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There are times when we test a product and think, “This thing costs that much?” And there are other times we test a product and think, “This thing only costs that much?” We’re happy to report that the REP Fitness FB-3000 is one of the latter.
Our REP Fitness FB-3000 review takes an in-depth look at how REP was able to pack in so much bang for just a few bucks (relatively speaking). At $149, with free shipping, this is one of the best-value benches we’ve ever reviewed. In other words, it’s not the best weight bench out there, but we’ve paid a lot more for worse benches.
The Benchmark for Home Gym Equipment Reviews
It’s not an exaggeration to say that our weight bench reviews have changed the home gym equipment industry. Manufacturers have actually changed products based on our thoughts, which leads to a better experience for home gym owners everywhere.
The reason why companies respect our opinions is because we’re people who actually know what we’re talking about. We’re fitness experts, certified personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, and competitive weightlifters who use weight benches, adjustable dumbbells, barbells, and other home gym equipment for work and just for fun.
An Incredible Value
REP FB-3000 Flat Bench
Product Highlights
Pros & Cons
Bottom Line
A Quick Look at the REP Fitness FB-3000
The REP Fitness FB-3000 is your basic flat weight bench that’s perfect for bench pressing, step-ups, and other movements. Although we recommend adjustable weight benches for most home gym owners (they allow you to hit more muscle groups at different angles), a flat weight bench is still a great choice for beginners or those on a budget.
Made with 11-gauge steel and utilizing a four-post design, this bench is incredibly stable, and while the 700-pound weight is probably good for most home gym trainees, it can probably withstand a few more pounds.
The grippy pad width is just shy of 12 inches, which was done to meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards for weight benches, but it might be a bit too narrow for bigger lifters.
It also comes in four different color options, and while it can’t be folded, it can be mounted on the wall if needed.
Our Tips
- If you’re tight on space, this bench is compatible with REP’s wall-mounted bench hanger.
- We recommend using your hand to take the tape off the bench pad box to avoid accidentally cutting into the pad.
Pros:
- Affordable at $149
- Comes in four color options
- Meets IPF standards for weight benches
Cons:
- Not the firmest padding
- Pad width might be too narrow for some lifters
- Four-post design may get in the way of some lifters’ feet
Is the REP Fitness FB-3000 Worth It?
In a word: Yes. The REP Fitness FB-3000 is a great weight bench that will get the job done for most weightlifters. There’s a few things we don’t like about it, but most of them are nitpicky and are also to be expected for a bench at this price point. But we’ve also seen other weight benches cost more than this and be of lesser quality, so if you’re looking for value, you’ve found it here.
Here’s who we think will enjoy this flat weight bench, and who might want to look elsewhere.
Great for:
- Those on a budget
- Home gym owners just looking for a basic weight bench
- People looking for an IPF-approved weight bench
Not recommended for:
- Anyone who needs an adjustable bench
- Those with larger backs who need a wider pad
- Lifters who need or prefer a firm pad
REP Fitness FB-3000 Specs
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W |
Weight | 40 lbs |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs |
Material | 11-gauge steel |
Color options | Metallic black, red, blue, matte black |
Benching With the REP Fitness FB-3000
When it comes to flat weight benches, what you see is pretty much what you get. The REP Fitness FB-3000 falls into that category, but it does simple well. The vinyl is grippy, so you won’t be sliding around much during your pressing workouts, and the padding is good for the price point.
Generally speaking, REP’s padding isn’t the firmest and not what the best-of-the-best bench pressers would use (Rogue Fitness’ is much better), but the home gym owners who aren’t pressing two times their bodyweight will have no problem with this bench.
If you’re someone who’s preparing for a powerlifting meet, this bench is perfect because it meets all the specifications for IPF-approved weight benches. The height is at the higher end of those standards, at 18 inches, and the width is just short of 12 inches.
We’ve seen some reviews stating the pad is a little too narrow for bigger lifters, and for those people we’d recommend checking out the REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench, which comes with a wide pad option that clocks in at 13.75 inches.
One other note for aspiring powerlifters is that this bench uses a four-post design, which refers to how the feet are laid out. If you look at the REP FB-5000, it uses a tripod design that has a single leg in the front and a double post in the back. The single post in front of the bench allows the lifter to place their feet directly under the bench, which allows for greater foot drive and thus a stronger bench.
The four-post design used in the FB-3000 prevents this from happening, causing the user to have to change their footing while pressing. This might not be a problem for everyone, but if you’re used to lifting with a three-post bench, it’s something to be aware of.
