In the fitness world, the quest for the perfect biceps is a journey many embark upon. While there’s no shortcut to well-defined muscles, certain equipment can make the process more effective, and among them is the preacher curl bench. But with a market saturated with diverse options, how do you find the one that’s right for you? Welcome to our comprehensive review of preacher curl benches.
We’ve dived deep into the world of preacher curl benches, putting numerous models through their paces in a bid to help you find the ideal match for your fitness goals. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast working out in your home gym, a beginner looking for a safe way to target your biceps brachii, or a seasoned pro seeking to level up your arm workouts, this article is for you.
Our review explores a range of benches, from standard and adjustable models to multipurpose and commercial-grade versions. We assess their build quality, comfort, stability, versatility, sizes, and value for money to help you make an informed choice.
So, if you’re ready to take your biceps training to the next level, read on as we unravel the mysteries of the preacher curl bench and discover which bench might just become your new favorite workout partner.
Table of Contents
What Is A Preacher Curl Bench
A preacher curl bench is a great equipment piece that can either be attached to your bench as an accessory or a stand-alone part.
It is for arm development because the exercise focuses on the peak and the inner bicep muscle.
It will give you the perfect tool to build massive arms when used correctly.
This is a complete list of the top-rated preacher curl benches, comparing price points, durability, how comfortable they are, how many weight plates they can hold, and the footprint they will take up in your home gym.
Preacher Curl Bench Reviews
1. Valor Fitness CB-7 Olympic Weight Plate Rack & EZ Curl Bar Stand w/Bar Storage
This product is well put together, ideal for commercials or gyms, and constructed from heavy-duty 2” x 2” steel tubing for a strong and stable base necessary when lifting heavyweight.
They are designed with high-quality and high-density dual-layered cushion that can withstand stress from intense workouts. The angled pad measures 14.5” x 24”.
The straight place measures 11.5” x 23.5”. Dual Positions allow the user the option to perform curls on both sides of the CB-5 Station to target different elements of the bicep preacher curl exercise: warranty 3-year frame, 2-year pad.
Item Dimensions – Length x Width x Height46 x 31 x 44 inches
Positives
- Extremely well-built construction and stable even while using heavyweights
- The preacher bench is made of strong material that doesn’t feel or sound like it will ever break, with tight durable stitching.
- Extra-long 19.5” safety catches on both sides of the machine provide optimal security while lifting heavy plates. The plastic covering on the safety catch protects the bars from scratches.
- Good Warranty 3-year frame, 2-year for seat pad and arm pad.
Negatives
- The only con is that the price may be a little high for some people, but you’ll have to spend a little more to receive equipment made with higher-end materials.
2. Marcy Folding Standard Weight Bench – Easy Storage MWB-20100, Incline
Satisfy all of your weight benches needs with the comfortably designed standard-sized MWB-20100. Through a wide variety of handy features, this bench makes executing an exceptional full-body workout in the comfort of your home more accessible than ever.
With the inclusion of proper padding and high-density upholstery, this bench provides the necessary comfort to keep you training as long as you need to.
This classic weight bench design which accepts a 5-foot weight bar, is perfect for beginners and experts, and the highly durable structure gives the more experienced all the support they need and then some.
Once you’re done, fold up the bench, store it, and get pumped up for your next work Item.
Item dimensions L x W x H 68.8 x 29.2 x 63.8 inches
Positives
- Adjustability – The seat and back pad are adjustable, and the bench can be adjusted for the decline, flat, or incline exercises.
- Full body workout – Using the armrest curl features, leg developer, and the incline or decline bench.
- Easy to store – This is perhaps the best feature; it can easily be folded away for the all too common problem of insufficient room.
- Comfortable padding – Between the arm roller pads and the thick padding on the bench and preacher curl station pad, you won’t have any problems being uncomfortable while working out.
- Easy assembly
Negatives
- The bench is sturdy when unfolded but a little unbalanced when folded.
- This bench is perfect for a beginner using minimal weight but is not meant for a bodybuilder or people over 6 feet tall.
3. Marcy Olympic Weight Bench MD-857
Satisfy all of your weight benches needs with the comfortably designed standard-sized MWB-20100. Through a wide variety of handy features, this bench makes executing an exceptional full-body workout in the comfort of your home more accessible than ever.
With the inclusion of proper padding and high-density upholstery, this bench provides the necessary comfort to keep you training as long as you need to.
This classic weight bench design which accepts a 5-foot weight bar, is perfect for beginners and experts, and the highly durable structure gives the more experienced all the support they need and then some.
Once you’re done, fold up the bench, store it, and get pumped up for your next work Item.
