An adjustable weight bench is an essential piece of the home gym puzzle.
The Rep Fitness AB-5200 Bench is the main one I’ve been using in my own training and for the price, I absolutely think it’s one of the best benches on the market.
After using this 4-5 days per week for the last couple of years, I know everything about it and highly recommend it to all.
If you compare it to a crappy bench on Amazon, it looks and performs better than you could imagine.
So let’s go over all of the awesome features this bench has and why I recommend it so much!
Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|
| Overall Build Quality | Robust, stable, and easy to assemble. Heavy-duty with a weight of 125 lbs. |
| Ladder & Cages | Ladder-style adjustment for quick, secure changes. More stable and faster than typical pop-pin benches. |
| Frame | 11 and 7 gauge steel frame, supports up to 1,000 lbs. Ideal for taller lifters. |
| Padding & Gap | 2.5″ ultra-dense foam pads with grippy vinyl cover. Minimal gap between pads. |
| Footprint & Portability | Space-efficient with vertical storage. Easy to maneuver with a handle and wheels. |
| Available Attachments | Options for a spotter platform and wide pad, enhancing functionality. |
| Aesthetics | Sleek design with multiple color options and premium finishes. |
| Price and Value | Priced under $500, offering great value for its features and build quality. |
| Warranty | Solid warranty coverage, especially on the frame. Check with REP Fitness for details. |
The REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench is perfect for your home gym. With a rugged construction and multiple adjustment options, this bench can be tailored to fit anyone's needs. You can quickly adjust the bench to seven different positions for the back pad and three positions for the seat. The closed ladder system and oversized stainless steel handle make it easy to transport and store, while the two wheels ensure that it can go wherever you need it. The extra-grippy pad on the base ensures sure that you stay in place while working out.
REP Fitness AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review
In this review, we’re going to dissect every nook and cranny of this bench to see if it lives up to the hype.
From its tank-like build to its nifty ladder adjustments, we’ll cover what sets it apart and where it might fall short.
Whether you’re a long-time lifter or just setting up your home gym, this review is going to give you the lowdown on whether the AB-5200 is the missing piece in your training.
So, buckle up, and let’s see what this bench has to offer!
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Specs
Pros and Cons
Overall Build Quality
The REP Fitness AB-5200 Bench is constructed of 11 and 7-gauge 2×3″ steel which boasts an incredible 1,000 lb weight capacity.
For an Adjustable Incline Bench, this is pretty darn solid. As soon as I opened the box, I understood why. This bench is HEAVY.
It’s going to require two people or at least an appliance dolly to move it where you want for unboxing for most people.
Luckily for me, my wingspan was just long enough to bear hug and bring it inside, making it a little easier.
But still, this bench is 125 lbs which definitely defines this bench as a tank.
You can tell before even opening it up just how solid the REP Fitness AB-5200 actually is.
The other great thing is that the majority of the bench is already put together for you. So assembly is quick and easy within 10-20 minutes.
If you’re worried about REP’s build quality when it comes to their benches, don’t.
They’re incredibly stable, and for an Adjustable Incline Bench, this is about as good as it gets.
The Ladder & Cages
Like many of you, I’ve been using an Adjustable Incline Bench with a standard pop-pin and spine.
The bench I’ve been using is the 1st version of Titans Adjustable Bench (horrible, I know. I regretted using it every time.)
The AB-5200’s ladder-style adjustment is its standout feature, outshining other models like the AB-5000 Zero Gap and
It’s not just faster but also more stable, especially with the back and seat pad adjustments.
Unlike the typical pop-pin benches, the AB-5200’s ladder system is a breeze to adjust and feels more secure.
I also find that it’s a lot more stable, and the back and seat pad adjustments are just so much faster it’s insane.
With a typical Adjustable Incline Bench, you have to use two hands to hold the bench while loosening, adjusting to your desired seat position, and tightening the pin.
This takes time and isn’t very secure in my eyes. I have been using Titans Incline bench for so long, though, so I’m probably biased.
However, the ladder on the REP Fitness AB-5200 is super quick to change, and because of how it’s constructed, it’s a lot more secure as well.
Even in the incline position, where some benches wobble, the AB-5200 stays stable.
It might sway slightly when empty, but once you’re on it, it’s rock solid, crucial for effective strength training.
With 7 back pad adjustments up to 85 degrees and three seat settings, plus the ladder caged for guidance, it’s a top pick for me.
All in all, the ladder on the REP Fitness AB-5200 is one of the main reasons I absolutely recommend this bench.
The Frame
The AB-5200’s robust build, with 2×3″ 11 and 7 gauge steel and a 1,000 lb capacity, is impressive for an adjustable bench.
Its heavy-duty frame ensures stability for any weight, a big win over less supportive benches.
