there's no need for center knurling so you'll want to look for bars with dual knurl marks that also offer a decent amount of whip.

What bar is best for squats?

If you're in competition then a power bar is a good choice for squats due to the high maximum weight capacity, center knurling and minimal whip. However, for training, a safety squat bar might be the better option as it puts your body in a better position to handle heavy loads while reducing the chance of injury.

Can I bench press with a 7ft bar?

Yes, you can bench press with a 7 foot bar, this will fit bench press racks, power racks and squat racks.

Summary

Barbells are the most versatile and effective equipment for heavy lifting workouts at home gyms. Barbells allow you to target all major muscle groups with various exercises, including squats, presses, rows, deadlifts, and curls. And because they are relatively inexpensive and easy to store, barbells are the best choice for anyone looking to build a serious home gym.

With so many different types of barbells available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. This post covered equipment ranging from the best power bar to the best safety squat bar, there's literally something for everyone.

We hope our today's guide to the best barbells has helped you to find the right equipment for your home gym.

More Best Equipment Roundups:

• Best Folding Squat Racks
• Best Power Racks
• Best Squat Racks
• Best Plyo Boxes

Bumper plates are some of the most common styles of weight plates that you see in any commercial or home gym. They are versatile, noise dampening, extremely durable, and of course, they look fantastic.

To find the best bumper plates, you'll need to consider where you're working out, what training style you use, and how much money you're willing to spend.

We've compiled below eight of the best bumper plates for home gyms on the market. Whether you're looking for crumble rubber bumper plates, competition plates, or even urethane bumper plates, this article will give you the best options. 

** This post may contain affiliate ads where we make a small commission on purchases made at no cost to you. We only recommend products we think you will find valuable.**

8 BEST BUMPER PLATES FOR HOME GYMS

1. Overall Best Bumper Plates: Fringe Sport Bumper Plates
2. Best Budget Bumper Plates: AMGYM Bumper Plates
3. Best Premium Bumper Plates: Hammer Strength Bumper Plates
4. Best Bumper Plates For Olympic Weightlifting: Fringe Sport Competition Bumper Plates
5. Best Bumper Plates For CrossFit: Fringe Sport Savage Bumper Plates
6. Best Bumper Plates On Amazon: XMark Bumper Plates
7. Best Urethane Bumper Plates: American Barbell Urethane Bumper Plates
8. Best Crumb Bumper Plates: Fringe Sport Hi Temp Bumper Plates

1. Overall Best Bumper Plates: Fringe Sport Bumper Plates

The Fringe Sport Bumper Plates are our top pick for the best bumper plates for most people who are in the market for some. Between the reviews and the research, we have done they come highly recommended and will fit most people's needs and budgets. According to their website these black bumper plates were manufactured to be the “one and done” kind of bumper plates. Meaning that they are the kind that you buy once and use forever. 

Fringe Sport cut no corners when it came to creating these rubber bumper plates. They used high-quality materials to create these virgin rubber plates, that are typically used to maximize durability and limit rebound. By reducing the amount of bounce in your bumper plates you will be able to work out without worrying about your weight hitting things and rolling away from you in the middle of a set.

The virgin rubber used by Fringe Sport gives the black bumper plates a nice matte black finish that shouldn’t fade away from all the wear and tear you will put them through. You can tell they put a lot of thought into this product because they also ensured the stainless steel insert is hooked, keeping it firmly seated and less likely to pop out compared to cheaper options.  

They have a Durometer rating, killer warranty, and come at a great price; making the Fringe Sport bumper plates our top choice when looking at rounding out any home or commercial gym.

Have problems with your purchase, not a problem. Fringe Sport has one of the best customer service departments and are more than happy to fix any issues you may be having with your investment. 

Fun fact: These Fringe Sport bumper plates are sometimes known under their other name on Amazon as OneFitWonder Plates.

PROS:

• Steel inserts
• Low bounce
• High durability
• Great warranty

CONS:

• Harder to identify weights compared with color bumper plates

Overall Best Bumper Plates

Fringe Sport Bumper Plates

Extremely durable, and will last for years in a garage gym or affiliate. Expertly designed "hooked" stainless steel insert that remains firmly seated...

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2. Best Budget Bumper Plates: AMGYM Bumper Plates

If you want reliable black bumper plates for a good price, the AMGYM Bumper Plates are one of the best budget bumper plates choices on the market.

Typically high-quality bumper plates come with an eye-watering price tag, but these are built to last with a quality not normally seen at this price range. They feature stainless steel “hooked” insert that makes it easier to load them onto the bar, prevents the insert from popping out, making them very durable bumper plates.

This product boats 100% virgin rubber which results in minimal bounce and makes them a perfect option if you plan to perform Olympic lifts, HIIT training, and powerlifting movements. The two-inch insert should allow the use of most standard lifting bars. 

One benefit most people don’t think about is if the bumper plates have a beveled edge, which makes it easier to pick up the weights when they are lying flat on the ground. The AMGYM black bumper plates have a nice bevel to them which will save you time and unnecessary frustration. 

Overall these plates deliver a ton of value, while also being some of the cheapest bumper plates on the market. 

PROS:

• Solid quality plates
• Budget-friendly
• Amazing colors

CONS:

• Some reviews state weight inconsistencies

Best Budget Bumper Plates

AMGYM Bumper Plates

Premium rubber color bumpers deliver a proprietary rubber-to-core bonding system that increases resistance against harsh environments...

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3. Best Premium Bumper Plates: Hammer Strength Bumper Plates

Athletes will appreciate these top-notch color bumper plates designed to help you crush your heavy weightlifting goals and were made to endure intense training days and drops.

These premium bumper plates from Hammer Strength Fitness will be able to withstand anything you throw at them since these unique plates offer a proprietary rubber-to-core bonding system that increases resistance against harsh environments, a superior rubber blend that ensures the perfect balance of drop absorption and bounce response, and is textured to resist normal wear and tear.

This textured design looks sharp and will keep your weight plates looking new for a long time. The hub is also special as it is made from precision-machined high-grade steel and then cemented with industrial chrome plating to protect against corrosion.

The molded-in raised weight numbers make finding the plates you need easy and add to the premium look that in our opinion Hammer Strength nearly perfected. 

If you have some bottomless pockets and want some of the best rubber bumper plates money can buy, then your search is over. 

PROS:

• Premium materials
• Vibrant colors 
• Should last a lifetime of abuse
• Low bounce

CONS:

• Expensive

Best Premium Bumper Plates

Hammer Strength Bumper Plates

Extremely durable, and will last for years in a garage gym or affiliate. Expertly designed "hooked" stainless steel insert that remains firmly seated...

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4. Best Bumper Plates For Olympic Lifting: Fringe Sport Competition Bumper Plates

Are you looking for some new competition bumper plates but don’t want to pay competition bumper plate prices?

When buying competition plates you want them to have a thinner profile, tight weight tolerances, minimal bounce, and to be more durable than a standard bumper plate. Well, the Fringe Sport Color Competition Bumper Plates in kilograms may be worth your investment as they check off all of these boxes. 

These competition bumpers were designed with serious lifters in mind, as they can help you set new personal records without having to worry about destroying your floors. They are made with virgin rubber, which means you can expect them to last longer, look better, and even smell better than most other brands’ bumper plates.

They are also built to IWF specs with a tolerance of +/- 1 mm, which is the standard for competition bumper plates. When buying competition plates the weight on the bar needs to be as accurate as possible, Fringe Sport claims a weight tolerance of +/- 10 grams of declared weight. Making them incredibly accurate and perfect for competition bumpers. 

The lettering and rubber surface around the center disc and outside edge are raised, which limits metal-on-metal contact, and the thinner profile means you can add more weight to the bar. Plus with a durometer rating of 90 sHA, these plates have minimal bounce compared to most other brands’ options so keep that in mind if bounce-back is a big concern for you.

When researching for competition bumpers one of the things that popped out the most about these were the vibrant colors. The plates have a matte finish, but still are able to be bright and catch the eye. The different colors between plate sizes make it easy to figure out how much weight is on the bar as they follow the competition color standard for weight plates. 

PROS:

• Weight is within 10 grams of being exact
• Decent warranty
• Strict diameter standards
• Vibrant colors
• Can be used as competition plates

CONS:

• Only available in Kilos

Best Bumper Plates For Olympic Lifting

Fringe Sport Competition Bumper Plates

To be the best, lift with the best competition plate out there. You're on the lifting platform, hands chalked, expectant eyes riveted on you, knowing you'll deliver your next PR with these beauties on the bar...

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5. Best Bumper Plates For CrossFit: Fringe Sport Savage Bumper Plates

Fringe Sports Savage bumper plates are a unique twist on their already high-quality black bumper plates. Not only do the tiger streaks of color throughout them catch your eye, but they also are super helpful. The colored plates make it incredibly easy to get what you need, and not waste time having to double-check the weight on the bar. 

These high-quality bumper plates are still functional and include all the great features of their other bumpers. The Savage bumpers include the stainless steel hooked inserts that reduce the chances of having to deal with insert separation to almost zero percent.

These bumpers are also made of dense, solid virgin rubber that makes for a great dead bounce. Making any drops from overhead have incredibly small chances of damaging the floor, deadlift platform, or barbell.

An added benefit of this higher-density rubber is that the bumpers can be made thinner, so you will be able to add more weight to the bar. These bumper plates for CrossFit are sold in pairs, will fit any Olympic barbells with a two-inch sleeve, and have the weight in kilograms on each plate. 

The beveled edges that Fringe Sports adds to all their bumper plates make it incredibly easy to get your fingers under the plate and pick it up. It would be an absolute nightmare if they didn’t have the beveled edges.

Another great little trick Fringe Sports does with their bumpers is by shaving a couple of millimeters off of their smaller weight plates. By making the 10’s just slightly smaller in total diameter they can ensure that the bigger plates on the barbell will absorb more of the impact if the weight is dropped. Pure genius.

So not only are these bumper plates perfect for Olympic-style training, they will even hold up to the abuse from a CrossFit-style workout.  Making these the best bumper plates for CrossFit.

PROS:

• Great design
• Extremely durable
• Low, dead bounce
• Weight within specs

CONS:

• Only sold in bundles

Best Bumper Plates For CrossFit

Fringe Sport Savage Bumper Plates

Our Savage Bumper Plates have tiger streaks of color throughout them, making them easy to identify. While the color streaks certainly catch your eye, it's easy to forget that they are also super helpful. The color comes...

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6. Best Bumper Plates On Amazon: XMark Bumper Plates

Amazon is the best online marketplace you can use to buy random items and get them delivered to your house in a couple of days. What most people don’t think about is getting on Amazon and ordering high-quality gym equipment.

Well, if you look hard there are some hidden gems on there, like the XMark bumper plates. When creating these bumper plates XMark focused on creating a product that had a slim profile and a dead bounce by making each plate with a solid cast stainless steel core encased in premium all-natural virgin rubber. 

They also engineered these plates for dropping and solved a fitness industry-wide problem with 10-pound plates bending and snapping. By following IWF standards, increasing its thickness, and reducing the diameter of each 10-pound plate, they created a plate with much-needed stability that resists bending.  

The functionality and craftsmanship that goes into each XMark bumper plate should leave you feeling confident that if you invest in them that they will last a lifetime of workouts and abuse.

Have a problem? Don’t worry, XMark strives to be responsive to every customer and make sure they give you the premium support you deserve. 

PROS:

• Simple design
• Durable 
• Great value
• Low bounce

CONS:

• Slick design can make it difficult to pick up

Best Bumper Plates On Amazon

XMark Bumper Plates

The precision tooled and polished commercial stainless-steel 2 inch inserts allow the Olympic plates to slide freely on the bar. An Olympic barbell ...

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7. Best Urethane Bumper Plates: American Barbell Urethane Bumper Plates

According to the American Barbell website, they were the first company to manufacture a urethane bumper plate. By utilizing urethane instead of the traditional rubber, they have created a bumper plate that is incredibly durable, has a low bounce pattern, and has lively colors.

To ensure that they would be able to handle some wear and tear, American Barbell tested the urethane bumper plates by dropping them 55,000 times from 8.5 feet. The only thing that happened during this test was that the plates collected some dust and needed to be wiped off.

Additional features are that the American Barbell urethane plates have a 140 MM hard chrome hub that is solid one-piece construction and has a slanted edge that makes the plates easy to load on a bar and reduces bar wear. 

Not only are these urethane plates built tough, but they are easily the most vibrant colors on our list. Between the vibrant colors and the chrome hub, they can tell these are premium urethane bumper plates. 

While they are quite expensive, when you factor in the high-quality materials and the durability you’re getting the best urethane bumper plates on the market that will easily last you a lifetime.  

PROS:

• Bright, vibrant colors
• High-quality materials
• Pebble texture to increase ease of pick-up
• Durable
• Low bounce

CONS:

• Urethane is still slippery to grip
• Hard to pick up off the ground

Best Urethane Bumper Plates

American Barbell Urethane Bumper Plates

American Barbell is the first company to manufacture a urethane bumper plate. These bumpers are exceptionally durable and have a very low bounce. We use German urethane...

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8. Best Crumb Bumper Plates: Fringe Sport Hi Temp Bumper Plates

Crumb rubber bumper plates also called hi-temp bumper plates have been a staple at CrossFit gyms and other functional training facilities for years due to their durability, simplicity, and prices.

So whether you’re trying to be eco-friendly or save some money crumb bumpers are a great choice. 

Hi temp bumper plates are made from recycled rubber and a simple insert, which results in a bumper plate that can handle a ton of abuse. Most crumb bumpers on the market are also constructed using a thick, less dense mix of rubber compared to virgin rubber or urethane bumpers. These wider bumpers with less rubber density result in a high-bounce bumper that is more likely to resist cracking or folding under pressure.

These crumb recycled rubber plates from Fringe Sport are perfect if you want to get a workout outside or inside. Due to the texture on the plates, you don’t really have to worry about scuffs or imperfections that may happen during an outside workout. Plus the texture and beveled edges make it pretty easy to pick them up off the floor if they are lying flat. 

Fringe Sport wanted to separate their crumb bumper plates from the rest by adding a steel insert that will take considerably more abuse without becoming malformed, and is machined to fit all high-quality standard bars. They also are one of the only companies that offer fast, free shipping with your orders and has an awesome no drama, one-year return policy on these bumper plates. 

One point to mention about recycled rubber plates is that they are generally wider so it means you'll be able to fit less plates on the barbell sleeves.

PROS:

• Great for outdoor use
• Price is quite reasonable
• Wider size=more resistance to cracking
• Texture makes it easy to pick up plates

CONS:

• High bounce
• Made with recycled rubber

Best Crumb Bumper Plates

Fringe Sport Hi Temp Bumper Plates

Crumb bumper plates are made from recycled tires and steel inserts, for a bumper plate that can withstand tons of punishment....

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8 Best Bumper Plates Side By Side Comparison

We put our top bumper plate picks side by side to see how they stack up next each other. We hope this helps show the similarities and differences.

WHAT IS A BUMPER PLATE?

Bumper plates are strong rubber-weight plates with metal inserts in the middle. They usually have the same diameter within all weights and are typically used during Olympic, powerlifting, and CrossFit workouts. The weights, barbell, and the floor are all protected by the rubber structure of the bumper plates. The major difference between bumper plates and iron plates is that the bumper plates can be dropped on the floor without breaking or doing damage to the floor.

Bumper plates are also quieter than metal plates or cast iron plates which is a plus for people working at home not wanting to make a lot of noise.

Training PLATES VS COMPETITION BUMPER PLATES

When it comes to picking the best bumper plates for you, the first thing you need to determine is if standard bumper plates AKA training plates will suffice or if you need competition bumper plates to train in a more professional setting. 

Competition bumper plates are thinner, more durable, and significantly more expensive than standard bumpers. So if you’re competing in powerlifting or Olympic lifts then competition bumper plates are a fantastic choice for you. 

If you are willing to spend the money required to own competition plates, one of the benefits to you using these plates over standard bumpers is the reliability of the claimed weight. The tolerances are so tight that you know you’re lifting the stated weight; usually to within +/- 10 grams. Competition plates are also more durable and follow IWF standards whereas training plates have higher weight tolerances.

If you don’t plan on competing or are on a budget then training plates are more than sufficient. With modern factory techniques the weights of most standard plates aren’t far off from the stated weight, but since they aren’t calibrated can’t be used in a competition setting.

Their durability is also nothing to scoff at as they can last a lifetime if taken care of. In a nutshell, competition plates are for super serious lifters who have some extra cash to spend.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BUMPER PLATES?

When it comes to picking the right plates for your home gym, you’ll notice there are quite a few different types of weight plates. One of the most commonly used weight plates for home gyms is bumper plates, and this is for good reason.  Bumper plates offer a ton of benefits for people looking to build out a home gym or upgrade their weight plates. 

The biggest benefits are: 

Very Versatile & Functional 

Bumper plates are easily the most versatile style of the weight plate. Whether you’re training for Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, CrossFit, bodybuilding, or just for general health purposes, bumper plates will be able to keep up with all the abuse you throw at them.

Metal plates or cast iron plates wouldn’t be able to handle all of these training types that usually involve dropping the weights while lifting. You can even work out with fitness bumper plates inside or outside!

Perfect for Indoor Use

Iron plates can damage the floor if you happen to drop them, or at the very least they will cause a loud commotion that can be quite annoying. Instead of having to worry about these things happening, you can invest in bumper plates instead.

Most bumper plates are made with rubber that provides some protection for your floor and won’t bounce around when dropped. Which reduces the risk of other things being broken. Bumper plates are noise dampening and allow you to work out relatively quietly, so even if you’re working out late at night you won’t wake anyone up. 

Durable & Sturdy

Despite most plate styles being pretty strong, they don’t stand a chance compared to a bumper late. Since they are made with durable rubber, they can withstand thousands of drops without showing any wear or tear. With iron plates, you may get lucky to get a couple of drops out of them before they break.  In a home gym setting, it isn’t unrealistic to expect bumper plates to last well beyond their stated warranty.

Aesthetically Pleasing 

Bumper plates come in a variety of incredible looks and are pretty customizable. There are options for full colors, all-black, contrasting lettering, color stripes, fleck patterns, textured surfaces, and so much more. There are even companies that make bumper plates that look like donuts and pizza. So there is a lot to choose from based on your aesthetic preferences and home gym style. Plus, bumper plates get the added benefit of being durable, which means that they tend to look new for way longer compared to most other plate types. 

A Great Value

Bumper plates can range from budget-friendly to very high-end so why do we consider them a great value? While they’re generally more expensive than most traditional plates, bumper plates are less likely to need to be replaced down the road and need little to no maintenance. Not only that, but they are more versatile and functional so they can be used in more situations than other plate types. These traits make them a great value and a better choice for most people looking to buy weight plates. 

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING BUMPER PLATES FOR HOME GYMS

Build    

Building a proper home gym can be an expensive and irritating task if you don’t plan properly. One of the most important qualities to look for when buying bumper plates for your home gym is how they were built. Higher quality bumper plates will offer high functionality, increased durability, and help you achieve better results with your workouts. 

Material: You will most commonly see rubber bumper plates. Depending on your budget, training style, and aesthetic preference, you can pick between hi-temp bumper plates made from recycled (crumbled) rubber, virgin rubber or Urethane.

Recycled rubber is cheaper than virgin rubber, but it’s not as durable, it doesn’t look as nice, and it’s definitely smellier. Bumper plates can also be made out of urethane, which is a premium material that is more durable than rubber, has almost no odor, more aesthetically pleasing, and is more expensive.

Construction Quality: Bumper plates can be expensive, but making constant repairs and replacing them is far more costly in the long run. Instead of wasting money on cheap bumper plates, choose the options with durable materials, better warranties, high durometers, and more accurate weight tolerances. Your home gyms can offer higher functionality and features that optimize your workout whenever you invest in higher-quality plates. 

Weight Tolerance: How strict you want to be on your bumper plates weight tolerances comes down to how you will use them. If you plan on competing then competition and calibrated bumper plates will provide the most accurate weight tolerances from plate to plate.

Typically you will see these high-quality bumpers being within +/- 1% of their stated weight, which is incredibly important in a competition setting where every gram counts. Whereas standard and basic bumpers will have a bit more lenient weight tolerance in the +/- 3% range. Sometimes even higher depending on the quality of the plates. If you don’t plan on competing a plate being slightly off isn’t as big of a deal. If you train competitively or you just want the most accurate plates, keep weight tolerances in mind.

