Enter XWERKS Motion — an innovative supplement formulated to enhance endurance during intense exercise and support a quick post-workout recovery. Sounds too good to be true? We’ll find out in this XWERKS Motion review. 

Our team of personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, nutrition experts, and competitive weightlifters shared their feedback on the formulation, price, taste, and solubility of this one-of-a-kind product. As a registered dietitian nutritionist, I’ll do a deep dive into the ingredients and potential health benefits of XWERKS Motion, so you know if it’s worth adding to your supplement stack.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Key Takeaways

• XWERKS Motion contains 25 grams of cluster dextrin carbohydrates, which can help you exercise for longer before exhaustion.
• This formula includes three grams of BCAAs to help promote muscle growth and recovery.
• Made with electrolytes, XWERKS Motion can also support fluid balance and proper muscle function.

XWERKS Motion

3.6

• Number of servings: 30 
• Price per serving: $1.96
• Amount of BCAAs per serving: Three grams 
• Calories per serving: 110
• Flavors: Raspberry Lemonade 
• Third-party tested: Not at the time of this writing

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XWERKS Motion Pros

• XWERKS Motion contains a 2:1:1 BCAA ratio, meaning the amount of leucine is double the amount of isoleucine and valine. This ratio is shown to be the most effective for enhanced exercise performance.
• This BCAA supplement provides a quick energy source from cluster dextrin carbohydrates, which are easy to digest and absorbed rapidly pre-workout.
• Dairy and gluten-free, XWERKS Motion is ideal for those with a sensitive digestive system who want to avoid uncomfortable bloating, gas, and stomach cramps.

XWERKS Motion Cons

• One serving contains 110 calories solely from carbs, which isn’t ideal for those already consuming adequate carbs who don’t want to increase their intake.
• It includes sucralose, an artificial sweetener that may disrupt healthy gut bacteria and inflammation when consumed on an ongoing basis. 
• Only one flavor is available (Raspberry Lemonade), which could get old quickly if you’re taking this supplement several days a week.

XWERKS Motion Specs

XWERKS Motion Rating

Our Breaking Muscle product testing team has tried nearly 20 of the best BCAA supplements, gaining a thorough understanding of what meets customer standards and what falls short. Here’s how our expert testers rated the following categories after trying XWERKS Motion themselves. 

XWERKS Motion Review

In this XWERKS Motion review, we’ll explore the product’s cost, formula, flavors, taste, and more. We’ll include honest, reliable feedback straight from our Breaking Muscle expert testers, so you’ll know exactly what to expect from this supplement. With transparency in mind, we include the good and not-so-good aspects of XWERKS Motion to give you the full picture. 

Price Per Serving

A single bag of XWERKS Motion costs $59 for a one-time purchase. Each bag contains 30 one-scoop servings, and a serving costs $1.96. XWERKS offers the option to subscribe to a 30, 45, or 60-day delivery option for a five percent discount on each bag. With that discount, each order costs $56.05, and the price per serving comes down slightly to $1.87.

In comparison, Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine costs $1.33 per serving, while Jacked Factory BCAA Powder is available at $0.67 per serving at the time of this writing. XWERKS Motion is on the pricier side, earning this category a 3.5 out of 5, but also contains ingredients not found in most other BCAA supplements. 

Formulation

XWERKS Motion is thoughtfully and originally formulated, earning it a 4 out of 5. It is unlike other BCAA supplements in that it contains 25 grams of cluster dextrin carbohydrates, also known as highly branched cyclic dextrin (HBCD). Cluster dextrin passes through the stomach into the intestines rapidly, where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream and taken up into muscle cells to replenish glycogen content and provide a quick energy source. (1)

Human studies suggest that when used before or during a workout, cluster dextrin carbs may decrease perceived exertion and enhance endurance when compared to maltodextrin and glucose, especially when prior carb intake is low. (1) However, those who eat plenty of carbs may not experience any added benefits when supplementing cluster dextrin.

In addition to carbs, each serving offers three grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs). The product contains the BCAA ratio 2:1:1 of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. BCAAs are essential amino acids (EAAs), meaning you must consume them because the body doesn’t synthesize them on its own. Leucine is often thought of as the king of BCAAs because it activates muscle protein synthesis, which is necessary for muscle growth and recovery. (2) 

RELATED: BCAA Benefits

Other active ingredients include calcium, magnesium, and sodium. During exercise, you lose electrolytes through sweat that need to be replenished. The electrolytes in XWERKS Motion help prevent dehydration and maintain proper muscle function during a workout.

Enhanced with natural flavors, sucralose, and citric acid, this product contains ingredients that add sour and sweet notes. 

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener considered safe when consumed in moderation. Unlike table sugar, most research shows sucralose has little to no effects on blood sugar levels or insulin. (3) However, some animal studies suggest it could disrupt healthy gut bacteria and increase inflammation when consumed long-term, but more human studies are needed. (4)

Available Flavors

You won’t have any difficulty picking a flavor if you choose to try XWERKS Motion, considering there is only one option available — Raspberry Lemonade. Obviously, if you prefer to stick with one flavor on repeat this won’t be a problem. For those who like to switch things up, the lack of variety may leave you feeling bored, hence the middle-of-the-road rating on flavor. 

Taste

Luckily, the Raspberry Lemonade flavor delivers. Our expert tester was more than pleased with the taste of the raspberry lemonade supplement, rating it an impressive 5 out of 5. She noticed hints of the tart lemonade with a more robust berry flavor overall. The supplement wasn’t too sweet and had a very refreshing taste to it. Our tester even went as far as to say that she could happily sip on this drink all day. 

Solubility

Another winning category of XWERKS Motion is solubility, which our tester rated a perfect 5 out of 5. She didn’t experience any clumping, grittiness, floaties, or difficulty mixing — a feature you’ll want when drinking it at the gym or on the go. Because the cluster dextrin in this product is highly soluble in water, it dissolves easily and forms a smooth, uniform mixture. Several customer reviews on the XWERKS website rave about the product’s superior solubility, mentioning it “blends so smooth” and is “easy to mix.”

Side Effects

Cluster dextrin is believed to be safe for consumption, with no apparent safety concerns. (5) Our product tester didn’t experience any adverse side effects during her use of this product. As for beneficial effects, she didn’t notice any superhuman strength or noticeable bursts of energy, but she did feel good during longer lifting sessions. 

