TrainingHardcore
Today we had the joy of looking at the best sit up benches on the market. Our editors pick for the top ab bench was the XMark Adjustable Decline Ab Bench which can be purchased on amazon.
Whilst some of the other benches where not far behind, the xmark was good on both build quailty and price. See our full review of the sit up benches below.
Contents
- 1 The Best Sit Up Benches 2019
- 2 The Best Ab Benches
- 3 XMark 12 Position Ergonomic Adjustable Decline Ab Bench XM-4416.1
- 4 Body-Solid GAB60 Adjustable Ab Board
- 5 Stamina Pro Ab/Hyper Bench
- 6 XMark 12 Position Adjustable Ab Bench XM-7608
- 7 Valor Fitness DF-1 Decline/Flat Bench
- 8 TKO Sit-up Bench
- 9 Fitness Reality X-Class
- 10 Phoenix 99255 Adjustable Slant board
- 11 Abdominal Bench By Deltech Fitness
- 12 Deltech Fitness Sit Up Bench
- 13 Finer Form Sit Up Bench
- 14 Confidence Fitness Pro Adjustable Sit Up Ab Bench V2
- 15 Best Aspects of a Sit Up Bench
- 16 Things to consider when buying abdominal benches:
- 17 Benefits of Using a Sit up Bench
- 18 Correct technique when using a sit up bench
- 19 What exercises can you perform on a sit up bench?
- 20 Are sit up benches effective?
- 21 Frequently Asked Questions
- 22 Summary
The Best Sit Up Benches 2019
XMark 12 Ab Bench XM-4416.1
Body-Solid GAB60 Adjustable Ab Board
Stamina Pro Ab/Hyper Bench
XMark 12 Position Adjustable Ab Bench XM-7608
Valor Fitness DF-1 Decline/Flat Bench
TKO Sit-up Bench
Fitness Reality X-Class Light Commercial Multi-Workout Abdominal/Hyper Back Extension Bench
Phoenix 99255 Adjustable Slant Board
Deltech Fitness Abdominal Bench
Deltech Fitness Sit-Up Bench
Finer Form Sit Up Bench with Reverse Crunch Handle for Ab Exercises, Black
Confidence Fitness Pro Adjustable Sit Up Ab Bench V2The Best Ab Benches
XMark 12 Position Ergonomic Adjustable Decline Ab Bench XM-4416.1
A noticeable step up from the now iconic design from XMark, the XM-4416.1 is an efficient an balanced sit up bench. While its design is really toned down to the minimum, it still has everything you need for an above average exercise.
Utilizing a minimum of components, this bench follows a very simple principle that is centered on a central supporting beam.
The bench itself is connected to it on an incline, and can be set up in a variety of angles. For advanced users seeking for a bigger challenge, the varying degree options are a godsend.
The entire frame, as well as the cushions, are finely made and ensure both comfort and durability too.
We should also mention a very useful addition from XMark Fitness – a Bullhorn support handle that works two ways – it ensures a safe dismounting, but also gives you a chance to perform leg raises and tone your abs even further.
This works as a sort of “two in one” aspect that really puts the XM-4416.1 one step in front of the competition.
And with an affordable price tag, we can say that XMark once again proves that they have what it takes when sit up benches are in question.
Pros
Cons
The Xm-4416.1 was the best sit up bench we tested
and is worth every bit of it's price tag.
Body-Solid GAB60 Adjustable Ab Board
This bench from Body Solid feels as if it falls just shy from the goal it was set to achieve. While not bad by any means, it somehow fails to deliver a substantial experience in order to set apart.
Treading the same path as the much better XMark XM-7608, this bench remains in its counterpart’s shadow slightly.
Still, the GAB60 offers a straight forward workout experience, with the bench being highly adjustable along its central support bar, giving you a bit of variety in your challenges.
The bench cushion is somewhat ordinary, but still comfortable for most users, with the length being more than enough.
At times clunky and ungainly, the GAB60 is still a viable option for most users, even if it doesn’t bring anything particularly revolutionary to the market.
If the choice comes down to this bench from Body Solid, then sure, go for it. An effective exercise is still a guarantee.