Collar Opening Diameter: Olympic barbells, which aren’t just used for Olympic movements, have weight sleeves that measure roughly 1.96 inches in diameter. Olympic weight plates, therefore, are built to accommodate Olympic bars. Based on what the plates are being used for, some may have a tighter hole opening than others.

For example, competition plates will have around a 1.97 inch, or (50mm), hole opening which means it will fit the weight collar very snug. Standard and basic bumpers may be closer to 2 inches, or (50.8mm), which of course will fit a little looser on the bar.

When researching for bumper plates make sure to know the measurements of your barbell sleeves. For most people they will have an Olympic barbell, so the collar opening should be as close to 50.4MM as possible. Which is the International Weightlifting Federation Standard.

Shore A Durometer Rating: A good brand will have a durometer rating on all of its bumper plates. A durometer rating is the measure of the hardness of a material. The rating ranges from 0-100, and the higher the rating means the material is harder.

The harder the material the more resistant it will be to indentation and damage from drops. When looking at high density rubber bumper plates anything that has a durometer rating above 70 is acceptable. The higher the ratings the

Steel Insert Method/Material: When looking at bumper plates the insert in the plate is just as important of a factor as what the plate is made out of. A stainless steel insert is the gold standard, as most other metal inserts are more likely to warp after repeated drops. Another thing to check for is if the insert has barbs or is just a ring. Barbed inserts are less likely to fall out and render your plate useless.  

Color Coding: Many plates that you will come across are basic black bumper plates and may have some accent colors to bring out what the weights are on the side.

However, if you start looking at the competition or Olympic-style you will notice that they are colored plates. This is no accident as these colored plates serve a beneficial purpose. The colors allow people to easily and quickly identify the number of kilograms (pounds) on each plate.

The International Weightlifting Federation sets the specifications and rules for all the equipment used in their weightlifting competitions which includes colored plates with a particular coding system.

Color bumper plates should follow this coding:

• Red for 25 KG 
• Blue for 20 KG 
• Yellow for 15 KG
• Green for 10 KG
• White for 5 KG
• Blue for 2 KG

Price/Budget

High-quality bumper plate prices can range from 200 dollars and all go all the way to 300+ dollars. You can easily find budget options, but remember that something affordable is typically not the highest quality or will last you for a long period of time. Cheaper plates also are more likely to be made of lower quality materials, which often lead to high bouncing and the center ring popping out. 

The price of your bumper plates will go up quickly when companies start adding more high-quality functionality and durable materials. We recommend setting a budget around how many plates you plan on needing and what kind of training you will be doing. If you plan on competing and need competition grade plates, expect to pay way more than someone who just needs bumpers for the occasional Olympic movement.

All in all training bumper plates will be cheaper than the competition bumpers so think about what your needs are and whether it's worth spending the extra money.

Pro tip: Bumper plate sets are often cheaper than buying singles or pairs at a time.

Usage

Olympic bumper plates are an essential piece of home gym equipment that can be used in an assortment of different ways. You can be used by functional lifters, weightlifters, CrossFitters, and really anyone who enjoys working out and wants to better themselves. They are especially great for individuals who frequently drop the bar and do Olympic-style lifters that go overhead. Just keep in mind that if you like minimal bounce go for training plates or competition bumper plates that have a high Shore A Durometer rating.

Online Ratings

The best way of seeing if a bumper plate is going to work for you is by looking at the opinions of others that have bought the same workout equipment. These helpful reviews offer important advice from people who have already tried out the product in their home gym, making it easier to decide if it is worth you trying them out.

If the reviews are mostly positive, the chances are that it would be a great investment towards bettering your home workouts. If reviews are mostly negative, it is best to leave that product alone and look at other options on the market. There are plenty of great options out there, so really it comes down to weeding out the bad ones.

Reviews are important because as customers we aren’t always going to believe what a company tells us about their products. Especially since every company believes that they have the best bumper plates out there.

However, personal recommendations and customer opinions are much more powerful, as they tend to be more honest. We recommend always checking accredited review websites for people’s opinions like the Better Business Bureau, Facebook, Yelp, Bing, and Google. 

Top Bumper Plates Brands

1. Fringe Sport

According to the Fringe Sport website they are the official supplier to the garage gym functional fitness movement. They strive to serve their customers the best customer service and offer some of the best warranties in the fitness industry. They offer high-quality products ranging from bumper plates to barbells. 

2. Life Fitness

Life Fitness is one of the world's most recognizable manufacturers of high-quality fitness equipment. The company has been building racks, cable machines, all-in-ones, free weights, and cardio equipment for more than 40 years.

3. American Barbell  

American Barbell has made some of the best barbells and fitness equipment in the industry for over 40 years. Their equipment can be found in Gold’s Gym, Orangetheory, Planet Fitness, universities, military bases, and other fitness facilities worldwide. They have blazed a trail by creating industry firsts and creating the gold standard for quality equipment. 

4. XMark

XMark's main focus is to bring consumers fitness equipment at the most affordable prices, while also not sacrificing quality. They take great pride in producing the safest fitness equipment possible and ensuring consumers get the best pieces of fitness equipment for their investment. To prove this point, XMark products usually include a generous warranty.

5. More Bumper Plate Brands & Honorable mentions

There are other companies that make some killer bumper plates that we should mention although we won't go into depth on these models in this post

• Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
• Eleiko Bumper Plates
• Titan Elite Bumper Plates

BUMPER PLATE FAQ 

Are Bumper Plates Worth It?

If you are doing big functional movements, like CrossFit or Olympic-style lifts, you definitely should consider investing in a set of high-quality bumper plates. One of the biggest reasons is that you will end up dropping the bar and weights quite often. If you don’t use bumper plates and drop the bar you will end up creating a large commotion, damage your floor and weights, and potentially hurt yourself. 

Even with bumper plates, you will eventually cause damage to most floors, so if you’re constantly doing compound movements or dropping the weight you should consider investing in a lifting platform or special flooring that can handle the impact. They are also quite durable, so even though the investment is quite large, bumper plates when properly cared for will last a lifetime. 

What is a good price for bumper plates?

Bumper plates range in price based on the materials they are made with, the branding, lifting purposes, and some other factors. So finding a single good price point can be pretty tough. To make things easier we have included a breakdown that shows a standard range based on the type of bumper plate. The pricing is shown on a price per pound basis on 45-pound plates. 

• Crumb Bumper Plates: $1.83-$2.10 per pound
• Basic Black Bumper Plates: $1.75-$2.25 per pound
• Colored Bumper Plates: $2.15-$3.10 per pound
• Urethane Bumper Plates:  $2.55-$3.90 per pound
• Competition Bumper Plates:  $2.85-$4.80 per pound

Prices have been fluctuating quite a bit in recent years so make sure to do your research as these prices ranges can be off. 

Who makes the best bumper plates?

Bumper plates are the one piece of equipment that it would be hard to build a garage gym or commercial gym without. In our opinion, Fringe Sport makes some of the best bumper plate options on the market. All of their bumper plate options are made with high-quality materials, have reasonable prices, look great, and come with killer warranties.

To make things even better they have a top-notch customer service team that will make sure that if you ever do have any issues they will be addressed professionally and efficiently. 

What are the best bumper plates?

The Fringe Sport Bumper Plates are our top pick for the best standard bumper plates for most people. They are made with virgin rubber and stainless steel inserts to ensure that they have maximum durability.

The Fringe Sport Bumper Plates also have an impressive durometer rating which means that they have limited rebound. It is worth noting that Fringe Sport has a three-year warranty on their bumper plates from weights of 25-55 pounds and one year warranty on 15’s and 10’s. This varying warranty is due to the fact that the 10-pound and 15-pound plates will wear out way faster due to their smaller frame.

Is more bounce better for bumper plates?

Most of the time more bounce isn’t better for bumper plates. Despite the fact that bumper plates were designed to be dropped and slammed, you don’t want them to have a high bounce because you risk it bouncing back at you and doing harm. It may also delay the time it takes to hit another repetition as you will be wasting time having to settle the bar.

On the other hand, you don’t want the bumper plates to have zero bounce because when you do end up dropping the weights it could mess up the plate or floor. So we recommend finding bumper plates that have very low bounce, which will not only save your plates but also save your barbell, collars, and center rings from additional damage. 

Are bumper plates better than regular plates?

They aren’t necessarily better, as it depends on you and what will work best for your home gym. For most home gyms, we do recommend using training plates because they’re designed to absorb impacts and are less likely to cause damage if you were to drop the weights. They will last you a long time and are also quieter than regular plates. 

However, if you’re a competitive powerlifter, have a limited budget, or have a sturdy lifting platform, we would recommend going with regular plates. They’re way less expensive compared to bumper plates and you would be able to fit more weights on the barbell.

SUMMARY

Having Olympic plates in your home gym is essential for anyone looking to see strength gains, hit functional movements, and improve their overall health. Whether you choose metal plates or bumper Olympic plates comes down to your training needs.

While it may seem like all bumper plates are the same, that can’t be farther from the truth. So it is well worth your time to do a little bit of research, bookmark this article, think about your training, and invest your money properly on a high-quality set of plates that won’t fall apart after only a couple of years of rigorous fitness training. The correct set of plates should last you an entire lifetime if properly taken care of, saving you money, time, and hassle in the long run.

Now that you've seen some of our favorite bumper plates on the market we hope you find the perfect bumper plate set for your home gym!

More Best Equipment Roundups:

• Best Barbells
• Best Folding Squat Racks
• Best Power Racks
• Best Squat Racks
• Best Plyo Boxes

When planning out a home gym you're faced with the tough decisions of what equipment to fill it with. If you were considering Bowflex models then you've come to the right place.

In this post, we cover 9 of the best Bowflex machines on the market today. From traditional Power Rod resistance to SpiraFlex to magnetic resistance, this article will help you decipher which is the best Bowflex machine for your home gym.

9 Best Bowflex Home Gym Machines

1. Overall Best Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex Xtreme 2SE
2. Best Budget Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex PR1000
3. Best Premium Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex Revolution
4. Best Bowflex Home Gym On Amazon: Bowflex Blaze
5. Best Bowflex Home Gym For Seniors: Bowflex PR3000
6. Best Bowflex Home Gym For Small Spaces: Bowflex Xceed
7. Best Bowflex Exercise Bike: Velocore Bike
8. Best Bowflex Elliptical: Max Trainer M6
9. Best Bowflex Treadmill: Treadmill 22

1. Overall Best Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex Xtreme 2SE

The Bowflex Xtreme 2SE is our pick for the best Bowflex home gym. With this machine, you get smooth resistance training for both upper and lower body workouts.

The Power Rod technology results in low impact inertia-free resistance as you move through a full range of motion. The Xtreme 2SE comes standard with 210 lb of resistance but you have the option to upgrade the total resistance to 310 lb or even 410 lb!

Due to the Power Rod technology, there's no need to change up any cable and pulley system, making the transition between exercises a seamless experience.

Starting with an upper body workout, you get a lat bar that's angled to work the back muscles plus you get a 4 position lower pulley/ squat station to get a great lower body workout in.

This Bowflex home gym has the capability of delivering over 70 exercises! It includes a squat bar and ab crunch shoulder harness with optional attachments that can be purchased separately such as Preacher curl, Lumbar pad, Triceps rope and more.

Last but definitely not least, the Xtreme 2SE comes with 7 free trainer-built workouts including circuits, strength training, bodybuilding and both upper/lower body workouts just in case you don't know where to begin.

PROS:

• Up to 410 lb of resistance
• 70+ exercises
• Comes with squat bar & ab crunch shoulder harness
• Comes with 7 workouts

CONS:

• A bit expensive

Overall Best Bowflex Home Gym

Bowflex Xtreme 2SE

The Bowflex Xtreme® 2 SE lets you change exercises more quickly and easily with no cable changes needed between exercises. Now includes ergonomically designed adjustable seat...

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2. Best Budget Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym

You want to get a full body workout done on a Bowflex machine but you don't have a huge budget to work with, that's where the Bowflex PR1000 comes into play.

Like other Bowflex home gym models, the PR1000 comes with Power Rods providing a total resistance up to 210 pounds. You will have access to over 25 exercises with this piece of exercise equipment as you can adjust the angle of resistance depending on the movement you want to perform.

The Bowflex PR1000 might be better suited to beginners as it doesn't allow for the same level of resistance or variety as some other Bowflex home gym machines do. That said, this machine offers some nice features including the vertical folding bench, sliding seat for rowing exercises, and the integrated smart device media rack holder.

With the Bowflex PR1000 home gym most people should be able to attain their fitness goals even though the weight resistance isn't as much as the more expensive models.

PROS:

• Great value for the money
• Vertical folding bench for storage
• Sliding bench for leg press exercises or as a rowing machine

CONS:

• Only 210 lb of resistance and less total exercises available

Best Budget Bowflex Home Gym

Bowflex PR1000

Over 200 lb. Power Rod resistance with a multiple cable pulley position allows you to easily change the angle of resistance and increase effectiveness of many exercises. Plus the bench converts to a rolling seat for aerobic rowing...

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3. Best Premium Bowflex Home Gym: Bowflex Revolution

The Bowflex Revolution home gym is a special piece of exercise equipment as it uses SpiraFlex technology instead of Power Rod resistance. SpiraFlex technology was designed for NASA's space program to provide astronauts a workout independent of gravity.

This Bowflex machine offers over 100 exercises with almost unlimited variations. It comes with independent moving arms that can be adjusted to 10 different positions with 170 degrees of freedom.

You can put your entire body through a grueling workout with up to 300 pounds of resistance. But that's not all, with the upgrade you can work with up to 600 pounds of resistance on the leg press station which make this workout machine extremely versatile.

Standard options with the Bowflex Revolution is the vertical bench press, preacher curl attachment, and leg extension.

The Bowflex Revolution can be used for both cardio and strength training workouts. Besides the weight resistance exercises, the Bowflex Revolution doubles as a full-on rowing machine!

Overall you get a full gym's worth of exercise possibilities with the Bowflex Revolution home gym, if you have the money to pony up then this is one of the best home gyms money can buy.

PROS:

• SpiraFlex technology provides smooth resistance up to 600 lb
• Over 100 exercises and 400 variations are possible
• Can be used as a rowing machine
• Bench can fold to save valuable space

CONS:

• Might be outside most people's budgets when shopping for Bowflex machines

Best Premium Bowflex Home Gym

Bowflex Revolution

Over 100 exercises with up to 400 variations. Designed to work every major body zone, and support every workout routine, strength level and fitness goal...

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4. Best Bowflex Home Gym On Amazon: Bowflex Blaze

The Bowflex Blaze home gym is one of the best Bowflex home gyms available that won't break the bank. This home gym equipment is a good choice for those that might be a little short on available space yet still want to target all their muscle groups.

When designing the Bowflex Blaze, the engineers had home gyms in mind as they added built-in wheels and a folding bench so that it could be stored away when not in use.

With over 60 possible exercises available, you should be able to reach your fitness goals with this one workout machine. The Bowflex Power Rods provide 210 pounds of resistance and can be upgraded like the Bowflex Xtreme 2SE to a maximum resistance of 410 pounds.

You can craft your own workouts of follow 7 of the free trainer-lead workouts Bowflex provides. The Bowflex Blaze home gym comes decked out with a sliding seat rail so you can perform rowing exercises or leg presses with ease. An added bonus that this Bowflex machine offers is the integrated instructional workout placard and ankle/hang grips.

All in all, the Bowflex Blaze allows you to perform a full body workout similar to what you could do in a commercial gym in the comfort of a home gym space.

PROS:

• Upgradeable to 410 lb of resistance
• Folding bench and wheels to make storage easier
• Over 60 exercises for a full body workout

CONS:

• More effort to change between exercises

Best Bowflex Home Gym On Amazon

Bowflex Blaze

60 plus exercises for a full body workout with 210 lbs of Power Rod resistance that's upgradable to 310 lbs or 410 lbs. Plus the sliding seat rail allows you to perform aerobic rowing and leg presses...

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5. Best Bowflex For Seniors & Beginners: Bowflex PR3000

The Bowflex PR3000 is a hassle-free home gym that doesn't skip a beat when switching up exercises. This Bowflex machine would be a great addition to just about any home gym.

Built from a heavy-duty steel frame this Bowflex machine has a no-change pulley system so you can move seamlessly from one exercise to the next. The Power Rod technology on the PR3000 delivers up to 210 pounds of resistance but you have the option to add additional Power Rods for maximum resistance of 310 pounds!

The Bowflex PR3000 offers over 50 exercise possibilities to work muscle groups throughout the body and even comes with upholstered roller cushions so you can perform both leg extensions and curls.

Like the Blaze, the Bowflex PR3000 home gym comes with an integrated workout placard and hand grip/ ankle cuffs to add more variety to your workouts.

PROS:

• Easy to use no-change pulley system
• Possibility to perform over 50 exercises
• Upgradeable to 310 pounds

CONS:

• No folding bench
• Assembly instructions could be improved

Best Bowflex For Seniors & Beginners

Bowflex PR3000

Offers over 50 gym quality exercises to work out your entire body and allows for as little as 5 or up to 210 pounds of power rod resistance. Multi use hand grip or ankle cuffs designed to add flexibility and performance to any workout using the quick change Power Rod system...

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6. Best Bowflex Home Gym For Small Spaces: Bowflex Xceed

The Xceed is a great Bowflex machine with a small footprint that can turn your home gym into a super functional space.

You get over 65 exercises which makes strength training a breeze with the special pulley system that allows you to perform resistance exercises through a full range of motion.

Even though this is one of the most compact Bowflex machines it can pack a powerful punch as the standard model comes with 210 lb resistance but it can be upgraded to 410 pounds!

This home gym comes with a vertically adjustable seat that's comprised of high-density foam resulting in a comfortable workout.

Like some other Bowflex machines, the Xceed comes with an ab training strap, lat bar, squat bar, and leg extension/curl attachments. Not all home gym machines are this compact with a wide variety of exercises available which makes it one of the best Bowflex home gyms.

PROS:

• Small footprint great for home gyms
• Resistance up to 410 pounds
• An adjustable pulley system results in over 65 exercise possibilities

CONS:

• Lack of sliding seat
• No quick change system

Best Bowflex Home Gym For Small Spaces

Bowflex Xceed

Compact home gym for full body workout from over 65 gym quality exercises. Offers as little as 5 lb up to 210 lb of resistance with Bowflex Power Rods. Integrated lat tower with angled lat bar helps to build back and shoulder muscles quickly...

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7. Best Bowflex Exercise Bike: Velocore Bike

When looking for the best Bowflex machine you might not have envisioned an upright exercise bike. However, if you're searching for a Bowflex machine to get some calorie-burning cardio exercise done in your own home then look no further than the Velocore Bike.

This is a Bowflex cardio machine rather than a home gym. The Veocore bike comes with two different console options of a 16"" or 22" screen where you can stream your favorite shows while you ride or you can follow along with an intense workout through the JRNY adaptive fitness app. What's more, is that the Velocore is compatible with Peloton and Zwift platforms as well providing you with tons of opportunities to crush your cardio exercise training sessions.

One unique feature of the Velocore Bike is the leaning mode that lets riders mimic real life bicycling. The Velocore Bike comes with dual-sided pedals with SPD clips for cycling shoes and toe cages for sneakers.

You'll get 100 levels of smooth and quiet magnetic resistance levels with 4-way adjustable handlebars and a super comfortable adjustable seat. On the tech side of things, you get a media rack to hold your device plus Bluetooth speakers and a Bluetooth heart rate armband to enhance the experience while tracking your performance. Bowflex also threw in a pair of 3-pound dumbbells that you can use during your ride for an extra challenge.

PROS:

• Leaning mode
• Track multiple metrics (Time, Distance Calories,(calories per minute) Heart rate, Cadence, Resistance and more)
• 100 levels of magnetic resistance
• Options for follow-along workouts with fitness apps
• Maximum user weight 325 lb

CONS:

• Expensive for an exercise bike
• Have to pay a monthly subscription for apps (JRNY etc)

Best Bowflex Exercise Bike

Bowflex Velocore Bike

Leaning mode or stationary mode available plus built-in JRNY® experience. Console options: 16" or 22" with 100 resistance levels...

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8. Best Bowflex Elliptical: Bowflex Max Trainer M6

In our opinion, the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 is one of the best Bowflex models for cardio training. This Bowflex model is based on the previous Max Trainer M5 which was a big hit with over 5,000 5 star reviews.