Switching gears, BCAAs are considered safe when consumed in appropriate dosages. It’s best to adhere to the suggested dosage instructions on the product label for optimal safety and effectiveness.

Nevertheless, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding a new dietary supplement to your routine, particularly if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are currently taking prescribed medications. This precaution ensures that the supplement aligns with your individual health needs and won’t pose any risks or interactions. 

All of the above considered, XWERKS Motion gets a 4 out of 5 rating for the lack of side effects from its formulation.

Third-Party Testing

Unfortunately, there’s no mention of third-party testing on the XWERKS Motion product page, which is why we gave it a 1 out of 5. 

We always encourage consumers to consider supplements that are third-party tested, because it serves as a quality control measure, ensuring that products are safe, effective, and meet certain regulatory requirements. Third-party testing enhances transparency and builds consumer trust by verifying that high-quality products contain what’s on the label and don’t include harmful levels of heavy metals or contaminants.

XWERKS Motion vs. XTEND Original BCAA Powder

XWERKS Motion and XTEND Original BCAA powder have both commonalities and differences. To start, both products contain BCAAs and electrolytes to enhance muscle recovery, reduce muscle soreness, and maintain hydration.

However, that’s where their similarities end. While XTEND Original BCAA powder doesn’t contain any carbohydrates, XWERKS Motion contains 25 grams of cluster dextrin carbs for extra energy and prolonged endurance. 

XTEND Original BCAA powder also has a much higher BCAA content of seven grams, compared to the three grams in XWERKS Motion. The Original BCAA powder even contains a whopping three and a half grams of leucine, exceeding the recommended two to three grams per day to maximize muscle-gaining capabilities. (2) The same can’t be said for the leucine content of XWERKS Motion. 

XTEND Original BCAA Powder

4.3

• Number of servings: 30 to 90
• Price per serving: Starts at $0.51
• Amount of BCAAs per serving: Seven grams 
• Calories per serving: Zero
• Flavors: Airheads Cherry, Blue Raspberry Ice
• Third-party tested: NSF and Informed Sport

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XWERKS Motion Customer Reviews

Customers on the XWERKS website give Motion a 4.4 out of 5-star rating. There are only 35 reviews on the product page. Motion is not available on Amazon at the time of writing.

One happy customer says, “Great taste! No issues with digestion, gives you the fuel needed during most intense workouts.” Another customer says, “It mixes well, I like the flavor, and have no digestive or other issues. Performance-wise I feel great. I feel more energetic during my workouts and that I’m getting more out of them.”

Reviews from customers who were less pleased with the product were written over a year ago, and the formulation and flavors may have changed. One customer says, “I’m not sold on this product. I don’t really notice any difference on the days I take this. Also, it takes a blender to get this stuff mixed! That’s a deal breaker for me.” Other customers complain of the grape flavor, which is no longer available. 

Final Verdict: Is XWERKS Motion Worth It?

XWERKS Motion provides a synergistic blend of cluster dextrin carbs, BCAAs, and electrolytes to support endurance and recovery during and after a workout. Those who enjoy leisurely activity and consume enough carbs to sustain their energy levels may not benefit from this product. 

However, it might be worth it for endurance athletes and bodybuilders with high training loads. Taking XWERKS before, during, or after intense physical activity may reduce perceived effort, extend the time to exhaustion, and decrease muscle soreness.

FAQs

Research

1. Wilburn, D., Machek, S., & Ismaeel, A. (2021). Highly Branched Cyclic Dextrin and its Ergogenic Effects in Athletes: A Brief Review. Journal of Exercise and Nutrition, 4(3). https://doi.org/10.53520/jen2021.103100
2. Plotkin, D. L., Delcastillo, K., Van Every, D. W., Tipton, K. D., Aragon, A. A., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2021). Isolated Leucine and Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation for Enhancing Muscular Strength and Hypertrophy: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 31(3), 292-301. Retrieved Nov 24, 2023, from https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0356
3. Ahmad SY, Friel JK, Mackay DS. Effect of sucralose and aspartame on glucose metabolism and gut hormones. Nutr Rev. 2020;78(9):725-746. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuz099
4. Bian X, Chi L, Gao B, Tu P, Ru H, Lu K. Gut Microbiome Response to Sucralose and Its Potential Role in Inducing Liver Inflammation in Mice. Front Physiol. 2017;8:487. Published 2017 Jul 24. doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00487
5. Choi SS, Danielewska-Nikiel B, Ohdan K, Kojima I, Takata H, Kuriki T. Safety evaluation of highly-branched cyclic dextrin and a 1,4-alpha-glucan branching enzyme from Bacillus stearothermophilus. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2009;55(3):281-290. doi:10.1016/j.yrtph.2009.07.011

The post XWERKS Motion BCAA Review (2024): A Registered Dietitian’s Honest Thoughts appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Here at Breaking Muscle, our experts include athletes, strength and conditioning coaches, and certified personal trainers who are intimately familiar with this fan bike. We put it through hours of strenuous cardio workouts to see if it could take on the challenge. In this Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X review, we’ll highlight our results, how well the bike ranked in testing, and how it compares to other fan bikes. 

Key Takeaways

• The Assault Bike ProX is a great choice of cardio equipment for those who want a total-body workout. This fan bike, also termed an air bike, requires you to engage in full-body exercise using both the handlebars and bike pedals to generate movement through a belt-driven system.
• The LCD monitor tracks stats such as calories, distance, speed, watts, and RPM, all of which can help you understand energy output.
• The Assault Fitness App, which you can access through your phone and connect to the bike’s Bluetooth-enabled console, allows you to take part in virtual and instructor-led programming.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

4.4

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

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Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Pros

• The AssaultBike Pro X features a smooth belt-driven system to keep the workout efficient and quieter than chain-driven fan bikes. This makes it a great piece of equipment for a home gym, where limiting noise can ensure your workouts aren’t a nuisance to your roommates or family members.
• With 11 height settings and six front-to-back settings for adjustments, the seat can move upward, downward, forward, and backward to help accommodate your body proportions.
• Made of a heavy-duty steel frame that makes it pretty stable for exercise, the AssaultBike ProX has a weight capacity of 330 pounds, so even heavier athletes can safely use it.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Cons

