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If there’s one piece of kit you wish in your private home gym, it’s a weight bench. But not only any form of weight bench. You wish an adjustable weight bench, just like the recent and improved REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0. FID weight benches are a flexible, portable, and economical alternative for beginners and athletes who need to spruce up their dumbbell workouts. Plus, if you’ve a squat rack and a few barbells, you’re just about good to go.
Today, many brands, like REP Fitness, Rogue, Sorinex, and Titan, produce high-quality benches. Nonetheless, none of them shall be a very good fit for everybody. Subsequently, you’ve to judge your budget, fitness goals, and preferences to make sure you pick the precise one for you.
As a 5+ yr Public Health Skilled and Author, I’ve researched and written on several weight benches. I’ve also had a likelihood to check out a couple of for myself. On this REP AB-5200 adjustable bench review, I’m providing you with all of the deets so you’ll be able to determine if that is personally definitely worth the buy.
Key Takeaways
- On their website, the bench is robotically set to the fixed post option, making it a flat-incline bench. In the event you’d prefer a FID bench, select the “adjustable post” option.
- In the event you don’t just like the bench, REP Fitness offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but there shall be a 15 percent restocking fee applied if it’s not returned in its original packaging.
REP Fitness AB-5200
4.1
- Dimensions: 17.5” H x 57.6” L x 25.8” W
- Weight capability: 1,000 kilos
- Materials: 11-gauge steel
- Warranty: 10-year frame warranty
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REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Pros
- Six different color options can be found for the frame and rails. You may add a pop of color to your private home gym or coordinate your bench along with your other equipment.
- The AB-5200 may be stored in an upright position, which is helpful for those with small spaces who need to tuck it away once they’re done figuring out.
- The bench has a 1,000-pound weight capability, making it suitable for nearly all of lifters.
REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Cons
- The wide pad doesn’t meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) requirements, so the AB-5200 might not be ideal for powerlifters who need to train at home.
- No compatible attachment options can be found. The REP AB-5200 isn’t as versatile as other adjustable benches we’ve tried, which may be limiting for lifters who need to perform a greater diversity of exercises at home.
REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Rating
At Breaking Muscle, we’ve been fortunate enough to check out a few of the most effective weight benches in the marketplace. From flat and FID benches to foldable weight benches – we’ve put them to the test. Here’s how the REP AB-5200 2.0 scored after we put it through our proprietary factor methodology system.
| Factor | Rating (out of 5) |
| Price and Value | 4.5 |
| Construction Quality | 4.5 |
| Delivery and Assembly | 4.5 |
| Dimensions | 4.5 |
| Padding | 4.5 |
| Footprint and Portability | 4.5 |
| Performance and Ease of Use | 4.5 |
| Incline Levels | 4.5 |
| Available Attachments | 1.0 |
| Warranty | 4.0 |
REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Overview
If I’m being honest, I believe REP Fitness did their thing on this second iteration of the AB-5200. It’s evident that they listened to their customers and aimed to enhance on the things they previously missed.
To begin, the customization options are out of this world. It’s rare to seek out a weight bench that permits you to select from a plethora of frame and guide rail colours. Next, they’ve implemented their proprietary padding that’s grippy but in addition comfortable. Then, certainly one of their most important changes is to the adjustable back post, which is a win for many who like doing certain exercises, like decline bench presses.
The REP AB-5200 V2 on the Breaking Muscle testing facility
This FID bench (flat-incline-decline) is attractive, high-end, and nice enough to pass as business gym equipment. Their attention to detail is undeniable, as you’ll find the laser-cut REP logo on the ladders and black hardware and chrome steel parts in various places. This space-saving bench has so much going for it, but when we’re being honest, it’s definitely not essentially the most budget-friendly option in the marketplace. Plus, some things may make this a dealbreaker for you.
We’ll get into who can buy it and who is likely to be higher off in search of something else below.
