The 7 best compact weight benches: Small space? Never Miss a Workout

Getting your own compact weight bench can be an incredible gift for yourself.

It felt like Christmas when I finally decided to buy my very own weight bench for small spaces.

I finally came to the realization that my incline bench press efforts ACTUALLY did deserve better than lying on a stack of books on my kitchen bench with a pillow on top.

I deserved better. My health and fitness deserved better. I went for it.

Having my own adjustable weight bench opened up a world of exercises that I could finally do safely and properly!

I spent hours agonizing over which weight bench I should buy.

I spent 20 more hours researching and compiling this list to help you find the best compact weight bench.

For many people, the best overall compact weight bench is the PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench,

But, the best weight bench for one person may not be the best for someone else.

Keep reading to discover which is the best compact weight bench for you, your budget, and your needs.

What is the best compact weight bench for your home gym? 

• Best Overall Compact Weight Bench: PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench
• Best High-End Weight Bench for Small Spaces: ROGUE Adjustable Bench 3.0 (Put your birthday-money towards this one!)
• Best Value Compact Weight Bench: FLYBIRD Adjustable Weight Bench 01
• Best Compact Weight Bench for Big and Tall People: SuperMax Adjustable Weight Bench
• Best Budget Weight Bench for Small Spaces:: FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench 02
• Best Compact Weight Bench for Cardio/Core/Bodyweight Training Options: Reebok Deck
• Best Weight Bench with Barbell Rack: Marcy Olympic Weight Bench with Preacher Curl Pad and Leg Developer for Full-Body Workout

What is the Best Overall Compact Weight Bench?

Best Overall Weight Bench for Small Spaces: PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench

Rated 92/100 based on 10,000+ reviews

• Overall Dimensions: 50.79 x 17.72 x 42.52 inches
• Key Feature: Lumbar support pad and can be easily adjusted with 7 backrest positions and 3 seat positions. 
• Length: 50.79 inches
• Width: 17.72 inches
• Height: 42.54inches
• Folded Dimensions: length = 34.6 inches; width = 17.7 inches height = 11 inches
• Weight capacity: 880 Pounds
• Foldable/easy to store: This bench weighs 32lbs and has built-in transport wheels that makes it easier to store
• Leg Support Bar: Yes
• Steel notes/other specs: Alloy Steel. 1.5 mm thick steel, triangular design for extra sturdiness

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• Able to support up to 880lbs, this bench has the highest weight capacity of all the benches on the list. This might make it a great choice for those wanting to lift extra heavy and those who just want that extra sturdiness.
• If you are on the tall side, you may find this bench fits you. People up to 6’ 5” have reported that this bench fits them well. Taller folks might find this is essential in order to properly support their head/neck during the bench press

Why do we like it ?

• This bench can be easily adjusted with 7 backrest positions and 3 seat positions. I like having so many options so I can set the bent to the angle with exercises such as the incline bench press. This many levels can also be helpful when trying to learn new exercises on a workout plan while watching video tutorials.
• Many people find the automatic lock knobs make it quick and easy to adjust this bench. 
• Plenty of buyers found this bench easy to assemble and it comes with 1-year warranty (1-year free replacement for all parts).

Cons and Drawbacks

• This bench may be too high for many shorter people.
• Some people might find the decline bench position is not very usable

Take a closer look at the PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench

 

What is the Best High-End Weight Bench for Small Spaces?

 

Best High-End Compact Weight Bench: ROGUE Adjustable Bench 3.0

Rated 92/100 based on 137+ reviews

 

• Overall Dimensions (LxWxH): 52 x 11.25 x 17.5
• Key Feature: This bench is sturdy and is one of the least likely to wobble or collapse. This bench has the most range with 10 back pad positions (from 0 to 85 degrees) and 3 seat settings (0, 15, and 30 degrees)This bench is made in the USA
• Length: 52 inches
• Width: 11.25 inches
• Height: 17.5 inches
• Folded Dimensions: 
• Weight capacity: Not stated but built with better quality steel construction than most benches
• Foldable/Easy to Store: This bench weighs 125lbs and has wheels and a handle to make it easy to move. It can be stored in an upright position to fit in a closet or corner.
• Leg Support Bar: No
• Steel notes/other specs: 3×3” 11-gauge steel frame

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• This bench can be adjusted to fit people of many different weights and sizes.
• You can also choose what color you want the frame to be (red, black, or blue)

Why do we like it?