• Running at $899 at the time of this writing, it’s relatively expensive and may be out of reach for those with tight budgets. In comparison, the AssaultBike Classic and the Titan Fan Bike are both around $699. 
• The Assault Fitness App, although interactive and a step up from other brands, has been termed “glitchy” through the many reviews at the Apple store. As such, it only has a a 2.1 out of 5 star rating.
• The ProX has a large footprint, especially compared to the AssaultBike Elite. The ProX is 51.73 inches long, 24.52 inches wide, and 52.51 inches high, while the Elite is 50.95 inches long, 23.34 inches wide, and 50 inches high. Depending on your home gym setup, the Pro X may take up too much room and prevent you from doing workouts off the bike safely.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Rating

At Breaking Muscle, we know exercise equipment. We have a product testing team that has put hundreds of machines through the wringer, using them for everything from gentle warm-ups to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. Many of our staff members are home gym owners themselves and use these products nearly every day.

With the knowledge we’ve gained over the years, we created a proprietary scoring system that we used to rank the AssaultBike ProX in various categories. Not only did we evaluate how the bike performed on its own, but we also compared it with nearly 30 other exercise bikes to see how it stacked up against the competition.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Overview

From the founders of the AssaultRunner (one of the best treadmills to train with), the Assault Bike ProX is made with a heavy-duty steel frame finished in a black powder coat that helps keep it corrosion-resistant and capable of standing the test of time. It is a top-tier fan bike that can provide a brutal workout for any athlete.

In addition to its tough and durable frame, it incorporates a belt-driven system for a quiet, smooth training experience. It also requires less upkeep than chain-driven systems, which should come as a relief to busy individuals who can’t be bothered with complicated maintenance protocols.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX In-Depth Review

Price

At the time of writing, the Assault Bike ProX costs $899. Fortunately, there is also an option to finance it at around $82 a month through Affirm. For comparison, the Assault Bike ProX is more expensive than the AssaultBike Classic at $699 but cheaper than the Concept2 BikeErg, which costs around $1,100. 

The Assault Bike ProX also provides free shipping, which is a big deal for equipment this size. Buying an air bike from another brand could set you back another $100 in shipping costs.

All of the above considered, we’ve rated this bike 4 out of 5 stars for its shipping rate, finance options, and value.

Materials, Build, and Construction Quality

The Assault Bike ProX weighs 125 pounds, has a max user weight of 330 pounds, and boasts a heavy-duty steel frame with a corrosion-resistant black powder coating finish.  We love this type of frame and finish because it means less maintenance over time. 

It’s also similar to what you would see with the Rogue Echo Bike, which has a black powder coating and almost looks like it was built from scraps of a heavy-duty squat rack! But the Assault Bike ProX isn’t as bulky as the Rogue Echo Bike, making it more compatible with small spaces, which our product testers enjoyed. For comparison, the ProX is 51.73 inches long, 24.52 inches wide, and 52.51 inches high, while the Echo Bike is 55 inches long, 29.5 inches wide, and 52.25 inches high.

The Assault Bike ProX provides a wide padded seat that can adjust to 11 different heights and six different directions either forward or backward. These adjustments were the same on the Assault Bike Pro, which the ProX replaces. The rubber handles on the ProX help you maintain your grip and keep your hands comfortable throughout the workout as well. 

This fan bike also comes with footpegs at the base of the handlebars for you to place your feet. This gives you the option to do an upper body-only workout, which is great for injury recovery or arm day. 

Based on the quality and construction of the Assault Bike ProX, we rated it 5 out of 5 stars. 

Delivery and Assembly

We gave the AssaultBike Pro X 5 out of 5 stars for delivery and assembly because of how straightforward it was to build. The bikes arrived at our testing facility 75 percent built, so all we had to do was attach the LCD console, pedals, handlebars, seat post, and saddle. Assault Fitness provides all the tools needed to build your air bike, and it should take roughly 35 to 45 minutes.

Performance

When testing the Assault Bike ProX, we noticed a smoother and quieter ride than what we’ve experienced with other air bikes, like the Titan Fan Bike or the AssaultBike Classic. This is predominantly thanks to the belt-driven system. A belt-driven system requires less maintenance than a chain-driven system, but it is also harder to use. When you pedal, the steel fan wheel generates resistance based on your effort. The harder you pedal, the more resistance is applied. 

However, once you stop pedaling, the fan wheel will stop moving, requiring more effort to get it started again. This might be tough if you’re not prepared for a high-intensity workout. Due to this, we gave the Assault Bike ProX a 4 out of 5-star rating for performance. 

Included Workouts

The Assault Bike ProX’s LCD monitor provides seven built-in training programs and a competition mode for those ready to take on the challenge. Through the Assault Fitness App, which we’ll review below, there is also an option to follow instructor-led programs or create customized workouts.

All in all, we give it a 3 out of 5 star rating in this category. The included workouts aren’t as robust as what you’d see in a more interactive bike like the Peloton. However, we do appreciate having them and think they can be valuable for people who may not know where to start.

Heart Rate Monitoring

While the AssaultBike Classic was only compatible with the Polar T34 heart rate chest strap, the Assault Bike ProX is compatible with other brands, like Garmin. You can link a heart rate monitor through the bike’s Bluetooth features. However, you need to purchase a compatible one separately, which is why we only rated it 4 out of 5 stars here (though to be fair, this is common for most exercise bikes). 

Display and Stat Tracking

The Assault Bike ProX comes with a five-inch by eight-inch monitor, which is a common size amongst other fan bikes. This high-quality LCD monitor is powered by four AA batteries, which Assault includes with your purchase. The console is great for tracking stats such as calories, distance, heart rate, speed, watts, and RPM. It also connects to the Assault Fitness App.

Our product testers loved that it could track power output in addition to distance and speed, which is a great measure of energy expenditure to quantify workout intensity. The Rogue Echo Bike monitor doesn’t provide feedback such as watts and RPM on its monitor, which gives the Assault Bike ProX the edge.

All things considered, we’ve given this bike 5 out of 5 stars for its display and tracking capabilities.