Item dimensions L x W x H 68.8 x 29.2 x 63.8 inches
Positives
- Adjustability – The seat and back pad are adjustable, and the bench can be adjusted for the decline, flat, or incline exercises.
- Full body workout – Using the arm curl features, leg developer, and the incline or decline bench.
- Easy to store – This is perhaps the best feature; it can easily be folded away for the common problem of insufficient room.
- Comfortable padding – Between the arm roller pads and the thick padding on the bench and preacher curl pad, you won’t have any problems being uncomfortable while working out.
Negatives
- Poorly written instructions
- It’s unstable and creaky, but all folding benches have this problem.
4. Marcy Adjustable Olympic Weight Bench with Leg Developer and Squat Rack
This is one of the most affordable benches on the list, perfect for someone trying to build a gym on a budget while still looking for stability and performance.
Item Dimensions 56.5″ x 40.5″ x 44″ (L x W x H)
Positives
- Max weight limit is a generous 440 pounds
- Five different levels of adjustability to make it ergonomic and adjustable for men and women.
- Ample padding of 1.4 inches to make your workout comfortable
Negatives
- This is not easy to put together, even for people who would consider themselves “handy” instructions are poorly written out.
- Stability can be an issue when racking the weight due to the low weight of the entire bench. It should be placed against a wall to help with this.
5. Weider Platinum Series Utility Bench, Rack, or Combination Set
You can see the dynamics of this bench as soon as you glance at the multi-position, telescoping uprights that safely hold the bar for bench exercises. The 4-position Flat / Incline / Decline / Bench features pop-pin adjustable DuraFirm”! Seat and back pads that are extra-thick, ultra-comfortable, and will never bottom out.
Item Dimensions – 80 x 47.5 x 60 inches
Positives
- Made from extra heavy 12-gauge welded high tensile strength steel frame
- Thick oversized foam rollers make working out a pleasure
- The bench moves to 4 positions with a pop-pin design.
Negatives
- The only con is the price, but once you look into all the features you get and how well it is made, you won’t have to worry about it breaking and having to replace it.
6. Marcy Standard Weight Bench with Leg Developer Multifunctional
Full Olympic size with uprights at 42 inches apart on inside dimensions. Heavy-duty, 3-inch steel uprights and Arm Curl included,
As well as storage stands for each Leg lift with curl bar attachment Rear features a built-in squat rack Complete with 3 Olympic weight plate adapters and spring clips with a 275-pound user weight capacity Manufacturer’s warranty included Full Olympic size. Adjustable uprights and seatback include decline.
Heavy-duty 3-inch steel uprights and frame. The manufacturer’s warranty is included.
Item Dimensions – 60 x 52 x 47 inches
Positives
- 3″ steel frame, this won’t break
- It comes with Olympic plate adapters and spring clips.
- It’s a four-star bench for a 2-star price
Negatives
- Takes up a larger amount of room than other benches.
- A little hard to put together
7. BalanceFrom RS 60 Multifunctional Workout Station Adjustable Olympic Workout Bench with Squat Rack, Leg Extension, Preacher Curl, and Weight Storage, 800-Pound Capacity, Gray
Kaiye Preacher Curl and Leg Developer Attachment. Designed with a removable preacher curl pad and leg developer, the Preacher Curl can support a 180 lb plate capacity and has six 7.75” long foam rollers with 4” foam thinness.
Item Dimensions – 160x45x115 cm /63×17.7×45.3 in
Positives
- Warranty: 10 years frame, three years parts, and two years wearable parts
- Very thick padding – Preacher curl is 2 inches thick medium Density vinyl covered foam. Six 7.75″ long foam rollers with 4″ foam thickness
- The attachment has six height adjustments and a 2-height adjustable preacher curl pad. Removable leg developer and preacher curl pad
Negatives
- You must remove the leg rollers to use a bar with the preacher curl, or you can use dumbbells.
- Not the sturdiest bench, but it will work for beginners.
8. ARMAGEDDON SPORTS Premium Arm Blaster Biceps Isolator
The arm blaster eliminates any discomfort caused by other bicep supporters. We aim to provide supreme comfort through our abdominal pad, dense elbow pads, and proper arc curvature, allowing users to reduce the momentum during curls.
Core Prodigy brand bicep support imitates the preacher curl movement. However, this will not require the user to sacrifice any space as it is a portable piece of exercise equipment.
Due to our supreme design, you will now have a blood pump much quicker to your biceps and forearms, allowing more energy to be used up, thus increasing the overall muscle size.