If you’re someone who’s going to use a bench for things like step-ups, box jumps, or box squats, this design is actually beneficial because it helps keep the bench balanced as you go on and off of it.
Whatever your purpose, the bench won’t be moving much at all due to the heavy-duty construction and use of rubber feet (which also help protect your home gym flooring).
Frame and Weight Capacity
The frame is made with 11-gauge steel, which is pretty good for a bench at this price point. It’s even used throughout the bench spine, and because of that we think this bench has the potential to hold more weight than the 700-pound limit REP has listed on its website.
Vinyl
REP’s benches are always covered in grippy vinyl, and the REP FB-3000 is no different. We’re confident you’ll stick to this thing every time you lie down on it.
Footprint and Portability
At 47.2 inches in length, and 17.7 inches in width, the REP FB-3000 is about the average size of a flat weight bench. It won’t take up much space in your home or garage gym, but if you have REP’s wall-mounted bench hanger, it can be placed on the wall when not in use (it’ll hang 4 inches from the wall when placed on the hanger).
If you don’t have the hanger, or the ability to drill holes in your wall, the bench weighs 40 pounds, so it’s easy enough to pick up and move when you’re not using it (there are no transport wheels).
REP Fitness FB-3000 vs Tru Grit Flat Utility Weight Bench
Our Favorite Flat Weight Bench
Tru Grit Flat Utility Weight Bench
Product Highlights
- Simple but incredibly functional flat weight bench
- Tripod design and rubber feet are standout features
- 880-pound weight capacity
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Often goes on sale for less than $100
- Tripod design and rubber feet make it very stable
- Meets all IPF standards for flat weight benches
Cons
- Welding and stitching aren’t the best
- Slick vinyl and stiff padding
- Only available in black
Bottom Line
The Tru Grit Flat Utility Weight Bench is a solid bench that does everything it can to eliminate wobbling.
The Tru Grit Flat Utility Weight Bench is our top pick for the best overall flat weight bench, and depending on your style of strength training, it might be a better pick than the REP Fitness FB-3000.
For one, it comes with the tripod design that’s more optimal for people looking to get a lot of foot drive on their bench press. The pad height is a full inch shorter than REP’s, has rubber feet, and unlike the FB-3000, comes with transport wheels so it can easily be moved.
The vinyl on the Tru Grit flat utility bench is a little slicker than REP’s, but not by much. It also frequently goes on sale for around $99, but even its normal retail price of $200 is a pretty good deal for those looking for a heavy-duty flat weight bench.
Bench: | REP Fitness FB-3000 | Tru Grit Flat Utility Weight Bench |
Price | $149 | $200 (often on sale for $99) |
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H | 50” L x 23” W x 16.9” H |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W | 50” L x 12” W |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs | 880 lbs |
REP Fitness FB-3000 vs Titan Flat Weight Bench
Another Budget Bench
Titan Flat Bench
Product Highlights
- Very affordably priced
- 17” bench height, which meets IPF standards
- Weight capacity is listed at 1,000 lbs
- Rubber grip pads on feet prevents sliding
- Free shipping
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Very affordably priced
- Handle on the front and wheels on the back for easy maneuverability
- 17” bench height, which meets IPF standards
- Weight capacity is listed at 1,000 lbs
- Stitched Titan Fitness logo, which looks cool
- Spine and legs are fully welded
- Rubber grip pads on feet prevents sliding
- Free shipping
Cons
- Titan is known for having shipping issues
- Improved welds still need work
- Light powder coating, which means it may experience corrosion
- Two massive feet instead of a post at the front
Bottom Line
The Flat Weight Bench from Titan Fitness is a good, budget-friendly bench. In our review, we've found that it's a great value, although benches like the REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench should first be considered due to the cost difference being minimal. If you're looking for a flat bench for your home gym that meets IPF standards, has wheels and a handle, and don't want to spend too much, this isn't a bad option, but again, we do think there are better ones available.
The Titan Flat Weight Bench is the same price as the REP Fitness FB-3000, and also utilizes a four-post design.
Again, we think REP’s bench can hold more than 700 pounds, but if you’re really concerned with the max weight capacity, then go Titan: Their bench has a 1,000-pound weight capacity.
Titan doesn’t have color options for this bench, and it only comes with a one-year warranty. The industry standard for the frame is 10 years, which is what you get with REP.
