Is the REP Fitness AB-3000 the Secret Mid-Range Bench That’s Changing Home Gyms Forever?
| Product Weight | 89lbs |
|---|---|
| Maximum Capacity | 1,000lbs |
| Dimensions | 56.6” L x 25.8” W x 17.1” H |
| Back Pad Angles | -12, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 70, 85 degrees |
| Seat Pad Angles | 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 degrees |
| Material | 11-gauge steel |
| Warranty | 10–year frame warranty |
REP Fitness, based in Colorado, is recognized for producing high-quality gym equipment, including power racks, kettlebells, dumbbells, and cable machines. One of their standout products is the AB-3000, a flat-incline-decline (FID) adjustable bench made with premium materials, all priced under $400. “You won’t find a bench that gets the basics right better than this one,” says MH fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S. “It’s consistent, reliable, and durable — and that’s everything you want at this price point.”
The REP Fitness AB-3000 earned a spot in the Men’s Health best weight benches guide after being tested by the MH editors. But to do an even deeper dive on this piece of equipment, they coordinated with REP to send me a model to review. I put it through several weeks of workouts to test its reputation as a solid mid-range option for lifters seeking performance without the steep price tag.
Shipping and Assembly
The bench is delivered in one large box that weighs nearly 100 pounds. If you live in a walk-up apartment like me, I suggest having someone help you carry this up the stairs. Even if you can handle the weight yourself, the box is cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. Be aware that the back pad doesn’t latch into place, so you must carry it from the bottom, not the back pad bar.
The assembly process wasn’t complicated, but I wouldn’t say it was a breeze either. The bench comes in four parts: the back bar, back pad, seat pad, and handle/leg rollers. REP includes all the necessary hardware, including a couple of Allen wrenches; however, I found that using my crescent wrench sped things up.
One mildly frustrating part of the process was screwing in bolts that required caps on both ends. The Allen wrench helps, but holding one side steady while twisting the bolt into place can be a delicate balancing act. The seat also gave me some trouble. Tightening the bolts on the bottom was awkward, but after a few finger turns, I was able to provide them with a final crank with my wrench.
All in all, leave yourself an hour to unbox and assemble this bench with minimal breaks. You can do it solo, but putting it together near where you’ll use it is a smart move—remember, this thing weighs almost 100 pounds.
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