Many other benches I’ve used are a little too tall, making it much harder for shorter lifters to generate leg drive while benching.
It’s no big deal for taller lifters like myself, but for those with shorter legs, it’s a pain.
The final point I want to make about the frame is the post located at the bench’s back.
This helps support the bench for the flat bench, which is pretty common for adjustable benches.
The standout is its vertical storage capability, essential for garage gyms.
With wheels and a horizontal stainless steel handle, moving this heavy bench around tight spaces is surprisingly easy.
Padding & The Gap
The AB-5200’s pads are made of 2.5″ ultra-dense foam, firm yet comfortable, perfect for stability during lifts.
The grippy vinyl cover prevents sliding, a common issue with lesser benches. This stability is crucial for maximizing force and muscle gains.
The pad’s length, at 42 inches, is a game-changer for taller lifters, avoiding the discomfort of your head hanging off.
It’s significantly longer than Titan’s Adjustable Bench I’ve been using.
Plus, at 12 inches wide, it hits a sweet spot between too narrow and too wide, accommodating all lifters comfortably.
If you got any bench with this type of pad, it will perform and feel better than most benches on the market.
Premium is an understatement.
Footprint and Portability
The REP Fitness AB-5200 Adjustable Bench is a solid choice for home gyms, blending heavy-duty construction with space-saving design.
Its vertical storage capability, enabled by a flat bar on the back post, is a real space saver.
Despite its hefty 125 lbs weight, the bench is surprisingly easy to maneuver and store, thanks to its well-balanced structure.
The bench’s unique cage around the ladder adjustments not only simplifies changing positions but also ensures safety during vertical storage.
The tripod design, with two legs at the back and one in the front, offers ample room for proper foot placement, enhancing leg drive during workouts.
Additionally, the bench features a horizontal, stainless steel handle at the front, making it easy to move around.
The wheels at the back and grippy rubber on each post add to its mobility and stability. This bench, being a real tank, stays firmly in place during use.
Available Attachments
This bench also offers a couple of optional add-ons that are definitely a nice addition if you need them. I don’t personally have either of these, but I know how they work, considering how great the base bench is.
The AB-5200 includes a removable spotter platform with a diamond-tread for secure footing, ideal for heavy lifts with a spotter.
This wider pad is available as just a back pad or in a bundle with a wider seat pad, an affordable upgrade for added stability.
Aesthetics
The REP Fitness AB-5200 has a few different color options; blue, black, and red. As you can see from the images, I have the red color option, and it looks slick!
Most home gym equipment comes in these color variations, so if you have a color-coordinated garage gym, you can buy it accordingly.
The overall aesthetic of this bench is fantastic as well.
It looks sleek, everything on it has a purpose, and the extra design choices make it look much more premium than run-of-the-mill benches.
This bench looks amazing between the laser-cut logo on the front, the stainless steel logo plate, and the handle.
So if you want a bench that kicks ass but actually looks awesome as well, I highly recommend the AB-5200. It’s just that good!
Price and Value
The REP Fitness AB-5200 Adjustable Bench is a steal for under $500.
With its tough 11 and 7-gauge steel build and a whopping 1,000 lb weight capacity, this bench is a no-brainer for both my home gym and for any serious lifters out there.
And the best part? Those extra features like the spotter platform and the wide pad – they’re super affordable.
They really beef up the bench’s functionality without making your wallet cry. In the world of top-notch adjustable benches, the AB-5200 is a standout.
It packs in all those premium features but at a price that doesn’t hit you hard.
For anyone looking for a mix of durability and versatility without splurging too much, this bench is the way to go.
Warranty
So, about the warranty for the REP Fitness AB-5200 – it’s pretty solid. REP typically offers a decent warranty, especially on the frame, which is great for peace of mind.
I always suggest checking directly with them for the most current warranty details, just to be sure.
Having this warranty definitely adds a bit more value to the bench, knowing you’re covered in case anything goes wrong.
REP AB-5200 vs The Competition
In this section, we’re going to compare it with some of the other big players in the game.
From Rogue’s heavy hitters to REP’s own lineup, we’ll see how the AB-5200 holds its ground.
Whether it’s build quality, price, or versatility, we’re putting the AB-5200 under the microscope to see if it truly stands out from the crowd.
REP AB-5200 vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0
Version 3.0 of the Rogue Adjustable Bench features an upgraded 3x3” 11-gauge steel frame, an expanded range of incline and seat positions, and an efficient bolt-together design.
When it comes to the REP AB-5200 and the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0, both have their strong points.
The REP AB-5200, with its robust 11 and 7-gauge steel frame, can handle up to 1,000 lbs. It’s a solid, durable choice.
The ladder-style adjustment, a feature it shares with the Rogue 3.0, makes changing positions a breeze.
The Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 stands out with its own strengths. Built with a 3×3” 11-gauge steel frame, it’s just as sturdy.