Conveniences

When testing the Assault Bike ProX, we noticed a ton of conveniences. First, the air bike requires no electric outlet, and we loved being able to use it anywhere. This feature is also a welcome benefit for commercial CrossFit gym owners, as you don’t have to worry about your members tripping over power cords.

Other conveniences include a device holder and a water bottle holder. Some fan bikes like the Titan Fan Bike also include these conveniences. Others, like the Rogue Echo Bike, don’t (though they are available to purchase separately). We always appreciate it when a brand throws in little extras like this. They allow you to have all your workout essentials within reach. Plus, you don’t have to worry about potentially placing multiple orders or paying extra shipping fees to get them.

Overall, our product testers rated the conveniences 4 out of 5 stars. The only reason we docked a point is that we wish the bike came with a wind guard to prevent cold air from blowing in our faces when training in a cold garage. There is one available on the Assault Fitness website, but you have to buy it separately for an additional $39.

Workout Apps and Subscription Options

The Assault Bike ProX is a part of the Assault Fitness line of exercise machines that operate using the Assault Fitness app. The app was one of our product testers’ favorite features.

Free to download from the App Store and Google Play, the Assault Fitness App provides you with a multitude of instructor-driven workouts. You can do these workouts on your own or compete against other athletes virtually. Many of the workouts also integrate other types of equipment, such as dumbbells and kettlebells, to help you get more well-rounded programming. 

While we enjoyed the app, we only gave it 4 out of 5 stars. As of this writing, it’s not available on the most recent version of Android. Athletes with newer Android phones may not be able to use it.

Bluetooth Connectivity

The Assault Bike ProX is Bluetooth-enabled. We don’t necessarily consider Bluetooth connectivity a standout feature, as dozens of cardio machines we’ve tested now come with it. But we’ve also tried inexpensive cardio equipment that doesn’t have this feature, and even Assault Fitness’s classic AssaultBike lacks Bluetooth capabilities. As such, we rated the ProX 5 out of 5 stars here.

Noise Level

When comparing other fan bikes we tested, the Assault Bike ProX generated less noise due to its belt-driven system. The belt-driven system operates more smoothly than chain-drive systems such as those on the Schwinn Airdyne. A noisier system can make it tough to perform workouts at home, especially if you train early in the morning or late at night when others are sleeping.

That said, no fan bike will be completely silent, so you should still expect some noise as air travels through the flywheel. Due to this, we give the noise level of the Assault Bike ProX 4 out of 5 stars.

Portability

The Assault Bike ProX offers some portability, thanks to two small transport wheels at the front. To move it, all you need to do is tilt it onto its wheels to help glide it across the floor. However, although it might be easy for some athletes to move this fan bike, others might struggle to relocate it because it weighs 125 pounds. Based on these findings, we give the portability of the Assault Bike ProX 4 out of 5 stars.  

Warranty

The Assault Bike ProX has a three-year non-wear parts warranty and a seven-year frame warranty. The three-year non-wear parts warranty doesn’t cover normal wear and tear on parts like the seat, pedals, and handle grips. This may seem like a drawback, but in our experience, this is common in warranties on other brands’ fan bikes. But the length of Assault’s warranty is longer compared to Rogue, who only offers a two-year warranty on their Echo Bike, and Titan, who only offers a one-year warranty on their fan bike. We gave the warranty of the Assault Bike ProX 5 out of 5 stars for this reason.

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Specs

Overall Dimensions

The Assault Bike ProX is 51.73 inches long, 24.52 inches wide, and 52.51 inches high. Compared to the classic AssaultBike, these dimensions are one to two inches bigger in each category. If you’re between the two, we definitely recommend measuring carefully to ensure you choose the one that will best fit your space.

Resistance

The Assault Bike ProX is a fan bike, meaning it builds resistance based on how much air you recruit in the fan wheel as you work. The harder you pedal, the more air resistance is applied, making your workout more challenging. 

In addition to air resistance, the ProX uses a belt-driven system, meaning it only operates when you begin to pedal. If you stop pedaling, the machine stops moving. This makes it harder to operate compared to a chair-driven system, like what you’d see with the AssaultBike Classic. 

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of the Assault Bike ProX is 330 pounds. This is more than the Classic bike, which holds 300 pounds, but less than the Elite, which holds up to 350 pounds. 

Seat and Handlebar Adjustments

The Assault Bike ProX can accommodate most body sizes with 11 different height settings and six front-to-back settings. These adjustment levels are relatively standard based on what we’ve seen on other fan bikes. However, some competitors like the Rogue Echo Bike only have five front-to-back seat settings. 

Electrical Requirements

Because the Assault Bike ProX does not require an electrical outlet, you can transport it wherever you want to go —outdoors or indoors. The monitor, however, does require AA batteries to operate. 

Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX vs. Echo Bike

At first glance, it seems the Assault Bike ProX and Rogue Echo Bike have many similarities. When you analyze them more closely, you’ll find that there are several key differences between the two. 

Below are the dimensions of both fan bikes:

Even though the Rogue Echo Bike is bulkier in material and dimensions, it has the same 330-pound weight capacity as the AssaultBike ProX. Both of these fan bikes are also powered by movement, so no electrical outlet is needed. Further, weighing in at 123 and 125 pounds, respectively, the Rogue Echo Bike and the Assault Bike ProX are equally portable, especially given they both have wheels.

Finally, both products use belt-driven mechanics, providing a smooth and quiet riding experience. But the Assault Bike ProX gives more metrics on the monitor, such as watts and RPM. This feature alone could make or break your decision, depending on how important tracking is to your training.

Rogue Echo Bike V3.0

4.0

• Overall dimensions: 55” L x 29.5” W x 55.25” H
• Weight: 123 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: LCD console

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Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Customer Reviews

The Assault Bike ProX comes in with a strong 4.6 out of 5-star rating on the Assault Fitness website. Many users claim that it is super easy to set up, requires low maintenance, and is a favorite piece of equipment in their home gyms. Customers also praise its sturdiness and its ability to handle a tough workout. 

One user mentioned that the left peg became loose during their workout. Another buyer mentioned that the Assault Bike ProX was very noisy and didn’t think it was as stable as other reviews might suggest — note, however, that complaints like this are in the minority.

Final Verdict: Is the Assault Fitness AssaultBike ProX Worth It?