• It is so sturdy and can easily be adjusted up with one hand and has 10 different back positions and 3 seat settings. I really like being able to very quickly set the bench for my exercise so I can get back to watching my show while resting between sets.
• Many people might also appreciate how there is such a small 1-inch gap between the back pad and the seat. This makes it extra comfortable and stable.
• While it is a much bigger investment than the other benches, it will last many many years and is much safer. For years my entire home gym consisted of a bench, adjustable dumbbells, and a doorway pull-up bar. All that equipment cost me much less than an annual membership at many gyms and I still use it every week (11 years later)

Cons and Drawbacks

• Many people might find many of the other benches on this list to be of better value than this one. Because this bench is by far the best quality, it is also much pricier and heavier than other benches. Having had a top-rated bench collapse on me leaving me injured, I would say a super sturdy bench might be well worth the investment. 
• This bench also requires a fair bit to assemble and may not ship as fast as others. It also does not come with a leg bar

Take a closer look at the ROGUE Adjustable Bench 3.0

 

What is the Best Value Compact Weight Bench?

Best Value Compact Weight Bench: FLYBIRD Adjustable Weight Bench 01

Rated 90/100 based on 21,000+ reviews

• Overall Dimensions Listed (LxWxH): 34.65 x 15.94 x 10.63 inches
• Key Feature: While this bench requires very little assembly, it has 7 back positions, 3 seat positions, 2-foot positions and is quick to adjust. It is designed for people up to 6’2” and supports up to 800lbs.
• Length: 34.65 inches 
• Width: 15.94 inches
• Height: 10.63 inches
• Folded Dimensions:  30 inches long, 15 inches wide, 9 inches high
• Weight capacity: 800 lbs
• Foldable/Easy to Store: This bench weighs 28.5lbs, is foldable, and is designed to be easily stored and set up
• Leg Support Bar: Yes
• Steel notes: Alloy Steel

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• If you are looking for a bench with a high weight capacity and are on the taller side, this might be an optimal bench for you. People over 6ft tall and benching heavier weights have found this bench does the job.

Why do we like it?

• This bench is compact without sacrificing bench angles or weight capacity.
• Getting an average score of 4.5/5 stars after being reviewed by over 21,000 people is a pretty fine track record
• It also comes with a 1 year warranty on the frame

Cons and Drawbacks:

• This bench may be higher off the ground than others.This is fine if you have longer legs, but may not be ideal for others.
• There is only a 30-day warranty on the pads

Take a closer look at the FLYBIRD Adjustable Weight Bench 01 

What is the Best Compact Weight Bench for Big and Tall People?

Best Compact Weight Bench for Big and Tall People: Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max Adjustable Weight Bench 

Rated 92/100 based on 1,800+ reviews

• Overall Dimensions Listed (LxWxH):69.5 x 10 x 52 inches, wide seat, longer bench
• Key Feature: This bench may fit people up to 6’ 4” and may support up to 850lbs. The seat and backrest also are also wider and may fit bigger people well. 
• Length:69.5 inches
• Width: 10 inches
• Height: 52 inches
• Folded Dimensions: 53.5″ L x 10.8 W x 24″ H
• Weight capacity: 850 Pounds
• Foldable/Easy to Store: This bench weighs 65lbs, has wheels to move it, and can fold up for easy storage
• Leg Support Bar: Yes
• Steel notes/other specs: Alloy Steel (2×3 steel construction)

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• The larger seat and back rest make this bench a top choice for many taller and bigger folks as it is suited for people up to 6’ 4” and it is stated to support up to 800lbs

Why do we like it ?

• The gap between the bench and seat can be adjusted so there is no gap at all. This can make it more comfortable
• This bench is backed by 1-year limited warranty and has one of the higher stated weight capacities of 850lbs.
• There are 7 backrest and 3 seat angles and the longer bench may be long enough to for taller people.

Cons and Drawbacks:

• While the frame is meant for heavy people, it makes this bench heavier than many others reviewed here
• Some people have mentioned they would prefer the seat and backrest to be even wider

Take a closer look at the Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max Adjustable Weight Bench  

What is the Best Budget Weight Bench for Small Spaces?