Pros
Cons
Stamina Pro Ab/Hyper Bench
The Stamina Pro Ab/Hyper Bench is an extremely versatile option for those considering purchasing a sit up bench. Packed to the brim with unique details, this bench is unlike anything you’ve seen so far and is bound to provide a one of a kind experience.
Designed as a sort of “fitness multi tool”, the Hyper Bench gives you ultimate adaptability – a choice to create a workout perfect for your needs. With almost every element being adjustable, this bench offers several choices. Besides sit ups, you can do standing pushups, reverse crunches, and also use the bench for classic fitness exercises.
This bench has the perfect name, as it really is a “Hyper” piece of equipment. Its looks might not be very charming, but the sheer amount of options you get is more than impressive. On another note, this bench is completely foldable – making it a great choice for apartment use. And best of all – the price tag is quite reasonable. An absolute recommendation.
Pros
Cons
XMark 12 Position Adjustable Ab Bench XM-7608
Combining a seemingly simple build and an advanced design, XMark delivers a unique bench that has every potential to get to the very top in the market. With extraordinary adaptability, and a sleek, minimal design, this sit up bench offers an excellent workout experience, and is definitely worth the investment.
The design of this bench is dominated by the central vertical bar, on which the bench itself slides. This ensures an incredible choice of angles for your workout, even if it looks a little weird compared to most in the market.
The bench itself is covered with two connected cushions, both made from excellent Duracraft material which only adds to the overall quality. The rollers are over sized and very comfortable, and the bench itself hides a very important detail – an added bullhorn handlebar. This addition gives you the ability to perform leg raises on your sit up bench – a feature that is certainly an important bonus.
Smart and simple design, modern implements and enough variety all make the XMark stand out from its competition.
Pros
Cons
Valor Fitness DF-1 Decline/Flat Bench
The Valor Fitness DF-1 Decline/flat Bench is a sturdy and reliable option. Without a doubt one of the most unique benches on the market when it comes to its design, the DF-1 is reminiscent of a science fiction device, but is also a very effective sit up bench.
The first thing of notice is its heavy-duty steel frame, which is actually doubled – two parallel steel beams connected at the base - a detail that is rarely seen in sit up benches.
The padding for the adjustable decline bench is of high quality, and certainly uniquely designed and still efficient.
Another remarkable detail is the adjustability. With 14 different positions and a very wide variety of angles, the DF-1 gives you a ton of options for your workouts.
Besides the sit ups, you can use this bench for a lot of other exercises because it can transformed in to a flat bench.
This means you can work your upper body as well as your abs.
The sturdy still frame has a weight capacity of 750 lbs, which should withstand even the heaviest of lifters.
Although slightly pricey, this adjustable Decline bench from Valor Fitness is definitely worth the money. With DF-1 you are guaranteed an efficient workout and a very durable bench.
Pros
Cons
TKO Sit-up Bench
Interestingly named, the TKO sit up bench is a small but very potent piece of equipment. Seemingly small and simple, the TKO is so much more.
There was obviously a lot of attention paid to the design, and the emphasis was put on a smaller size bench, helping the users to save some important space.
The crowning detail of this bench is certainly the padding, standing out with its curved and ergonomic shape. The entire frame is certainly rigid, and eye catching with its silver metallic color.
It also comes with niftily placed non slip leather foot pads, as well as two bullhorn handles that help with mounting and moving the bench away. The two wheels also help immensely.
For sit ups - the TKO is excellent. Its perfected design and the unique padded bench ensure a comfortable and adaptable exercise. One thing that might become a letdown is its size, where some of the full size benches have a noticeable advantage.
Pros
Cons
You can see the full tko sit-up bench review here.
Fitness Reality X-Class
In a skillful attempt to combine several modes of exercise into a single, multi functional bench, the Fitness Reality’s X Class bench is packed to the brim with nifty little details. With a variety of uses, this bench really offers a little bit of novelty for every user, be they advanced or beginners.
With a sturdy build, and high quality cushions with their ergonomic design, this bench offers absolute comfort while working out. Also, users are presented with several incline degrees, an option which allows for greater flexibility in your workouts.