After extensive research and testing of the Assault Bike ProX, we can say that this air bike is worth it. Made with a heavy-duty steel frame finished in a black powder coat, it can take on the toughest workouts. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a full-body, high-intensity interval training machine for improving both endurance and strength. 

The smoother and quieter experience you get with the Assault Bike ProX is thanks to the belt-driven system integrated into the design. Although this system might require more effort to operate, this bike can still be a great purchase for everyone from CrossFitters to health and fitness enthusiasts.

FAQs

The post Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X Review (2024): Assault’s Best Bike Yet? appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Despite packing an efficient punch, the best exercise bikes cost similar to rowing machines —  as little as $300 to well over $2,500. Imagine the horror of spending thousands of dollars just to find out you don’t love your shiny new cardio equipment?!

Lucky for you, I’ve done the research for you and gathered a list of the 13 best exercise bikes, so you can pick the right one for you.

How We Chose the Best Exercise Bikes

The Breaking Muscle team comprises a passionate squad of fitness aficionados, including conditioning coaches, spin instructors, competitive triathletes, and home gym owners. Altogether, our team has tested and reviewed 50+ exercise bikes — from the cheapest to the most expensive — putting them through rigorous a 13-point protocol.

From there, we chose the best exercise bikes by category rating each from 1 to 5 based on criteria like:

• Adjustability: Are the handlebars and the seat adjustable to fit various body sizes?
• Customization: Can you swap in your own pedals, saddle, and handlebars for a more custom riding experience?
• Tech capabilities: What interactive tech is available, if any? Is there Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity available?

We have lots to cover… so gear up and let’s dive in!

Our Top Picks for the Best Exercise Bikes

• Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
• Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X
• Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s
• Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike
• Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc
• Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg
• Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike
• Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore
• Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike
• Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike
• Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
• Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move
• Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Best Exercise Bike Overall: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

4.5

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The NordicTrack S22i is hands-down the best exercise bike overall. We had three product testers take this bike for a ride to tell us why it won our top pick.

This NordicTrack bike’s programming, screen, and connectivity are excellent. Our product testers love the complimentary one-year iFIT membership because you can do live coach-led workouts, on-demand studio classes, and outdoor courses. 

Plus, the 22-inch touchscreen is high-definition, so it looks like you’re riding through a trail in Hawaii or taking a spin class in person.  It also swivels, so you can do other iFIT workouts off the bike without needing to see the screen from the rest of your home gym. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

With 24 smooth-adjusting, magnetic resistance levels, our Breaking Muscle staff members found the riding experience on the S22i impressive.

They were pleasantly surprised that this bike inclines up to 20 percent grade and declines down to -10 percent, which is rare for a spin bike — the angle can even be auto-adjusted during your workouts by your iFIT coaches. The resistance and incline levels adjust digitally, which feels higher-end than push buttons.

NordicTrack included a series of convenient accessories on the S22i. For starters, our product testers like the dual water bottle holders and the built-in fan to keep you hydrated and comfortable during your rides. Plus, the media shelf helps hold your smartphone, and there’s even an easy-access storage tray for the two (complimentary) three-pound dumbbells.

When it comes to mobility, the S22i is more cumbersome than you’d expect. Our product testers found the front wheels helped it move, but there’s no handle at the back, so you have to awkwardly lift it from the rear stabilizer beam for the wheels to kick in. They also noticed you need to be careful with the big screen knocking into things as you reposition it. Combined with its 205-pound in-box weight, a second person can be helpful when moving the bike.

Unfortunately, the S22i’s programming is limited if you don’t have an iFIT membership. Without it, you essentially just have the machine in manual mode. There are a few free bike workouts in iFIT that you can access without the recurring subscription, but even the live chat agent couldn’t confirm this and suggested we call their Customer Service team.

With the impressive build quality and tech of this NordicTrack Studio Bike, it’s no surprise that it commands a higher price. At the time of publishing, it retails at $1,999 — making it comparable to the Peloton Bike+. Remember, you’ll also need an ongoing iFIT subscription to use the bike to its full potential. That said, I think it’s well worth the cost, considering the bike’s features and the value of the iFIT membership.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.5 out of 5 stars for its excellent classes and courses with iFIT, smooth resistance with incline/decline capability, and convenient accessories.

Best Air Bike: Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

4.4

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

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The Pro X is a beast of an air bike. Our product tester loved its belt drive because it’s smoother than their more affordable Assault Bike Classic and the previous model (the Assault Bike Pro), both of which have chain drives. 

At first use, its 125-pound weight stood out, as it’s incredibly sturdy even when pedaling and pushing as hard as possible. Almost everything on this unit is metal; a full-metal construction means it’s seriously rugged and should last years, even when used by heavier and stronger athletes.

Assault Fitness uses the same “Elite” monitor on all their air bikes, and after testing 10+ air bikes, it’s become our product tester’s favorite. The physical buttons are easy to touch and colored, which is an underrated feature you’ll appreciate if you’ve done a HIIT workout on an air bike. The console’s high-contrast LCD screen also displays all the essential metrics: heart rate, calories, distance, RPM, and more. The included programming intervals and Bluetooth connectivity are a great benefit as well.

Having reviewed dozens of cardio equipment pieces over the past three years, I’m personally impressed by Assault’s warranty on their Pro X. The frame is covered by a seven-year warranty, with a three-year warranty on moving parts. 

Many companies try to pass the majority of frustrating part repairs on to their customers by only covering “non-wear and tear” parts. However, Assault breaks the mold by explicitly covering “moving” parts for the first three years. Knowing you can put the Pro X through brutal workouts day after day while being covered on parts delivers serious peace of mind.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has extensive experience repairing air bikes and says swapping a belt or changing internal components can be a nightmare. Bike repairs often need special parts and are best done by a certified technician, so expect any significant repairs to take multiple hours, with most of your help coming from how-to/troubleshooting videos. To be fair, this applies to air bikes bought from any company — not just Assault Fitness.

Because the Pro X is large, it can be cumbersome to move. One of our product testers found the easiest way to transport it is to lift it from the rear stabilizer until the wheels contact the floor. Still, the 125-pound weight with its 52-inch x 24.5-inch footprint makes this air bike challenging to move compared to the Concept2 BikeErg, and it might be too much for some users.

