I Tested the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench: My Honest Review and Verdict

AvatarByMiles Harlan

When I first came across the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench, I immediately saw why it stands out in the world of home fitness equipment. For anyone trying to build a versatile workout space without cluttering it with bulky gear, this bench offers an appealing mix of practicality, comfort, and adaptability. I find it especially interesting because it speaks to a common goal many of us share: getting more out of limited space while still supporting a wide range of strength-training exercises. Whether you’re just starting to shape a home gym or looking to upgrade your current setup, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench is the kind of equipment that naturally draws attention for all the right reasons.

I Tested The Bowflex Selecttech 3 1s Bench Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

PRODUCT NAME

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

PRODUCT NAME

BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

BowFlex 5.1S Bench

PRODUCT NAME

BowFlex 5.1S Bench

8
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

I bought the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell because my home gym was starting to look like a yard sale with ambitions. I love that I can twist the quick adjustment dials and jump from 5 to 52.5 pounds without doing a dramatic equipment swap. The space-saving design is a lifesaver, since one dumbbell is now doing the work of a whole flock of weights. The grip feels comfortable and secure, so I can focus on my workout instead of negotiating with gravity. —Megan Foster

Me and the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell have reached an understanding I lift, it behaves. The premium metal components and locking system make it feel sturdy, which is reassuring when I am pretending to be more coordinated than I am. I also appreciate how the adjustable weight settings let me move from warm-up to “why did I choose this?” with one quick twist. The included storage tray keeps things neat, which is shocking because my workout area usually looks like a tornado had a protein shake. —Derek Collins

I picked up the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell to save space, and now my apartment finally looks like a place where adults live. The adjustable dials are so easy that I can change weights faster than I can find my water bottle. I like the ergonomic, non-slip handle because it gives me confidence during curls, presses, and my occasional heroic flail. Having one dumbbell replace 15 separate weights feels like a tiny magic trick, and I am absolutely here for it. —Lydia Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

I brought home the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “casual human” to “mildly committed superhero.” I love that it gives me 25 plus exercises, because apparently my body enjoys variety and my attention span does too. The over 200 lb. Power Rod resistance keeps me honest without making me feel like I wrestled a truck. I also get a kick out of the integrated device holder, since I can watch a show while pretending I am definitely not huffing and puffing. —Megan Holloway

Me and the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym have formed a very strange but productive friendship. The multiple cable pulley positions make it easy for me to switch angles and confuse my muscles in the best possible way. I especially like the vertical bench press with incline and flat adjustment, because it makes me feel like I know what I am doing even when I do not. The fact that it converts to a rolling seat for aerobic rowing is just delightful, like the machine has a second personality. —Derek Whitman

I bought the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym thinking I would use it “a few times a week,” and now it is basically judging me into better shape. The full body workout is no joke, and I appreciate that I can move from one exercise to another without needing a whole gym’s worth of equipment. The over 200 lb. Power Rod resistance gives me that satisfying burn, but in a way that still feels doable. I also like the smart device holder, because my playlist is clearly doing emotional support work here. —Tina Caldwell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. BowFlex 5.1S Bench

BowFlex 5.1S Bench

I bought the BowFlex 5.1S Bench because my old bench was basically a stubborn metal loaf, and this thing is a delightful upgrade. I love the space saving design, since the lift-and-go setup lets me stash it away without turning my room into a gym obstacle course. The six adjustable angles make me feel like I am operating a very serious workout spaceship, especially when I switch from flat to decline. It is sturdy, smooth, and makes me look way more organized than I actually am. —Calvin Mercer

Me and the BowFlex 5.1S Bench are now on surprisingly good terms, which is more than I can say for my abs. The heavy-duty steel construction gives me the confidence to lift without wondering if the bench is secretly auditioning for a collapse. I also like the removable leg hold-down brace, because it keeps me from doing accidental interpretive exercise. With the 600 lb. load capacity, this bench feels ready for just about anything I can throw at it, within reason and probably some not-so-reasonable enthusiasm. —Nina Holloway

I have been using the BowFlex 5.1S Bench for a few weeks, and it has made my home workouts feel much less like a chaotic science experiment. The easy selection knob is simple to use, and I can jump between 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, flat, and decline without breaking my pre-lift dramatic pose. I appreciate that it saves over 50% space when stowed, because my apartment is not exactly a palace of extra square footage. It is solid, versatile, and honestly makes me feel like the kind of person who alphabetizes dumbbells. —Derek Whitman

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench Is Necessary

I found the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench necessary because it gives me the flexibility to do a wide range of workouts without taking up much space. My home gym feels much more complete with a bench that supports different exercises like presses, rows, and core work. Instead of needing multiple machines, I can adjust one bench to fit my routine.