The X Class gives you the option to do sit ups, back raises, leg raises, chest flys and with an optional addition – even preacher curls. In a way, this variety makes the X Class a sort of “mini” multi tool, allowing for a surprisingly complete workout, with a single bench.
Pros
Cons
Phoenix 99255 Adjustable Slant board
Taking the simplest possible design and the proven, tried and tested system, the Phoenix Slant board is a simple and straightforward sit up bench.
With a streamlined and sturdy build and a durable outer frame, this bench has a respectable weight capacity of 250 lbs.
The adjustable positions allow the bench to be used in its classic sit ups and crunch role, but also as a quite useful bench for chest flys and similar exercises.
The padding is quilted, allowing for a comfortable experience during the workout, and the whole bench is foldable, making it inconspicuous when not in use, and a great choice for small apartments or rooms.
In general, the Phoenix Slant board is a straightforward, run of the mill bench, with everything that a beginner user might need. With a respectable price and overall simplicity, it proves to be a reasonable choice for those on a tight budget.
Pros
Cons
Abdominal Bench By Deltech Fitness
Deltech Fitness goes for a design that is as simple as simple can be. Right off the bat, you shouldn’t expect no variety or advanced designs, but rather a sit up bench in the truest meaning of the word.
This bench combines a reasonably sturdy 14 Ga Steel tubing frame with a classic, vinyl covered padding, allowing for a fairly comfortable workout. The padding is thick and quite “square-ish” but does the job.
A good aspect of this bench is the respectable incline setting, with 7 different positions ranging from 20 to 80 degrees. This allows you a bit of difficulty set up, giving you a bigger challenge when needed.
For users that require the basics and nothing far from that, the Abdominal bench from Deltech will perfectly suffice.
Pros
Cons
Deltech Fitness Sit Up Bench
Right from the get go you will notice the unique design of this sit up bench from Deltech Fitness. With a lot of peculiar touches, it was clear that Deltech went for a more advanced approach to a simple bench, and the result is a solid, decent and affordable roman chair.
The first detail to notice is the extended, curved padding, designed to support the users thighs and calves, ensuring a more comfortable and stable exercise. The frame itself is made from a durable steel frame, with added powder coat paint.
Additionally, keep in mind that even though unique, this bench is by no means too advanced – it offers a chance to do the basics. Its compact dimensions might diminish its effectiveness, but crunches and sit ups are still a viable option.
For users that don’t require too much from a bench, and aim for a straight forward workout, this nifty little bench from Deltech will suffice perfectly.
Pros
Cons
Finer Form Sit Up Bench
Just as the company name suggests, Finer Form really aimed to deliver a bench that will be noticeably a step above the competition. And this seemingly straight forward sit up bench hides so much more, hiding an advanced design in its simple looks.
The first thing to notice is the overall length and the distinct curvature of the bench itself. This ergonomic design offers a maximum stretch and a comfortable exercise, no matter the user.
The adjustable incline also offers some flexibility, enabling you to adjust depending on the challenge you want.
But the biggest secret of the Finer Form sit up bench is a nifty, smartly placed handle that allows you to change your position and actually do leg raises with surprising efficiency. That’s right – leg raises on a sit up bench. That’s definitely a novelty on the market, and it really gives this bench an entirely new level of effectiveness.
Pros
Cons
Confidence Fitness Pro Adjustable Sit Up Ab Bench V2
Simplistic, yet very well done, the V2 sit up bench from Confidence fitness is a respectable entrée into the market, offering a balanced bench that caters to both beginners and advanced users.
The bench has a weight capacity of 220 lb so might not be suitable for those on the heavier side.
The padding is very well done, and the length covers the entirety of the bench, making for a comfortable exercise. The incline is adjustable, giving a greater challenge, while the construction itself is relatively robust and sturdy.
A feature that sit up benches often lack, is luckily included in the V2 – an option to fold the bench and tuck it somewhere out of the way. This helps greatly for those with small spaces.
All in all, when you combine effectiveness, the cost and the design, the Confidence Fitness’ V2 is a well balanced bench that is certainly a viable option.
Pros
Cons
Checkout the Confidence Fitness Pro full review here.