With the Bowflex Max Trainer M6 you can take advantage of the JRNY App at a price you can swallow as you get a 1-year membership with your purchase. This Bowflex machine comes with 16 levels of resistance and a unique burn rate display plus a magnetic media rack to hold your tablet or phone.

This Bowflex model comes with Multi grip dynamic handles that have integrated contact grips to monitor your heart rate as you workout. If one of your fitness goals is weight loss then the Max Trainer M6 might be a great option for you.

PROS:

• 16 levels of resistance
• Improved upon the popular model M5
• 1 Year JRNY App membership

CONS:

• A tad pricey
• No console included

Best Bowflex Elliptical

Bowflex Max Trainer M6

With 16 levels of resistance, you can set your resistance and go! The Max Trainer's unique burn rate display motivates you by setting targets to help you achieve your goals...

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9. Best Bowflex Treadmill: Bowflex Treadmill 22

As far as treadmills go, the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is one of the best options on the market. Bowflex home gyms are definitely more popular than their treadmills but this piece of fitness equipment from them shouldn't be overlooked.

The Treadmill 22 features an immersive 22" adjustable touchscreen console that allows users to follow workouts on the built-in JRNY App or watch a show on Netflix as they workout. With the purchase of this machine, you get a 1-year membership for the JRNY App which is a $149 value.

Other features of this high-end treadmill include a -5-20% motorized incline at speeds from 0-12 mph. The running deck is more than respectable at 22"W and 60" L and is covered by Comfort Tech cushioning which absorbs the impact of each stride you take.

Last but not least the Treadmill 22 from Bowflex can be folded up and stored away when not in use making it a perfect fit for most home gyms.

PROS:

• Can operate at inclines of -5 to 20% with speeds of 0-12 mph
• 1 year membership of JRNY app included
• Foldable for easy storage

CONS:

• On the expensive end of the spectrum for treadmills

Best Bowflex Treadmill

Bowflex Treadmill 22

With 16 levels of resistance, you can set your resistance and go! The Max Trainer's unique burn rate display motivates you by setting targets to help you achieve your goals...

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9 Best Bowflex Home Gym Machines Side By Side Comparison

We put the chart together below that highlights the best Bowflex home gym machines to see how they stack up next to each other so you can make a better buying decision.

Benefits Of Bowflex machines

Depending on the machine you decide to buy from Bowflex you can reap a number of benefits that will help to improve your overall health.

Build Muscle

Bowflex home gym models offer ample opportunity for users to build muscle with a variety of exercises. With a Bowflex gym you can work the entire body with the Power Rod weight resistance. With the lower-priced options like the Bowflex PR1000, users can perform over 25 exercises. On the other hand, if you're more serious about strength training then you can opt for the Revolution which provides weight resistance up to 600 pounds while performing over 100 exercises and over 400 variations.

Low Impact On Joints

One of the key benefits that Bowflex machine users can benefit from is the low impact on joints when exercising. Beginners or seniors and the like might be concerned about high-impact strength training while using free weights could be better served by the smooth consistent tension that the classic Power Rod resistance provides.

Even the cardio machines are designed with comfort in mind such as the Treadmill 22 that has the Comfort Tech soft cushioning to reduce the impact on your body while running or walking.

Weight Loss

Bowflex machines can help users lose weight through strength training or cardio exercise. You can burn tons of calories within the comfort of your own home with the help of a Bowflex machine. 

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BUYING A BOWFLEX MACHINE

Before parting with your hard-earned cash you need to take into account a few factors before buying a Bowflex machine. Below are some guiding criteria that will help you determine which option is the best for your situation.

Size

When purchasing any home gym equipment it's important to know where it will be housed. You need to double-check the dimensions in your home or garage gym before parting with your money whether buying Bowflex gyms or free weights. If you don't have much available space then you might opt for a Bowflex machine that has the capability to fold or be moved with the help of transport wheels. In this situation the Bowflex Xceed might be a good choice if you want to build muscle whereas the Velocore bike might be perfect for those trying to lose weight.

Usage

When shopping for Bowflex machines perhaps the second most important factor you should consider is what you'll be using them for.

If you're looking for Bowflex home gyms to build muscle or get stronger then you could consider one of the more versatile home gyms that offer the capability of more exercises. For example, the Bowflex Blaze provides users with the ability to perform over 60 exercises while working with up to 410 pounds of Power Rod resistance. That said, other options such as the Revolution give users the options to meet their strength training needs while also converting to a rowing machine to address weight loss or cardio demands.

Lastly, if your main fitness goals are cardio based then you should probably consider the Max Trainer M6, Velocore Bike or the Treadmill 22 rather than one of the Bowflex home gyms that uses the patented Power Rod technology meant for strength training.

Budget

Let's face it, your disposable income dictates the purchases you make. Whether it's a gym membership or a Bowflex machine, you have to consider how much money you have to spend.

Our top pick the Xtreme 2SE comes in around $1,300 whereas you could get the budget-friendly PR1000 for close to $600. Then on the high end, you have machines like the Revolution that provide more exercise variability but the price tag to match.

Bowflex FAQs

Is it Worth Buying A Bowflex Machine?

Yes, we believe it's worth it to buy a Bowflex machine for a certain demographic of home gym owners. People who have limited space and want an all-encompassing home gym will find value in buying a Bowflex.

Bowflex home gyms can also be a good fit for beginners, seniors, and others wanting to work the entire body through low-impact training sessions. However, it's important to note that people who are more serious about weight training and want more of a challenge then we would always recommend going with the time-tested free weights.

Can you build muscle with a Bowflex?

If you use a Bowflex home gym properly you can definitely build muscle. Some of the machines provide up to 410 pounds of resistance which should be enough resistance for most to gain muscle. However, you will need to eat enough of a clean diet with an adequate protein intake of around .8 grams per pound of lean bodyweight and get enough sleep of 7-8 hours a night if you want to maximize your muscle-building capability.

What's the difference between Power Rods and SpiraFlex?

Bowflex is famous for their patented Power Rod resistance that uses a composite material called poly hexamethylene adipamide or nylon 66. This material delivers more resistance the more it's bent. SpiraFlex is a technology developed by NASA that uses a proprietary elastomer compounds in disc shapes that create torsional resistance.

The major difference between Power Rods and SpiraFlex is that the rods produce a progressive resistance and SpiraFlex produces a more consistent stable resistance throughout the movement.

Both Power Rods and SpiraFlex can be upgraded to add more resistance to the standard amount provided in the base models.

SUMMARY

Now that you've made it this far you probably realize that there are other Bowflex models available that you never knew existed. You have plenty of options to choose from with Bowflex home gyms but just like a gym membership, it's only worth it if you actually use it consistently.

If you decide to buy a Bowflex machine to get into better shape then it's up to you to get the most out of it. Don't become a statistic, we all know someone who spent hundreds of dollars on home fitness equipment then just let it sit there to collect dust. The machine won't do the work for you, take the initiative and put in the time and effort to see the results you desire.

More Best Equipment Roundups:

• Best Total Gyms
• Best All In One Home Gyms
• Best Folding Treadmills

Small calf muscles can be the bane of some people's existence due to genetics or lack of calf training. One piece of home gym equipment that can help build big powerful calves is a calf machine. 

We’ve compiled a list of the 7 best calf raise machines after reviewing dozens so you can make an informed decision.

Read this post for our top picks which cover the seated calf raise machine, standing calf raise machine and even a tibia dorsi machine!

7 BEST CALF MACHINES 

1. Best Overall Calf Machine: Body Solid Seated Calf Raise Machine
2. Best Budget Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine
3. Best Premium Calf Machine: Powertec Squat/Calf Machine
4. Best Calf Machine On Amazon: Xmark Seated Calf Raise Machine
5. Best Standing Calf Machine: Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack
6. Best Standing Calf Machine On Amazon: TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack
7. Best Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Tibia Flexion Machine

1. Best Overall Calf Machine: Body Solid Seated Calf Raise Machine 

If you want a no-frills, affordable, high-quality seated calf raise machine, this is your best bet. Body Solid has a reputation for making high-quality fitness equipment. We think the GSCR349 seated calf machine is the best overall for calf training. The seated calf raise machine uses a cantilever-type design, is relatively light, and is designed with a larger than normal range of motion for maximum tension when performing seated calf raises.

The cantilever design is practical and enables a 3:1 weight loading, meaning 60 pounds loaded is equivalent to 180 pounds of tension.

The frame is sturdy as it is comprised of 2x3" heavy-duty steel and the knee pads are made from 3" thick DuraFirm, making it a comfortable experience.

The only primary issue is the weight posts – they support standard size (1”) plates and not the more common Olympic plates. However, you can purchase an Olympic weight adapter for under $20 that are readily available on the product description page.

Overall the Body Solid GSCR349 seated calf raise machine is one of the best available as the sealed ball bearings provide a smooth friction-free movement combined with the unique platform that reduced the stress compression on the balls of the feet. The design of this seated calf machine allows for maximum range of motion and can help you transform your chicken legs into tree trunks.

Last but not least Body Solid's seated calf raise machine comes with a lifetime warranty.

PROS:

• Affordable
• Lifetime warranty
• 3:1 weight ratio increases true resistance

CONS:

• Olympic weight adapter required

Best Overall Calf Machine

Body Solid GSCR349 Calf Machine

GSCR349 - Designed to increase calf muscle interaction and speed the rate of development. 3:1 Weight Ratio, so 60 pounds means 180 pounds of resistance...

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2. Best Budget Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine 

Titan Fitness seated calf raise machine is a close second and more affordable alternative to the Body Solid machine above. Titan’s machine comes standard with Olympic weight sleeves, round thigh pads, and an adjustable length weight post.

This seated calf raise machine comes with a price tag that won't break the bank yet has a maximum weight capacity of 550 pounds!

With its solid base and adjustable thigh pads users of all sizes can get work their calf muscles until they're on fire.

Ultimately the Titan Fitness seated calf raise machine is a great item at a budget-friendly price and should be nearly everything you need.

PROS:

• Budget-minded price
• Dual Olympic plate weight sleeves

CONS:

• Weight sleeves may be slightly thin and require heavier clamps

Best Budget Calf Machine

Titan Fitness Seated Calf Machine

Comes with four adjustable height thigh pad settings to accommodate different sized athletes. Plus dual Olympic weight post sleeves that can hold 550lb...

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3. Best Premium Calf Machine: Powertec Squat/Calf Machine 

If you’re looking for a top-shelf calf raise machine and your budget is generous, the Powertec standing calf/squat combo machine is what you need. Powertec is another superior manufacturer of fitness equipment and offers a stellar lifetime warranty. This standing calf raise machine is enough to finish all or most leg days in a single spot.

As the title implies this is more than a simple calf raise machine as you can go through a full range of motion on both squat and calf raises. With this piece of gym equipment, you get an easy-to-access bar at the top that users can engage/disengage to start or stop the exercise.

The wide foot plate allows users to perform both squats and standing calf raises comfortably while the fixed safety stop towards the bottom gives an added layer of security as you perform your leg workout.

As far as calf raise machines go, this one from Powertec is one of the best options on the market.

PROS:

• Squat/standing calf raise combo is has superb design and engineering
• Olympic size weight sleeves
• 500 lb maximum weight capacity

CONS:

• Pay attention to bolt hole alignment

Best Premium Calf Machine

Powertec Squat/Calf Machine

Take your glute and leg training to the next level. An easy to access bar at the top allows the user to start and stop the exercises with a simple push or pull motion with loads up to 500 lb....

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4. Best Calf Machine On Amazon: XMark Seated Calf Raise Machine 

This Xmark seated calf machine is one of the top-rated machines we reviewed. It comes standard with Olympic-sized weight sleeves and 3” Duracraft vinyl cushion padding. Both the knee support and weight bar length are adjustable by quite a bit, making this a relatively customizable piece of equipment given its small footprint.

The frame of this seated calf raise machine is built from 2x3" 11 gauge heavy-duty steel and is covered by a powder coat finish. Plus it sits on skid resistance feet to avoid marking up the floor.

When doing seated calf raises the knee pads swivel with the movement providing ultimate comfort. The XMark seated calf raise features dual Olympic sleeves to hold up to five 45 lb weight plates on each side!

If you want stronger calves, grab yourself the Xmark seated calf raise machine and perform all the calf raises you can handle.

PROS:

• Thick 3” padding is super comfortable and durable
• Olympic size weight sleeves

CONS:

• Small footprint may be too small for larger bodies

Best Calf Machine On Amazon

XMark Seated Calf Raise Machine

Designed with height-adjustable swiveling thigh pads which rotate with you as you perform calf raises. Pop-pins allow for easy adjustment of the thigh pads and the length...

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5. Best Standing Calf Machine: Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack 

Body Solid consistently tops our lists of best fitness equipment, and the SLS500 squat/calf rack is another example of why that is.

This isn't just a standing calf raise machine, it doubles as a full hack squat machine. It’s made of commercial-quality engineering and parts and has a lifetime warranty. While the price is a bit steep for simple home use, it will last forever, and having a squat rack to go with your calf raise machine helps justify the cost.

Other features that users appreciate are the Olympic-size weight sleeves, additional weight storage horns, durable thick padded shoulder pads and ample footplate.

If you have the space and the budget, and you really value leg day, this is the calf raise machine for you.

PROS:

• Top shelf engineering makes for super durable construction
• High weight capacity
• Weight storage horns

CONS:

• Expensive

Best Standing Calf Machine

Body Solid Pro Clubline Squat/Calf Rack

Build mass and strength in the thighs, glutes, calves and lower back with this Club quality machine. A rounded calf block also provides extra range of motion making the SLS500 an ideal...

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6. Best Standing Calf Machine On Amazon: TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack 

The TDS standing calf raise machine/squat combination uses the same leverage-style lifting system as the others on this list. This is a solid calf raise machine made with 3”x3” square tubular, 11-gauge heavy-duty steel.

The construction quality of the TDS standing calf machine is top shelf for heavy calf raises with a maximum weight capacity of 1000 lb. This calf raise machine has 4" thick back and shoulder pads plus a heavy duty diamond plated foot plate. Users of all sizes can get their calf training done as it can accommodate people up to 6'6".

This is one of the best calf raise machines that offers a number of functions from squats, single-leg squats, shoulder shrugs, and both single and double calf raises.

One important point to mention is that it can be used with both standard and Olympic weight plates.

PROS:

• Heavy-duty construction
• Affordable

CONS:

• You need an adapter to support Olympic weight plates

Best Standing Calf Machine On Amazon

TDS Leverage Standing Squat/Calf Rack

Heavy duty deluxe padding, 3" X 3" x 11 gauge tube construction with 1" solid steel pins. You can load Up to 1000 lb....

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7. Best Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine: Titan Fitness Tibia Flexion Machine 

Titan Fitness makes this list again with their tibia dorsiflexion calf machine. Technically this works the front of the leg (anterior tibialis) and the eccentric motion of the rear calf muscles. This is a great little tool to use to supplement your full calf and leg workouts and is a perfect piece of equipment for individuals with limited mobility or in need of smaller tools for rehabilitation.

Users noted this machine worked well and was well made. The fact that it supports Olympic-size weights is appealing as that’s the weight most people have on hand. 

This machine is suitable for use with either one or both feet, is well made, and is sure to be an excellent addition to home gyms.

PROS:

• Supports Olympic plates
• Heavy-duty construction

CONS:

• Limited weight capacity

Best Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine

Titan Fitness Tibia Dorsi Machine

Take back your leg workout by ensuring your routine is comprehensive – the Tibia Dorsi Calf Machine will target your tibialis and turn up the heat on your feet.....

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This marks the end of our list of top home-based calf exercise machines. As you can see, there’s a surprising amount of variety in terms of design and cost. The calves are an important (and often neglected or poorly trained) muscle group. Any one of these machines is sure to help you achieve your goals on leg day and shouldn’t take up too much space.

Below we have some pro tips on what to look for in a home-based calf machine.

7 Best Calf Machines Side By Side Comparison

We put together a chart of the 7 best calf machines to highlight the similarities and differences to help you find the perfect one for your home gym. 

What Are The Benefits Of Calf Machines?

The main benefit of an in-home calf machine is similar to that of other isolation machines – they allow you to isolate the calves from the legs in the comfort of your own home.

You can only do so much for your calves with traditional equipment like barbells or squat racks. Calf machines will add a lot of value to your overall workouts, and they take up less space than commercial equipment. Plus, if you’re able to pick up a combo squat/calf raise machine, you can do double duty without breaking the bank and still leave space for more equipment!

What To Look For When Buying A CALF Machine For Home Gym

If you're shopping around for calf raise machines for your home gym then you must be serious about building bigger and stronger calves. From a standing calf raise machine to a seated calf machine there are a few questions that you need to ask yourself before you make a purchase.

Size

Our top pick for the best calf raise machine from Body Solid, measures 47” long x 23” wide x 39” tall. These are near-perfect dimensions for any calf machine. In general, you want a base as long as the main weight-bearing arm and broad enough to straddle without instability to either side. Height shouldn’t be a hindrance, but anywhere around 35” is an excellent position to enable a proper range of motion as well as vertical storage if you're looking at a seated calf raise machine.

If you opt for a standing calf raise machine, the most critical measurement is the height: 60” is the minimum we’d recommend, as this may prompt you to squat too much or bend your back. Be sure the size is appropriate for your needs.

At the end of the day, both seated calf raises and standing calf raises can lead to muscle growth.

Build Quality

• Construction: Most, if not all, best calf raise machines are made from 2” x 3” tubular 11-gauge steel. This is the industry standard and provides the most durability.
• Weight Capacity: 500 pounds is a good place for most calf machines to be since any more weight is really not necessary for most purposes.
• Padding: Most calf raise machines are equipped with 3” thick densely padded shoulder and/or thigh cushions. This is sufficient for most needs and matches what you’ll find on commercial equipment. A good machine will have durable thick stitching and multiple pads if covering a large area.
• Range of Motion: The range of motion depends on the setup of the machine, as in the length of the weight bar, the placement of the lever, and the machine’s height. The range of motion on a well-built machine will all a full extension of the calf where your feet don’t touch the ground, and the top of the flexion should have you up on the balls of your feet. So, any machine should allow upwards of 6” of vertical travel.
• Safety/Stops: Any good calf raise machine will have automatic or built-in stoppers and ½” pins for adjustments.
• Weight Types: You should opt for a calf raise machine that supports Olympic plates instead of only standard weight plates. Many machines that work with standard weight plates also have the ability to throw a weight sleeve adapter on so that it works with Olympic weights.

Price

Our top budget pick – the Titan Seated Calf Machine – costs about $200 but you could spend thousands of dollars for a commercial grade calf machine. However, an average price point is between $400 and $800. Much less, and the quality and/or features will be lacking. Much more, and you’re probably spending more than you need to.

Difficulty of Assembly

Most machines ship partially assembled and will take a rather non-mechanically inclined person a couple of hours, at most, to assemble. Just be sure you have all the equipment, tools, and patience to see it through.

Usage

Most pieces of equipment are designed to last a lifetime, especially if kept indoors and used a few times a week. Obviously, greater use, such as by more than one person or multiple times a week with heavy weights, won’t last as long. But you can count on your calf machine lasting a few years, at least, with regular use.

Online Ratings

Be sure to read reviews as well as product specs and manufacturer descriptions. You’ll learn a lot more about how each machine differs and what people think, especially in terms of durability, good and bad features, and ease of assembly.

Standing Vs. Seated Calf Machines, Which Is Better? 

We can't say seated calf machines are better or worse than standing calf machines, it comes down to a few factors that determine the better option for your needs. In an ideal world, we would recommend doing both standing and seated calf raises if you want nicely developed calves. However, the most important aspect to keep in mind when doing calf raises is proper form and going through a full range of motion without bouncing up and down.

Seated calf machines

A seated calf machine is ideal for those who want a small machine that works only for the calves. The range of motion will be slightly limited on a seated calf raise compared to standing, but comfort is enhanced.

The main difference in the way a seated calf raise machine works during calf raise exercises is that your knees are bent at roughly 90 degrees and in contact with thigh pads which makes your soleus muscle engaged more than the gastrocnemius muscle. When using a seated machine for your calf workout you can work the soleus muscle which will give your calf muscles a wider thicker look.

The seated calf raise machine is also the cheaper option which is often a critical component when decking out home gyms.

