REP AB-5200 - Best Adjustable Bench for Home Gyms?
When setting up my home gym, there were a few things I knew I needed without hesitation: Strength Co plates, a 3X3 rack, and horse stall mats. However, the one piece of equipment that left me uncertain was the bench. At our gym, Massenomics, we have an assortment of benches: Rogue flat benches, Rogue Monster benches with fat pads, Stray Dog adjustable benches, and Elite FTS competition benches. After using several over the years, I was still unsure about which one to choose for my home gym.
After extensive research and tough decision-making, I landed on the REP AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench. Spoiler alert: I’m thrilled with my decision. Let’s dive into the details.
REP AB-5200 2.0 Overview
After using the bench for a month and a half, I can confidently say it's been a fantastic addition to my workouts. Here are some high-level specs:
Weight: Approximately 120 lbs. Despite its weight, it’s comfortable and easy to move around.
Pad Width: Standard 12 inches, with an option for a wider pad if preferred.
Height: 17 inches from the floor, meeting the standard IPF height.
Top Pad Length: Long enough to accommodate my 6’1” frame without worrying about the gap between the pads.
Key Features
Adjustability: The REP AB-5200 2.0 offers multiple adjustment options, including a decline post. Although I didn’t opt for the decline feature (an additional $40), it's available for those who prefer it.
Customization: You can choose from seven frame colors and seven accent colors. I went with a red and black two-tone to match the Massenomics affiliate gym theme.
Premium Touches: The bench includes a knurled handle and a laser-cut mountain logo, adding to its premium feel. These features don’t necessarily enhance usability but definitely contribute to its overall quality and aesthetic.
Value for Money
At $500, the REP AB-5200 2.0 is a solid investment. This price includes free shipping, which is a significant advantage over competitors like Rogue, where you’d be looking at an extra $170 for a similar bench when factoring in shipping costs. The REP AB-5200 2.0 offers comparable quality and functionality without the additional expense.
Assembly and Finish
The bench arrived in three boxes and was easy to assemble, taking me about 20 minutes. The packaging was excellent, ensuring the bench arrived in pristine condition. The finish is impressive—no nicks or defects, with even coverage across the entire bench.
Final Thoughts
For those building a home gym and seeking a balance of price and quality, the REP AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench is an outstanding choice. It’s robust enough for powerlifting and versatile enough for various other workouts. Even for commercial gym settings, this bench holds its own.
If you're looking for an adjustable bench that delivers on performance, durability, and aesthetics without breaking the bank, I highly recommend the REP AB-5200 2.0. It’s become a staple in my home gym, and I’m confident it will serve you well too.
Let us know in the comments if you have any questions about the REP AB-5200 2.0 or if there are other home gym items you’d like us to review. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Massenomics podcast and follow us on Instagram for more home gym tips and reviews. Head over to our website to grab some gear and stay tuned for more content!