Bench: | REP Fitness FB-3000 | Titan Flat Weight Bench |
Price | $149 | $149.99 |
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H | 52” L x 17” W x 17” H |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W | 48” L x 12” W |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
REP Fitness FB-3000 vs Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0
The Creme de la Creme
Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0
Product Highlights
- 3×3” 11 gauge steel
- Single column front foot
- Front handle and rear wheels for portability
- Safe upright storage
- Rubber feet for added stability
- Available in standard or shorty height
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Beefy and stable flat bench
- 11-gauge, 3" x 3" steel
- Shorty and tall versions
- Post instead of feet on the front
- Back feet have rubber caps for stability
- Designed to stand on a plastic cap for easy storage
- Wheels and handle for portability
- Powder-coated to prevent corrosion
- Lightweight but durable
Cons
- Textured powder coat may show scuffs and chalk easier
- Handle isn’t knurled
- Wobbles in vertical stored position
- Frame doesn't extend all the way to the end of the Fat Pad
- No washers included with the bench
Bottom Line
The Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 is one of the best flat benches we've reviewed. For under $350, you're getting a sturdy and customizable bench made from U.S. steel and three bench height and two pad type options (standard and fat pad). "This is the most stable or one of the most stable flat benches I’ve ever used,” says Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews and a home gym equipment expert.
The REP Fitness FB-3000 is for the average home gym owner who just needs a good bench that can take anything that’s thrown at it, whereas the Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 is for the hardcore trainee who lives and breathes lifting.
The Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 is made with American steel, comes with a variety of pad options, and you can even make the handle knurled if you want (it’s absolutely unnecessary, but also freaking sweet to have). You can also choose to change the bench height if you want.
Our Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 review has more thoughts on why this bench is worth the price.
Bench: | REP Fitness FB-3000 | Rogue Monster Utility Bench 2.0 |
Price | $149 | Starts at $295 |
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H | Standard: 47.375″ L x 26.25″ W (17.5” H with standard pad/ 19.75” H with Fat Pad) Shorty: 47.375″ L x 26.25″ W (15.25” H with standard pad/ 17.5”H with Fat Pad) |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W | Standard Pad: 47″ L x 12″ W Competition Fat Pad: 50″ L x 12.5″ W Thompson Fat Pad: 50″ L x 14.5″ W |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs | N/A |
REP Fitness FB-3000 vs REP Fitness FB-5000 Flat Bench
Worth the Upgrade?
REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
Product Highlights
- Great price on a high-quality bench
- Compatible with REP Wide Pad or Thompson Fat Pad
- 3″ x 3″ 11-gauge steel provides solid construction
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great price for a good value bench
- 3” x 3” 11-gauge steel
- Sturdy 3-post bench
- Nothing in the way of your feet when you bench
- Rated to 1,000 pounds
- Meets the IPF specs for length, height, and width
- Comes with a 4” thick pad on a plywood base with durable vinyl upholstery and the option to purchase an extra wide pad
- Comes with a handle and wheels
- Compatibility with 2 other bench pads including the extra wide and the Thompson Fat Pad
- Easily assembled in less than 20 minutes.
- Available in multiple colors and designs.
Cons
- Shipping not included in price
- Short manufacturer’s warranty
- Some assembly required
- 30-day return period and restocking fee applied to returns
Bottom Line
The Rep FB-5000 Flat Bench is the best value flat bench we've tested and reviewed. It offers an incredible combination of price and quality that many companies have overlooked for some time. With over 250 customer reviews, there is not 1 under 4 stars and most of those are for less than minor complaints. If you need a flat bench, this is the one we suggest. You could pay more, but it would still probably not be as good. Seriously.
In the battle of big brother vs little brother, it’s going to depend on your budget and what you want out of your bench. Just need a bench? The REP Fitness FB-3000 is your choice.
People who should go for the REP Fitness FB-5000 flat bench are those who prefer a three-post bench, and those who want the option of a wider pad.
Check out our full REP FB-5000 flat bench review for our full thoughts on this bench.
Bench: | REP Fitness FB-3000 | REP Fitness FB-500 Flat Bench |
Price | $149 | $209.99 |
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H | 50.5” L x 21” W x 16.9” H |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W | 48” L x 12” W |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs | 1,000 lbs |
REP Fitness FB-3000 vs AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench
Our Cheapest Recommendation
AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench
Product Highlights
- Priced under $50 shipped free with Prime
- 17.1″ height makes it right around IPF Powerlifting Standards
- Tested with heavy weight with no issues
Pros & Cons
Pros
- At under $50 shipped most often, the AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench is one of the cheapest benches available.