Standing calf machines

many standing calf raise machines usually double as squat machines, enabling you to do a nearly full leg workout. When you perform calf raises in a standing position you put more stress onto the gastrocnemius which is the calf muscle responsible for creating the aesthetic shape of the back of your legs.

A solid standing calf machine will also allow a greater range of motion and can support a heavier weight load.

These calf training machines are the bigger, more expensive option compared to a seated calf machine, but not often by much.

CALF MACHINE FAQ

Are Calf Machines Worth It?

Do you want big calves? Do you have the space for another machine? If yes, then calf machines are great for anyone who is looking to build a complete at-home gym. Your best bet would be to look at standing calf raise machines and they might have squat capability, therefore, killing two birds with one stone. You’ll end up spending a bit more money, but you’ll get far more utility without taking up much more space. However, it you want to work the soleus muscle then opt for a seated calf machine.

What Machine Is Best For Calves? 

The standing calf raise is a bit better in terms of activation and range of motion compared to a seated calf raise machine if you want to hit the gastrocnemius. On the other hand if you want to work the soleus then consider a seated machine.

What exercise works the calves the most? 

Calf raise machines should work the calf muscle the best. The calf is composed of a few different muscles – the soleus and gastrocnemius, both of which perform plantarflexion of the ankle. On the other side of the leg is the tibialis, which pulls the foot upward. The standing calf raise works the calf muscles the best as it provides a greater range of motion and supports heavier weights.  That said a seated calf raise machine will hit the soleus muscle better due to the angle of the knee which can provide a thicker-looking calf muscle.

Should I Train Calves Every Day? 

No. the calves are designed to handle high volume and endure long-term usage, so they’re relatively fatigue resistant, but training the calves every day is overtraining and doesn’t allow for proper progression. It will likely contribute to quicker plateaus and an increased risk of injury.

The calves recover quickly, so you can get away with training them every few days.

SUMMARY

In summary, we’ve provided the seven best calf raise machines for the home gym. This list included both seated and standing calf raise machines and what to look for in either. There are a lot of variables to consider, including build quality, machine size, weight type, and safety features. Knowing what to look for will help you make an informed decision. It will also help you understand how calf machines work and possibly how to improve your form and enhance your leg routine.

We recommend you find a calf raise machine for your home gym that suits your needs, such as budget, space, and fitness level. If you’re going to spend the money and you have the space, consider an upright machine. These will ensure a greater range of motion and can support greater weight to work the calf muscles. Plus, they'll likely double as squat machines.

Ultimately, choose what works best for you. Check out our other equipment reviews if you’re looking for more home gym equipment.

More Best Leg Equipment Roundups:

• Best Folding Squat Racks
• Best GHD Machines
• Best Leg Press Machines
• Best Squat Racks
• Best Leg Extension Machines

Have you been looking to change careers and make your living guiding others to their fitness goals? Then becoming a personal trainer may be right up your alley. 

You want to advertise yourself as a certified PT to gain recognition, increase income or land a job at any major health club.In that case, you typically must pass a PT test.

To help out those interested in getting certified, we have done the research and created a list of 9 of the best personal trainer certification programs available. 

WHAT IS A PERSONAL TRAINER CERTIFICATION?

Personal training certifications are programs that educate and prepare you to guide people from various backgrounds toward their health and wellness goals. The best personal training certification for you should improve your skill level, come from an accredited certifying body, and fit your time commitments. 

You can think of a personal training certification is comparable to a college degree in the sense that it is a piece of paper that proves that you have passed the required test(s) to pass and earn your new title as a CPT. 

WHAT IS NCCA ACCREDITATION?

NCCA stands for National Commission for Certifying Agencies. The NCCA is one of the most respected certifying agencies in the US. Accreditation of personal training certifications is focused on the program's quality, validity, reliability, competency-based assessments, and ability to separate unqualified individuals from practicing in a given profession.

Why are certifying agencies important?

Earning a certification from an accredited program verifies that you have learned something from a high-quality institution. Gaining an accredited certification confirms that you have met the criteria to work as a professional and train clients with full effectiveness.

Most of the nation's top respected individuals in the health and fitness space believe that out of the number of certifying agencies, the NCCA is the best accrediting body for healthcare, fitness, wellness, and other occupations. The NCCA has been accrediting certification programs based on the highest quality standards in professional certification since 1977 to ensure the programs adhere to modern standards of practice. When searching for personal trainer certifications, make sure you look for the NCCA seal of approval. 

Factors Behind Each Personal Trainer Certification Ranking

We have put together the following factors to help aspiring personal trainers choose the best personal training certifications and found as much data as possible so we could accurately layout our research:

• Summary of Focus: Each personal training certification program varies slightly in what its education curriculum teaches you. 
• Content Quality: Content quality measures how well the learning material prepares you to be a PT. 
• Preparation Time: This is a time range of how long it takes people to prepare and complete the pre-final requirements. 
• Test Length: This is the average time frame it takes to complete the final test. 
• Difficulty: The difficulty of the study material and the test. 
• Price: This is the cost of the test and the study materials. 
• Pass Rate: This is equal to the total test-takers divided by the passers. 
• CEU Requirement: This shows the amount of Continuing Education Units required to maintain your current certifications. 
• Average Salary: The average annual salary of fitness professionals is based on actual user feedback and information found on their sites. 

**This post may contain affiliate links where we earn commission on purchased items.**

9 Best Personal Trainer Certification Programs

1. ISSA
2. NASM
3. ACE
4. NCSF
5. NSCA
6. ACSM
7. NFPT
8. FM
9. NESTA

1. ISSA

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

ISSA stands for the International Sports Sciences Association and was founded in 1988. They offer a personal training certification that is an excellent balance of all aspects of fitness, nutrition, and exercise to prepare potential personal trainers for success. 

The International Sports Sciences Association offers five NCCA-accredited Exams:

• Certified PT
• Yoga Instructor
• Group Exercise Instructor
• Certified Indoor Cycling Instructor
• Strength Training Specialist

However, the online ISSA CPT exam is not NCCA-accredited. You will have to take the accredited test at a proctored test center. 

CONTENT QUALITY

The International Sports Sciences Association's personal training certification programs include knowledge based on the latest exercise science and fitness research and development within the course material. Each course consists of an online textbook, workbook, audio lectures, practice exams, learning modules, and fantastic trainer support. Unlike other options on the market, there is no option for live instructions in the base packages. Please don't fret, though; the study materials and guides are thorough, well-organized, and for most people, more than enough to help them pass the final exam. 

PREPARATION TIME

The personal trainer certification program can be completed in as little as four weeks with their fast track program. So if you are eager to get started as a trainer, this is a fantastic option. Most ISSA students take 10 to 12 weeks to complete their self-guided study regimen. This is a very manageable time frame if you keep up with the studying and quizzes. Don't have an abundance of free time to study? Not a problem; you have up to six months from the date of your certification purchase to complete your final personal trainer exam.

TEST LENGTH

In terms of test length, you have two options. The online option is a 200-question multiple-choice exam that is an open book, and you have unlimited time to complete it. This is great for people who don't have much free time and aren't good test-takers. However, this option isn't NCCA accredited, so in our opinion isn't worth taking. 

The other option is the NCCA accredited personal trainer exam that features 140 multiple choice questions, in which only 125 are graded. The extra fifteen are considered pre-test questions and aren't tallied into your final grade. This option has a two-hour time limit, is a closed book test, and is proctored to ensure no cheating. 

DIFFICULTY

The International Sports Sciences Association online version of the PT exam is relatively simple; they have done away with the short answer questions and the long essays. It is now 200 multiple choice questions that are an open book, and you can don't even have to finish the test in one sitting. You could technically look up all the answers to the questions if you wanted to, but we wouldn't recommend that as it isn't an excellent way to test your knowledge. 

The NCCA accredited test is far more problematic as it is timed, and no books or notes are allowed. It can be compared to an ACT or an SAT because it tests your knowledge and makes a better judge of your training ability. 

PRICE

The cheapest ISSA personal training certification is 988 dollars or $72 per month for a year. If you want to take the proctored NCCA-personal trainer certification, that will run you $599. If your test score is below 70%, you will have to retake the test. The retake fee is 99$. If you have to retake the NCCA version, it will cost you $599 again, so make sure you study!

PASS RATE

The most common personal trainer certification final from ISSA is the online option. It is not as difficult as a NASM, or ACSM exam, as the general pass rate hovers near 80%. However, the NCCA accredited option is drastically different, and the pass rate drops drastically. The pass rate falls into the same 60-70% range as the NASM and ACSM tests.

CEU REQUIREMENT

ISSA trainers are required to renew their personal trainer certification every two years. This process is relatively straightforward as it consists of a $99 renewal fee, updated CPR/AED certification, and documented proof stating you completed 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Continuing education units are equal to one contact hour of instruction. All 20 hours must be taken through ISSA, and ISSA Continuing Education Provider, or other ISSA-approved continuing education activity. We recommend completing another certification, as they count as 20 CEUs, and earning another credential to your arsenal. 

AVERAGE SALARY

According to the ISSA website, the median annual salary for an ISSA-certified personal trainer is $40,510 annually. The top 10 percent of ISSA-certified trainers earn more than $76,550.

Overall the International Sports Sciences Association offers one of the best personal trainer certification programs as it continues to be one of the most popular options for aspiring professional trainers.

2. NASM

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The National Academy of Sports Medicine is an incredibly well-known personal training certification program that teaches you the skills you need to be a great personal trainer and on corrective exercise with scientifically accurate information. They have been in the industry for 30+ years and have developed some of the most successful personal trainers. The personal trainer certification is NCCA accredited and is only offered in-person as a proctored exam. 

CONTENT QUALITY

The guided-study option is a fantastic option if you already have experience in the fitness industry or have taken other courses. It includes their online course, exam fee, digital textbook, learning videos, practice exams, audio chapters, exercise library, resource library, and practice exam. This great package will set you up for passing the final exam and as a thriving PT.  

The all-inclusive option includes everything in the self-study package. It has additional study materials, guided study courses, gym internships, recertification for life guarantee, and the possibility for CPR/AED certification online. 

The NASM Optimum Performance Training (OPT) model seamlessly allows you to progress clients from the beginning stabilization phase through a variety of periods in training, finally leading to focus on power and performance training. The OPT model also includes behavioral change, special populations training, corrective exercise, and basic business skills.

PREPARATION TIME

The standard NASM certification program is a 10-week online course, but potential trainers can also participate in a hands-on, live workshop in addition to the online system to better prepare for the final exam. Test takers can expect to invest roughly 10-12 weeks in completing the online modules to prepare for the exam. This time frame includes the two-hour NASM final exam with 120 multiple-choice questions.

TEST LENGTH

As of 2022, the NASM personal trainer certification final test is 120 multiple choice questions that span over six sections. The six sections range in scope, covering topics like professional development, behavioral coaching, training instruction, and program design. You will have two hours to finish the exam, which is proctored to ensure nobody is trying to cheat. 

DIFFICULTY

With all the options NASM gives you for learning the material, it ultimately comes down to your drive and ability to understand the material. They also provide plenty of practice exams so you can learn the test layout and the best ways to study for the final exam. 

NASM is an accredited test, making it more difficult as it is timed, and no books or notes are allowed. You will have to know your material in order to get above a 70% on your exam.

PRICE

NASM has multiple study options for up-and-coming trainers, which boil down to choosing the one that works best for you. NASM, at the time of this article being written, has four premium study options to choose from:

• Self-Study: $674 or $32 per month
• Premium Self-Study: $899 or $44 per month
• Guided-Study: $1,199 or $57 per month
• All-Inclusive: $1,889 or $99 per month

Retake Final Exam: Roughly $190. Their website states that you would be required to call the member service team, where they have three options regarding pricing and limitations.   

Each option offers progressively more study guidance, extra benefits, and assets to help you pass the test. The National Academy of Sports Medicine CPT course is one of the most expensive options of all the major certification bodies, but when you factor in that NASM is also considered the most popular of these brands. So a certain level of prestige goes along with their certification.

PASS RATE

The NASM, the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Personal Trainer cert is one of the top personal training certification programs in the industry and is notoriously one of the hardest to pass. NASM purposely makes their tests difficult to pass because they are trying to raise the standard for the knowledge that personal trainers start with. The average pass rate for the last several years sits around 63%. This adds up to one in three people who will fail the NASM exam. Make sure to study, and you shouldn't have a problem. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

The National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer certification must be maintained every two years to ensure that NASM personal trainers stay up-to-date with current best-practice guidelines and develop more skills. To re-certify, trainers must earn 2.0 NASM-approved continued education units, or 20 contact hours, every two-year certification period. This does include the 0.1 CEUs from the required CPR/AED certification.

AVERAGE SALARY

According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine website, their personal trainers have great earning potential, with most of their personal trainers making between $30,000 and $49,000 per year, with most NASM-certified personal trainers typically making $42,000 in their first year. Plus they state that as trainers develop their specialties and earn more certifications, they can see their income grow by 20%.

All in all NASM is one of the best personal trainer certification programs that's respected across the industry by fitness professionals.

3. ACE

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The American Council on Exercise (ACE) has a personal trainer certification that is quite comprehensive and includes everything you will need to know to start training clients upon completion. Their personal trainer program focuses on behavior modification and evidence-based science, which sets you up as a compassionate trainer who works to empower their clients to take the lead in their health and wellness journey.

CONTENT QUALITY

The American Council on Exercise treats its personal training packages with a decent variety of materials and study aids; even the lowest tier package comes with some great value. Every package comes with the ACE University that aids students in staying on track with the course syllabus, practice exams, textbooks in multiple forms, and study companions. This helpful stuff will push your preparation for the final to the next level, allowing you to be more confident as a new CPT. The American Council on Exercise student portal is immersive and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate the different modules. 

PREPARATION TIME

From the time you purchase your online personal training course to finishing your personal trainer certification exam, you have nine months to complete everything. This is a massive window for you to study, prepare, and take the final exam. You don't have to wait that long to take the test; however, we recommend a more reasonable time frame of three to four months for most individuals. This should give you plenty of time to go about your daily life and find time to study. Keep in mind that the longer you wait, the harder it will be to retain information. 

TEST LENGTH

The American Council on Exercise-CPT exam questions are pretty straightforward. It consists of 150 questions that span the various study topics within the four domains of the course material. You will need to score 500 points out of 800 to pass. This translates to correctly answering 90 out of the 125 scored ACE CPT exam questions. Twenty-five of the questions are considered experimental questions and don't count towards your overall score. Make sure to focus, as you will only get three hours to complete your personal trainer final exam.

DIFFICULTY

Just like the NASM final, the ACE final's difficulty comes down to how well you prepare for it beforehand. The more you do the practice exams and study, the easier it will become on test day. Use the provided personal trainer study companion that focuses on multiple levels of learning through a combination of practical applications and questions, which will help you be more informed and confident when test day arrives. 

PRICE

The American Council on Exercise has three packages to choose from; what you choose comes down to selecting the one that works best for your needs. 

ACE's options include:

• Basic: $587
• Plus: $689
• Advantage: $1,037
• Retake Fee: $249

Each option offers progressively more study guidance, extra benefits, and assets to help you pass the test. The ACE CPT course is NCCA accredited, making the price tag make more sense.   

PASS RATE

The ACE personal trainer test isn't a walk in the park, just like any certification test with an NCCA accreditation. It is one of the more complicated tests to pass, being just slightly more manageable than the NASM certification exam. With a passing rate in the 65% range, you have a decent chance of passing but remember you will need to work hard and study to earn your certification. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

The ACE Certified Personal Trainer certification must be maintained every two years to ensure that ACE-certified personal trainers stay up-to-date with current best-practice guidelines and expand their knowledge base. With ACE, you will need 2.0 CEUs, equivalent to 20 active hours worth of credits, and a renewal fee of $129. Don't hesitate to start on your CEUs, spread them out, and try to complete 10 hours each year to make them reasonably easy to manage. 

AVERAGE SALARY

We struggled to find any information on their website stating what their personal trainers typically average in their annual salary. However, we were able to find some info on ZipRecruiter that shines a positive light for those considering an ACE personal trainer certification. Based on our findings, ACE trainers landed towards the top of the PT median income bracket with annual average earnings of $51,467. We believe that the popularity of the ACE certification may be influential on the average earning of personal trainers, as the higher tier options tend to make more. 

Considering the average salary and their notoriety ACE offers one of the best personal trainer certification programs around.

4. NCSF

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The National Council on Strength and Fitness, or NCSF, is an organization that has been around for over 25 years in the fitness industry. They aren't quite as renowned as NASM or ACE, but they still do a fantastic job preparing certified personal trainers. NCSF personal training certification covers most of the topics needed for basic fitness training. The NCSF CPT course is NCCA accredited when you take it in a proctored environment.  

The study overview on the NCSF website shows eight content units are covered. The units are as follows:

• Health and Physical Fitness
• Functional Anatomy and Training Instruction
• Exercise Physiology
• Screening, Evaluation, and Professional Practice
• Nutrition
• Weight Management
• Programming Considerations
• Considerations for Special Population

CONTENT QUALITY

NCSF treats its personal training packages with an average amount of materials and study aids. Every package comes with instructor support, a digital textbook, lesson notes, review quizzes, and instructional videos that aid students in staying on track and setting them up for success as a proper PT. This is all helpful stuff that will push your preparation for the final.

Unfortunately, they don't offer anything as polished as the ACE/NASM student portal. They offer packages with 2-days of workshop instruction packages so you can get some hands-on experience. They also offer exam preparation clinics to help learners pass the exams relatively easily. 

PREPARATION TIME

The time it takes to complete your certification varies depending on the package you purchase. You can get it done as quickly as 2-3 months if you are motivated to finish it or choose one of the home study options. Whereas if you take your time or choose one of the workshop options, it can take up to six months. 

TEST LENGTH

The NCSF certified personal trainer exam is pretty straightforward. It consists of 150 multiple choice questions that span ten sections. Most tests accredited with the NCCA follow this pattern of having 150-200 multiple choice questions, so the NCSF is no exception. Make sure to prepare for the test, as you will only get three hours to complete your personal trainer final exam. 

DIFFICULTY

If you're an individual who stresses out and isn't a strong tester, then the NCSF may be the perfect personal training certification. Based on our experience and reviews, as long as you pass the practice tests with a passing score, you should be decently prepared for the final. You only need a 70% score to pass the NCSF personal trainer final exam. 

PRICE

NCSF has four personal trainer bundles to choose from, and in general, their pricing is among the cheapest that we have found. 

NCSF's options include:

• Base Exam: $299
• Home Study: $419
• Home Study+: $479
• Workshop: $479
• Workshop+: $539
• Retake Final Exam: $99

*Keep in mind that various promotions are going on that may impact the price of these packages. 

Each option offers progressively more study guidance, extra benefits, and assets to help prepare you to pass the test. 

PASS RATE

The NCSF, the National Council on Strength and Fitness, offers personal training certification programs that are on the easier side of the spectrum in the fitness industry and should be pretty manageable to pass with some studying. NCSF has a rough 75-80% pass rate according to 2019 data, bringing it in at the higher range of pass rate. Don't take the test lightly; if you don't make sure to study, there is a chance that you will fail it. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

Like other accredited certifications, the NCSF requires you to complete continuing education credits to keep your certification current. You will be required to complete 20 CEUs every two years, which aligns with other programs like ACE or NASM. Which shouldn't be a problem as NCSF does give you a great deal of flexibility in choosing your CEUs by allowing you to use their own approved options or by completing third-party approved courses. 

AVERAGE SALARY

According to the National Council on Strength and Fitness, their certified personal trainers average $24.54 per hour, with an annual salary of over $31,000. This seems to put their trainers at the lower end of the earnings scale. However, with more experience and specialization, your annual income can go up significantly. 

The NCSF delivers an acceptable personal training certification for those that desire to become a fitness professional.

5. NSCA

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The National Strength and Conditioning Association, or NSCA, is a non-profit organization founded in 1978 that offers one of the best personal trainer certifications focused on strength and conditioning within the fitness industry. Its mission is the global enhancement of strength and conditioning, and the empowerment of dedicated sports medicine professionals to provide top-notch scientific knowledge. As of 1996, they were the first to have their personal trainer certification accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies. Their certified personal trainer program is top-notch and easily one of the best out there.  

CONTENT QUALITY

The National Strength and Conditioning Association treats its personal training packages differently as their study materials aren't included with the test, so they must be purchased separately. The study material packages are pretty straightforward. They all come with the "Essentials of Personal Training" textbook, a study guide, and over 200 practice questions.