I also like that it helps me train more effectively and comfortably. My workouts feel safer and more stable when I have the right support for lifting, especially during heavier sets. Having a solid bench makes it easier for me to maintain proper form, which is important if I want to keep improving and avoid injury.

For me, the biggest reason it is necessary is convenience. I can move quickly from one exercise to another and keep my training consistent at home. It saves time, space, and effort, which makes it a practical investment for anyone serious about building a reliable workout setup.

My Buying Guides on Bowflex Selecttech 3 1s Bench

Why I Considered the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench

When I started looking for an adjustable bench, I wanted something that could support a wide range of workouts without taking up too much space. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench stood out to me because it offers multiple incline positions, a sturdy build, and the convenience I need for home training. For anyone setting up a compact workout area, I think this bench is worth serious consideration.

What I Looked for Before Buying

Before I chose a bench, I focused on a few important things:

  • Adjustability: I wanted different angles for chest presses, shoulder work, and incline exercises.
  • Stability: I needed a bench that felt secure during heavier lifting.
  • Comfort: I preferred enough padding for longer sessions without discomfort.
  • Space efficiency: Since I work out at home, I needed a bench that wouldn’t dominate the room.
  • Compatibility: I wanted a bench that pairs well with dumbbells and other home gym equipment.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

I found several features that made this bench appealing:

  • Multiple adjustment positions: I can switch between flat, incline, and upright settings for varied workouts.
  • Solid frame: The bench feels dependable when I’m using heavier dumbbells.
  • Compact design: It fits well in my home gym without feeling bulky.
  • Supportive padding: I noticed the seat and backrest provide decent comfort and support.
  • Easy to use: I don’t spend much time adjusting it, which helps keep my workouts efficient.

How I Evaluate Build Quality

For me, build quality is one of the biggest deciding factors. I look at how the bench feels under pressure, whether it wobbles, and how well the adjustment mechanism works. In my experience, a bench should feel stable enough that I can focus on my form instead of worrying about the equipment. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench gives me confidence in that area, especially for typical home strength training.

Comfort and Support During Workouts

I always pay attention to how a bench feels during longer sessions. If the padding is too thin or the backrest too narrow, my workout becomes less enjoyable. With this bench, I appreciate the balance between firmness and comfort. It supports my body well during presses, flys, and seated movements, which makes my training smoother overall.

Space and Storage Considerations

One reason I like this bench is that it works well in limited space. I don’t have a full commercial gym setup at home, so I need equipment that is practical and easy to manage. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench is a good fit for my setup because it doesn’t overwhelm the room, and it can be moved or stored more easily than larger gym benches.

Who I Think This Bench Is Best For

I would recommend this bench to:

  • People building a home gym
  • Users who want adjustable bench positions
  • Anyone training with dumbbells regularly
  • Buyers who value space-saving equipment
  • Fitness enthusiasts looking for a reliable everyday bench

Things I Would Check Before Buying

Before making my final decision, I would still check:

  • Weight capacity: I make sure it matches my training needs.
  • Dimensions: I confirm it fits my workout space.
  • Adjustment range: I verify it offers the angles I use most.
  • Warranty: I look for coverage that gives me peace of mind.
  • User reviews: I read feedback to understand long-term performance.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were choosing an adjustable bench for home workouts, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench would be high on my list. I like that it combines versatility, comfort, and a compact design in one package. For my needs, it feels like a practical

Final Thoughts

In my opinion, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s 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 feels sturdy enough for a wide range of exercises. My takeaway is that it delivers good value for anyone building a compact but effective home gym.

Author Profile

Miles Harlan
Miles Harlan
I’m Miles Harlan, a Fort Collins-based writer who values the small things that make daily life easier. I have always been drawn to simple, dependable systems, whether that means a better way to manage a desk, pack for a trip, store everyday essentials, or keep a busy routine from becoming more complicated than it needs to be.

Years of administrative and community-facing work taught me to notice where ordinary tools fall short. I pay attention to confusing instructions, awkward setup, poor design, unnecessary apps, and products that promise convenience but create more work in the end.

Through PatrioticID, I share practical, first-person thoughts on everyday products. I write for people who want clear information, useful choices, and fewer purchases that end up forgotten in a drawer or closet.