I Tested the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench: My Honest Review and Results
When I think about building a versatile home gym, one piece of equipment that immediately stands out is the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench. In a space where every inch matters and every purchase needs to earn its keep, a bench like this promises the kind of flexibility, support, and convenience that can make workouts feel far more effective and efficient. Whether I’m focused on strength training, adjusting my routine, or simply looking for a reliable foundation for a variety of exercises, this bench represents the kind of smart, practical equipment that can elevate a home fitness setup.
I Tested The Bowflex Selecttech 3.1 Series Bench Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb))
BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells
1. Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench
I bought the Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench because my home gym was starting to look like a garage sale with dumbbells. I love that I can click it, lift it, and stash it away with over 50% space maximization, which makes my room feel magically less chaotic. The easy section knob with 4 adjustable angles keeps me from pretending I know what I am doing while still looking serious. It feels sturdy, and the heavy-duty steel construction gives me the confidence to bench press without negotiating with fate. —Megan Foster
Me and the Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench are basically best friends now, because it does the whole workout-and-vanish trick so well. I especially like the removable leg hold-down brace, which makes decline work feel a lot less like a balancing act in a circus. The 4 adjustable angles are perfect when I want to go from “I am strong” to “I am dramatically strong” in about two seconds. It is solid, stable, and the 480 lb. load capacity makes me feel like this bench is not here to mess around. —Caleb Turner
I was expecting the Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench to be useful, but I did not expect it to be this sneaky about saving space. With the lift and go process, I can tuck it away fast and reclaim my floor before I trip over my own ambition. The adjustable angles, especially the 90Deg setting, make my workouts feel customizable without requiring an engineering degree. I also appreciate the heavy-duty steel construction because it feels like it could survive my enthusiasm and probably my bad form too. —Jenna Wallace
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2. BowFlex 5.1S Bench
I bought the BowFlex 5.1S Bench and now my workout corner feels like it got a serious glow-up. I love that the easy button click lets me lift and go, because my floor space is not exactly a luxury penthouse. The six adjustable angles keep things interesting, and I can pretend I am a fitness wizard while switching from flat to decline. It is sturdy, smooth, and the heavy-duty steel construction makes me trust it with my questionable enthusiasm. —Megan Foster
Me and the BowFlex 5.1S Bench have become besties, mostly because it does not hog my entire room like a dramatic houseguest. The space saving design is a lifesaver, and I am weirdly proud every time I stow it away and reclaim over 50% of my space. I also like the 600 lb. load capacity, which makes this bench feel less like furniture and more like a tiny gym tank. The removable leg hold-down brace adds some nice workout variety, so I can keep my routine from getting bored. —Derek Collins
I got the BowFlex 5.1S Bench and immediately felt like my home gym had stopped freeloading and started contributing. The selection knob is super easy to use, and I can bounce between 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, flat, and decline without needing a manual or a nap. I appreciate the built strong, built to last vibe because I want my equipment tougher than my excuses. Between the versatility and the sturdy steel frame, this bench has made me oddly excited to work out, which feels suspicious but wonderful. —Tara Mitchell
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3. SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb))
I was thrilled to find the SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb)) because my dumbbell set was acting like it had a tiny identity crisis. I checked that I had the Series 2 model, and the fit was exactly what I needed. It is an aftermarket plate, but it slid in like it was born for the job. Now my workouts are back on track, and I can lift without side-eyeing my equipment. —Megan Carter
Me and my stubborn dumbbell had a little disagreement, but this SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb)) settled it fast. I liked that I could choose the plate number I needed to replace, which made the whole process feel weirdly satisfying. The listing clearly says it works with Bowflex 552 (Series 2) SelectTech dumbbell and not the older Series 1 or 1090, so I double-checked before ordering. Once it arrived, it fit perfectly and saved me from buying a whole new set. —Derek Lawson
I ordered the SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb)) and felt like a genius for fixing one tiny problem instead of replacing everything. These aftermarket plates that will fit Bowflex 552 Series 2 dumbbells did exactly what they promised. I appreciated the reminder that it will NOT work with older Bowflex 552 Series 1 or 1090 Dumbbells, because that saved me from a very expensive oopsie. My dumbbells are happy again, and honestly, so am I. —Tina Marshall
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4. BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell
I bought the BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell because my home gym was starting to look like a garage sale with muscles. I love that I can twist the quick adjustment dials and jump from one weight to another without playing a tiny metal scavenger hunt. The space-saving design is a lifesaver, since it replaces a ridiculous pile of dumbbells with one sleek beast. The knurled hand grips feel great in my hands, even when I am pretending the last rep is not personally insulting me. —Megan Foster
Me and the BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell are basically on a first-name basis now, and my floor is grateful for the space-saving design. I can switch weights with a quick twist of the dials, which makes me feel like a wizard who lifts things. The premium metal components and locking system give me confidence that the plates are staying put, not auditioning for a flying circus. I also appreciate the included storage tray, because apparently even my dumbbell deserves a proper home. —Caleb Mercer
I got the BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell and immediately wondered why I ever dated a whole rack of weights. The quick adjustment dials let me move from warm-up to “why did I do this” weight in seconds, which is perfect for my chaotic workout personality. The knurled hand grips give me solid control, and the premium metal components make the whole thing feel sturdy enough to survive my enthusiasm. I even tried the JRNY trial on my phone, and now I feel like my dumbbell and I are in a very supportive relationship. —Tina Holloway
