[suemazrn]

I'd like to get into weight training again and I wanted to purchase a bench with leg extension/curl attachment that also has a rack for squatting and bench pressing if possible.

Any recs for good brands I should stick to? I appreciate your input.

Thanks in advance!

[Mel]

Originally Posted by suemazrn

I'd like to get into weight training again and I wanted to purchase a bench with leg extension/curl attachment that also has a rack for squatting and bench pressing if possible.

Any recs for good brands I should stick to? I appreciate your input.

Thanks in advance!

I'm generally not a home workout person, tho we do have a lot off free weights, a smith machine, and a bench w/ leg curl. I'd say that what you are describing is at least 3 pieces of equipment. My bench has the rack for doing behnch presses, but it really gets in the way for doing just about anything else on the bench.

My recommendation would be a good adjustable bench that goes from flat to straight seat, with incline and decline settings, and a squat cage with removable stops so that you can use it for squatting or bench pressing. Then get a seperate attachment or piece of equipment for leg curls. It really gets in the way of everything else you do on the bench if it's permanently attached.

As for brands, I'd check out equipment stores specializing in high quality equipment and stay away from the ones sold at Sams Club, Sport Authority, etc.

It really costs as much, if not more to put together a "real" home gym as to join one, IMHO. Of course, if there is no gym nearby or you wouldn't go there even if there was, a home gym is money well spent.

Mel

[suemazrn]

Thanks for your input. I don't have a gym close by plus they are quite expensive. I figure at least with a home gym, I only pay once and I could have it for many years to come. Thanks again!

[geoducky]

Hi suemazrn. The closest gym to me is 85 miles.... so I don't have a gym nearby either. I was wondering if there was anyone else here that worked out at home. I'm no good for equipment recommendations, as I've just cobbled together some things that will work for me.

I have an exercise bike, a nordic track, a rebounder, a slide, a step, (you can see I've been heavy into the cardio end of things) a stability ball, many thicknesses of tubing and bands, several dumb bells and a barbell. I'm adding a lot more weights to my home routine and I'll be shopping tomorrow to add more weights to my equipment (shopping is 85 miles too). I use my step as a bench and it seems to work ok. I can get an incline by removing risers. I also use videos, and that helps me a lot.

[suemazrn]

Hi Geoducky,

I think there are so many ways to get in shape. As long as your consistent and put in the effort, you'll get results. I do cardio too, mainly walking or WATP tapes and I do Pilates too for flexibility and toning. But I miss weight training for the strength and toning effects. I'm going to check out some basic benches with the leg extension/curl attachment (removable) for now. I'll get a barbell and some plates and go from there. You sound like you've got a lot of different equipment to keep from getting bored which is great. Keep it up!

[geoducky]

YAY! I added another 110 pounds of weights to my home collection! Another barbell and dumbbell set of bars too. I worked out today with maybe a wee bit more weight than I could handle and keep form so I better back off the pounds a bit. I'm going get strong and a few muscles if it's the last thing I do

Pam

[suemazrn]

Good for you! I'm still checking out different websites looking for a bench w/weights. I'm right behind ya!

[MrsJim]

Just want to add one thing...you can get a KILLER deal if you look in the local PennySaver or check out your local Craigslist.org for people looking to get rid of weights, etc. for cheap cheap cheap.

I got Jim a curling bar and 100# of plates for only $20 off Craigslist. Also for stuff in general, I like checking the reviews at Eopinions.com.

[RavenToy]

I bought my bench with leg extensions and rack at Play it Again Sports. Paid very little, and it's held up very well. Used equipment can be an awesome deal.