Weight benches for home workouts

Christopeit and VirtuFit: two European brands

The two brands in this selection are European. Christopeit Sport, founded in Germany in 1976 with its first factory in Velbert, North Rhine-Westphalia, has specialised in home sports equipment. VirtuFit, a Dutch brand, designs cardio and strength equipment in the Netherlands. The VirtuFit Deluxe and the Christopeit bench offer several backrest positions, allowing you to switch from flat to incline press without changing machines. To choose between them, we compare the maximum weight limit, seat width, and the speed of changing angles between two sets.

Other equipment

Strength training also includes:

• Dumbbells.
• Strength machines.
• Cages and racks.
• Bars and weights.
• Kettlebells.
• Medicine Balls.
• Strength training accessories.

All strength training equipment can be found on the strength training page.

Flat, incline, decline: which angle for which muscle

In the flat position, the bench press works the entire pectoral muscles, triceps, and front shoulders: it's the reference exercise for upper body strength. In the incline position, between thirty and forty-five degrees, the focus shifts to the upper chest and shoulders, areas that are very exposed in tackles. Beyond this angle, the movement becomes similar to a seated military press. The decline position, with the head lower than the hips, targets the lower pectorals and is used for weighted torso raises. A multi-adjustable backrest also allows for one-arm rowing with support, to balance the back work.

Maximum load, stability, and safety

The maximum load specified by the manufacturer includes the weight of the user and the bar: a pillar of one hundred and ten kilos that develops one hundred kilos puts more than two hundred kilos on the bench. We check the stability of the feet, their width, and the absence of play in the backrest lock. When bench pressing, a spotter should be positioned behind the head, or in a rack with safety measures adjusted just below the chest. Feet remain flat on the floor, with the buttocks contacting the seat: lifting the hips to lift more arches the back and loses core stability.

Good deals

Good bargains can be found in good deals, promotions, clearance, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24h are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The key moments of the year follow a stable order: the Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, the winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by the summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which weight bench should I choose for home?

An adjustable, inclined bench, preferably with decline capability, covers the vast majority of exercises. Make sure it fits into the room once unfolded, supports your working load, and that the angle change is made without tools.

Is a folding bench sturdy enough?

For home use, yes, as long as you respect the specified maximum load. The folding mechanism adds joints that can become loose: check the tightness regularly, especially if you are lifting heavy weights.

What leg exercises can be done with a bench?

The Bulgarian squat, with the back foot resting on the seat, is one of the most effective for unilateral strength. Box jumps, hip thrusts with back support, and on equipped benches, leg curls and leg extensions complete the workout.

How to set up a weight bench?

Follow the manual in order, approaching all the screws before tightening them, then secure everything in a cross once the bench is level. A new check of tightness after the first sessions prevents play in the backrest.

Is a bench suitable for children?

A child can use it for bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups or dips, under adult supervision. Weight training should be introduced later, with a light bar and a coach who corrects the technique.