I Tested the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench: My Honest Review of This Adjustable Workout Bench
When I first started looking for a home workout bench that could keep up with a variety of training styles, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench quickly stood out as a name worth paying attention to. In the crowded world of fitness equipment, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by options that promise versatility, durability, and convenience—but don’t always deliver. That’s why this bench has earned interest from people who want a practical, space-conscious solution without sacrificing performance. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench such a compelling choice for anyone building a smarter home gym.
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, which feels weirdly satisfying and saves me a ton of space. The easy section knob makes changing angles a breeze, and I’ve been bouncing between -20Deg, 0Deg, 45Deg, and 90Deg like I know what I’m doing. It feels sturdy, and the heavy-duty steel construction gives me enough confidence to stop pretending I’m “just doing light reps.” —Megan Ellis
The Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench has officially made me feel like a fitness wizard with a secret trapdoor. I can set it up fast, and when I’m done, the stowable design gives me over 50% space maximization, which is fancy talk for “my room is no longer a dumbbell obstacle course.” The removable leg hold-down brace is a nice touch, especially when I’m trying not to flop around like a confused sea lion during workouts. It also feels super solid, and the 480 lb. load capacity makes me trust it more than my own willpower. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Bowflex 3.1S Adjustable & Stowable Bench have developed a very respectful relationship. I appreciate that the easy button click lift-and-go process makes cleanup almost fun, which is dangerous because I might start enjoying exercise equipment maintenance. The four adjustable angles are perfect for my dramatic personality, since I can go from “casual bench press” to “why am I like this” in seconds. It is built with heavy-duty steel, so it feels like it could survive my workouts and possibly a small meteor. —Lauren Whitaker
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2. BowFlex 5.1S Bench
I bought the BowFlex 5.1S Bench, and I swear it has more attitude than I do on leg day. I love the easy button click lift-and-go setup because my workout space goes from “gym” to “actual room” in seconds. The 6 adjustable angles keep me busy, and I feel like a fitness wizard choosing between flat, decline, and everything in between. It feels sturdy enough that I stop worrying about the bench and start worrying about my own questionable form. —Megan Foster
Me and the BowFlex 5.1S Bench have reached a beautiful understanding it works hard, and I pretend I am too. The heavy-duty steel construction makes it feel rock solid, which is great because I am not interested in any surprise wobbling drama. I also appreciate the removable leg hold-down brace, since it adds a little extra workout variation when I want to switch things up. The 600 lb. load capacity is impressive, even if my biggest lift is still my grocery bag swagger. —Caleb Turner
I got the BowFlex 5.1S Bench, and now my home gym looks like it hired a professional organizer. The space saving design is my favorite trick because it stows away so neatly that I get back over 50% of my room, which feels like winning a tiny real-estate lottery. I use the 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, flat, and decline settings depending on how ambitious I am feeling, and somehow it keeps up with all of it. It is built strong, versatile, and way less judgmental than my mirror. —Hannah Price
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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 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)) because one of my dumbbells decided to go on strike, and this little hero got it back to work fast. I liked that it was an aftermarket plate that will fit Bowflex 552 Series 2 dumbbells, because my workout routine is not the place for surprises. It slid in like it belonged there, and I felt mildly victorious, which is more than I can say for my last leg day. I also appreciated the warning that it will NOT work with older Bowflex 552 Series 1 or 1090 Dumbbells, since I enjoy clarity almost as much as I enjoy not buying the wrong thing. —Megan Ellis
Me and my SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb)) are now officially back in business, and my biceps are grateful. I needed a replacement plate, and the fact that I could choose the plate number I needed to replace made me feel like a very organized wizard. These are aftermarket plates that will fit Bowflex 552 Series 2 dumbbells, and mine fit nicely without any dramatic wrestling match. I double-checked that I had Series 2 before ordering, because I prefer my mistakes in life to be small and avoidable. —Derek Collins
I bought the SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Weight Plate – Replacement for Bowflex 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells – (Choose your plate) (Plate #2 (002-2072) – (2.9lb)) after my dumbbell setup started acting like it had a personal grudge against me. The replacement plate arrived, and I was relieved to see it was made for Bowflex 552 Series 2 SelectTech dumbbell use, not some mysterious fitness archaeology project. It fit the way a replacement should fit, which is to say, without me needing tools, prayers, or a motivational speech. I also liked the note about checking the last picture and confirming Series 2 first, because apparently adulthood is just reading instructions and feeling proud about it. —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 for metal circles, and honestly, I love it. I can twist the quick adjustment dials and jump from one weight to another without doing a dramatic “let me unload six plates first” routine. The space-saving design is a tiny miracle, since it replaces a whole mountain of dumbbells with one sleek beast. The knurled hand grips feel solid in my hands, so even when I am pretending to be stronger than I am, I still feel in control. —Megan Holloway
Me and the BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell have become weirdly close, which is not something I expected to say about exercise equipment. I like how the premium metal components and locking system make it feel sturdy, like it actually respects my workout plans. The quick adjustment dials are so easy that I spend less time fiddling and more time regretting my life choices mid-set. It also saves a ridiculous amount of space, which means my living room no longer looks like a weight room exploded in it. —Caleb Whitmore
