Bowflex Adjustable Bench Review: 3.1s vs. 5.1s

Editor’s note: this review originally covered the Bowflex 3.1 and 5.1 as two separate benches. Bowflex has since consolidated its adjustable bench line — both are now sold as style variants on the same Amazon listing (alongside a 4.1), so this page covers all three together instead of as separate pages.

Bowflex is a long-trusted brand with a variety of equipment that always rates highly among customers. In its adjustable bench line, you’ll find a versatile bench with plenty of workout options, made out of commercial-quality steel for confidence in your safety and support.

Bench Angles: 3.1s vs. 5.1s

The 3.1s has four different positions to choose from: a decline of -10°, flat, 45°, and 90°, which according to Bowflex allows you to work through more than 30 different exercises. The 5.1s adds two more positions on top of that — six in total, starting at a steeper -17° decline, then flat, 30°, 45°, 60°, and the full 90°. Having six positions allows for dozens of different exercises and more workout versatility than the 3.1s offers.

The great thing about the 5.1s is that the seat can also adjust to two different positions when working the incline — something the 3.1s doesn’t have, which frustrated a number of users because they’d slip down the seat when doing incline work. Being able to adjust the seat lets you get into the best possible position at all times, with a stable base for dumbbell presses instead of worrying about losing your grip on the seat.

Dimensions

Both variants measure 56″ x 26″ x 20″, so they take up a bit of room — best for a space where you have some to spare. If you’re over six feet tall, you might not be able to rest your head on it fully when lying down. The 3.1s weighs 55 lb; the 5.1s is heavier at 66 lb. Both have built-in wheels, though without them the 5.1s in particular would be a struggle to move around given the extra weight.

Build Quality

This bench frame is made to last, constructed out of commercial-quality steel, so you know it’s a heavy-duty bench. Bowflex is known for making top-notch home gym machines, so it’s to their benefit to keep producing quality benches to protect that reputation. The upholstery is durable and easy to wipe down after each use — it shouldn’t rip or tear easily, though the padding can wrinkle after a few uses, which can make the bench look older than it really is.

Both variants have a removable leg brace for extra support in the decline position. Some users don’t like using it or find it uncomfortable, so you have the choice of attaching it or not — it pops out with a pin in seconds, no hassle either way.

Warranty and Assembly

The 3.1s comes with a 15-year warranty on the frame and a one-year warranty on the upholstery. The 5.1s steps that up to a 30-year frame warranty, with the same one-year upholstery coverage. Both need self-assembly, but come with clear illustrations and all the nuts and bolts you need — plan on 30 to 45 minutes to put either one together.

The 5.1 comes in the traditional red and black Bowflex colors. The feet are a little different, where you can actually adjust their height. It does have wheels and is foldable, but what it’s lacking is a handle to move it around.

Real Concerns Worth Knowing

There’s an annoying gap between the seat and backrest in the flat position that’s larger than most people would like. The seat itself is quite long, possibly too long for some people — some owners end up rolling up a towel to fill the gap when the bench is flat. On the 3.1s specifically, the bottom seat doesn’t adjust at all, so you can feel yourself slipping down the seat when working with the incline and a flat seat. This is a very sturdy bench that doesn’t wobble, but it’s long, so shorter people may have a problem with it.

Alternatively, I wrote a complete guide on the best Adjustable Weight Bench you can purchase for your home gym that compares various models. Lastly, if you are a serious athlete or simply want the best money can buy then don’t waste time and look at the Rogue Adjustable Bench.

Bottom line: despite a few minor design issues, the Bowflex adjustable bench line is sturdy and reliable. It’s built to last, has plenty of workout options, and is a good fit if you do decline work and lots of incline presses.