Best Aspects of a Sit Up Bench
There are many ways to work your abdominal muscles without any equipment at all. While it is still possible to get a good core workout performing these exercises, there are some drawbacks to only performing abdominal exercises on the floor.
With the added benefit of a sit up bench, you get to isolate the abdominal muscles much more efficiently, and to focus on your performance and movements. Without a bench, you will rely too much on the rest of your body, which can in turn lead to poor results and a much smaller lifespan of your energy.
A good sit up bench will help lock your legs in place, essentially taking them out of the picture. This leaves all your strength focused on your abdomen, and in turn gives you much more potential. Not to mention the comfort. A comfortable bench with padded leather cushions is certainly more comfy than a mat or the hard floor.
As your strength increases, you may have to do endless repetitions of these exercises to continuously challenge yourself. Additionally, if you are a beginner, you may risk straining your neck or back if you perform these movements with improper form.
That’s why, when you decide to buy a sit up bench, you must focus on several key that can make or break your workout experience. It’s always a good tip to think thoroughly and observe every aspect, in order to find the bench that is perfect for your needs.
Things to consider when buying abdominal benches:
Benefits of Using a Sit up Bench
Sit up benches are a great resource for working your core that offer an extension to your workout regime. With a sit up bench in your home gym, you can perform additional exercise that you simply cannot do otherwise.
Sit up benches also provide increased comfort during these exercises and you can adjust the range of motion to continuously challenge your abdominal muscles.
There are many benefits to using a sit up bench as opposed to doing abdominal exercises on the floor. One major benefit of using a sit up bench is a decreased risk of injury. Because sit up boards provide padded back support, you can comfortably perform more repetitions of each exercise.
Another advantage of using a sit up bench is that it allows you to customize the difficulty of each exercise. Sit up benches are adjustable, so that you can choose what is best for you and continue to challenge yourself.
The adjustability is even more advantageous, as it offers an increased range of motion compared to abdominal exercises performed on the floor. This increased range of motion plays a large role in the difficulty of each exercise and allows you to more efficiently target your core.
Correct technique when using a sit up bench
There are several key details to keep in mind as you perform any abdominal exercises. These points prevent injury and ensure that you are targeting your muscles correctly and not wasting your time or efforts. The most important thing to remember is that your abdominal muscles should be engaged at all times during an exercise. This is also called “the core”. A solid mind-body connection is detrimental to making the most out of each movement.
This leads to another vital aspect of technique for core exercises, which is to make certain you are not putting strain on your neck, especially during exercises with your hands placed behind your head. As your muscles fatigue with each repetition, it is common for your form to become lax. A lot of people, when this happens, will use their hands to pull forward. This can lead to tension in the neck, and possibly injury. That’s why it is important to always be focused on the muscles which you are exercising. Where the core should do most of the work, is where your focus should be.
The best sit up benches should put your feet, thighs and back in a good alignment in order to minimize injury.
Another essential principle of abdominal muscle training is to always keep in mind that you should have a balanced workout routine. This means that you should emphasize training each muscle group in your body to guarantee you will not overdevelop or over train some muscles while others struggle to keep up—another leading cause of injury. The counterpart to your abdominal muscles are the muscles in your lower back, so be sure to incorporate back strengthening exercises into your routine.
And keep in mind that muscles need time to rest and repair after a demanding workout. Maintain a good sleep schedule, rest at least 24 hours between workouts, and balance your strain with a good diet. Remember that for abs and a six pack, the proper diet is what is crucial. Consider consulting a nutritionist to get the best possible meal plan for your body type.
What exercises can you perform on a sit up bench?
So you have your sit up bench all setup in your home gym now you need to get working those abs.
Sit up benches provide an expansive variety of exercises that allow you to not only target each section of your core (upper, lower, and obliques) but also allows you to perform lower back strengthening exercises and even some upper body variations.
All movements can be modified by adding weights for resistance or adjusting the incline of the sit up bench.
Needless to say, such a variation certainly makes a sit up bench one of the most important pieces of fitness equipment, whether for your home, or a casual gym, and in fact, some sit up benches are far, far more from that.