Best Budget Weight Bench for Small Spaces: FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench 02

Rated 90/100 based on 18,000+ reviews

• Overall Dimensions Listed (LxWxH): 32.28 x 9.65 x 13.58 inches
• Key Feature: At 22lbs, many people find this bench is very light and easier to store than other benches. It is also easy to fold up and carry for storage
• Length: 32.28  inches
• Width: 9.65 inches
• Height: 13.58 inches
• Folded Dimensions: 31.5 in  x 12.6 in x 11.8 in
• Weight Capacity: 600 Pounds
• Foldable/Easy to Store: This bench weighs 22 lbs, folds up and is easy to carry/store
• Leg Support Bar: Yes
• Steel notes: Alloy Steel

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• This bench is light and easy to move and store. If you are looking for a light, compact, and budget-friendly adjustable weight bench, than this might be a good choice for you

Why do we like it ?

• While it is one of the lightest benches we reviewed, it is still meant to support up to 600lbs and can be set to multiple angles for a wide range of exercises.  I like being able to set my bench to many angles so I can get it where I want for exercises such as the incline bench press
• Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars after being purchased by over 18,000 people is a pretty solid rating too.
• The frame is backed by a 1-year warranty

Cons and Drawbacks:

• This bench is only meant for people 5’ 9” and shorter
• The padding only comes with a 30-day warranty

Take a closer look at the FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench 02 

What is the Best Compact Weight Bench for Cardio and Core Options?

Best Compact Weight Bench for Cardio and Core Options: Reebok Deck 

Rated 96/100 based on 3,800+ reviews

• Overall Dimensions Listed (LxWxH): 13.27 x 47.83 x 13.78 inches
• Key Feature: This bench is grippy, firm and well designed for bodyweight exercises, core and cardio training. Unless you are quite light/small, this bench is not meant for lifting heavy weights as it only supports a maximum weight of 330lbs.
• Length: 47.83  inches
• Width: 13.27inches
• Height: 13.78 inches
• Folded Dimensions: 
• Weight capacity: 330lbs
• Foldable/Easy to Store: This deck weighs 27.3 lbs and can be easily slid under most standard beds for storage. You can also store small items in an inner compartment of this deck
• Leg Support Bar: Not available
• Steel notes: The frame is made of iron and the deck is made of multi-textured plastic

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• This bench is meant for people who are looking to mostly use it for cardio, high-intensity interval training, body weight exercises, and core training. People looking to burn of stress or to reset after a busy day might find this bench to be a versatile choice.
• If you are on the smaller/lighter side, this bench could also be used for weight training, but definitely isn’t meant for people 200lbs or more who are looking to ‘bulk up’ 

Why do we like it ?

• The multi-textured, harder surface makes it well-suited for HIIT, cardio, body weight, and core training options. It also comes with free online video workouts. This might be terrific for those looking to break a sweat with an upbeat, fast-paced workout.
• You can easily hook resistance tubes to the feet or backrest
• There is an internal storage compartment. This can be super handy for storing small items such as resistance bands, a workout journal, and perhaps even a pre-workout supplement.

Cons and Drawbacks:

• Many taller and even average-height people find the bench is too short for bench press, it is only designed to support 330lbs, and is less cushioned for heavy weight training. People using if for bench press might want to place a yoga mat on it to make it a little more comfortable.
• It only comes with four adjustable backrest positions, but can be adjusted to two different heights (7.9 & 13.8 in). This may be nice for cardio, pistol squats, step-up options, and to easily slide it under a bed

Take a closer look at the Reebok Deck  

What is the Best Weight Bench with a Barbell Rack?

Best Weight Bench with Barbell Rack: Marcy Olympic Weight Bench with Preacher Curl Pad and Leg Developer for Full-Body Workout

Rated 92/100 based on 5,400 reviews

• Overall Dimensions Listed (LxWxH): 80 x 47 x 61 inches
• Key Feature: With a barbell and some weight plates, this bench can be used for the widest variety of weight training exercises (but it is also the heaviest and is not meant to be stored). Length: 80 inches
• Width: 47 inches
• Height: 61 inches
• Folded Dimensions: This bench does not fold up
• Weight capacity: 600 Pounds
• Foldable/easy to store: No, this bench does not fold up and cannot be stored easily. It is also by far, the heaviest bench on this list weighing 103lbs
• Leg Support Bar: Yes
• Steel notes/other specs: 2.5-by-2.5-inch, heavy duty steel tube frame 13.27 x 47.83 x 13.78 inches

Who is this Compact Weight Bench Designed for?

• This bench is meant for people wanting to set up a designated space for a home gym (as this bench is not meant to fold up or to quickly put away).
• If you are looking to do barbell squats and bench press at home but don’t want a large workout rack/cage, then this could be an awesome option for you.

Why do we like it ?

