Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

This is a surprisingly sturdy, lightweight bench to use for dumbbell exercises. Not only is it affordable, but it is easier to put together than the average treadmill. The manual's instructions for putting the bench together are clear and easy to follow, and it offers good advice on how to get started coming up with an exercise routine. The bench's backrest is adjustable (a hard-to-find but important feature), so you can do the full range of dumbbell exercises. Customers should know before buying that the bench is designed to support a maximum user weight of 250 lbs with a combined dumbbell weight of 100 lbs. So, although you cannot use this bench for lifting massive weights, it is ideal for people who are just starting out or who are focusing on fitness instead of extreme bodybuilding. (Update: November 28, 2010) Well, it has been a little over a year since I have been using this bench. I started out using 5-pound dumbbells with it at least 5 days a week. Now I am able to use 25-pound dumbbells on the same routine. Not once have I had the slightest bit of trouble with the bench. Durable? I would have to say so. My original 4-star rating still stands. (Update: April 22, 2012) Alright, I decided to do one last update for this review. What's the reason? Honestly, I still feel like you could not find a better bench to start weightlifting with for the price and quality, and I want to give you my take on what negative reviewers are saying. Here are some of the charges against the bench: a weird chemical smell, missing parts, rusted parts, wobbliness. First of all, let me tell you that any product that is shipped from a warehouse is likely to have a different smell. Ever been to the outdoors department at a retailer? Then you know what I'm talking about. The equipment will smell different at first, but that scent will eventually dissipate altogether. So, you don't have to worry that the bench is somehow lethally toxic. But when I received my bench, were there any rusted or missing parts? No. Everything was there as expected. As for wobbliness, I tend to think that this issue really depends on the skill of the person assembling the bench. You do a poor job, you get a poor result. Makes sense, right? C'mon people, let's be rational. I encourage you to read what other positive reviewers are saying about this bench if you still have any doubts.