In general, fan bikes might not be the best choice for home gyms that have to be careful of noise levels. As a fan-based bike, the Assault Bike Pro X is loud. 

That said, the fan-blade system of the Pro X appears to be a regular bike hub with fan blades welded to it — making it much smaller than what you’d find on the Rogue Echo bike. This smaller size means less air displacement, and some Breaking Muscle team members were surprised by how quiet it was in comparison.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.4 out of 5 stars for its rugged design, excellent console capabilities, and impressive warranty.

Best Exercise Bike With Classes: Echelon EX-8s

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

3.6

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

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One of our product testers took the Echelon Connect bike for a ride and was immediately impressed. 

It features an oversized 24-inch curved touchscreen, which feels enormous but immersive when working out. Combine that with the high-definition quality and LED lights that sync to your workout metrics, and it feels like you’re cycling in a live studio class — which is super motivating. The dual-facing speakers offer great sound, and the screen flips 180 degrees, so you can easily view it for Echelon Premier workouts.

By joining their Echelon Premier Membership at $39.99 monthly, you unlock daily live classes and over 15,000 various, on-demand classes. Premier members receive exclusive discounts, a more comprehensive range of class difficulties, and up to five user profiles. With this membership, you can also view a leaderboard and compete against others, see when your friends are online, and check other users’ stats worldwide. Finally, the Echelon app syncs your console with your Strava, Zwift, Apple Health, FitBit, and Spotify profiles and data.

Alternatively, Echelon offers a more affordable “Fit Pass” at $11.99 monthly. This plan is best if you want to work out anywhere, anytime, without needing any equipment. Fit Pass includes 60+ instructors, 40+ daily live classes, challenges, and more. I like their range of workouts; they have everything from cardio and core training to meditation and barre. They even have a travel-the-world-fitness class option, which reminds our product tester of JRNY and iFIT. 

Despite the massive class selection, our product tester finds the quality could be better for the monthly price, even if you sign up for a two-year plan ($29.16 monthly). She notes that the price seems high for what it is because it isn’t as produced as Peloton’s live and on-demand classes, but it isn’t bad — the production quality just isn’t quite there yet.

The EX-8S retails for $3,079.50, but it’s on sale for $1,699.99 at the time of publishing. The sale price is way more reasonable, but the original cost seems expensive for the actual specs of the bike. Considering the Peloton Bike+ is more affordable and offers a better warranty, I wouldn’t be surprised if more customers jump ship.

Echelon’s warranty on the Connect EX-8S is flat-out disappointing at just one year. Their 30-day return policy and financing option are typical, but our product tester couldn’t believe the warranty is only one year, especially for such a steep retail price. If you’re an active Echelon Premier member, you can enjoy the benefit of full warranty coverage for up to five years. However, this requires an ongoing monthly membership for 60 months, costing you a whopping $1,700 over those five years in subscription fees.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for the outstanding 24” HD touchscreen, along with the workout subscription options offered through Echelon Premier and the more affordable Fit Pass.

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors: Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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The Horizon 5.0R is excellent for seniors due to its mobility-friendly design. For example, the low, step-through frame helps you access the seated position even if you struggle with mobility or leg strength. Once you’re ready to sit down into the seat, there are front handlebars that you can hold for support as you sit down — they also make it easier to stand up after your workout. 

I’m impressed by the sturdiness of the 5.0R, which is a blessing because most seniors have trouble with their balance. 

The large 66-inch by 25.2-inch footprint and lower seat position result in a more stable machine. The flywheel, however, weighs just 15.4 pounds, which makes it easy to pedal at first and is gentler on your joints. That said, 100 magnetic resistance levels are available, so you can still get a smooth but seriously intense workout.

I’m also glad to see toe clips on the pedals; they help keep your feet from slipping out, which is more likely on a recumbent bike due to the reclined angle of your feet. The extra-large, adjustable seat includes a backrest and handlebars along the sides. Even though you have a near-zero chance of slipping out of the seat during your workout, holding the handlebars for extra support and peace of mind is nice.

Finally, I’m pleased with this exercise bike’s simple controls and convenient features. For one, the screen and control buttons are easy to see and reach while seated. Further, a built-in fan and an included water bottle holder keep you comfortable and hydrated during your rides. All of these features add a nice touch for older populations. 

Unfortunately, the bike does require some assembly. There’s a helpful assembly video, but according to Horizon, lifting the main frame out of the box requires two people. Because of the box size, weight, and assembly, this might be too much work, depending on your strength and mobility. 

Horizon does have an in-room delivery option for an extra $199 if you’re experienced with basic tools and would prefer to assemble it yourself but want the large box brought in by another person. Alternatively, they offer white glove delivery and assembly for $239, including room-of-choice delivery, complete setup and assembly, and packaging removal.

At 123 pounds, this exercise bike might be too heavy for a senior to move. There is a carrying handle at the bottom rear of the machine, and once you lift it from the handle, you can wheel it to another location. Indeed, you’re not lifting the entire bike — some of the bike’s weight will be resting on the wheels — but combined with its large footprint, you might find it unmoveable without some help.

Finally, the touchscreen console requires basic tech skills. You’ll be okay with the console if you can operate a smartphone or tablet. That said, some seniors rely only on analog (push) buttons and might find the touchscreen and controls too confusing to use if they’re not tech-savvy.

All the above considered, we rank this 4 out of 5 stars for its mobility-friendly access, sturdy and stable design, and simple yet intuitive controls.

Best Spin Exercise Bike: Diamondback 1260sc

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

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The Diamondback Fitness 1260sc is a fantastic spin-studio-quality bike. The rear-mounted 31-pound flywheel gives it extra smoothness, similar to riding a bike outside. Even better, Diamondback Fitness uses a belt to drive the flywheel — making it significantly smoother and quieter than a chain-driven system. Although our product tester didn’t think she’d like the magnetic resistance lever, she grew to love its premium-like clicking sound. All these finer touches make the 1260 comparable to an exercise bike from a commercial gym studio.

To add to the studio feel, the 1260 is highly adjustable. The handlebars are two-way adjustable (up, down, forward, and back) and have plenty of grips, so you can find a comfortable hand position whether riding in or out of the saddle. The two-sided pedals have toe clips for maximum safety and cycling efficiency, while the other is a classic flat pedal. Thanks to the two-way adjusting seat and the variety of available heights, our five-foot, four-inch tall product tester fit perfectly with a couple of inches to spare.