Rogue’s known for quality, and this bench doesn’t disappoint. It’s a bit pricier, but you get what you pay for – top-notch construction and durability.
The bench also includes a built-in upright storage stand and a premium textured foam pad, adding to its appeal.
Both benches offer great stability and durability with their ladder-style adjustments.
Choosing between the two really comes down to personal preference and budget.
The REP AB-5200 is more budget-friendly, while the Rogue 3.0 might appeal to those looking for specific brand quality and additional features.
REP AB-5200 vs GET RX’d FIDAB-2
Made with 7-gauge and 11-gauge steel for maximum stability, the FIDAB-2 Adjustable Bench is the latest in the evolution of Get RX’d weight benches. It’s packed with more features than previous versions of adjustable benches.
The REP AB-5200 is a powerhouse with its 11 and 7-gauge steel frame and a 1,000 lb capacity.
It’s known for its ladder-style adjustment and vertical storage, making it a space-efficient choice for home gyms.
The FIDAB-2 is an FID bench just like the AB-5000 Zero Gap bench, offering more versatility with its decline option and a minimal gap between the seat and back pad.
It’s built with 7-gauge and 11-gauge steel, similar to the AB-5200, and also supports over 1,000 lbs.
The FIDAB-2 features a unique upright storage capability, a leg roller attachment for decline exercises, and optional dumbbell holders for seal rows.
It’s slightly heavier than the AB-5200, weighing in at 115 lbs, and has a slightly larger footprint.
Price-wise, the FIDAB-2 is in the same ballpark as the AB-5200, but with the added functionality of decline settings and optional attachments, it might offer more versatility for those who need it.
If you’re looking for a solid, reliable adjustable bench and don’t need the decline option, the REP AB-5200 is a great choice.
But if you want the added versatility of decline exercises and don’t mind a slightly larger bench, the Get RX’d FIDAB-2 could be the better option for you.
REP AB-5200 vs. REP AB-4100
If you're looking to maximize your space without compromising your workout, this is the bench. The AB-4100 marries form and function with an expanded range of incline and seat positions, upgraded handle design, and black zinc hardware.
The AB-4100 is a solid choice, especially for those who might find the AB-5200 a bit overkill. Priced at $399.99, it’s a bit more budget-friendly.
It’s lighter at 85 lbs, making it easier to move around, yet still offers a decent 700 lbs weight capacity.
The bench features 7 back positions and 3 seat positions, similar to the AB-5200, but with a slightly shorter back pad length of 36 inches.
The pad gap is a bit larger at 1.57 inches, which might be a consideration for some users.
The AB-4100’s ladder-style adjustment system is quick and easy, much like the AB-5200, and it even has vertical storage as well.
This bench is also available in a variety of colors, including some limited edition options, which is a nice touch.
While the AB-5200 is more robust and versatile, the AB-4100 holds its own as a more affordable, yet still reliable option, especially for those who don’t need the extra weight capacity of the AB-5200.
REP AB-5200 vs. REP AB-5000 Zero Gap
The REP AB-5000 ZERO GAP Adjustable Bench has a patented zero-gap feature that eliminates the gap between the seat and back, allowing for multiple back angles and seat positions. This bench also has seven back angles from flat to 90 degrees and five seat positions from -15 to 45 degrees. While the optional leg roller attachment allows you to convert this bench into a FID bench with a maximum decline up to -75 degrees. The bench is made of 11-gauge steel with a durable paint finish and 1,000 weight capacity.
The AB-5200 is a solid, no-nonsense bench. It’s got a hefty 1,000 lb capacity with its 11 and 7-gauge steel frame.
The ladder-style adjustment and vertical storage are big pluses, especially in a home gym setting.
Now, the AB-5000 Zero Gap is a different beast. It’s an FID (Flat, Incline, Decline) Bench, offering more versatility with its decline option.
The ZeroGap™ feature is a standout, eliminating the gap between the seat and back pads, which is great for flat bench exercises.
It’s a bit slower to adjust due to its telescoping spine, but it’s super stable. The AB-5000 is longer and wider, making it a better fit for taller lifters.
However, it’s more expensive, especially if you add the decline leg attachment.
If you’re after a bench with more versatility and the zero-gap feature, and don’t mind spending extra, the AB-5000 Zero Gap is your go-to.
But if you want a robust, straightforward adjustable bench at a better price, the AB-5200 is a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
Bottom line: if you want one of the best adjustable benches on the market at an incredible price, the REP Fitness AB-5200 Adjustable Bench from REP Fitness is absolutely recommended!
All of the color choices, optional add-ons, ladder style adjustments, horizontal handles, and more are worth it without a doubt.
I know this bench is going to last me forever and I hope it lasts you as well!
Until next time,
-Dante