Who Should Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench
- Those preferring ladder-style adjustments over pop-pin adjustments.
- Elite lifters who desire a weight bench that’s stable enough to handle heavier weights.
- Individuals preferring to customize their adjustable bench in order that it matches their preferences/needs.
Who Should Not Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench
- Trainees planning on doing core exercises that will require leg rollers.
- Individuals who’re in search of a budget-friendly bench.
- Anyone who likes adding attachments to their weight bench to extend exercise versatility.
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REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review
With the intention to make a sound purchasing decision, there are a couple of things you must know. Subsequently, in the following couple of sections, we’ll go over various factors, like price, construction, footprint, and more. We’ll expand on why we ranked each factor the best way we did and address things which are easy to overlook. That ought to make it easier to discern if this bench is sensible to your lifestyle.
Price and Value
On the time of writing this, the REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0 is $549.99, but that price is for the fixed post only. The fixed post version only works as a flat-incline bench, but should you upgrade to the “adjustable post,” you’ll get three additional decline angles. That’ll cost you an additional $30, bringing the worth to $579.99. There’s also an choice to get wider back and seat pads for $20. So, should you add that together with the adjustable post, you’re taking a look at $599.99.
This will be completely out of some people’s budgets, but with it being a higher-end product, it’s going to cost more. Products just like the FLYBIRD weight bench on Amazon cost around $149 and might get the job done, but, as someone who owns that, it’s missing features that the AB-5200 2.0 has.
For one, this wobbles once I’m doing most workouts, which limits its versatility. I don’t feel 100% comfortable using it to do step-ups with my adjustable dumbbells for this reason. While it’s very maneuverable, because it’s only 28.5 kilos (12.92 kilograms), it lacks stability. It simply wouldn’t work for those wanting to make use of heavier weights, like a powerlifter. Plus, the pop-in adjustment slows me down. These are things you’ve to contemplate if you go cheaper.
The REP AB-5200 2.0 within the flat position
Overall, I’d say you’re getting a superb amount of value for the worth with the AB-5200 2.0, which is why we ranked it a 4.5 out of 5. If you would like to pay slightly less, try the REP AB-3000 FID bench (for around $319.99) or the REP AB-5000 Zero Gap adjustable bench (for about $449.99).
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Construction Quality
In terms of the general construct quality of this weight bench, we’ll easily give it a 4.5 out of 5.
The frame comprises 11-gauge steel and heavy-duty bolts, which might support over 950 kilos (430.9 kilograms). Any such material makes for a heavier bench (i.e., 115 kilos), however it also means it needs to be more stable. The AB-5200 2.0 is a solid piece of kit that ought to remain sturdy regardless of what back pad and seat pad adjustments you make. It’s the form of stability I wish my FLYBIRD had.
Although this weight bench is form of heavy, it’s still on the lighter side in comparison with other high-end options. Heck, even the previous model of this was 10 kilos heavier. It’s also very maneuverable, due to the knurled, chrome steel handle that you would be able to use to select up the front of the bench. The ladder system and adjustment post have knurled handles as well. The older model just featured a stainless-steel metal handle that wasn’t knurled.
REP Fitness also upgraded the pad material. The unique one had premium, grippy vinyl, but this recent one has proprietary CleanGrip pads, which we’ll expand on later.
RELATED: REP Fitness Colorado Bar Review
Delivery and Assembly
In the event you order the AB-5200 2.0 directly from the REP Fitness website, you’ll get free shipping. You’ll want to select the frame and rail color you desire to customize it to your liking. There are six color options to select from: metallic black, blue, army green, white, matte black, and red.
Once they ship it, your product will likely arrive in three to 4 well-packaged boxes. It’s a bolt-together bench, which cuts down the fee of shipping and lets the brand send the product in smaller packages.
As a consumer, I find that bolt-together benches are easier to pack when moving, but that also means assembly is required if you first get it. Fortunately, that’s not difficult to do. In reality, a team member said all they’d to do was attach the back adjustment piece, the pads, and the feet.