This Diamondback Fitness bike connects to many ANT+ apps and wearables so that you can pair it with Garmin and Wahoo products. Our product tester enjoys the vast range of apps connecting via Bluetooth FTMS (Fitness Machine Service protocol). This latest tech lets you connect your fitness equipment to popular apps like Zwift, Rouvy, Myzone, SPIVI, and others — tracking your watts, time, distance, rpm, heart rate, and more.

Our product tester doesn’t love where they put the water bottle holder and vertical adjustment levers on this bike. Since the water bottle holder is mounted in front of the post, she has to awkwardly lean forward and reach around the front post to grab water while riding. The adjustment levers also don’t open easily, so they require a lot of force to pry them open. Once opened, adjustments are no problem — but the initial sticking point of the levers is no joke.

The console on the 1260 is as simple as you can get, and it lacks any interactive features you’d see on a Peloton+. The console doesn’t provide any programming, so you must do your workouts manually, pair the console with an app, find free online classes, or join a subscription service like iFIT.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its spin-studio quality, impressive adjustability, and wide range of console connectivity.

Best Portable Exercise Bike: Concept2 BikeErg

Concept2 BikeErg

3.9

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

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The BikeErg is extremely easy to move, making it the best portable exercise bike due mainly to its materials and construction. Built mostly from aluminum,  it’s lightweight and compact (48 inches long by 24 inches wide), which minimizes excess weight while retaining durability. It also weighs only 68 pounds when fully assembled, making it lighter than most exercise bikes and a little over half the weight of the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike. 

The C2 BikeErg includes caster wheels that make moving it a breeze. Once the machine tips up for the wheels to kick in, you can roll it smoothly to wherever you want it to go. You can fit it into most vehicles by removing the seat and handlebar posts, making it easier to haul to another CrossFit box or gym.

Its high portability is heightened further by its adjustability, customizability, and versatility. The handlebars can be adjusted up, down, forward, and back. Similarly, you can raise or lower the seat and tilt it to +/-15-degrees. I’m impressed the BikeErg is compatible with most cycling parts — letting you change the saddle, handlebars, and pedals as you see fit.

One of our Breaking Muscle staff members has used the Concept2 BikeErg extensively and is continually impressed by its versatility. They enjoy it for long endurance rides and high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Unlike an air bike like the AssaultBike Pro X, the Concept2 is a jack-of-all-trades.

There are a few downsides to the Concept2 BikeErg. First, it’s rather noisy. Like the other Concept2 cardio machines, the BikeErg is also fan-based, so a loud whooshing sound is made when you pedal. Compared to a quiet electromagnetic bike like the BLANK, I could see some users being annoyed by the noise from the fan. The higher damper settings restrict airflow, reducing the loudness, but you might still need headphones or earplugs if it bothers you.

If you enjoy using interactive consoles, you might be slightly disappointed by Concept2’s Performance Monitor (PM5). It lacks the engaging and interactive aspects of the NordicTrack S22i’s iFIT membership console. The screen is small and lacks speakers. Plus, it doesn’t offer live or on-demand workout classes — you must pay for a separate subscription service.

Finally, the BikeErg isn’t cheap by any means. It’s a quality spin bike (technically fan-based, but it doesn’t count as an air bike due to the lack of moveable handlebars), so you can expect it to cost a pretty penny. You’ll save some money going with a more economical brand, but whether you’re willing to sacrifice on performance and the power of the PM5 is up to you.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.9 out of 5 stars for its easy portability, highly adjustable components, impressive customizability, and versatility.

RELATED: Concept2 RowErg Review

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss: CAROL Bike

CAROL Bike

4.1

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

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When you lead a busy life, keeping a regular exercise habit is easier said than done if it takes 30 minutes to an hour — enter the CAROL. 

Quick note: our product testers trialed the original CAROL bike, but this review is based on the 2.0 version of the CAROL. We’ll note any updated features of the 2.0 version below.

This bike is the best for weight loss because it gives you an effective workout in just five minutes, so you can easily fit it into your busy schedule. There’s no excuse with the CAROL because your workout takes just five minutes. This means you can do it any time during your day, making it much more likely that you’ll stick with your new exercise habit.

The CAROL is also ideal for weight loss because the workouts use an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to calculate your optimal resistance. Simply choose one of 18 different workouts and fitness tests; the upgraded console 2.0 will walk you through it without any confusion, making it suitable for any age and fitness level. You even get access for up to eight riders with the home membership, so you can help others in their quest to live healthier, too.

This bike also supports weight loss through data-driven results. The first model of the CAROL had heart rate monitors built into the handlebars, whereas the 2.0 model includes a chest-strap heart rate monitor to track your training. Each workout refines what it’s learned to tailor workouts to your fitness level, then shows your progress using precise data like your overall fitness score, heart rate metrics, peak power, energy output, and global and local leaderboard stats. Seeing your fitness improve with nearly every workout will entice you to return.

Unfortunately, you’re locked into paying for the ongoing $15 monthly membership if you want a fully functioning bike. Without the membership, you can still do a manual ride, but the resistance will stay at the starting resistance and never change — making it practically useless for a real workout. For this reason, changing the intensity and using the bike to its maximum potential requires a recurring membership.

Next, the CAROL is relatively expensive. Based on the bike specs alone, it doesn’t live up to the price because it costs more than the Peloton Bike+ and doesn’t include live or on-demand classes like iFIT. Further, it’s roughly ten times the price of our most affordable exercise bike, the Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike. Remember, though, this bike isn’t made for interactive fitness classes or enjoyable rides — it’s for people who want the best results from the shortest workout possible.

Sadly, the warranty falls short based on its $2,500 price tag. Like the Echelon EX-8s, it only has a one-year warranty, leaving much to be desired. Our product tester doesn’t think you’ll have any issues with the bike breaking down. and there’s a 100-day home trial if you change your mind. Still, she wishes the warranty was much longer, and I couldn’t agree more.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.1 out of 5 stars for its AI-controlled motorized resistance, detailed and data-driven console, and beautifully sleek design.