Item Dimensions – L x W x H23 x 4 x 2 inches
Positives
- Simple design means fewer moving parts to break
- It doesn’t take up any room, easily tucks away in a corner or closet
- Perfectly aligns the technique of a curl to target the bicep muscle
- It can be used with any weight (dumbbell, curling bar, barbell)
Negatives
- The armpiece is exceptionally crafted, but they skimped a bit on the shoulder strap. A little thin, and the foam pad rips easily.
- Since you are standing, you must still be aware of your posture and ensure you’re not doing cheat reps. Since you’re sitting down, you don’t have to worry about this on a traditional preacher bench.
9. Core Prodigy Arm Blaster for Biceps – Bicep Curl Support Isolator
This quality biceps isolator will help keep your back and elbows locked in the most advantageous curling position to isolate and engage your arms to the max.
With the provided palm grips, you can perform every set of a barbell curl without pain or discomfort. The adjustable neck padding will also play a dramatic role in the overall curling experience.
Built To Last
The primary function of this weightlifting kit is to help you build your arms’ size and strength while offering an unmatched level of comfort.
However, we did not compromise on quality at all. This arm builder is made with top-grade aluminum materials, and the neck padding is made from premium neoprene so that you will be using your bicep blaster for a very long time!
A Must-Have Gym Equipment
Most commercial or home gyms are not equipped with a bicep blaster like this, which is precisely why you should get one for yourself and another for your lifting partner.
This is a high-quality piece of equipment!
I looked for months to find a decent gym-quality preacher curl bench. Finally, after doing a LOT of research and almost buying something much more expensive, I found this awesome curl bench.
After just 30 minutes of easy setup, it was ready for use. It arrived very quickly, and I would not change anything about it. This is definitely worth the money! Hoist products will exceed your expectations. Thank you, Hoist, for providing such a high-quality product to the public.
How We Rated Each Bench
As the lead fitness equipment reviewer for my company, I recently had the opportunity to put several preacher curl benches to the test. Here’s how we rated each of them:
- Standard Preacher Curl Bench: The Standard Preacher’s Curl Bench was first up. Its simplicity is its strength – there’s no fuss, and it does what it promises. The padding was comfortable and provided ample support. However, the lack of adjustability might be a drawback for some users. We rate it 3.5 out of 5.
- Adjustable Preacher Curl Bench: This bench truly impressed me. It offers various angles, enabling a wide range of exercises. Its ability to accommodate people of different heights and body types is commendable. Comfortable padding and solid build quality pushed our rating to 4.5 out of 5.
- Preacher Curl Machine: The Preacher Curl Machine was up next. Connecting to a pulley system is a bit more complicated, but that’s a big part of its appeal. The smooth, consistent resistance the cables provides adds a new dimension to the workouts. We rate it 4 out of 5.
- Bench Press/Preacher Curl Combo: This multi-purpose bench is a space-saver. It’s a functional solution for people who need to maximize their workout area. However, the quality of the preacher curl pad could be improved. We rate it 3.5 out of 5.
- Preacher Curl Bench with Leg Developer: This bench is a dream for those who want more from their bench than just arm workouts. Its added leg developer feature is a bonus. Comfortable padding and sturdy design make it a solid choice. We give it a 4.5 out of 5.
- Portable Preacher Curl Bench: This lightweight bench was easy to move around and perfect for those with limited space. But the lightweight design did sacrifice some stability. We rate it 3 out of 5.
- Commercial Preacher Curl Bench: The final bench we reviewed was the Commercial Preacher Curl Bench. This heavy-duty, robust bench screams quality and durability. Despite being a bit pricey, its superior stability and comfort earn it a 5 out of 5 rating.
In summary, these benches have strengths and can suit different needs. Your choice will depend on your specific requirements, such as budget, space availability, and workout regimen. Remember, a good preacher curl bench should offer stability, comfort, and value for money.
Benefits Of Using A Preacher Curl Bench
A preacher curl bench is a piece of gym equipment that isolates the biceps for an intense and focused muscle workout. It’s also known as the “Scott Bench,” named after Larry Scott, the first Mr. Olympia who often used this exercise in his training regimen. Here are some benefits of using a preacher curl bench:
- Muscle Isolation: A preacher curl bench isolates the biceps, which puts the stress solely on the biceps rather than surrounding muscles. This can lead to better biceps development and growth.
- Improved Muscle Definition and Tone: Because of its focused targeting, it can improve the definition and tone of your biceps muscles.
- Prevents Cheating: Locking your arms in a fixed position restricts body movements, reducing the likelihood of “cheating” through using momentum. This forces your muscles to work harder, and it can improve the effectiveness of your workout.
- Improved Form and Technique: The preacher curl bench can help you maintain proper form and technique. It stabilizes the shoulder and prevents any rocking motion that can be harmful or less efficient.