The textbook for the CPT certification has 25 chapters that are spread over 600 pages. From the research we have done, it seems to be one of the best layouts for a personal training textbook, with each chapter being quite in-depth and well thought out. However, we believe they could do more to provide learning materials for their students. 

PREPARATION TIME

Depending on how eager you are to learn and complete your final exam, you could get it done as quickly as three months. However, if you aren't in a hurry or need that extra time to study, then it will take longer. According to their site, some individuals can take up to nine months to prepare themselves if they don't have an exercise science degree or practical experience.  

TEST LENGTH

The National Strength and Conditioning Association-certified personal trainer exam is comprised of 140 scored questions and 15 non-scored questions that will test your knowledge, skills, and abilities. All 155 questions are multiple-choice, and the questions cover the four domains of client consultation/fitness assessment, program planning, techniques of exercises, and safety & legal issues. The NSCA-CPT test has at least 25 video or picture CPT test questions mixed in with the 155 questions total. You will be given three hours to complete the final exam. 

DIFFICULTY

To pass the NSCA-certified personal trainer final exam, you will need to get a minimum of 98 questions correct out of 155, which equals a 70% on the graded questions. Work hard, study diligently, and this test shouldn't be too difficult to pass.  

PRICE

There are four different options to purchase, one being strictly an exam-only package, and the other three are different study packages that do not have the exam included. So remember that you will have to purchase the study materials and exams separately. 

You can also purchase a membership which is a great value to consider, not just for the discounts but also for the fantastic benefits you get after certification that may help advance your abilities as a PT.

Memberships packages: 

• Student membership: $70/year— Discounts
• Professional Membership: $130/year— Discounts, access to five strength and conditioning journals, online content, and more.
• CPI Membership: $359/year— Full benefits, liability insurance, and more. 

Exam Only Package: 

• Member Rate: $300
• Non-member Rate: $435

NSCA-CPT Essential Package:

• Member Price: $242.10
• Non-member Price: $297.90

NSCA-CPT Essential Plus Package:

• Member Price: $454.50
• Non-member Price: $513

NSCA-CPT Digital Package:

• Member Price: $152
• Non-member Price: $201.40

PASS RATE

Their pass rate was 72% for first-time candidates that attempted the NSCA-CPT exam in 2019. You will want to make sure you are as prepared as possible for this exam, as the questions have been known to be quite difficult. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

Getting your personal trainer recertification for the NSCA is slightly different compared to other companies. They operate on a three-year time period for getting re-certified. In those three years, you will need to complete two CEUs, which must be earned through NSCA-approved organizations. Those two CEUs break down to roughly 20 hours of class attendance. This process is complicated even further by having to report the hours to the NSCA for approval. The NSCA does offer its own CEU courses that you can look into. 

AVERAGE SALARY

The NSCA states that their average personal training salary per year is around $48,584, depending on if they work for a gym or are privately contracted.

If you aspire to be a fitness professional with a focus on strength and conditioning then NSCA might be an ideal personal training certification for you.

6. ACSM

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The American College of Sports Medicine was founded in 1954 and is one of the fitness industries leading NCCA accredited certifications for people interested in obtaining a personal trainer certification. ACSM strives to advance and integrate scientific research to provide educational and practical applications of exercise science and sports medicine. To prepare you as an ACSM-certified personal trainer, they will provide you with the practical and scientific knowledge to work in various settings within the health and wellness industry. 

CONTENT QUALITY

The American College of Sports Medicine was able to put together a visually pleasing textbook that is easy to digest and is overall pretty decent. If you have a small budget, the textbook should be more than enough to prepare you for the final exam.

If you need more study materials, there are plenty of options. For individuals struggling to grasp the information, ACSM does offer a prep course through PrepU. They have practice tests and flashcards that are great for helping you to identify areas you need to improve. 

PREPARATION TIME

Receiving your ACSM personal trainer certification depends on you passing the final exam. Depending on your knowledge and speed of learning will be the most significant factors in how much time it will take to prepare for the test. According to the ACSM website, if you don't have physical fitness, physical therapy, or exercise specialist education, you should expect between 4 to 16 weeks of studying and test preparation. 

TEST LENGTH

The American College of Sports Medicine-CPT exam has a time limit of two and a half hours. The test consists of 135 items, of which 120 are scored and 15 are non-scored. The test covers four domains: initial client consultation and assessment, exercise programming and implementation, exercise leadership and client education, and legal and professional responsibilities. 

DIFFICULTY

To pass the American College of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer final exam, you must get a score of at least a 550 (scale of 200-800). Unlike taking other personal training exams where you need to get a certain percent of exam questions correct to pass, ACSM uses a compensatory scoring model. This means that an exam candidate's total number of correct answers must add up to a predetermined passing point; this ensures that candidates will be graded reasonably regardless of which exam form is taken. 

PRICE

The ACSM offers several different exam preparation resources for the certified personal trainer test. Each of these materials must be purchased individually from the exam fee, which costs $349 for nonmembers and $279 for members. Retaking the test costs $175. 

ACSM's study aid options include:

• ACSM Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (hardcover textbook) – $50.99
• Online practice questions through PrepU – $64.99 for three months of access
• ACSM CPT Prep course – $270.00
• ACSM CPT Facebook Group – free
• Exam content outline-free
• ACSM's Resources for the Personal Trainer Textbook – $79.99
• ACSM's Certified Personal Trainer Digital Flash Cards- $51.99
• ACSM membership is a separate subscription that gives you access to various medical and health research publications. ACSM membership costs $10 ( ACSM student membership), $99 (Alliance), or $240 (Professional) per year.

PASS RATE

According to the ACSM website, in 2020 out of 1,892 candidates, 69% passed it on the first go. You have a good chance of passing the test on the first go if you take advantage of the study aids and read the textbook.

CEU REQUIREMENTS

Continuing education units are crucial to growing as a personal trainer and keeping yourself up to date with research. Virtually all certifications require them, and ACSM is no exception. For ACSM recertification, you must complete 45 CEUs every three years. You can choose from various CEU options, including accredited courses from the ACSM and approved third parties. We recommend using your CEUs to learn new specializations that benefit you and your clients. You must also maintain your CPR/AED certification and pay the $55 recertification fee. 

AVERAGE SALARY

The ACSM personal trainer's average annual salary is around $49,000. It really depends on the state you're working in and your employment status. 

As far as personal trainer certifications go ACSM skews towards people who want to incorporate more scientific understanding to provide thorough explanations to clients in their personal training business.

7. NFPT

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The National Federation of Professional Trainers, or NFPT, is an accredited fitness trainer certification program that has been operating since 1988. NFPT strives to inspire new personal trainers and offer them an understanding of fundamental exercise principles for safe and effective fitness training regimens. NFPTs education gives trend-free, back-to-basic teaching to fitness enthusiasts to provide the perfect foothold for entry-level personal trainers. 

CONTENT QUALITY

NFPT treats its personal training packages with an okay amount of materials and study aids. These two personal trainer certification packages come with a copy of their personal trainer manual, workbook, chapter quizzes, how-to's for online training, and essential fit pro-forms & documents. Their premium packages offer a couple of practice exams and additional study aids. This is all stuff that will help you to prepare for your final. Based on research we have done and reviews we have read, the book could use some work, as it doesn't stack up to other courses' CPT textbooks. 

PREPARATION TIME

Receiving your NFPT personal trainer certification depends on you passing the final exam. Depending on your base knowledge and speed of learning will be the most essential factors in how much time it will take to prepare for the final test. According to the NFPT website, the average preparation and test completion time is 60-90 days. You will have an entire year from the time you applied to complete the CPT exam. 

TEST LENGTH

There are 120 multiple choice questions, with each question having four options to choose from. Twenty of the questions are pre-test questions and aren't graded. The ungraded pre-test questions are written strictly for statistical purposes and will not affect your final score. You will have a two-hour time limit to complete your exam. 

DIFFICULTY

To pass the NFPT-certified personal trainer final exam, you will need to get at least 750 points out of 1000, or 75%. 

PRICE

The NFPT offers only a couple of different exam preparation options for the certified personal trainer test. They kept their options straightforward and relatively inexpensive compared to other companies. 

NFPT's options include:

• CPT Exam Only: $199
• Standard Package: $239
• Premier Package: $349
• Test Retake: $119
• Test Renewal: $85 yearly

Their packages also include the final exam making NFPT one of the cheapest options for accredited personal trainer certifications. 

PASS RATE

According to some survey reports and reviews on the NFPT exam, they offer one of the most accessible accredited personal trainer certifications on the market. Most people breezed through the textbook, did an overview of the reference manual, and took online practice exams to prepare for the final exam. According to the NFPT website, 72% of exam takers pass it on the first attempt. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

NFPT-certified personal trainers must stay up-to-date with current knowledge and maintain their certification by completing CEUs yearly. To earn your required 2 CEUs, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Unlike most companies, a handful of their CEU options are free, adding a ton of value to your initial package cost.

Besides the NFPT workshop, there are several ways of renewing certifications with NFPT.

• Take classes
• Live NFPT workshops
• Current CPR/AED certification
• Attending seminars
• Adding to the body of knowledge through conducting research
• Completing additional specialized certifications

AVERAGE SALARY

The NFPT personal trainer certification will prepare you to make a median income of roughly $35k and up. This puts them close to earning what other trainers with more expensive certifications will make.

Although the NFPT personal training certification isn't as well known as other certifications, it does offer a solid base for those just getting into their personal training career.

8. FM

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

The Fitness Mentors is a relatively new company in the fitness industry that is on a mission to make your dreams of a successful fitness career come true in an efficient and timely manner. They are huge believers in the FORM style of training (Form Over Resistance Model) and are NCCA accredited. 

CONTENT QUALITY

The Fitness Mentors certification program is on par with ISSA, NASM, and ACE. One of the most significant factors setting them apart is their strong belief in the FORM program design model, which gives similar programming abilities to the IFT and OPT models. Their curriculum covers a wide range of topics across thirteen chapters like business, exercise physiology, and even nutrition components. Regarding content quality, reviews state that the study material was more than enough to prepare them for the final exam. 

Their base CPT package includes a copy of their personal trainer CPT certification exam, digital textbook, lecture video presentations, audiobook lectures, study guide questions, chapter quizzes, two practice exams, and a Facebook support group. Their plus packages include everything in their base packages and offer an additional certification, bonus learning videos, flashcards, interactive learning activities, and study aids. The pro bundle offers everything in their plus package, an additional certification, access to a personal fitness mentor, and a pass guarantee. Lastly, their ultimate bundle has six certifications and everything in the pro bundle.  

PREPARATION TIME

According to the Fitness Mentors site, if you have three hours per day to study, you should be able to complete the certification in less than a month. If you only have one hour per day, five days per week, it will take roughly 3-4 months to complete.  

TEST LENGTH

There are 100 multiple choice questions, making this one of the shortest tests on our list. You will have two hours to complete the exam, which seems to be around the industry standard for the time allotted to take the personal trainer exam. If you fail the CPT Exam, you must purchase an exam retest.

DIFFICULTY

Exam-wise, the Fitness Mentors CPT final exam seems to be relatively easy. You only need a 70% score to pass, and based on reviews on their site, this appears to be quite manageable for most individuals. 

PRICE

The Fitness Mentors offer four pricing options for the CPT Exam and other bundles, including the CPT with different certifications. 

Fitness Mentor's options include:

• Starter Bundle: $399
• Plus Bundle: $699
• Pro Bundle: $899
• Ultimate Bundle: $1499
• Test Retake: Included in some bundles
• Certification Renewal: $99 

Overall, the Starter and Plus bundles have the best value if you just want a CPT, without going overkill with the ultimate bundle.

PASS RATE

Fitness Mentors doesn't publish their official pass rate data. Still, the reviews from individuals who have taken multiple other CPT exams indicate that the Fitness Mentors option is one of the easier options to pass.  

CEU REQUIREMENT

The FM CPT requires 20 hours (2.0 CEUs) of continuing education every two years and a recertification fee. They offer some free options for earning CEUs, which is a pretty excellent option. You can choose from various continuing education credits, including accredited courses from the Fitness Mentors and approved third parties. We recommend using your continuing education units to learn new specializations that will broaden your mind and benefit your clients.

AVERAGE SALARY

With Fitness Mentor being the new kid on the block, there isn't enough data to find any salary data. With nowhere near the brand recognition of other organizations like ISSA and NASM, not all gyms might be open to an FM certification. It should still be pretty safe to say that having your personal trainer certification through Fitness Mentor shouldn't hurt your earning potential and should fall in line with similar credentials. 

9. NESTA

SUMMARY OF FOCUS

NESTA/Spencer Institute, or The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association, has been around since 1992 and is an international organization with an NCCA accreditation. They offer a unique way of preparing coaches through coaching, personal development, and extra focus on the business aspect of personal training. They emphasize sales, referrals, and marketing, which are important considerations for any personal trainer. Personal trainers will need business skills like marketing, sales, and referrals to succeed.   

CONTENT QUALITY

The 14-chapter textbook NESTA offers is slightly shorter than most other certification companies, but it is also considered more concise in its teachings. It covers a wide range of topics like business strategies, exercise physiology, flexibility, biomechanics, components of nutrition, and other similar topics. Depending on the package purchased, you can receive additional study materials like video training, review quizzes, and lifetime access to their business suite.

PREPARATION TIME

Receiving your NESTA personal trainer certification depends on you passing the final exam. So depending on your base knowledge and speed of learning will be the most essential factors in how much time it will take to prepare for the final test. According to the NESTA website, the average preparation and test completion time is 30-90 days. They offer a study at your pace option, so you can take more time than stated above. 

TEST LENGTH

The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association personal trainer final exam has 125 multiple-choice questions and is a proctored exam. They offer an online proctored exam option, which is an excellent choice. The test has a two-hour time limit, which seems pretty standard in the industry. The exam must be taken within 90 days of requesting your exam eligibility ID. This is the only personal training certification we know is valid for four years once completed.

DIFFICULTY

You must achieve a 71 or above exam score to become an accredited Personal Fitness Trainer through NESTA. Keep up with your studying and do the practice exams; you shouldn't have a problem passing if you put in the effort. 

PRICE

The National Exercise and Sports Trainers Association offers three packages for their CPT Exam and other study bundles. We believe that the complete package is the best value since it includes practice exams and chapter review quizzes. 

• PFT Exam Only: $349
• PFT Plus: $399
• PFT Complete: $477
• Test Retake: $199
• Proctor Fee (outside North America): $45
• Recertification Fee: $149

PASS RATE

It is not as difficult of an exam as NASM, with its 71.1% pass rate, but there is still no guarantee of a pass. If you purchase the Complete package, take advantage of the unlimited practice tests to learn what you need to focus on for your final exam. 

CEU REQUIREMENT

To renew your four-year certification, NESTA requires its certified personal fitness trainer to complete 4.0 Continuing Education Units over a four-year period. Each 0.1 CEU is worth one hour of study time or one contact hour in a live training format.

You can choose from various continuing education options, including accredited courses from NESTA and approved third parties. We recommend using your CEUs to learn new specializations that will broaden your mind and benefit your clients, especially since they offer unique specialization options like Muay Thai Fitness and Sport Yoga. 

AVERAGE SALARY

Since they are an international organization, it can be challenging to set the average salary that their personal trainers make. To give you guys a rough answer, according to the Bureau of Statistics, the average salary of a personal trainer is almost $40,000.

Personal Trainer Certification FAQ

Is it worth getting a personal trainer certification?

Absolutely. Most fitness clubs or healthcare facilities require an NCCA-accredited personal trainer certification to be employed in their clubs as a personal trainer. If you want to work for yourself, being accredited as a CPT can help you get affordable liability insurance and make it easier to advertise yourself as a qualified trainer.

What is the best online personal trainer certification?

International Sports Sciences Association, or the ISSA, is a personal training certification that balances all the essential aspects of fitness, nutrition, and health for most general population groups. The ISSA-certified personal trainer program is well recognized in the fitness community, and most gym owners will accept it. Therefore in our opinion, the best personal training certification is from ISSA.

What is the cheapest personal trainer certification?

This one is a no-brainer. The ACSM is the cheapest option that we would recommend on our list, but they have an odd pricing system that includes different member tiers that have varying discounts. The standard price constantly fluctuates due to periodic deals and discounts, so make sure you know the current cost for inexpensive personal training certifications. If you're looking for the cheapest exam, then the NFPT has by far the most affordable.

Do your research to ensure that the personal trainer certification you're interested in will fit your needs, your budget, and help develop you into the best trainer you can be. 

Is NASM or ACE better?

It honestly depends on you and your goals. If you want to work with the general population and make personal training an excellent side hustle, then ACE will suffice. However, if you're going to focus more on different aspects of health and wellness, make it a full-time career, and have one of the most recognized certifications, then NASM is a better option. 

What is the hardest personal trainer certification?

The NCSA certification for personal training is, in our opinion, one of the most challenging options listed above, as its contents are quite technical and require a solid background in anatomy, physiology, and physics.

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is equally as difficult. With only 69% of first-time test takers passing.

Which personal trainer certification is the most recognized?

NASM is easily one of the most well-known programs, as they focus on corrective exercise and teaching students the basic skills they need to be successful personal trainers. NASM offers many different options regarding study materials, including a self-study option, a premium self-study option, a guided study program, and an all-inclusive option. 

NASM is also accredited by the NCCA and recognized by all major gyms and clubs. The cherry on top is that they have great reviews online from those who have completed the certification, and reviews mention their excellent customer service quite often.

How long does it take to become a personal trainer?

There are a couple of common ways of becoming a personal trainer, and each will vary in the time it takes to finish your certification. You could theoretically earn a personal trainer certification in as little as a couple of hours. Still, these certifications are usually only available through unaccredited online companies and would be unlikely to help you get a job or equip you with any valuable knowledge. The more realistic options will take anywhere from a month to almost a year to earn your certification. 

Can you be a personal trainer without a certification?

Technically yes, as no states currently have a law requiring personal trainers to have an official certification. However, use caution; you will have a more challenging time finding clients without a certification. The fitness industry is massive and continually growing. So consumers have plenty of options regarding trainers, and they are unlikely to settle for an uncertified personal trainer. For most trainers, word of mouth and good reviews help greatly, but missing a certification is a huge deal-breaker for most. 

There are also liability issues. You risk hurting a client, hefty legal fees, and simply being unable to find work. For example, what happens if a client is working out with you and gets injured? You can be held liable and be sued because insurance companies are less likely to provide you with a policy if you're not certified. So you can get started without one, but certifications, for these reasons, are an essential investment if you want to be a successful personal trainer. 

What personal trainer certifications do most gyms accept?

The NCCA is the gold standard for third-party personal training certifications, and some of the biggest certifications with these accreditations are NASM, ACE, Fitness Mentors, and ISSA. The personal trainer certifications with an option for NCCA accreditation are the most respected and accepted industry. Most big gyms won't even consider hiring you unless you have one.

How long do personal training certifications last?

The average personal trainer certification length is good for life, provided you keep up with the continuing education requirements of your chosen certification. Remember that each personal trainer certification company has different requirements for their trainers to maintain their certifications. A great rule of thumb is that your personal training certification must be renewed every two years and is usually done by taking continuing education courses. 

Do you have to be fit to become a personal trainer?

The short answer is yes, but really it depends. Proper professional trainers should be fit and strong enough to demonstrate each exercise they require from their clients for extended periods of time. Although it helps to be fit to be able to do exercise and routines throughout the day, it certainly isn't a job requirement. If a personal trainer cannot perform the exercises requested, it not only makes it hard for the client to complete the task correctly and reach their fitness goals but doesn't reflect well on you as their trainer.

This can be tricky to answer because a client's expectations for their trainers can vary. Some want their trainer to look fit and role model their profession. Another client may think a lean physique is the best determination of fitness levels. In contrast, another person will only want a personal trainer who looks like they're ready to compete in a strongman event.

Professional trainers are mentors, role models, and excellent motivators. But being fit isn't the only factor that will help you become a personal trainer. A combination of attitude, education, fitness level, empathy, and other attributes creates the perfect recipe for an amazing personal trainer. At the end of the day, you want to be as fit as the clients you plan to work with.

SUMMARY

Most personal trainer certification programs reviewed give you the option to take an NCCA-accredited exam, and will provide you with a decent understanding of fitness training, program design, behavior modification, nutrition, and best practices to become a personal trainer. It will usually take four weeks to six months to prepare for the exam depending on your prior education and experience. Some fitness certifications like NFPT or ACSM offer in-person seminars or workshops and will provide study guides and other relevant study materials so you can work in your own time. 