In our book, the delivery and assembly process deserves a 4.5 out of 5 for the reason that whole experience was straightforward.
Dimensions
Before you purchase the AB-5200 2.0 for your private home gym, it’s crucial that you realize how much space it’ll take up and if it’ll work to your body type. When assembled, it’s 57.6 inches long, 25.8 inches wide, and 17.5 inches high. To provide you perspective, it’s about ¾ so long as a twin-size bed, 4 US dollar notes wide, and about two women’s size five shoes high.
In the event you’re a competitive powerlifter, knowing these details is crucial, because it’s best to coach on benches that meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) height requirements. Interestingly, many weight benches are too low, which might interfere along with your form and cause your hips to sit down too far down. The improper height may also compromise leg drive and your ability to ward off into the bench, making it hard to appropriately perform exercises like bench presses.
Whether you’re tall or short, the length of this bench should accommodate you. It’s a tad bit longer than another benches, which is a bonus. With this one, you’ll have good head support when in an incline position and still give you the option to place your feet flat on the bottom should you’re lying in your back.
Now, let’s switch gears to the pad dimensions. At 41.7 inches long, the back pad makes up much of this bench’s length, and its width depends upon which version you choose.
The usual version is 12 inches wide and can work for most individuals. But should you’ve got wider shoulders and lift big weights, consider the 14-inch one. Otherwise, you risk overhanging, which isn’t protected or stable when lifting heavy weights. In the event you go for the broader pad, it won’t meet the IPF width requirements, and a few people consider that getting a wider pad interferes with their range of motion. So keep that in mind before you purchase.
The seat pad length is 11.4 inches long with a regular width of 12 inches that tapers to eight.9 inches. The wide version is 14 inches and tapers to 11 inches. Each the back pad and seat pad are 2.5 inches high.
One other thing you’ve to concentrate to with adjustable benches, particularly, is the pad gap. The pad gap is the space between the back pad and the seat pad when it’s in a flat position, which is simply 1.4 inches here. This is taken into account a “little gap,” so it shouldn’t feel such as you’re sitting on a hole. In the event you’re attempting to avoid pad gaps altogether, consider a flat bench or the REP Fitness AB-5000 zero-gap bench.
Based on the data above and our knowledge of weight benches, the size here receive a 4.5 out of 5.
Padding
Experience has taught me that not all weight bench pads are created equal, so it’s refreshing that REP Fitness has put a variety of energy into this. As previously mentioned, the brand new iteration features the CleanGrip Pads. This is alleged to be grippier, firmer, and easier to scrub than others. The brand says they made this upgrade in response to customer feedback, as trainees wanted something to stop them from sliding when bench pressing.
We had a member of the Breaking Muscle team give it a try, they usually enjoyed using it during their workout. They said the pad was thick and firm, and it wasn’t uncomfortable in any respect, whether or not they were seated, on their chest, or on their back.
Based on our proprietary rating system, the padding on this bench gets a 4.5 out of 5.
Footprint and Portability
When the AB-5200 2.0 bench is fully assembled, it only takes up 10.33 square feet. To make it easier to visualize how it would fit into your private home gym space, consider this. The typical bedroom is 132 square feet, and a one-car garage is about 240 square feet, so if you’ve that much area to work with, you most likely can provide this bench a dedicated space. In fact, this also depends upon the opposite equipment you’ve within the room, like power racks, furniture, etc.
Now, should you’re short on space and wish to stow your bench after use, say hello to vertical storage. You may stow it vertically, and it’ll only take up 3.1 square feet. To do that, just pull up the knurled, chrome steel front handle until it stands all the best way up.
Even though it’s 115 kilos (52.1 kilograms), the actual roll weight is more like 54 kilos (24.49 kilograms), so it’s not difficult to maneuver. To guard your floor, there’s UHMW plastic on the tip of the bench to stop scratches. This feature wasn’t on the last model, so it’s nice that REP Fitness made an update here. Lastly, the closed ladder design further ensures the pads are protected and stay in place.
