Powertec Workbench Leverage Gym WB-LS

Bought this from Powertecfitness directly (lower than here) and LOVE IT!! Took about 2.5 hours to put together solo. Wasn't difficult, just be sure to properly lay out the hardware (nuts/bolts). It's a… nice, strong, sturdy piece of equipment to replace a aged Smith machine I had (10 yrs old) and is sure to last at least as long as it did. For the suggestion that the screws to hold the weight storage arms in place being too short: I used the 102 bolts instead of the 64s because, when I was done, I had 4 extra despite following the directions and checking 3 times that I'd used the correct bolts all over. The 64 is for the seat back and the 102s are waaay longer, which is great to hold what is probably an already sufficiently well-constructed weight-rest even better. I'm hoping to use this bench for years and enjoy each and every workout. The movement is smooth and changing plates/exercises is relatively easy, but remember it's not a Bowflex; you're using real weights. It also comes with a wall chart of exercises, though a booklet of exercises as done on this machine, I think, would have been a great addition. If you have any previous lifting experience, there ought not be any problems knowing how to perform the exercises. I find I'm stronger than I thought after years of using that Smith machine and it's very limited range of motion. Yay!!! I also have Powertec's leg sled (leg press machine) and am loving that, too!! Safe alternative to squats. Great, smooth movement, and a comfortable cushion to boot! Also comes with an attachment for working calves. Awesome products, Powertec!!

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This gym is really a remarkable piece of equipment especially for the price. I am 56 and was in really bad shape from a sedentary job and not working out for several years. I decided to train up for… sprints and needed to supplement running with weight training. Within 1 week the difference in my arms was easily visible to my friends. And after just one month I could do 5 full pushups. In the past I worked out in various environments, but never did I have such rapid results. I've lost just a couple of pounds but gained enough muscle to be craving protein for the first time in years. As for putting it together, it takes tools, time and patience. A basic socket set is a must. Overall the seats, padding and position of bars are comfortable and intelligently designed. I can't recommend this system enough as the core of a home gym. You can get a great workout on your own timetable without a spotter. I have a long commute and the convenience of being able to get a real workout at home makes a huge difference. Exercises like the bench and shoulder presses feel real but you have the added benefit of not worrying about slipping or dropping. So it's easy to work to failure as is recommended in so many programs. Also the lat pull down cable is smoother than any other home gym I've seen. You will need to get Olympic sized plates for this gym. I started out with 120 lbs of various sizes and had to go back and get another 120 lbs. I can't imagine I will need much more than that. Now I supplement the Powertec with an EZ curl bar and dumbbells. I had to shop around for Olympic sized bars that were sturdy. I do find getting in position for squats a little awkward, but I think that's just me. I hope to also get the leg sled from the same company and work my legs up progressively.

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Got this a few months ago and I have to admit it is the first home gym I have seen that has the true "feel" of a regular workout with free weights. The movement is solid and smooth (I can't stand the… bowflex styled resistance) and has enough capacity that even a competing bodybuilder could put enough weight on it to work out. The only negative if any is that over a trip to the gym a complete workout takes a little more time because of the changes to move from exercise to exercise. However, if there is someone home with you that can assist ("uh, honey can you come in here for a sec?" :) )it makes the time impact minimal. Overall very, very pleased with the equipment and I got mine in gunmetal grey to match my workout room. They offer yellow and red also.

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First,I would like to say, if you want a machine that can hold the weight load, and take the abuse this is the machine to have. You don't have to have a spotter,and you can train heavy with confidence,… without thinking about the weight falling on you. It's built with heavy guage steel that makes, this machine strong and durable. You can do all of your compound movement exercises that really builds muscle,and mass, and many more exercises for isolation. This is the way to go!!!

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This leverage weight bench is the best. I have looked at Sears, and several other stores, and nothing they sell comes even close to this equipment. It came in three boxes, with the heavest one at right over… 125lbs.and bulky, so you will need someone to help get it in the house if you have stairs, or as I did use a appliance two wheeler. If you are not wanting to spend the money for professional equipment this is very close for a good bit less money.

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