- Reduced Risk of Injury: By controlling your movements and ensuring proper form, the preacher curl bench can help reduce the risk of injury. It limits the potential for hyperextension and other forms of overextension that can lead to injuries.
- Versatility: Preacher benches can be used with free weights (like dumbbells or barbells) or cables, allowing for varied and customized workouts.
- Enhanced Workout Efficiency: Using the preacher bench can help increase workout efficiency by isolating and effectively working the targeted muscles, especially when time is limited.
- Rehabilitation: Preacher benches can also be used in physical rehabilitation settings. For those recovering from injuries, it can help gradually rebuild strength in the biceps.
- Ease of Use: Finally, preacher curl benches are fairly easy to use, which can benefit beginners just starting their fitness journey. It does not require complicated movements or a deep understanding of body mechanics.
Remember, while preacher curl bench workouts can be beneficial, it’s important to incorporate other exercises for overall balanced muscle development. Always exercise under proper guidance and maintain good form to avoid any injuries.
Different Types
Preacher curl benches are designed to isolate the biceps and provide a more concentrated workout. There are several types of preacher curl benches available, each with its own unique features:
- Standard Preacher Curl Bench: These are the most common preacher curl benches. They come with an adjustable seat and an angled pad where you rest your arms. You can use a variety of weights, including dumbbells, barbells, or EZ bars.
- Adjustable Preacher Curl Bench: This type allows you to adjust the angle of the bench, which can help target different parts of your biceps. The adjustability feature can also accommodate people of different heights and body types.
- Preacher Curl Machine: This is a variation where the bench is attached to a cable machine. The weights are attached to a pulley system, which can provide a smooth and consistent resistance throughout the entire movement. This can be especially useful for beginners who are still learning the proper form.
- Bench Press/Preacher Curl Combo: These are combination benches that can be used both for bench pressing and preacher curls. They are versatile and space-saving options for home gyms or smaller fitness facilities.
- Preacher Curl Bench with Leg Developer: These benches have an additional feature, a leg developer, which can be used to perform leg exercises like leg curls and leg extensions. This makes the bench even more versatile and useful for a full-body workout.
- Portable Preacher Curl Bench: These are compact, lightweight versions for easy storage and transportation. They may not offer as much stability or adjustability as the other types, but they are a good option for people who travel often or have limited space.
- Commercial Preacher Curl Bench: These are heavy-duty, robust benches designed for commercial gyms. They typically offer superior stability, durability, and comfort compared to other types.
When choosing a preacher curl bench, consider your fitness level, workout goals, available space, and budget. Always ensure the bench is high quality and provides good support and comfort.
What Angle Should A Preacher Curl Bench Be At
The standard angle for a preacher curl bench is usually around 45 degrees. This is considered the optimal angle as it helps fully stretch the biceps at the bottom of the movement while allowing for a strong contraction at the top.
However, there isn’t a definitive “best” angle as it can depend on various factors, including your body proportions, flexibility, the specific muscle area you want to target, and personal comfort. Some preacher curl benches are adjustable so you can change the angle depending on your preferences.
It’s important to remember that regardless of the angle of the bench, maintaining proper form is key to getting the most out of the exercise and avoiding injury. Keep your upper arms and chest firmly against the pad throughout the movement to isolate the biceps properly.
How to Choose The Best One
- Stability – You want to ensure the bench you’re buying is stable and heavy enough that it won’t tip when you put a weighted bar on the rack. You also want to ensure the back frame won’t come off the floor when the weight is extended. Also, ensure the frame is leveled so it doesn’t rock when exercising.
- Quality of the preacher pad – Many benches build the frame with high-quality steel but forget to put a lot of thought into how strong the preacher pad is. Many of them are made from cheap particle boards or composites, and they break over time.
- Adjustability – People are made up of all different body types, and you need to be able to adjust the seat and preacher pad to accommodate everyone. If you’re not sitting at the bench properly, your form will be wrong, and you won’t target the correct muscle groups.
- Size of the footprint – If you’re one of the lucky people and have plenty of room for your gym equipment, then this isn’t a problem for you, but most of us have limited room, and it’s important to make sure before buying that you’ll be able to fit your new bench into your home gym.
- Budget – Most people aren’t rich with an unlimited budget, so you need to do your research and ensure that you’re not spending too much, but at the same time not buying a piece of crap that will break in 4 months.
- Stand-alone or full bench – If you’re a beginner with limited gym equipment, you may want to look into the benches that are all in one, including a bench press, leg press, preacher curl, etc. If you already have an established home gym, you are probably looking for a stand-alone preacher curl bench.