Each company has many options regarding study packages and ways to prepare for the personal training program exam. Some personal training certifications allow you to register for the exam without purchasing the study guides, while others will require you to buy the entire package. Your total financial commitment ranges from $120 to $2,500, so choosing one that aligns closely with your goals and career aspirations is best. Always do your research and invest in the best personal training certification for your situation.

Have more questions about the best personal trainer certification options that we didn't answer in this article? Make sure to leave them in the comments! 

The glute hamstring developer AKA GHD machine is an underutilized piece of gym equipment that can do wonders for your strength training goals. The top powerlifters and athletes in the world swear by GHD exercises which is probably why you're looking at which GHD machines you should buy.

In this post, we cover the 7 of the best GHD machines on the market that range from basic GHD budget options to commercial grade models that can withstand just about anything you could throw at them.

Now let's get into helping you find the best glute ham developer that satisfies your requirements.  

7 Best GHD Machines

1. Best GHD Machine Overall: Force USA GHD
2. Best Budget GHD Machine: Marcy Adjustable Hyperextension Bench
3. Best Premium GHD Machine: Body Solid SGH500 Glute Ham Developer
4. Best GHD Machine On Amazon: Titan Fitness Glute & Hamstring Combo H-PND Extension Machine GHD
5. Best Adjustable GHD Machine: Rep Fitness V2 GHD
6. Best GHD Machine For Small Spaces: TDS Glute Ham Machine
7. Best Commercial GHD Machine: FringeSport OneFitWonder Commercial GHD 

1. Best GHD Machine Overall: Force USA GHD

The Force USA GHD can propel your posterior chain and core strength to new levels. This comfy yet sturdy GHD machine allows you to work the glutes, hamstrings, lower back, spinal erectors and core.

Using this GHD machine you can target your muscles in a safe manner. The Force USA commercial GHD machine is our pick for the best GHD machine on the market as it’s built to withstand heavy usage with a maximum weight capacity of 1300 lb. The frame is super stable with an extra wide base that’s covered by a durable eco-coat powder paint.

The frame is constructed from heavy-gauge steel tubing and the fully adjustable pivoting arm makes it suitable for people of all heights and sizes. It comes with an industry-leading lifetime warranty and has VorTex heavy-duty rip-stop vinyl upholstery with mesh backing to ensure it won’t deteriorate.

This rugged machine provides comfort during use with its DuraCore high-density padding. You can adjust the machine by just pulling an ergonomic knob allowing you to change up the position within seconds.

Another great feature of the Force USA commercial GHD machine is the addition of transport wheels so that you can maneuver it around your home gym with ease.

Last but not least, Force USA added band pegs to increase the resistance resulting in more potential muscle gains.

PROS:

• High weight capacity 1300 lb
• Lifetime warranty
• Adjustable for all users 

CONS:

• Not the most budget friendly option 

Best Overall GHD Machine

Force USA GHD

The Force USA Glute Ham Raise is an essential training tool for athletes who want to build strength and stabilization in the core, lower back, hamstrings, and glutes...

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**This post may contain affiliate links where we make a small commission on purchases made at no cost to you. We only recommend products that we believe will bring value to you.**

2. Best Budget GHD Machine: Marcy Adjustable Hyperextension Bench

The Marcy adjustable hyperextension bench is more of a Roman chair than a glute ham developer. This lighter version of a GHD machine is a budget friendly piece of gym equipment that can help work the posterior chain.

Weighing in at only 39 pounds you can move this around your garage gym without an issue. With a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, this Roman chair is for the average to strong lifter but not for the most serious weightlifters.

This hyperextension machine comes with comfortable high-density foam rollers that are adjustable allowing you to perform a variety of movements from hyperextensions to sit ups. They also included rubber grip handles to make mounting and dismounting easier.

If you're looking for a piece of fitness equipment for your home gym that can improve strength in vital areas of the core and spinal erectors without spending hundreds of dollars then this might be a good option for you.

PROS:

• Cheap glute ham developer alternative
• Light weight so you can move around your space

CONS:

• Not built for heavy loads
• Lack of warranty

Best Budget GHD Machine

Marcy Adjustable Hyperextension Bench

The Marcy Roman Chair features a back hyperextension station that lets you position yourself correctly while performing a variety of movements...

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3. Best Premium GHD Machine: Body Solid SGH500 Glute Ham Developer

The Body Solid SGH500 is a commercial quality GHD machine that is meant for serious lifters. This glute ham developer machine is built to last, even with heavy usage.

You can isolate the posterior chain with this glute ham developer in a comfortable way thanks to the 8" foam rollers that provide the ultimate support. Whether you want to hit some sit ups to work your abs or glute ham raises to target the hamstrings this piece of workout equipment won't let you down.

With the Body Solid glute ham developer, you're able to make both horizontal and vertical adjustments to cater to a range of user sizes. Built with 11 gauge heavy duty steel construction it is a commercial glute ham machine that can add robustness to a premium home gym set up.

PROS:

• Commercial grade machine
• Lifetime warranty
• Full adjustability

CONS:

• Expensive and might be more than what the average lifter needs

Best Premium GHD Machine

Body Solid SGH500 Glute Ham Developer

Premium components ensure dependability and reliability in any gym or facility. Vertical and horizontal adjustments ensure proper fit for any user...

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4. Best GHD Machine On Amazon: Titan Fitness GHD Combo H-PND Extension Machine

Titan Fitness is known for building quality fitness equipment and with this Glute Ham H-PND machine, they continue their tradition. This glute ham developer offers maximum functionality with the ability to do knee curls, inversions, back extensions, ham raises, and hyperextensions.

Shorter users to taller people are all accommodated with this glute ham developer machine as you can easily adjust the positioning to your liking. The handles are also adjustable in 8 different positions in 2" increments.

Constructed from 11 gauge heavy duty steel this machine weighs 250 lb but comes with rubber feet to reduce any slippage or potential scuff marks on the floor. Unlike most other glute ham machines, Titan designed this with a 10" sleeve to hold weight plates for added resistance.

Overall this glute ham raise machine will endure high-intensity workouts as you hit multiple muscle groups.

PROS:

• Heavy duty construction
• Easy to assemble
• Superior adjustability of handles and foot plate

CONS:

• Takes up a decent amount of floor space

Best GHD Machine On Amazon

Titan Fitness GHD Combo H-PND Extension Machine

The Glute and Hamstring H-PND machine allows you to target your lower back, glutes, legs, hamstrings, and calves, helping you develop a lean, muscular build. Use the machine for cross-training...

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5. Best Adjustable GHD Machine: Rep Fitness V2 GHD

The REP Fitness V2 GHD sports a reasonable price tag for the quality you get. Weighing in at 150 pounds this machine is comprised of heavy duty steel with a maximum weight capacity of 500 pounds.

They designed this machine with ease of use in mind as the linear bearing system allows you to adjust it both vertically and horizontally. Featuring an oversized footplate and comfortable thick foam rollers, this machine provides a great user experience at a price point less than some of the bigger brand names.

A nice touch on this GHD are the band pegs to add extra resistance when performing your exercises. Plus it has wheels that make it easy to move around if you need to.

Last but not least REP highlights the facts that it's super easy to set up after arriving and can be done within 15-20 minutes!

PROS:

• Good value for money
• Linear bearing adjustment system
• Easy to assemble

CONS:

• Steel gauge not specified
• Warranty could be better

Best Adjustable GHD Machine

Rep Fitness V2 GHD

REP Glute-Ham Developer (GHD) is made for working the posterior chain muscles- glutes, hamstrings, and lower back. Reduce injury by balancing your...

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6. Best GHD Machine For Small Spaces: TDS Glute Ham Machine

The TDS Glute Ham Machine is a solid machine at an affordable price point that has a smaller footprint compared with other GHDs with similar specs. Like the other machines on this list, you can target the glutes, abs, hamstrings, and lower back. However, this glute ham developer machine offers an extra wide deck plate and rounded seat pads to provide ultimate comfort.

With this glute ham raise machine, you can adjust it both horizontally and vertically while you have access to front and rear hand grips.

Besides the adjustability, the glute ham developer is constructed from 2x4" 11 gauge heavy duty steel you can be assured that the frame is built to last.

PROS:

• Wide diamond plated foot plate
• Heavy duty steel construction
• Vertical and horizontal adjustability

CONS:

• Some customers complain that the stitching on the pads didn't hold up as well as they expected

Best GHD Machine For Small Spaces

TDS Glute Ham Machine

Adjustable Glute and Ham Developer Machine with Extra wide Deck plate & 4 deluxe rollers...

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7. Best Commercial GHD Machine: FringeSport OneFitWonder Commercial GHD

FringeSport's OneFitWonder Commercial GHD married two opposing factors by creating a rock solid commercial grade base within the size of a compact GHD machine.

The heavy-duty platform will stay firmly planted while you're pushing through intense reps. They went one step further with the 4-floor mounting holes in case you want the peace of mind that it won't budge.

Fringe includes this glute ham developer with comfort in mind with their 20" horizontal knee pad just below the hips pads making your workout routine more enjoyable without the added pain.

What's more, is the single bolt action adjustment that makes it a seamless process to modify the GHD frame with 8 different hip options and 5 foot pad options.

All in all this glute ham raise machine is an excellent choice for the garage gym or commercial gym alike.

PROS:

• Extra wide knee pad
• Solid construction with 440 lb max weight capacity
• Adjustability for users of all sizes

CONS:

• 1-year warranty
• Expensive

Best Commercial GHD Machine

FringeSport OneFitWonder Commercial GHD

Compact, sturdy, and with a foolproof design, the Commercial GHD is the ideal glute and hamstring developer for both the garage gymer and large scale gym use alike...

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7 Best GHD Machines Side By Side Comparison

Below we put the best GHD machines side by side to highlight their similarities and differences. Have a look to find which machine might be the best fit for you.

Benefits of GHD

There's a reason why the top athletes use glute ham developer machines in their training. This specialty piece of gym equipment can add some considerable strength to the posterior chain muscles, especially the hamstrings and glutes. Let's look at the main benefits of using GHD machines below.

Strengthen Posterior Chain

As mentioned above glute ham machines engage muscles on the backside of your body including the hamstrings, glutes, and spinal erectors. Bolstering these muscles leads to more overall power and helps prevent sustaining injuries while training.

Isolate Glutes & Hamstrings

The glute ham raise has been shown to be one of the most effective exercises that you can perform to isolate the hamstrings and glutes. By isolating these bodyparts you can achieve muscle gains in a relatively short time. There aren't many bodyweight exercises that can match the glute ham raise in its ability to build muscle. Don't take our word for it try it out yourself!

Improve Posture

By strengthening the muscles on the backside of your body you'll create a stronger foundation for your body. This will lead to better posture so if you're someone who sits at a desk all day hunched over a computer then some GHD exercises could do you wonders.

Work The Core

Apart from the main purpose of glute ham developer machines to work the hamstrings and glutes you can also flip around to work the abs. Sit ups are an awesome exercise to do on a GHD which is why you'll see them in many WODs in the CrossFit world.

What Should I Consider When Buying A GHD

When looking at glute ham developer machines there are a few factors you should be mindful of so that you end up with one that suits your needs.

Size

Glute ham developers come in a range of shapes and sizes so it's vital to know what available space in your home or garage gym you have before shelling out a few hundred dollars on one. The sturdier and stronger the GHD machine is, the more likely it will have a wider base and will be heavier, sometimes up to 200 pounds. If you plan on moving the GHD machine around your gym then you might want to get one that weighs less and has transport wheels so that you can easily move it if needed.

Build Quality

Not all GHD machines are built alike. If you're someone who moves heavy loads and wants a glute ham developer to stand the test of time while under immense pressure then you should look for one that's comprised of heavy duty 11 gauge steel with a wide base.

However, if you plan on just using just your body weight and want to do some back extensions, GHD situps or hip extensions then a less robust glute ham developer or Roman Chair will suffice.

Price/Budget

As you saw from the glute ham developer machines above, the prices can range from just over $100 to around $1,000. Before you buy gym equipment it's essential to know what your fitness level is and what your end goals are. For most, a glute ham developer in the $400-$800 price range should be enough but for those that plan on heavy usage or in a commercial gym setting then a commercial glute ham machine with a lifetime warranty might be a better bet.

Difficulty of Assembly

Most GHD machines are rather straightforward when it comes to assembling the components. But if you're completely lost and don't know a wrench from a screwdriver then you might want to find a manufacturer that offers an assembly option with your purchase. In our opinion, it shouldn't take more than a few hours to get your GHD machine up and running even if you're not on the same level as Tim The Toolman Taylor.

Usage

To find the best glute ham developer for your needs you should think about how you intend on using it. Will multiple people of different sizes be using the machine? Are you a bigger person that want to add loads to the lifts? If you answered yes to those two questions then a commercial GHD machine might be a good choice as it can withstand more abuse while also having the ability to adjust the positions to cater to different sized users.

Online Ratings

Other's experience with gym equipment is an important metric to use when purchasing a new machine because it's all but guaranteed that you won't have the opportunity to test out each product yourself. To find the best glute ham developer you can look to verified reviews on Amazon or the manufacturer's website. We always recommend taking online reviews into account with a grain of salt so you could also look at YouTube reviews or on forums like Reddit which tend to cover the good and the bad.

However, first-hand recommendations from people you know in real life should hold the most value so ask around to workout out buddies to see if anyone's used the machine you're thinking about buying.

GHD VS REVERSE HYPER

Many people will mistake reverse hyper machines and glute ham developers as one and the same but there are some slight differences in usage and benefits of using these machines. We cover the differences between these two pieces of gym equipment below.

Reverse Hyperextension

This machine is different from the GHD as your body is positioned with you lying on your stomach against the pads with your legs down under you. To execute the movement, you must drive your heels up and backward to straighten out your body.

The reverse hyper is used more for rehabilitation purposes while it strengthens the spinal erectors, glutes, and hamstrings. Overall this exercise can help alleviate back pain while strengthening the muscles on the backside of the body.

Glute Hamstring Developer

The glute hamstring developer is a piece of equipment that's often used in tandem with weight training with the purpose of getting stronger. Using a GHD machine you can build back, hamstring, glute, and hip strength which transfers to big lifts such as squats and deadlifts.

The GHD requires you to move through a wider range of motion and put more pressure on the lumbar erector. If you're after strength and power gains then the GHD is a great addition to your workout regimen.

It's also important to note that you can perform modified reverse hypers with a GHD and a resistance band. There are a number of videos on YouTube that show an easy setup to execute reverse hypers on a GHD machine.

Exercises You Can DO with GHD

The main exercise performed on a glute ham developer is the glute ham raise but below are a few more options that you can try out. If you don't know how to perform them just do a quick search on Google or Youtube for demonstrations.

• Glute ham raises
• GHD sit ups
• Reverse hyper using resistance bands
• Back extensions
• Back raise row
• Hatfield Back Raise
• Diesel Press
• Water tosses

GHD FAQ

Is a GHD Worth It?

Yes, absolutely a GHD machine is worth buying if you're serious about training and improving your overall performance. That said, a GHD machine is a great pick up for your home or garage gym after you have purchased other essentials like barbells, weight plates, and a power rack.

Should I get a GHD or Reverse Hyper?

If we had to choose between these two machines, we would choose the GHD machine because we are more interested in strength gains rather than rehab. As we mentioned above, it's actually possible to perform reverse hypers using a GHD with the addition of a resistance band. This way you can kill two birds with one stone.

What Muscles Does The GHD Work?

As the name suggests the GHD will mostly target the glutes and hamstrings. However, there are a handful of exercises that can be performed on the common GHD machines that work the core and back.

What is the best GHD Machine?

The best glute ham developer in our opinion is the Force USA GHD. This machine might be a tad more expensive than others but you can count on the build quality, ease of adjustment, comfortability, and lifetime warranty will justify the cost.

What Can I Do Instead of GHD?

If you don't have access to a GHD then you try a few different exercises that have similar intended goals of building core and posterior chain strength. Below are a few exercises you can try to achieve similar results to using a GHD although the GHD is the superior choice to work the posterior chain.

• Romanian deadlifts
• Nordic hamstring curls
• Kettlebell swings
• Good mornings
• Cable pull throughs

Summary

If you made it this far then you know that an investment in a glute ham machine might be worthwhile if you want to improve your squat, clean, deadlift, or overall athletic performance.

At the end of the day, you need to factor in your budget, available space, and intended usage before you open up your wallet.

We hope that we did your job in helping you to find the best glute ham machine that checks all the boxes.

More Best Equipment Roundups:

• Best Folding Squat Racks
• Best Calf Machines
• Best Cable Machines
• Best Leg Press Machines
• Best Squat Racks
• Best Smith Machines
• Best Leg Extension Machines

Having to climb onto a traditional upright bike is not only awkward and uncomfortable but hard for people with limited mobility.

If you're looking for a comfortable, low-impact way to stay in shape, the recumbent exercise bike is your ideal fitness companion. With a slightly reclined back support and lower seat height, it allows easy entry/exit and reduces strain on backs. This relaxed riding experience makes staying fit simple for seniors, too.

Below we cover the 11 best recumbent bikes on the market with a price range that should suit just about anyone's budget.

What is a Recumbent Bike?

Recumbent exercise bikes are a great choice for your workout routine, whether you're an experienced cyclist or just a beginner. Recumbent exercise bikes offer many advantages over traditional upright bikes, including a more comfortable riding position and easier access for those with reduced mobility. 

With its low seat height and easy step-through design, a recumbent bike is easy to get on and off, making it ideal for those who have trouble with traditional bicycles. And because you're sitting behind the pedals rather than over them, a recumbent bike places less strain on your back and joints, which makes it a great option for anyone who wants to enjoy a more relaxed ride.

In this recumbent exercise bike review, we will examine 11 different models — all of which offer something unique. From budget-friendly to the ability to increase the workout intensity, there's a recumbent bike on this list perfect for everyone! 

**This article contains affiliate links where we will receive a small commission if you order (at no additional cost to you).**

11 Best Recumbent Bikes for Home Gym

When it comes to exercise bikes there are multiple options to choose from but if you want a stationary bike that offers unparalleled comfort then look no further than recumbent exercise bikes. Unlike an upright exercise bike, recumbent stationary bikes are built with comfort and functionality in mind.

Have a look at the 11 best recumbent exercise bikes available today that cover just about anyone's fitness goals.

1. Best Recumbent Bike Overall: Comfort-R-Bike
2. Best Budget Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike
3. Best Premium Recumbent Bike: Spirit XBR95 Recumbent Bike Trainer
4. Best Recumbent Bike on Amazon: Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Bike
5. Best Recumbent Bike for Small Spaces: ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike
6. Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors: Endurance B4RB Recumbent Bike
7. Best Folding Recumbent Bike: ATIVAFIT Indoor Cycling Bike
8. Best Recumbent Bike for Bigger People: 910SR Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike
9. Best Commercial Recumbent Bike: Spirit CR800 Recumbent Bike
10. Most Comfortable Recumbent Bike: Elite RB Recumbent Bike
11. Best Smart Recumbent Bike: Exerpeutic 5000 Recumbent Exercise Bike

1. Best Recumbent Bike Overall: Comfort-R-Bike

Comfort R Bike is our pick for the best recumbent bike. Get all the features with this bike that you need. Switch positions seamlessly, choose between upper and lower handlebars, change seat settings, and even use heart monitor sensors.

With its revolutionary new saddle and ergonomic adjustment system, Comfort R Bike offers the most comfortable ride in its class. These best recumbent exercise bikes provide an alternative to traditional workout programs. Get the magnetic brake and computerized ride control system to keep your workout on track and your body in tune with the program.

Designed to serve a wide range of body shapes and sizes with a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds, this easy-to-use exercise bike lets you adjust your seat depth and handlebars to ride in your natural position. The exercise bike even has grip pulse sensors that keep track of your workout's intensity levels for accurate calorie burn calculations.

PROS:

• Multiple Programs: With 12 multi-programs, this bike is perfect for people of all fitness levels. So, customize your workout to your specific needs with multiple program options.
• ECB Brake: This recumbent bike features ECB magnetic brake resistance, making it smooth and quiet.
• Lumbar Support: The unique lumbar support system sets the Comfort R Bike apart from other recumbent bikes on the market. With plenty of back support, it is ideal for those who suffer from back pain.
• Step-Thru Recumbent: This best overall recumbent bike has a step-through design that enables you to get on and off the bike without bending over or sliding your legs under the frame.
• Easy to Operate: With simple assembling steps and easy-to-operate features, it’s a great choice for anyone — beginners to experienced exercisers.