All in all, it’s a solid space-saving alternative and isn’t difficult to maneuver around, so we gave it a 4.5 out of 5.
Performance and Ease of Use
Performance-wise, this bench may very well be higher than some business gym options. It’s tough and might handle a powerlifter doing a little serious barbell bench presses. REP Fitness says this bench was designed to permit for optimal performance regardless of what position you’re in.
On the point of lift on the REP AB-5200 2.0
For instance, they are saying that this bench only declines as much as -8 because that level still enables you to maintain proper leg drive for specific exercises. In consequence, leg rollers aren’t even required for this bench. Nonetheless, the dearth of leg rollers is likely to be a dealbreaker for many who need to use their bench to do a variety of core exercises and Nordic curls.
This bench uses a closed-ladder mechanism to make angle adjustments to the seat and back pads. All you’ve to do is use one hand to maneuver the ladder to certainly one of the steel-cut grooves. It’ll fall in place so you’ll be able to return to your workout without worrying concerning the bench flimsily moving around. Sadly, I can’t say the identical for my FLYBIRD weight bench.
Please note: In the event you get the adjustable post, there’s an additional step you’ve to take. You’ll must loosen the pop-pin on the post, pull it to regulate the angle, and twist it to tighten. Beginners may prefer the fixed post because it has fewer moving parts.
Since it’s so easy to make use of and doesn’t impede one’s workout experience, we’re giving it a 4.5 out of 5.
Related: Do This To Increase Your Bench Press
Incline Levels
In the event you persist with the fixed post, the bench will provide ten different back pad angles and 4 seat pad angles. The back pad angles are 0, 20, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, and 80. In the event you upgrade to the adjustable post, you’ll have three additional decline angles, that are -8, -6, and -4. The seat pad angles are 0, 8, 20, and 30.
A Breaking Muscle team member adjusting the back pad of the REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0
The unique AB-5200 only had seven back pad angles and three seat pad angles, so the two.0 model is a definite upgrade.
Available Attachments
Presently, the AB-5200 2.0 is just not compatible with their leg roller or spotter platform attachments. Based on REP Fitness, the decline angle just isn’t aggressive enough to require a leg roller to make it easier to hold your position. If that’s something you’d want, it would make sense to contemplate certainly one of their other weight benches. Since attachments aren’t an option, we’re giving this a 1 out of 5.
Warranty
The warranty on this FID bench isn’t bad, but we’ve seen higher. As an example, there’s a ten-year warranty on the frame but only 30 days on the upholstery. We might’ve liked to see no less than a 90-day warranty on the upholstery, like what you’d find on the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. For this reason, we rate it a 4 out of 5.
REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Specs
As you’re comparing the REP AB-5200 2.0 to other weight benches, there are some specs it’s worthwhile to remember. Below, we’ll provide a fast overview of its dimensions, the materials it was made with, its weight capability, and more.
Dimensions
The REP AB-5200 2.0 has the next dimensions:
- Length: 57.6”
- Width: 25.8”
- Height: 17.5”
Materials
The frame is made from 11-gauge steel, and the pads are created with their proprietary CleanGrip material. The latter is sticky enough to tear a paper towel, so it’s best to scrub it with cloth. Even easy-to-overlook details are well-made, just like the chrome steel handles and heavy-duty bolts.
Pad Thickness
The seat and back pad are 2.5 inches thick. This foam pad is denser than the unique AB-5200, however it’s still comfortable.
Weight Capability
This weight bench can support a 1,000-pound weight capability, making it a very good alternative for beginners and advanced trainees alike.
Compatible Attachments
Currently, there aren’t any available attachments for the REP AB-5200 2.0 weight bench.
REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0
A comparable choice to the REP Fitness AB-5200 is the made-in-the-USA Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. It’s a quality-built adjustable weight bench with an 11-gauge steel frame that gives different color options, includes ten back pad angle positions, and is stowable.
Nonetheless, this product, which has a smaller back pad width (11 inches) and doesn’t feature a decline option, costs around $595. On top of that, it’ll cost you an additional $100 should you want chrome steel rails and premium wheels. Those are very neat features, but they’re ones that many individuals may not care a complete lot about.
In the event you’re trying to make your mind up which certainly one of these could be the most effective adjustable bench to purchase, I’d say the REP AB-5200 2.0. It provides you with similar functions and quality because the Rogue 3.0 but at a greater price. Now, the Rogue 3.0 bench could also be a greater option should you’re super tight on cupboard space (it’s barely smaller than the 5200) and need hardly any pad gap (one inch versus 4 inches) Each are great options, though. What you decide comes right down to personal preference and budget.
Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0
4.5
- Dimensions: 17.5” H x 52” L x 11” W
- Weight capability: 1,000 kilos
- Materials: 11-gauge steel, vinyl cover, rubber feet
- Warranty: Limited lifetime on the frame
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REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Customer Reviews
Currently, REP Fitness has no authorized resellers in america, so you’ll be able to only purchase products from their website. In consequence, the one customer reviews we could find on the AB-5200 2.0 were on their very own website.
There are only 53 reviews right now, and all of them are positive. Forty-nine of the reviews had 5-star rankings, with customers making remarks like, “The bench was exactly what I used to be hoping it might be. I’m a reasonably large guy 6’4″ 290lbs, and the bench doesn’t budge.” One other comfortable customer said “I’ve been using this for a couple of weeks now and it’s a MASSIVE improvement over my previous bench. This thing is a tank. Super solid.”
There have been 4 4-star reviews. One customer said, “Great bench, but doesn’t decline low enough”. One other individual remarked, “I’ve used many benches within the last 14 years, and this one appears to be essentially the most solid! Just don’t order it in red… it’s probably not red.”
Final Verdict: Is the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Value It?
Without delay, the brand new and improved version of the REP AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench is stealing the show. Unlike other benches, this one allows customers to have some creative freedom. They will select colours and even select whether or not the decline option is something they need. Plus, it’s very well-constructed and attractive to the attention, making it stand out in any home or business gym it’s in.
While the worth might cause some people to look elsewhere, this bench packs a ton of value.
Even though it’s missing some versatility since you’ll be able to’t add any attachments, it might still be price it to most people. The knurled handles will come in useful when your palms are sweaty, and the stowability advantages those short on space. Anyone in search of a high-end FID bench built to advertise optimal performance should consider the REP AB-5200 2.0.
FAQs
What’s the difference between the REP AB 5000 and 5200?
The REP AB-5000 is a lighter bench with a zero-gap design, a pop-pin adjustment style, and an optional leg attachment for decline variations. The REP AB-5200 has a small, 1.4-inch gap, ladder style adjustment mechanism, and may be upgraded to offer three decline options. The latter permits vertical storage, while the opposite one is supposed to remain in place.
What’s the difference between the AB 5000 and AB-4100?
The AB-4100 has a closed ladder design, may be stored vertically, and could be very lightweight. Unlike the REP AB-5000, this one has no option to say no and has a 1.57-inch pad gap.
What are the professionals and cons of the AB-5200?
Pros related to the REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0 include vertical storage, six color options, its high-quality construction, and the knurled chrome steel handles.
Depending in your goals and preferences, chances are you’ll see the next as cons. REP Fitness currently doesn’t offer any attachments for this bench, it’s on the pricier side, and the wide pad option doesn’t meet IPF standards.
What are the size of the REP AB-5200?
The REP AB-5200 is 57.6” L x 25.8” W x 17.5” H.
What’s the burden limit for the AB-5200?
The load capability is 1,000 kilos.