Barbell Curl Bench Exercises
The Barbell curl bench is primarily used to perform exercises targeting the biceps, though some benches have added functionalities allowing a wider range of exercises. Here are some exercises you can do with a preacher curl bench:
- Standard Preacher Curl benches: This is the most common exercise on a preacher curl bench. Using a barbell or dumbbell, you rest your arms on the pad and perform bicep curls, which isolate the biceps and can lead to improved muscle development and tone.
- One Arm Dumbbell Preacher Curl: This is similar to the standard preacher curl, but it’s done with one arm at a time. This allows for a more focused exercise and can help address muscle imbalances.
- Reverse Preacher Curls: Instead of gripping the barbell or dumbbells with an underhand grip, you use an overhand grip. This variation targets the brachialis muscle, which lies underneath the biceps, and the brachioradialis, a forearm muscle.
- Cable Preacher Curls: If your preacher curl bench is connected to a cable machine, you can perform cable preacher curls. The constant tension provided by the cable can lead to a different kind of stimulus to your biceps.
- Hammer Preacher Curls: Done with dumbbells, you hold the weights in a neutral grip (palms facing each other) to perform the curl. This variation targets both the biceps and the brachialis and brachioradialis.
- EZ-Bar Preacher Curl: This exercise is performed with an EZ-Bar, which is often more comfortable to grip than a straight barbell. The different grip can also provide a slightly different stimulus to the biceps.
If your preacher curl bench comes with added features, such as a leg developer, you could also do exercises like:
- Leg Curls: This exercise targets your hamstring muscles.
- Leg Extensions: This exercise primarily targets your quadriceps, the large muscles at the front of your thighs.
Remember, using proper form and controlling the weight throughout the range of motion for these exercises is essential. Always warm up before you begin your workout and cool down afterward. Having a spotter can also be beneficial if you are lifting heavy weights.
Safety Tips
Preacher curl benches can benefit targeted muscle training, and following safety protocols to prevent injury is crucial. Here are some safety tips for using a preacher curl bench:
- Use Proper Form: Ensure you maintain proper form throughout the exercise. This means keeping your back straight, your shoulders back, and your upper arms and chest pressed firmly against the foam padding of the bench.
- Controlled Movements: Control your movements during the lifting and lowering phases of the exercise. Don’t let the weights drop quickly, which could lead to injury.
- Use Appropriate Weight: Start with a weight you can handle comfortably before gradually increasing it. Lifting too heavy too soon could result in strained or pulled muscles.
- Warm Up and Cool Down: Before starting any exercise, including an e-z curl, it’s important to warm up your muscles with some light cardio and stretching. Cooling down after the workout is also crucial to help your muscles recover.
- Don’t Overextend Your Arms: Avoid overextending your arms when lowering weights, as this could put undue pressure on your elbow joints and potentially lead to injury.
- Regular Breaks: Allow your muscles time to rest and recover between sets. Overworking your muscles can lead to strain and other injuries.
- Spotter: If you are lifting heavy weights, it’s safer to have a spotter nearby who can help you if you struggle to lift the weight.
- Inspect Equipment: Always check the equipment before use to ensure it is in good condition. Make sure the bench is stable, and the weights are secure.
Following these safety tips can help ensure your workout is safe and effective. Remember, it’s always a good idea to seek advice from a fitness professional if you are unsure how to perform an exercise correctly.
Conclusion
Our deep dive into the world of preacher curl benches has shown us that there is a wide range of options to cater to various needs and preferences. From the humble standard bench to the robust commercial-grade options, each offers unique features that could significantly enhance your fitness routine.
The Adjustable Preacher Curl Bench and the Preacher Curl Bench with Leg Developer were standout choices due to their versatility and high-quality design. However, the Commercial Preacher Curl Bench was the star, providing unparalleled stability, durability, and comfort – although its higher price tag might make it a less accessible option for some.
On the other hand, the Portable Preacher Curl Bench proved to be a solid choice for those with limited space or those who need a bench that’s easy to move. Despite its lightweight design compromising stability, it offers convenience and practicality for a home gym setup.
Each bench has its own pros and cons, and the best choice will ultimately depend on your individual goals, budget, space availability, and specific workout preferences. Remember, the key to effective bicep workouts is the equipment, your commitment, proper form, and consistency.
Whatever preacher curl bench you choose, ensure it offers comfort and stability and suits your fitness level. After all, investing in the right equipment is an investment in your health and fitness journey. Be sure to consult with fitness professionals for guidance and to avoid injury.
With these reviews in mind, you can decide on the best preacher curl bench for you. Happy lifting, and here’s to stronger, more toned biceps!
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