CONS:

• No Adjustable Pedal Straps: There's no way to adjust the pedal straps to customize your feet position.

Best Recumbent Bike Overall

Horizon Comfort R Bike

The Horizon Comfort R is the exercise bike that anyone can ride. The fully adjustable saddle and ergonomic grips mean that you’ll get a smooth and comfortable workout...

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2. Best Budget Recumbent Bike: Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Looking for a recumbent exercise bike that doesn't cost too much? Why not try this one? It’s an affordable option that can get you fit in no time!

Days are gone when getting in shape at home was a challenge! This Sunny Health & Fitness recumbent bike offers a convenient cardiovascular workout while maximizing comfort.

With a digital monitor, you can see all the vital stats (time, distance, RPM, and calories burned) to accurately track your progress over time. Plus, the step-through design makes it easy to mount and dismount your bike without bending over.

This is a great recumbent bike that's well within the price range for anyone to get started with a cardio workout routine or for those who want to add an additional low-impact cardio option to their workout regimen.

It offers a magnetic resistance system for smooth and quiet activity, ideal for use in an apartment or small space. Moreover, the 8 resistance levels allow you to gradually increase the intensity of your workout as you get stronger or gain momentum. Overall this is one of the best recumbent bikes you'll find in the $200-$300 price range that has a fully adjustable seat.

PROS:

• Value: This bike offers great value for money, with a range of features that make it fit for anyone looking to get started with recumbent biking.
• Adjustable Foot Straps: No more slipping and sliding with this recumbent bike's textured and non-slip foot pedals. They're designed to accommodate all sizes, while the remaining grip will ensure safe footing.
•  Transportation Wheels: This model features transportation wheels that allow you to move your bike easily from room to room or store it away.
• 8 Level Magnetic Resistance: This bike features 8 levels of magnetic resistance, making it a go-to option for riders of all levels. You can tailor your session for different intensities.

CONS:

• No Built-In Belt: Belts need to be fixed in place during the assembly process.

Best Budget Recumbent Bike

Sunny Health Magnetic Recumbent Exercise Bike

Adjustable 8-level magnetic tension Control System. Exclusive easy seat adjustment allows you to make seat adjustments, hassle-free, all done while remaining seated on the bike...

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3. Best Premium Recumbent Bike: Spirit XBR95 Recumbent Bike Trainer

We all know that working out is important, but sometimes it's just so hard to get motivated. With the Spirit XBR95 Recumbent Bike Trainer, you'll never have that problem again!

Turn your workout into a real adventure with Spirit XBR95 Recumbent Bike. It's durable and comfortable, so you can use it for long workouts without worrying about it falling apart. The smooth ride ensures that you'll always feel like you're making progress — no more frustrating plateaus.

This premium recumbent stationary bike comes with various programs to help you burn calories and get in shape. With the Fat Burn Calories program, you can target specific areas to help you with weight loss in real-time. The Cardio Workout program is substantial for getting your heart rate up and a great workout.

This top-of-the-line recumbent bike has a maximum weight capacity of 350 pounds and comes with 2 Degree Pedal Inversion, targeting different muscle groups for a more comprehensive workout. Additionally, the mesh back seats provide added support and comfort while riding.

The pulse grip handles allow you to keep track of your heart rate to ensure you're working out at the right intensity. Plus, the easy-to-use display lets you track your progress throughout the workout.

PROS:

• 40 Levels of Resistance: With 40 resistance levels, the Spirit XBR95 recumbent bike will provide a challenging workout for any level of exercising enthusiast.
• Heavy Flywheel: With its heavy 20lbs flywheel, this sleek and sturdy machine provides an even, stable ride.
• 2 Degree Inversion: It has been designed with an innovative 2-degree inversion which enables you to enjoy your workout while still getting a good stretch factor.
• Poly-V Belt w/Self-Tensioner: This model includes a poly-v belt w/self-tensioner to ride comfortably without worrying about slipping or unwanted movement.

• Expensive: It is a high-end, expensive exercise bike.

Best Premium Recumbent Bike

Spirit XBR95 Recumbent Bike Trainer

The XBR95 is our top of the line semi-recumbent bike. It features two additional programs, a heavier flywheel, 40 levels of resistance, and a generator for cord-free operation...

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4.Best Recumbent Bike on Amazon: Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Bike

Recumbent bikes are fantastic for providing an intense exercise experience. However, many of them simply aren't comfortable.

The Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Bike is just the ticket for you! This high-quality piece of equipment combines the best of both worlds: a comfortable, connected fitness experience that is actually fun.

Moreover, it feels luxurious while keeping you fit with 29 workout programs, 25 resistance levels, and a variety of fitness tests to help you keep track of your progress. The Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike has a maximum weight capacity of 136kg (300 lb).

With its enlarged curved handlebars, oversized seat cushions, smooth steering wheel, and supportive backrest, you'll find this piece of equipment inviting.

The LCD monitors time, distance, and calories burned, while arm- and leg-resistance adjustments make it easy to control your workout intensity. Built for ultimate comfort and convenience, this top-rated recumbent bike features a backlit blue water bottle holder that matches the blue highlights on its console.

PROS:

• Bluetooth Connectivity: The bike is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can easily connect to your favorite workout apps and track your progress.
• Explore the World App: Connecting your mobile device with the Explore The World App enables you to access not only calories burned but also distance traveled and the duration of training sessions.
• Telemetry Heart Rate: The ergonomic and easy-to-use grip heart rate monitor will let you enjoy your gym time in the best possible way. With this bike's telemetry enabled, there are no worries about missing any important information when exercising.

CONS:

• No Option for Full-Body Workout: This machine doesn't support full-body workouts.

Best Recumbent Bike on Amazon

Schwinn Fitness 270 Recumbent Bike

Fully-loaded console with DualTrack blue backlit LCD screens offers 29 workout programs and visibility to workout metrics, even when the media tray is in use...

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5. Best Recumbent Bike for Small Spaces: ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike

Low impact cardio is an important aspect of any home workout regimen. The ProForm 235 CSX is a low-impact cardio machine made specifically with small spaces in mind.

This recumbent exercise bike provides a quiet, low-impact cardiovascular workout that will boost your metabolism and caloric burn. Featuring an inertia-enhanced flywheel, the ProForm's pedals are self-powered and smooth — even with vigorous pedaling.

The treadmill-like footplate moves with every pedal stroke, providing consistent resistance throughout every rep. In addition, the seat also moves with each pedal stroke for an effective upper body workout.

This compact machine is one of the best recumbent exercise bikes that delivers a more natural striding experience with a faster gear ratio. Advanced training is easy with an EKG grip that tracks your heart rate. This bike comes with iFit Trainers that auto-adjust your bike, so you don't have to worry about making any adjustments yourself.

PROS:

• Built-In Workout Programs:  It has 18 built-in programs to work out with various intensities and precision.
• Heavy-Duty Frame: This bike has a heavy-duty frame to ensure durability that has a maximum weight capacity of 275 pounds.
• 18 Resistance Levels: The silent magnetic resistance provides a seamlessly smooth and quiet riding experience.

CONS:

• Without Power Adapter: The power adapter is not part of the accessories that come with this bike.

Best Recumbent Bike for Small Spaces

ProForm 235 CSX Recumbent Bike

The ProForm 235 CSX stationary exercise bike offers effective cardio exercise in the comfort of your own living room. Its Inertia-Enhanced Flywheel...

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6. Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors: Endurance B4RB Recumbent Bike

Senior citizens need something that is comfortable, easy to use, and will help them exercise more often.

The Endurance by Body-Solid B4RB Recumbent Bike is the perfect way to get a great cardio workout in a small space. It's easy to use and very comfortable, making it ideal for seniors who want to stay in shape.

The bike is designed with a folding frame and transport wheels for easy mobility. This recumbent exercise bike puts you in a semi-reclined position that encourages a natural pedaling motion and places the body in a more comfortable position.

For added comfort, it offers increased leg-room, padded seat, armrests, adjustable backrest with built-in lumbar support, and custom foot straps. Designed for home and commercial use, this bike has a sturdy frame that offers a maximum weight capacity up to 300 pounds.

This recumbent bike is a reliable way to get fit and stay healthy at home or in the gym. It features 8 levels of magnetic resistance and a full range of motion seat adjustment to get your comfort just right. 

PROS:

• Compact Design: The Endurance B4RB Recumbent Bike has a sleek and compact design that will fit into your home decor easily.
• 120v Plug-In Modely: The 120v Plug-in Modely means you'll never have to worry about running out of electricity with this bike's built-in battery.
• Ergonomic Design: The ergonomic design ensures that you will have a stable, balanced riding experience with little effort.

CONS:

• Without Bluetooth Connectivity: You can’t enjoy Bluetooth connectivity on this bike.
•  No Water Bottle Holder: The bike doesn't come with a water bottle holder.

Best Recumbent Bike for Seniors

Endurance B4RB Recumbent Bike

Get a high-powered cardio workout with ergonomic, walk-through design, a small footprint, and advanced console programs and feedback. Adjustable seat with...

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7. Best Folding Recumbent Bike: ATIVAFIT Indoor Cycling Bike

Cycling is good for you, and so is saving space. But a clunky bike pushes one goal down at the expense of the other.

ATIVAFIT Indoor Cycling Bike is a luxury exercise bike with an elegant appearance that looks good even when not in use. This foldable recumbent exercise bike allows you to save space, but it can also be folded to 2/3 of its size, thanks to its unique design making it one of our favorite recumbent bikes.

Moreover, the adjustable seat on this recumbent exercise bike fits users of any height. The hand pulse sensors allow you to track your heart rate and calories burned, giving you accurate results for your workout.

This indoor cycling bike also includes a built-in LCD console that displays time, speed, distance traveled, calories burned, and scan mode. So you can keep track of progress as the ride progresses.

PROS:

• 8 Resistance Adjustment: With 8 Adjustment levels of Resistance, you can adjust the difficulty of your workout.
• Space Saver: The ATIVAFIT has wheels for easy transport and storage, so you can do your workouts anywhere and not worry about saving space in your home.
• High-Tech Digital Monitor:  It offers a high-tech digital monitor that tracks calories burned, distance traveled and time spent on the exercise machine.

CONS:

• Weight Restrictions or Not Suitable for Heavy Load: It is not meant for people who weigh more than 275 lbs.

Best Folding Recumbent Bike

ATIVAFIT Indoor Cycling Bike

With the folding capabilities the bike can be easily folded to half if not in use which is super small to your wardrobe, front wheels to move the fitness bike...

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8. Best Recumbent Bike for Bigger People: Diamondback 910SR Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike

If you’re a bigger person, finding the right exercise bike can be a challenge due to the limitations of most standard exercise bikes.

910SR Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike offers the best way to start. You can continue an exercise program while sitting in comfort and at a proper ergonomic height. This is one of the best recumbent exercise bikes around for larger people as it offers a maximum weight capacity of 325 pounds and is suitable for people up to 6'6"!

The 910SR Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike is designed for larger, taller individuals seeking easy access to a recumbent ride. This model offers a comfortable ride in the upright position with critical adjustments, 32 programs, and 32 resistance levels — just to name a few of its features.

It also has whisper-quiet frictionless braking for smooth and noiseless activity. The wireless heart rate receiver accurately tracks your heart rate during a workout.

PROS:

• Polar Wireless: The 910SR offers a Polar Wireless heart rate monitor for those who want to stay in touch with their fitness without wearing sensors.
• Frictionless Eddy Current Braking System: This allows you to pedal without any noise or wasted energy.
• Message Center: Micro pixel scrolling messages guide you through a program set up and use.
• 32 Resistance Level: With 32 magnetic resistance levels, you can enjoy your desired workout from intense to light weight.

CONS:

• Difficulty in Assembling: The 910SR recumbent bike can be challenging to assemble. It's not difficult, but some steps might require you to take your time and pay attention to details and parts while assembling it. 

Best Recumbent Bike for Bigger People

910SR Recumbent Magnetic Exercise Bike

The Diamondback 910Sr takes your workout to the next level. Includes more resistance levels and workout programs, premium seat, cranks, and quick adjustments...

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9. Best Commercial Recumbent Bike: Spirit CR800 Recumbent Bike

Turn back the clock and get a stunning body with Spirit CR800 commercial recumbent exercise bike. With up to 40 levels of resistance, you can customize your workout and burn calories at an amazing rate.

The high-density foam seat supports your comfort while intensely working out and is covered with quality vinyl for easy sanitation. The generator-powered console ensures that you have all the information needed while riding, such as time, speed, distance, and resistance level.

With a full range of motion and foot pedals, this fitness recumbent bike can be adjusted from zero to 2 degrees inversion. It offers a cooling fan to keep you cool while you work out. The Spirit CR800 is also very quiet, making it great for watching television or listening to music while working out.

All in all this is one of the best premium recumbent bikes on the market which may be above most people's price range. It's built like a tank and has a maximum weight capacity of 450 pounds plus it comes with a lifetime frame warranty and 10-year parts and brake warranty as well making this a commercial grade bike that could be the cornerstone of your home gym.

PROS:

• Drive Train: With the Spirit CR800, you can be confident that your belt will never slip. It comes equipped with a poly-v tensioner which eliminates any risk of it happening in an emergency.
• Crank: The Spirit CR800 is equipped with a 3-Piece, Cold Forged Steel and Case-Hardened Axle for durability. This bike has Commercial-Grade Sealed Bearings, which will keep it running smoothly no matter what.
• 2 USB Ports: The Spirit CR800 recumbent bike offers two USB ports to enable you to charge your electronic devices while they're being used.
• 2 Positions Adjustment: It offers 12 different positions for your comfort and convenience. You can adjust the seat and pedal adjustment to suit you perfectly.

CONS:

• Expensive: The Spirit CR800 recumbent bike is a costly but high-quality piece of equipment.

Best Commercial Recumbent Bike

Spirit CR800 Recumbent Bike

The CR800 Semi-Recumbent Bike is the perfect bike for the commercial environment. The step-through design and easy-adjust seat makes it easy for your clients...

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10. Most Comfortable Recumbent Bike: Elite RB Recumbent Bike

Nothing worse than sitting on a bike that doesn't fit. Sore back, numb hands. And there's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all bike.

The 3G Cardio Elite RB Recumbent Bike is the perfect way to combine a challenging, effective workout with the utmost comfort and support. The bike's unique design with a backrest and a padded seat will conform to your body shape and size, ensuring that you remain comfortable during extreme workouts. 

Set your heart rate where you want it and get a hands-free cardiovascular exercise. You choose the intensity level, so there's no pressure to set up a complicated workout or follow someone else's pace. Keep track of your progress with 4 user ID settings and 12 built-in workouts that automatically adjust resistance based on your heart rate. 

This recumbent exercise bike has a wireless heart rate strap and built-in handheld heart rate grips. With 16 levels of magnetic resistance, this bike is sure to provide you with maximum comfort and enjoyment.

PROS:

• 3 Heart Rate Interactive Workouts: The Elite RB recumbent bike offers 3 heart rate interactive workouts to target different parts of your fitness.
• 12 Built-In Programs: The 12 pre-programmed workouts will help you achieve fitness goals and have fun at the same time.
• Multiple User ID Settings: The Elite RB Recumbent Bike is a high-end, quality piece of equipment that offers four user ID settings to maintain your progress.

CONS:

• Not Movable: This bike doesn’t come with transport wheels.

Most Comfortable Recumbent Bike

Elite RB Recumbent Bike

The process of selecting a recumbent bike is quite simple. It comes down to comfort. We use an oversized seat cushion and an Airflow Mesh Flex™...

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11. Best Smart Recumbent Bike: Exerpeutic 5000 Recumbent Exercise Bike

The Exerpeutic 5000 Recumbent Exercise Bike is one of the smartest recumbent bikes available. It comes with an Airsoft seat and MyCloudFitness App, making it the perfect choice for those who want a comfortable yet effective workout.

The Airsoft seat is contoured to fit your body and provides superior comfort, while the MyCloudFitness App allows you to achieve goals by tracking your progress. The Exerpeutic 5000 also features a built-in computer that tracks your time, distance, calories burned, and heart rate. This can help you to stay motivated on your fitness journey!

With its high-quality frame and versatile features, the Exerpeutic 5000 Recumbent Exercise Bike is ideal for anyone looking for a smart, effective way to get in shape.

PROS:

• MyCloudFitness App: The Exerpeutic 5000 recumbent bike allows you to connect with MyCloudFitness App to monitor your workout and provide guidance for optimal technique.
• Airsoft Seat: It includes a special airsoft seat designed to be comfortable while also providing adequate lower back support, which means you can do your sessions longer without feeling uncomfortable or muscle fatigue.
• 24 Pre-Set Workout Programs: The Exerpeutic 5000 recumbent bike comes with 24 pre-set programs, so you can design your workout to suit the intensity level that suits you best.

CONS:

• Assembling: This smart recumbent bike has an easy-to-operate but difficult assembly process. Technical help is recommended for this machine.

Best Smart Recumbent Bike

Exerpeutic 5000 Recumbent Exercise Bike

24 Pre-set Workout Programs, 24 resistance levels, 3 Computer goal workout settings: distance, time and calories burned, 1 Quick Start Program and 1 Heart Rate Recovery Test...

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11 Best Recumbent Exercise Bikes Side By Side Comparison

We highlighted some of the features and specs of the top recumbent bikes from above so you can see where they're similar and how they vary.

What are the Benefits of Recumbent Bikes?

Exercise bikes provide users with a chance to get a great cardio workout done in the comfort of of your home regardless the fitness level. Here are some of the most important benefits of recumbent exercise bikes.

Effective Cardiovascular Exercise

The recumbent bike is optimal for those looking to improve their cardiovascular fitness level. A recumbent bike reduces your risk of heart disease and other serious health issues. This type of bike places you in a reclined position, which takes the strain off your back and joints, and helps you burn calories more efficiently.

Recumbent bikes are also best for health enthusiasts and athletes alike. They are designed to work on your heart, lungs, and muscles during every workout session.

Whether you're just starting your fitness journey or looking for a low-impact workout to complement your existing routine, a recumbent bike is a great option!

Safe and Secure

A recumbent bike is an optimal solution for those looking for a challenging and low-impact workout. Unlike traditional upright bikes, recumbent bikes allow you to pedal while seated in a reclined position.

This reduces strain on the back and joints and makes it easier to pedal for longer periods. Additionally, recumbent bikes are equipped with a variety of safety features, such as seat belts and non-slip pedals, that make them safe and ideal for home use.

Recumbent bikes are much easier on the joints than traditional bikes. The low seat position takes the pressure off the knees and hips, making it a good choice for people with joint problems. Moreover, they come in a wide range of sizes and features to accommodate all heights and weights users.

Cost-Effective

Recumbent Bikes are not only popular due to their compact design, but they're also more cost-effective than traditional gyms or other fitness routines. You don't have to pay for a membership, nor do you have to buy any expensive equipment.

Recumbent bikes are ideal for those with a limited budget. You can get a great workout in just 30 minutes, so you don't have to go anywhere else.

What to Consider When Buying A Recumbent Bike for Home Gym?

Here are some crucial factors you should consider before purchasing a recumbent bike.

Size

Before purchasing a recumbent bike, it is important to consider the size of the bike that suits your height. Recumbent bikes come in two basic sizes: standard and compact. 

Standard recumbent bikes are larger and might have an oversized seat, making them more comfortable for taller users. On the other hand, compact recumbent bikes are smaller and have shorter seats, making them more suitable for shorter users.

Make sure to measure the space you have available before making a purchase, just keep in mind that some bikes have transport wheels that allow you to move them around your home gym space while other heavier recumbent bikes might stay put after being assembled due to the weight and size.

Build Quality

Recumbent exercise bikes for home gym use are designed to withstand wear and tear and have a robust structure. So, it's advisable to look for a bike made from high-quality materials and has a durable frame. The sturdier the fame the higher the maximum weight capacity will be, a high-quality recumbent bike will usually have a range of 250-350 pounds.

Pro tip: The top recumbent bikes will have longer warranties on both the frame and moving parts. These warranties can be multi-year to lifetime and the price of the exercise equipment will usually match up with the warranty.