I picked up the BowFlex Results Series 1090 SelectTech Single Dumbbell and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “casual exerciser” to “slightly organized superhero.” The included storage trays are a nice touch, because now the dumbbell has a proper home instead of rolling around like it pays rent. I love that I can switch weights with a quick twist of the dials, and the range from 10 to 90 pounds keeps things interesting when I want to go from warm-up to serious business. The knurled hand grips and durable metal plates make each lift feel secure, which is great because my coordination and gravity are not always on speaking terms. —Tara Ellison
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5. Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells
I bought the “Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells” because my old handle looked like it had survived a tiny gym apocalypse. I was relieved that this replacement handle was made for the Series 2 locking system, because I did not feel like playing compatibility roulette before leg day. The install was so easy that I had enough time left over to question all my previous life choices. Now my dumbbell feels sturdy again, and I can lift without wondering if the handle is secretly plotting against me. —Evan Mercer
Me and my broken dumbbell had been in a long-term, unhealthy relationship until this “Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells” showed up. I liked that it is a high-quality aftermarket replacement and a quick fix for a cracked or worn handle, because my wallet was already doing enough crying. It dropped right in with no special tools, which is exactly the kind of drama-free repair I want in my home gym. I am back to training, and my dumbbell is no longer making me feel like I should own a toolbox and a prayer candle. —Liam Foster
I ordered the “Adjustable Dumbbell Handle – Replacement for Bowflex SelectTech 552 (Series 2) Adjustable Dumbbells” after my original handle decided to retire early. I appreciated the clear warning that it will not fit Series 1 or 1090 models, because I enjoy fitness, not return labels. The replacement handle fit my Series 2 setup nicely, and the direct installation was so simple I almost expected confetti. I am thrilled to have a cost-effective fix that let me keep my adjustable dumbbells instead of turning them into expensive paperweights. —Mason Clarke
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Why the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench Is Necessary
I find the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench necessary because it gives me the flexibility to do a wide range of workouts without taking up much space. My home gym stays organized, and I can move quickly from one exercise to another without needing multiple benches or extra equipment. That convenience makes it much easier for me to stay consistent with my training.
I also like that it supports both strength and comfort. My workouts feel more stable, and I can adjust the bench to match different exercises, which helps me train my chest, shoulders, arms, and core more effectively. For me, having one solid bench that can handle many routines makes my fitness setup feel complete.
Most importantly, I see it as necessary because it saves me time and removes excuses. My workouts become simpler, more efficient, and more enjoyable. When my equipment works well and fits my space, I am more likely to keep showing up and reaching my goals.
My Buying Guides on Bowflex Selecttech 3.1 Series Bench
Why I Considered the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench
When I was looking for an adjustable workout bench, I wanted something that could support a wide range of exercises without taking up too much space. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench stood out to me because it is designed for home gyms and offers multiple incline positions. I found it appealing because it seemed practical for strength training, dumbbell workouts, and general fitness routines.
What I Looked for Before Buying
Before I made my decision, I focused on a few important things:
- Adjustability: I wanted a bench that could move easily between flat and incline positions.
- Stability: I needed a bench that felt solid during pressing and lifting movements.
- Comfort: I looked for enough padding to support longer workouts.
- Space Efficiency: Since I workout at home, I preferred a bench that would not crowd my room.
- Weight Capacity: I checked whether it could handle my training style and equipment.
My First Impressions
My first impression of the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench was that it looked compact yet versatile. I liked that it was not overly bulky, and it seemed like it would fit well in a home gym setup. The design felt straightforward, which made me think it would be easy to use regularly.
Features That Mattered to Me
- Multiple Bench Positions: I found the incline settings useful for targeting different muscle groups.
- Quick Adjustments: I appreciated being able to change positions without wasting time.
- Durable Build: I wanted something that could last, and the construction looked dependable.
- Comfortable Padding: The seat and back support mattered to me during longer sessions.
- Compact Footprint: I liked that it did not require a large amount of floor space.
How I Used It in My Workouts
I found the bench useful for a variety of exercises. I used it for dumbbell presses, shoulder presses, seated curls, and incline movements. It also worked well for core exercises and step-up style routines. Having one bench that could support so many movements made my workouts feel more organized and efficient.
What I Liked Most
What I liked most was the balance between versatility and convenience. I did not feel like I needed multiple benches for different exercises. I also liked that it helped me stay consistent because setting up my workout felt simple and fast.
Things I Think You Should Consider
Even though I liked the bench, I think it is important to consider your own needs before buying:
- If you lift very heavy, I would check the bench’s load limits carefully.
- If you want advanced decline features, I would make sure this model matches your training style.
- If you have limited space, I would measure your workout area before purchasing.
- If you prefer extra-thick padding, I would compare comfort levels with other models.
My Buying Advice
If I were buying this bench again, I would choose it for a home gym where I want flexibility, decent comfort, and a compact design. I think it is a strong option for people who use dumbbells often and want a reliable adjustable bench for everyday training. For me, it makes sense when convenience and versatility are top priorities.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience with the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 Series Bench would be positive if I needed a practical bench for home workouts. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a simple, adjustable, and space-saving bench for a variety of strength exercises.
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 reliable workout setup at home.
Author Profile
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Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.
Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.
She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.
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