• This bench allows for the most exercises of the benches we reviewed. Unlike other benches reviewed here, this set up might be a top choice for those looking to do leg exercises such as hamstring curls and quad extensions. It can even be used as a squat rack for barbell squats and can be used to do the barbell bench press and preacher curls.
• This setup also has storage posts for bumper plates
• It also comes with a 2-year limited factory warranty.

Cons and Drawbacks:

• Looking for a weight bench for small spaces? If yes, then this bench is probably not the best choice . Because this bench comes with more equipment and can be used for full body workouts, this bench is less compact, much harder to store, takes longer to put together, and is much heavier than the other benches on this list.
• People with longer limbs may find the range of motion for the leg bar and preacher curls is limited

Take a closer look at the Marcy Olympic Weight Bench with Preacher Curl Pad and Leg Developer for Full-Body Workout

What to look for when buying a compact weight bench

Getting a compact weight bench, some weights or dumbbells, and a pull-up bar can turn your home into your own personal strength training cave. This can make staying consistent with your weight training routine so easy, convenient, and obvious that you working out can become nearly automatic – something you look forward to.

When looking for a weight bench for small spaces, make sure it is:

• Adjustable
• Foldable and easy to store
• Stable, sturdy, strong and able to support a higher weight capacity than your body weight plus the weight you plan to use.

Get an adjustable compact weight bench

Unless you live in a mansion or don’t mind using your weight bench as an extra seat in your living room, most people will only want one weight bench. 

Choosing the best adjustable weight bench will allow you to do more exercises so that you can meet your training needs over the long haul.

I hate buying things only to find that 6 months later I need something that better suits my needs. 

Getting an adjustable compact weight bench can help prevent this from happening to you.

For example,I made the mistake of sticking to the flat bench for bench press because it met the requirements for the exercises I was doing.

 I soon learned that developing the lower pecs alone can lead to some unappealing, saggy looking pecs which kind of look like…you know where I’m going with this.

An adjustable weight bench allows you to also do exercises such as the incline bench press which is important for developing the upper pecs

Get a stable compact weight bench

Please don’t make the mistake I made by ‘cheaping-out’ and getting a low-quality weight bench for small spaces.

Within my first couple weeks, the bench slipped and my back hit the ground along with 180lbs of dumbbells.

I’m no physicist, but according to my calculations, it was like being body slammed with a force of around 4000 lbs.

Force = Mass x Acceleration

Force = 400 pounds x 9.8 meters per second

Lucky for me, I was only injured and unable to train for a couple of months!

Bonus tip: even with a high-quality bench, I encourage you to push on your bench a couple of times with your body weight before each set so you can be certain it is locked in and won’t slip when you get on there.

It only takes a second and it is well worth the time!

In relation to stability, you will want a weight bench that does not wobble. I have found that many of the cheaper weight benches for small spaces tend to wobble which can be a bit unsettling and perhaps even dangerous.

When looking for a compact weight bench, make sure you check out the maximum weight capacity that the bench can support.

Think about the most weight you hope to bench press when you are your most jacked. Now, add that amount of weight to your body weight and aim to have 100-400 pounds to spare.

Get a foldable compact weight bench

Having a foldable compact weight bench makes it easy to store in a closet or under a bed. This is important if you are tight on space or if you just want to have your weight bench out of sight.

By getting a foldable weight bench, you can also choose a weight bench that fits you properly without having to sacrifice the length of the bench. 

For example, it is important to get a weight bench that will support your entire back and that you can also rest your head on when you are performing an exercise such as the bench press.

By looking for a foldable weight bench as opposed to a small weight bench that does not fit you, you will have the capacity to carry out your exercises with proper form.

What are the benefits of having a compact weight bench?

Are weight benches worth it?

Purchasing a weight bench can be an important investment in your health and fitness. If you value being fit, strong, and healthy, then a weight bench might be worth it.

Since owning a weight bench, I have found that I am far less likely to miss a workout. I can put on a favorite show or some upbeat music and train hard whenever I want.

An adjustable weight bench also allows you to follow workout routines and to access video tutorials so that you can practice proper form without trying to modify exercises that perhaps should not be modified.

If you want to consistently work out, remember what James Clear, a habit expert, says about creating lasting habits.

You want to make working out:

• Easy
• Convenient
• Satisfying
• Obvious

Easy: Owning your own weight bench makes it easy to work because you may no longer waste time researching alternative ways to carry out exercises. You probably also will not have to get cushions, books and whatever other items to create a potentially less safe/effective incline bench

Convenient: Having your own weight bench also makes working out more convenient. Switching between exercises and quickly adjusting your bench eliminates decision-making and mental strain. You will be more likely to carry out the exercises that you want to.