Additionally, make sure that the bike has a comfortable seat and is easy to adjust. You should also consider the warranty when choosing a recumbent bike. Ideally, you want a bike that comes with a lifetime warranty so that you can be confident in its built-in quality and purchase. 

Functionality

Most recumbent bikes will have similar functionality, but you must ensure it has all the features you need, such as adjustable resistance levels and various pre-programmed workout programs and even a water bottle or tablet holder.

Second, consider the tech specs. The right recumbent bike for you might include access to fitness apps or other tech features but for others, it may get a tad confusing. The tech specs will determine how easy it is to use the bike, and the adjustment options will help you to find how comfortable you are while using it.

Price/Budget

It is essential to know your acceptable price range before purchasing an indoor exercise bike. This will help you choose a bike that suits your budget. Some well-known brands selling recumbent bikes are Horizon, Schwinn, Nautilus, and ProForm. These brands offer quality products that come with a warranty, but it affects the prices.

Some of the features that you should look for in recumbent exercise bikes are heart rate monitoring, pre-programmed workouts, and adjustable resistance levels. All these features might cause a rise in the prices, but it's fine to pay a bit more for advanced or desirable features!

Difficulty of Assembly

Some bikes come with easy-to-follow instructions, while others require more time and effort. If you are not mechanically inclined, it is important to choose a bike that is easy to assemble.

Take the time to do your research before making your purchase, and you will be sure to find the perfect recumbent bike for your home gym.

Usage

Some bikes have complex electronic displays that can be confusing to operate. Others have simpler designs that are more user-friendly.

Also, check the resistance levels on the bike. Some bikes offer a wide range of resistance levels, while others only have a few. Choose a bike that offers the resistance levels that give you plenty of options from long endurance workouts to intense high resistance sessions.

Finally, check the seat on the bike. Some bikes offer an adjustable ergonomic seat that can make your workout sessions more enjoyable especially if you're going for longer rides.

Online Ratings

With the overwhelming number of recumbent bikes on the market today, it can be daunting for you to buy the right one. That's why you should always check out some online recumbent bike reviews before making your final decision.

Finding more about what others have said about a recumbent exercise bike will help you get an idea if they're happy with their purchase. It also gives insight into how well this particular product is performing compared to its competitors.

Pro Tip: Look for recumbent bike reviews on YouTube or Reddit where people may go into more depth about their experience with the product compared to a few sentences written on Amazon or the company's website.

Recumbent Bike FAQs

Are Recumbent Bikes worth it?

Yes, recumbent bikes are worth it. They offer an effective cardiovascular and lower body resistance workout. And are ideal for people who want to improve their fitness routine or lose weight, as it provides a low-impact workout that can be tailored to each person's individual needs.

Which one is better: an upright exercise bike or a recumbent bike?

There are advantages and disadvantages to both upright and recumbent bicycles. However, it depends on your goals and what you're looking for in a bike.

Recumbent Bikes tend to be more comfortable since you're not upright and putting all your body weight on your butt and thigh muscles. This is especially important for people who have lower back or hip issues.

Additionally, it takes less effort to balance and pedal a recumbent bike because you're in a reclined position. However, that also means that upright bikes can give you a better workout since they require more energy to pedal.

What is the most comfortable Recumbent Bike?

The best recumbent exercise bike is the Elite RB Recumbent Bike if you're looking for comfort. When comparing bikes a sliding seat that provides a stable yet malleable surface will make your workout more enjoyable. That said, everyone has a different body type and varying preferences in what they think is comfortable but at the very least you want a seat that is adjustable that allows for multiple seat positions.  

Can I lose weight with a Recumbent Bike?

Yes, using a recumbent bike can help you lose weight. This is because when you ride a recumbent bike, you are actually burning calories. And as we all know, in order to lose weight, we need to burn more calories than we take in.

Can I ride a Recumbent Bike every day?

Yes, you can safely ride a recumbent bike every day as part of your workout routine. These bikes offer a number of benefits that make them ideal for daily use. You could get a solid workout completed within 15-30 minutes, take into account your fitness goals and schedule to decide if you need to ride daily.

What is a good brand of Recumbent Bike?

Schwinn, Horizon, ProForm, NordicTrack are some notable brands that build recumbent bikes. However, you shouldn't count out other home fitness equipment brands that are less-known brands as there are plenty of options that should satisfy everyone's budget and fitness goals.

Does Peloton have Recumbent Bikes?

No, Peloton doesn't make recumbent bikes at this time. The Peloton app is designed for use with an upright bike, but you could still follow the workouts on a recumbent bike.

Summary

Many people choose recumbent bikes over traditional cycling for a home gym because recumbent bikes are a safe option and prevent falling off the machine.

They're also more secure, with the pedals located in front of you instead of below. And recumbent bikes accommodate every size. The adjustable seat and handlebars can help your body fit on the bike, regardless of height or length.

Recumbent bicycles are gentler on your joints. You sit in a reclined position, which takes the pressure off of your knees and hips. This makes recumbent bikes ideal for people with joint pain or other mobility issues.

In short, recumbent bikes offer all the benefits of traditional cycling without any drawbacks. So, get a safe and comfortable way to get fit with a recumbent bike.

We hope this article has helped you find the best recumbent exercise bike right for your unique needs!

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• Best Leg Extension Machines

The leg extension machine can be a vital piece of equipment for home gym owners, but with all the options available on the market, it's tough to cut through all the noise and pick the perfect one that meets and exceeds your needs. That's where this post comes in handy; we poured over dozens of options online to bring you the six best leg extension machines available today.

We selected leg extension machines that cover a wide range of user needs that are amenable to all budgets. This article has you covered, from multifunctional benches with leg developers to weight stack commercial machines to plate-loaded leg extension and curl machines.

6 BEST LEG EXTENSION MACHINES

1. Best Overall Leg Extension Machine: Body Solid GCEC340
2. Best Budget Leg Extension Machine: Marcy Adjustable Bench
3. Best Premium Leg Extension Machine: Body Solid Series S2LEC
4. Best Leg Extension Machine On Amazon: XMark Leg Extension & Curl Machine
5. Best Multifunctional Leg Extension Machine:  Force USA MyBench
6. Best Leg Extension Machine For Small Spaces: Valor Fitness CC-4

1. Best Leg Extension Machine Overall: Body Solid GCEC340

The Body Solid leg extension GCEC340 is a great option for anyone looking for a leg extension machine that can withstand a brutal workout.

Built from 7-gauge heavy-duty steel, this machine is made to last a lifetime, as the warranty suggests. Like the previous product, this leg extension curl machine, you can target both the quadriceps and hamstrings.

This Body Solid machine employs an easy-to-use pop-pin design to adjust various positions to ensure a full range of motion no matter the users' size.

Besides the top-of-the-line construction, the Durafirm padding provides superior comfort and durability even with intense usage. In addition, the 8" oversized rollers make working out with this rig a pleasurable experience without the pains that other leg extension machines may come with.

Compatible with Olympic weight plates, you're sure to get a killer workout by using one of the best leg extension machines on the market.

Overall you can't go wrong with a Body Solid leg extension machine as they're built with longevity and functionality in mind.

PROS:

• Superior build quality with 7 gauge steel
• Lifetime warranty
• Can handle heavy loads up to 200 lb
• Ability to do leg curls

CONS:

• Olympic weight plate adapter sold separately

Best Leg Extension Machine Overall

Body Solid GCEC340

Constructed of 7-gauge steel, this commercial grade leg extension and curl machine is designed to withstand a heavy workout...

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2. Best Budget Leg Extension Machine: Marcy SB-350 Adjustable Bench

The Marcy SB-350 adjustable bench is perfect for those on a budget but still want a piece of gym equipment that provides plenty of functionality. Unlike most leg extension machines on this list, this product is a multifunctional bench that offers the capability to do exercises like leg extensions, leg curls, bench presses, and more. With this weight bench, you can perform upper and lower body workouts.

The Marcy bench comes with a 6 position adjustable back pad that locks into place with a sawtooth adjustment design, giving you ample opportunity to turn the bench into incline, flat, or decline positions.

The pads are made of high-density foam, which provides comfort and stability when exercising. The frame is built from heavy-duty steel with a maximum weight capacity of 600 pounds which should be enough for most people. In addition, it's covered by powder coat paint to help mitigate any potential scratching.

The foam rollers have a vinyl covering, which provides comfort when hitting the quadriceps when doing leg extensions. Or you can even flip around and target the hamstrings with lying leg curls.

This machine is suitable for Olympic weight plates or standard plates, which is excellent for those who might have some standard plates hanging around collecting dust.

Last but not least, this bench comes with wheels that make it super convenient to transport it around your home gym, whether used in a power rack or stand-alone.

If you're tight on money but are looking for a piece of gym equipment that allows multi-uses, then this is a great weight bench that you can add to your workout equipment arsenal.

PROS:

• Multifunctional for upper and lower body exercises
• Inexpensive
• Suitable for leg extension and curl exercises

CONS:

• Not a great option for the stronger, more serious lifters moving big weights
• It can be a bit unstable when using heavy loads

Best Budget Leg Extension Machine

Marcy Adjustable Bench

This utility bench has an adjustable back that can be altered to suit your workout routine. It features a secure sawtooth back pad...

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3. Best Premium Leg Extension Machine: Body Solid Series S2LEC

This Body Solid leg extension leg curl machine is definitely one of the most expensive options on the market today, but for a good reason.

You get a combo leg machine with this option allowing you to hit the front and back of the legs with leg extensions and leg curls. It's super easy to transition from one exercise to another with its sleek design. 

What's more with this machine is that it comes with weight stacks that negate the need to buy Olympic plates. You have two options to choose from here; a 160 lb or 235 lb weight stack.

The Durafirm pads provide a super comfy experience that reduces fatigue and discomfort. This machine allows users of all sizes with a fully adjustable backrest with 7 different positions. In addition, the starting position can be chosen from 13 different points, giving you complete control over the range of motion used during your workout. Lastly, the back pad is set at 93 degrees to reduce hamstring tension.

The construction quality is commercial grade as it's built with heavy duty 11 gauge 2x3" steel. This results in a lifetime warranty, meaning you'll never have to worry about it breaking and losing your investment.

Body Solid offers some of the best exercise equipment no matter for home usage or in a commercial gym.

PROS:

• Lifetime warranty
• No need to buy Olympic plates
• Super durable construction and commercially rated
• Two weight stack options

CONS:

• Expensive
• Assembly can take a while

Best Premium Leg Extension Machine

Body Solid Series S2LEC

Performs two most important leg exercise from one comfortable position with 160 or 235 lb weight stacks...

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4. Best Leg Extension Machine On Amazon: XMark Leg Extension & Curl Machine 

The Xmark leg extension and leg curl machine blends comfort and functionality with its 12 position adjustable thigh pad, 20 position press arm, and adjustable backrest pad. This adjustability allows multiple users with various leg lengths to get a quality workout done in comfort.

This solid machine is constructed from 11 gauge heavy duty steel that's finished with a scratch-resistant powder coat for long-lasting aesthetics. With this quality leg extension machine, you'll be able to torch those quads and hamstrings.

Besides the well-built construction, you'll also get Ultra thick Duracraft cushions that are 3" thick, offering a firm but comfortable experience. These pads are covered by Duraguard vinyl to avoid potential rips or tearing. The 4.33" thick leg rollers are also covered by vinyl that won't batter your legs as you perform heavy leg extensions.

Overall this is a fantastic leg extension and curl machine on the market that allows for a full range of motion when doing seated leg extensions and leg curls.

PROS:

• 11 gauge 2x3" steel frame
• Fully adjustable
• Includes 14" Chrome horn to store Olympic weight plates
• Rubber hand grips
• Ability to do leg extension and leg curl

CONS:

• Some buyers had a bad customer service experience
• Not ideal for taller users

Best Leg Extension Machine On Amazon

XMark Leg Extension & Curl Machine

XMark delivers a 20-position adjustable press arm and a fully adjustable backrest pad with 11-gauge steel mainframe construction with scratch resistant powder coat finish...

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5. Best Multifunctional Leg Extension Machine: Force USA MyBench

Force USA is known for building some of the best gym equipment that money can buy, and with the MyBench, it's no different. The Force USA MyBench is similar to the Marcy adjustable bench above as it offers the capability of using it for a variety of upper and lower body exercises.

The MyBench is a commercial grade multifunctional bench that includes a leg developer for both leg extensions and leg curls plus a preacher curl attachment to hit your biceps.

It has a 705-pound maximum weight capacity which should accommodate most users' needs. The bench is fully adjustable from -25 degrees to 75 degrees, making it possible to do both incline and decline presses.

Thanks to its shark tooth design, you can adjust the seat in 3 different positions and the backrest in 6 positions. The thick, durable high density foam pads are covered in commercial grade upholstery with rip-stop mesh backing, so you don't have to worry about the seat tearing.

This is the best multifunctional leg extension slash workout bench available that comes with a lifetime warranty.

PROS:

• Lifetime warranty
• High maximum weight capacity
• Super functional for upper body workouts
• Offers leg curl capability

CONS:

• Sits higher than most benches
• Not great for shorter users

Best Multifunctional Leg Extension Machine

Force USA MyBench

The Force USA MyBench adjusts quickly and easily from Flat to incline to decline thanks to our laser cut, shark tooth design. Plus it includes a separate leg developer...

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6. Best Leg Extension Machine For Small Spaces: Valor Fitness CC-4

The Valor Fitness CC-4 is a compact machine that supports leg extensions and leg curls to work both the front and back of the thighs.

This machine offers tremendous adjustability in such a small frame for the price. Besides the 8-position thigh support and 6-position backrest, you can also control the range of motion with its sundial adjustment design.

Constructed of heavy-duty steel, it can hold up to 150 pounds of weight plates. You can switch from leg extensions to leg curls within seconds by adjusting the steel peg on the side of the frame. They also included two rubber gripped handles to add stability and support when squeezing out those reps.

This is a great leg extension curl machine for people with tight spaces as the footprint is one of the smallest we've seen.

PROS:

• Compact size
• Budget friendly
• Dual purpose

CONS:

• Need to buy 2" Olympic plate adapters separately

Best Leg Extension Machine For Small Spaces

Valor Fitness CC-4

Constructed of solid steel and designed with high-density, dual-layered vinyl padding. This leg workout machine is can hold up to 150 lb of weight plates!...

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6 Best Leg Extension Machines Side By Side Comparison

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LEG Extension machines?

Leg extensions are an essential leg exercise to target and strengthen the quadriceps. The quadriceps are responsible for knee extension and hip flexion, making them integral for movement. When using leg extension machines, you lift weight using only your quadriceps, making them a fantastic exercise to isolate them.

Keep in mind that many of the options above serve as a leg extension curl machine which means you can isolate the hamstrings as well!

Let's look at some of the benefits that leg extension machines can provide. 

Isolate the Quadriceps

When performing leg extension exercises, you will strengthen the quadriceps and patellar ligament at the same time. The isolation of these body parts makes it an excellent choice for improving the stability and strength of the lower body.

Ease Of Use

Leg extension machines are super easy to use as there's no real learning curve like some other exercises. Simply get into position on the chair, then lift your feet up towards the ceiling while keeping your toes up. You don't need to concentrate intensely on the form as you are locked into place through the exercise, unlike other leg exercises like squats, where proper technique and form are essential to avoid potential injury.

Perfect For Warming Up The Legs:

You'll often see bodybuilding begin their leg days using the leg extension machine to get the blood flowing to their quads before they take on compound movements like squats or leg presses. Using a leg extension machine, you can effectively get your legs ready and warmed up to get the ideal volume of blood to your quads.

Great for Focus:

Leg extension machines provide the opportunity to really hone in on just targeting the quadriceps. By isolating these muscles, you can specifically work them to your liking; whether it's for warm-ups or failure sets, leg extensions are great for pumping up your thighs and building muscle. You can also target specific areas of your quads by adjusting your feet, point your toes inwards to work on developing the outer sweep that will give you a fuller look to your legs.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A Leg extension MACHINE FOR HOME GYM

There are a number of factors to consider before buying a leg extension machine for your home gym so that you avoid the headache of the possible return process. Once factoring in all the criteria below, you'll be able to choose the perfect machine that matches your needs.

Size

If you're buying a leg extension machine for your home gym, you probably have limited space to work with. Leg extension machines come in all shapes and sizes, so it's important to measure the available space you have before making a purchase.

The footprint of the machine will often determine if it's a good option for your area. If you have a small space to work with, then you might want to consider a multifunctional leg extension machine or bench that you can maneuver around your gym and use for multiple exercises.

Build Quality

Not all leg extension machines are built alike. The build quality of this gym equipment can vary widely. Ideally, you'll want to find a piece of equipment that's constructed from heavy-duty steel. 11-gauge steel that's 2x3" thick is a great starting point as this ensures the machine will withstand a lifetime of wear and tear while allowing for a higher maximum weight capacity.

The more durable the machine is, the longer it will last. Often times the cheaper machines will be built from low-quality steel or alloy, which can lead to a wobbly experience or even injury if it fails during usage.

A leg extension machine that's built from high-quality steel will have a higher weight capacity which is crucial if you plan to move heavy loads.

One more point to consider for leg extension curl machines is the comfort they can provide. Look for machines where the thigh pad, adjustable back pad, and seat are built with high-density foam.

Price/Budget

Prices of leg extension machines can range from just $100 to over $3000. On the low end, these machines aren't meant to withstand heavy loads, and they might be more unstable due to the cheaper quality materials used. That said, some people don't need a piece of equipment that is capable of handling hundreds of pounds.

At the high end of the price spectrum, the extension and curl machine will usually operate on a cable and weight stack system. These options might be better for commercial gym settings.

You should be able to find a sturdy, high-quality machine with a price tag of $500-$1,000. In this price range, you can find something that should last you a lifetime. Any machines for thousands of dollars will be commercial grade systems that can take years and years of abuse.

Difficulty of Assembly

One of the hassles of buying home gym equipment is putting it together after it arrives at your home. If you're good with a set of tools and following instructions, then most people shouldn't have any issues assembling a leg extension machine. From our research, you should set aside anywhere from 2-5 hours to get your machine up and running. Keep in mind that many manufacturers will offer add-on services for a price if you want a professional to assemble and install the machine.

Usage

As you saw in the list of best leg extension machines above, options run from singular function of leg extensions to the capability of performing upper and lower body exercises. In our opinion, you should try to find a leg extension machine that offers the ability to do both leg extensions and leg curls at the minimum. If you find a machine that provides both of these functions, you can save some space and money while having the ability to work both the quadriceps and hamstrings. If space and money aren't limiting factors, then a commercial grade leg extension machine might be a good fit for you, especially if you're very strong.

Besides the exercise options of the machine, you should try to find equipment that you can adjust. This relates to the backrest, seat, leg rollers, and sometimes starting position. The more adjustability the machine offers, the more comfort it will provide you when using it.

Last but not least, it's important to note that most leg extension machines will require you to have a set of Olympic weight plates to serve as the load you're lifting. Always check to make sure that the machine can handle Olympic weight plates or if you'll need to buy an Olympic weight sleeve adapter separately.

In some cases, you'll see a leg press machine with a weight stack where you don't need to buy weight plates separately, but these are usually more expensive and bigger than the other options.

Online Ratings

Let's be honest; you won't have a chance to try all the leg extension machines on the market before you make a purchase. That's where online reviews and ratings can help guide you in your decision-making process. Look for products that have a majority of favorable reviews from verified buyers, whether that's on Amazon or on the manufacturer's website. You can check online forums such as Reddit or Quora, or even Youtube to see if anyone has experience using the machine you're considering buying.

However, we always believe recommendations from people you know serve as the best litmus test before purchasing an expensive product online.

Leg Extension Machine FAQs

Is It Worth Buying A leg extension machine?

Yes! We think it's worth it to buy a leg extension machine for your home gym if it provides the capability to do leg extensions AND leg curls. Sure, there are other exercises and equipment that allow you to work the quads and hams but not as well as a machine could. A leg extension and leg curl machine combo is the perfect choice to isolate the muscles so that you can build muscle exactly where you want to.

What Is The Best Leg Extension Machine?

In our opinion the Body-Solid GCEC340 is the best leg extension machine. This piece of gym equipment has the dual function to hit both the quads and hamstrings plus it's constructed from 7-gauge steel which translates to a machine that will last a lifetime or two. This is a sound investment for people who plan on moving some serious weight without issue.

Can You build Big Legs With Leg Extensions?