- There's nothing flashy about it, it just works.
- 17.1" height makes it right around IPF Powerlifting Standards.
- Although the weight limit is low, we tested it for much more than what they suggest without any issues.
Cons
- Low suggested weight limit.
- Weak gauge steel.
- Short warranty.
Bottom Line
The AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench is an extremely cheap bench that does what it's supposed to do. In our review, we found it to hold more weight than expected, be more sturdy than expected, and just overall well worth the price. If you want a cheap weight bench that just works (and don't mind the low weight limit) this is your best bet.
The only reason we’d recommend the AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench over the REP Fitness FB-3000 is if you’re really tight on money. It’s priced just under $60, but it’s made with low-quality materials and only has a weight capacity of 385 pounds.
We’d recommend saving up for the FB-3000, which is made of high-quality steel, powder coating that won’t easily chip, and a thicker pad than Amazon’s.
Read our AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench review for a more in-depth look at this bench.
Bench: | REP Fitness FB-3000 | AmazonBasics Flat Weight Bench |
Price | $149 | $60 |
Footprint | 47.2” L x 17.7” W x 18” H | 40.94” L x 11.22” W x 17.91” H |
Pad dimensions | 47.25” L x 11.8” W | 40.94” L x 11.2” W |
Weight capacity | 700 lbs | 385 lbs |
Ordering and Assembling the REP Fitness FB-3000
Once you pick what color you want your bench in, ordering the REP Fitness FB-3000 is a breeze and there should be minimal to no stock issues with this product.
The box is packed with styrofoam and cardboard inserts, and the bench pad is put in a separate box that’s inside the main one. Important note: When opening the bench, take your time and take the tape off the bench pad box by hand and not with a knife to prevent accidentally cutting into the pad.
Once everything’s out, you simply attach the front and back legs with the included bolts before bolting the pad to the steel frame.
It shouldn’t take much longer than 15 minutes to complete the whole process, and it’ll be done in under 10 if you have someone help you.
Customer Experience
REP Fitness can be reached via live chat on their website, email, phone, and social media.
Warranty, Financing, Returns
REP Fitness offers a 10-year warranty on the bench frame, about the industry standard, and a one-year warranty for the stitching on the vinyl padding.
You can easily finance your purchase by selecting Affirm or PayPal at checkout and picking a payment plan that works best for you.
You’re allowed to return any REP product within 30 days of receipt, but the return must be approved by the company before you send the product back. You can request a return by reaching out to the company, which will also charge a 15 percent restocking fee for any return.
Customer Reviews
As of this writing, the REP Fitness FB-3000 has a 4.9 rating with more than 160 reviews. For what it’s worth, the lowest rating is a lone three-star review.
Most reviewers were blown away by the value this bench provides.
The few negative comments came from bigger lifters who found the pad a bit too narrow for their lifting needs.
Final Verdict of Our REP Fitness FB-3000 Review
A good weight bench is one of the first things people should look for when building their home gym (along with a good squat rack, barbell, and some dumbbells or kettlebells). The REP Fitness FB-3000 may not be our top pick for a flat weight bench, but it does everything you need a good bench to do and at a very agreeable price point.
The four-post design may be annoying to some people, but only if you find yourself bench pressing quite often and need to get as much power as possible from the foot drive. If you’re someone who plans on using it more as a platform for step-ups and box squats, then you’ll love this bench.
REP Fitness FB-3000 Rating
No schema found.REP Fitness FB-3000 FAQs
Is REP Fitness made in the USA?
According to REP’s website, their products are made in various countries, including the United States. But a majority of their products are made in China and imported into the U.S.
What does FID bench mean?
FID means flat, incline, and decline, and refers to the positions that certain benches can be adjusted to. The REP Fitness FB-3000 is not an FID bench, since it can only be used as a flat bench.
Is a flat bench good enough?
muscle (a bench allows you to do more moves than you could while standing or just on the floor). An adjustable bench is better because it allows you to hit muscle groups from different angles, but if you don’t have the budget for one, a flat bench will get the job done.
Further reading
There are times when we test a product and think, “This thing costs that much?” And there are other times we test a product and think, “This thing only costs that much?” We’re happy to report that the REP Fitness FB-3000 is one of the latter. Our REP Fitness FB-3000 review takes an in-depth look at how REP was able to pack in so much bang for just a few bucks (relatively speaking). » Read more about: REP Fitness FB-3000 Review (2024): All This For Only $150? » Read more
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