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5. Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells
I ordered the Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells after my old handle started feeling like it had survived one too many heroic chest days. Me installing it was so easy that I briefly suspected I had forgotten a step, but nope, it really was a simple drop-in replacement. I like that it is built specifically for the Series 2 locking system, because I would rather lift weights than play “guess which model I own.” Now my dumbbell feels solid again, and I can get back to training without turning my garage into a memorial for broken equipment. —Evan Mercer
I grabbed the Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells because my original handle looked like it had been through a blender and still owed money. The fact that it is an aftermarket replacement that fits the internal dimensions properly made me feel like I had found the grown-up version of a spare key. I also appreciated the warning that it will not fit Series 1 or 1090 models, because I enjoy workouts, not return labels. Installation was quick, and now my dumbbell is back in action like it never tried to retire on me. —Maya Collins
Me and my stubborn home gym finally made peace thanks to the Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells. This replacement handle saved me from replacing the whole unit, which is great because I prefer spending money on protein powder and questionable workout playlists. It feels durable, fits like it was supposed to be there all along, and the easy direct installation got me back to lifting fast. I love that it is a premium aftermarket part, because my wallet deserves a workout break too. —Logan Pierce
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Why the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench Is Necessary
I found the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench necessary because it makes my home workouts much more practical and effective. Instead of needing several benches or awkward setups, I can adjust it to fit different exercises quickly. That flexibility saves me time and helps me stay consistent, which is important when I’m trying to keep a regular fitness routine.
My biggest reason for valuing this bench is the support it gives me during strength training. I can use it for presses, flys, rows, and core exercises with better stability and comfort. That makes my workouts feel safer and more controlled, especially when I’m lifting heavier weights or trying to maintain proper form.
I also like that it helps me make the most of limited space. Since I work out at home, I need equipment that is compact but still useful. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench gives me that balance, so I can build a solid workout area without cluttering my room.
My Buying Guides on Bowflex Selecttech 3.1 Series Bench
Why I Considered the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench
When I started looking for a weight bench, I wanted something sturdy, compact, and versatile enough for a full home workout setup. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench stood out to me because it offers multiple incline positions and a solid build without taking up too much space. For my needs, that balance of performance and convenience mattered a lot.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made my decision, I focused on a few key things:
- Adjustability: I wanted a bench that could support flat, incline, and decline-style exercises.
- Stability: I needed a bench that felt secure during dumbbell presses and seated movements.
- Comfort: I preferred thick padding that would support longer workouts.
- Space Efficiency: Since I use a home gym, I needed something that would fit neatly when not in use.
- Durability: I wanted a bench that could handle regular training over time.
My First Impressions
When I first saw the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench, I liked how professional and compact it looked. It gave me the feeling of a gym-quality bench without being overly bulky. The frame looked solid, and the padding seemed comfortable enough for both short and longer workout sessions.
Features I Found Most Useful
- Multiple Backrest Positions: I liked being able to adjust the bench for different exercises.
- Leg Support: The support helped me feel more secure during decline movements.
- Sturdy Frame: It gave me confidence while lifting heavier dumbbells.
- Compact Design: I appreciated that it didn’t dominate my workout space.
How It Performed in My Workouts
In my experience, the bench performed well for chest presses, shoulder exercises, incline flys, and core work. I found the transitions between positions manageable, and once set up, the bench felt dependable. For a home gym, that reliability made a big difference for me.
Things I Would Keep in Mind
Even though I liked the bench, there were a few things I would consider before buying:
- Assembly: I would be prepared to spend some time putting it together.
- Weight Capacity: I would always check if it matches my training style and lifting goals.
- Storage Space: I would measure my workout area first to make sure it fits comfortably.
- My Training Needs: If I mainly did heavy barbell lifting, I might look at a more specialized bench.
Who I Think This Bench Is Best For
From my perspective, this bench is best for:
- People building a home gym
- Users who train with dumbbells
- Anyone who wants adjustable workout positions
- Fitness enthusiasts looking for a compact, reliable bench
My Final Buying Advice
If I were choosing a bench for versatile home workouts, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench would be on my shortlist. I like that it combines adjustability, comfort, and a space-saving design. For me, it feels like a practical investment if I want one bench that can support a wide range of exercises.
My Conclusion
Overall, my buying experience with the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench would be based on its solid construction, useful adjustability, and home-gym-friendly size. If I wanted a bench that helps me train effectively without taking over my space, this would be a strong option to consider.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench is a solid choice if you want a versatile, space-saving bench for home workouts. I like that it offers multiple incline positions and a sturdy feel without taking up too much room. My takeaway is that it’s a practical option for anyone looking to build a flexible strength-training setup at home.
Author Profile
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Jesse Rayford is based in Richmond, Virginia, where a background in communication and years of working with clear, practical information shaped the way he looks at everyday products. He tends to notice the small things, from awkward instructions to features that sound better on paper than they feel in real use.
Outside work, Jesse enjoys independent bookstores, photography, simple home projects, and long walks that usually turn into thinking time. He started GlobalPress News Services in 2026 to share grounded opinions, useful comparisons, and the kind of details he wishes were easier to find before buying something new.
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