Satisfying: A weight bench also makes working out more satisfying. I hated having that gnawing feeling that I am missing out on the benefits of exercises that should be done with an adjustable weight bench.

Weight training is hard enough, it might be worth choosing the quality pieces of equipment that make it more enjoyable. You may also want to try temptation bundling  to make your exercise routine even more satisfying so you will be more likely to make it happen consistently

Obvious: The other benefit to owning your own weight bench is that it can serve as a reminder to work out. Each time you see your weight bench, you may remember to schedule and protect your training time.

I found that simply investing in a compact weight bench, helped me further prioritize working out so that when faced with competing decisions, weight training was the more obvious choice in relation to my values and goals.

What’s the best way to use a compact weight bench?

Want to avoid simply using your weight bench as something that collects dust and is never put to use?

The best way to use a compact weight bench is to choose a workout routine that is tailored to your goals.

Take the following steps to make sure you stick to your routine:

• Schedule your workouts
• Get an accountability partner
• Use temptation bundling to help make yourself look forward to your next training session
• Make training x times/week a rule: commit to making your workouts happen (like you would an important meeting/appointment
• Set inspiring daily, weekly, monthly, and longer-term stretch goals
• Track your progress by recording the following:
  • The exercises you perform
  • The number of sets/reps you complete
  • The amount of rest time you will take between sets
  • The amount of weight you lift for each rep
  • the date

Once you have chosen the exercises for your training routine, make sure you learn/review the proper technique for each exercise. For example, I have used the exercise tutorials created by Athlean-X and others to make sure I am safely performing each exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions About Compact Weight Benches:

What can I substitute for a weight bench?

Living in a one-bedroom apartment, I held off on buying a weight bench. Instead, I used a homemade wooden bench that we were using to sit at our kitchen table.

This bench did the job for the flat bench press, but did not cut it for incline bench press. For the incline bench press, I followed a popular fitness blogger’s recommendation to put pillows, phone books, and other items under my shoulders.

In the end, I realized this was not doing the job of an adjustable weight bench. My head was not supported, I was as upright as I wanted to be so my lower chest was still getting overworked, and it was not nearly as comfortable as a weight bench.

An adjustable weight bench will allow you to perform more exercises and will enable you to better challenge yourself and build your strength by switching up your workout routines.

I would not recommend sacrificing proper form, safety, or range of exercises. Instead, I suggest looking for a quality folding, adjustable bench that can be more easily stored.

Alternatively, you might want to check out the section below that answers the question: “How can I bench press without a bench?”

What size should a weight bench be? How long should a weight bench be?

Weight benches are usually between:

• 45 and 50 inches long
• 15-20 inches high (off the ground), and
• 15-20 inches wide.

It might be helpful to try out a few benches to make sure they fit you based on your height, back width, and leg length.

• In terms of length, when doing the flat bench, you want your buttocks all the way up to your head to be supported by the bench.
• For bench height, choose a bench that will allow you to place your feet flat on the floor when doing the flat bench press. You shouldn’t have to use your tippy toes!
• The bench width should allow your shoulders to move so that you can bring the bar down to within 1-3 inches of your chest during the bench press.

How can I bench press without a bench?

Benching without a bench can be done by using another type of bench (see the dimensions above) or by simply lying on the floor. The perk of using an adjustable bench is that you will be able to perform more exercises.

When I am travelling or don’t have access to a weight bench, I prefer to use variations of push-ups. You can wear a weighted vest or backpack to increase the weight.

You may want to try the following varieties of push-ups:

• Standard push-ups
• Elevated push-ups (put your feet up on a chair or other object – heck, I even use a tree when I am on longer hiking or cycling adventures)
• Single arm push-ups
• Pike push-ups

Below is a video that can take you through 30 variations of the push-up. If you would prefer an article, you might want to check out this one

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-0eYiItN2D8

Is floor benching effective?

If it is your only option, floor bench can be an effective choice. Again, you will be limited in both your range of motion and you won’t be able to complete incline or decline bench press.

What is an FID bench?

An FID bench is an adjustable weight bench that can be used for flat, incline, and decline positions

Best Compact Weight Bench – Summary

If being strong, healthy and fit is important to you, you deserve to get yourself the best dang compact weight bench for your needs.

There is a wide variety of compact weight benches to choose from that serve a variety of different needs, wants, shapes, sizes, weights, strengths, workout-styles, and budgets.

The PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench will be the best choice for many people.