Exercises that you can perform on a sit up bench include:
1.Reverse crunch
Reverse crunches on a decline bench are a great exercise that specifically targets your core muscles and touches up on the very top of your abs.
Performing it is straight forward – provided your sit up bench has a special bullhorn handle.
If so, just hold on, bend your knees and raise them towards your head.
As you’re completing the movement, draw your legs slightly upward.
This is a great variation of a crunch and can add much needed variation once you master the standard crunch.
2.Incline sit up
As the name suggests, this version of sit ups is done with as much of an incline as you got. This makes the exercise considerably more challenging, and will quickly put you to the test.
But that’s what makes it so efficient for abdominal muscles, toning the middle part of your abs with ease.
And with options in today’s decline ab benches, you can really fine tune the incline to find the perfect balance for your abilities.
3.Hip raise
Hip raise is a good everyday exercise, and really helps to strengthen your core. Granted, it can only be done on select few benches, but even so, it’s important to mention. Bending your legs at the knees and thrusting your hips upwards while your back is motionless, you effectively target the spinal erector muscles, engage the core, and even work a bit of your glutes. With added weights, this exercise takes on its full potential.
4.Leg raises
More and more manufacturers are attempting to optimize their sit up benches in order for you to be able to perform this iconic abs exercise. With a lengthy bench and a bullhorn handle, you can easily perform the basic, lying leg raises. These will target your lower abs, which makes them essential in completing an entire, top to bottom abs workout. Without a doubt, leg raises, no matter in which way they are performed, are one of THE best core exercises. Incorporate them in your every workout, and in no time you will have a rock hard belly.
5.Oblique crunch
Oblique crunches are sadly often overlooked, even though they are immensely important. Luckily, they are easy to perform on almost every sit up bench on the market. Much like the regular crunches, you perform the same steps, with the only difference being in the final movement. Twist your torso to the left and right, feeling your obliques (sides of your abs) engage.
6.Back raise
Back raises are a very important exercise, and when a bench gives you the option to do it, don’t hesitate. Also known as the hyper extension, it is performed somewhat like a reversed, flat sit up. Locking your calves into the padded rollers, you lie on your stomach and raise your back. You’ll quickly feel the burn and the tension – but these only signify that the core is engaged.
7.Push-ups
A few benches on the market give you the option of performing push ups. Now, keep in mind that this is the standing, inclined version of this exercise, but it is still a viable way to engage your chest and shoulders. Check out some of the benches we reviewed above, and you can notice that some provide you with this nifty option.
Are sit up benches effective?
There’s no denying that a vast majority of commercial sit up benches are very, very useful. Perfectly designed to help you work your abdominals with ease, efficiency, and in the comfort of your home, these pieces of equipment are well worth the investment. Also, sit up benches provide a safe way for novices to begin an ab routine, as well as offering the opportunity for advanced users to modify the difficulty of exercises.
With a lot of brands and advanced designs, these benches offer so much more than the simple sit up option. You can now perform a variety of exercises, adjust everything specifically for your needs, and design a perfect workout regime.
Being such a versatile piece of fitness equipment, these benches are extremely effective and the fact that they have multiple functions makes them a staple for home and commercial gyms. Every fitness regime has a separate focus just on your abdominal muscles, and when abs are mentioned, sit up benches are not far behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a sit up bench work?
Sit up benches increase the intensity of your ab workout therefore giving you a more effective workout than doing abdominal workout on the floor.
What is an ab bench?
An ab bench is a bench set at an incline to enable you to get a more intense ab workout.
Does doing sit ups with weights help?
Doing sit ups with weights helps to increase the resistance making you ab workout more difficult and helping to overload the muscle.
Summary
So, in summary, whether you’re a beginner, or an advanced user wishing to put more focus on ab workouts, a good, reliable sit up bench is definitely a must! And with our cherry picked best sit up bench the market has to offer, your choice will be quick and easy.
Hi I’m James and I’m a self confessed fitness fanatic. When I’m not personal training I enjoy multi discipline endurance events, mma and hitting the gym. I also love to write about my passion and I’m a firm believer in healthy body healthy mind.