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike: Bowflex VeloCore

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

4.2

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The Bowflex VeloCore has a sleek and modern look, and our product tester was impressed with its high-quality build, finding it fun and easy to use. She appreciates the smooth-feeling 33-pound flywheel with 100 levels of magnetic resistance for quiet but intense workouts. This bike’s belt drive requires minimal maintenance and delivers a consistent performance. It has an adjustable seat, two-way adjusting handlebars, and dual-sided pedals that accommodate regular or SPD shoes — essential features for optimal comfort, especially if you’re a triathlete.

The bike comes with a choice of two screen sizes, 16-inch or 22-inch, and each is an HD, responsive touchscreen that connects to the JRNY app for live and on-demand workouts. Based on your level, an initial fitness assessment determines what classes JRNY recommends for you to try. There are also options to “explore the world” by biking around different destinations. The JRNY subscription even lets you stream entertainment like Netflix, Hulu, Prime Video, and Disney+.

The bike’s most distinctive feature is the ability to lean from side to side, creating a more dynamic and engaging riding experience. The leaning feature claims to activate muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination. The bike also has a stabilizer bar that can lock the bike in place for a more traditional ride. The leaning feature works with the JRNY app, which offers scenic rides and interactive games that challenge you to lean and steer along the route.

One downside to the VeloCore is the price, ranging from $1,799 to $2,199 based on the screen size chosen. Going off the price alone, the Diamondback 1260sc is a better choice if you’re not interested in being able to lean as part of your workouts. 

The bike also requires a monthly subscription to the JRNY app, which costs $11.99 monthly or $99 per year. However, the bike’s functionality is severely limited without the subscription because you can only use the manual mode, and you can’t stream anything. 

The bike’s leaning feature is the main selling point of the bike, but it may not be as beneficial or enjoyable as it sounds. It claims to activate more muscles, burn more calories, and improve balance and coordination, yet no scientific evidence on the product page supports these claims. Plus, more moving parts and sensors than a regular bike make it more prone to wear and tear. It might not be worth the extra cost and hassle for users who prefer a more stable and less gimmicky ride.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.2 out of 5 stars for its excellent spin bike design, highly adjustable components, and innovative bike-leaning feature.

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Best Affordable Exercise Bike: Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike is a highly affordable exercise bike, on sale for $249.99 at the time of writing. Compared to many other bikes in this article, it’s the most budget-friendly option. Despite its economical price, I’m pleasantly surprised by its great reviews on Amazon: 4.⅘ stars based on feedback from 21,788 customers.

Our product reviewer is impressed with several features of this bike typically found on spin-studio-quality bikes. First, the flywheel is 35 pounds for a smooth riding experience that rivals cycling outdoors, and the steel frame feels heavy-duty for peace of mind while riding. The belt-driven system also minimizes noise and, combined with the mechanical (friction) resistance, is quiet enough to operate without disturbing sleeping kids or neighbors. 

Like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, the Yosuda also offers two-way adjustable handlebars and a four-way adjustable seat to ensure it fits as many cyclists of different sizes as possible. The built-in transportation wheels make moving it around easier, and the bike includes a device and water bottle holder.

However, the YOSUDA bike has some drawbacks that may make you think twice before buying it. The bike’s console has no programming, so you’re on your own for making or sourcing structured workouts. It also lacks Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity, so you can’t sync it with cycling apps like Zwift or fitness devices like a heart rate monitor. Further, our Breaking Muscle team member’s LCD monitor was wobbly and seemed like it was about to fall off. It appears that Yosuda invested in some quality parts but cut corners on the rest.

For example, during testing, our product reviewer’s Yosuda had some pieces breaking off, such as the pedal strap. The bike seat was comfortable only for the first few minutes and already started to experience small tears, and the water bottle holder felt flimsy. Many reviews claim it’s a common experience for many parts to wear out or break off after a few months of use.

Finally, he provided some clear guidance on its durability. At around $300, it’s a great price but not a durable bike — it will likely need replacing in about two years. The Yosuda is fine if you’re looking for a quick short-term fix, but it’s not a forever bike. 

Suppose you prefer to make your exercise bike investment once. In that case, you may want to save for a more expensive and reliable bike that offers a better value and riding experience, like the Diamondback 1260sc.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.8 out of 5 stars for its affordability, value, adjustability, and high praise on Amazon.

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike: Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

4.0

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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I’m pleasantly surprised with the Schwinn 290’s console and connectivity. You can use the JRNY® app on the 7″ LCD screen to access 200+ virtual courses that automatically adjust your bike’s resistance to the course’s terrain. 

Alternatively, there are trainer-led classes for a workout with a more human touch. There are many workout durations and class types, so you’ll most certainly find an intensity and trainer matching your preferences. Best of all, you get a two-month free trial to JRNY® when you buy the 290 Recumbent Bike. 

If you’re a ZWIFT fan, the console is compatible with that platform, so you can virtually interact, train, and compete against others worldwide. The speakers and console even have Bluetooth capability to connect to your smartphone or tablet easily. If you prefer to play your own music playlist or sync your heart rate monitor, both are possible on the 290.

While almost twice as expensive as our choice for the best affordable exercise bike (Yosuda Indoor Cycling Bike), the Schwinn 290 packs impressive features to make this an excellent value exercise bike. 

The console includes a media shelf and USB charging port to rest your smartphone or tablet on within view for a hands-free workout without worrying about battery life. It also features a water bottle holder attached to the side of the backrest for easy hydration access, whether you like water or the best electrolyte powders during your rides. Due to its 107.6-pound weight, the transport wheels are super convenient for moving, especially if you plan on storing it away between workouts.

Regarding downsides, I don’t like how the foot pedals adjust. You can tighten and loosen them quickly, but you must push the selector tab into your desired strap notch to lock a size in place. Securing the tab is shockingly tricky, even more so if you have big feet or struggle with mobility. 

You’re better off getting a rough estimate of the notch you need, dismounting the bike, and adjusting them with both hands. Based on my experience with these, I feel like a classic cinching strap of the Concept2 BikeErg or a plain velcro strap would be more user-friendly. 

Further, the step-through area is just too cramped for my liking. It’s so small that you must angle your foot to pass it through the step-through area. As a result, I could see this being a tripping hazard for anyone with mobility or weight challenges. I’m surprised to see this area redesigned because the Schwinn 270 Recumbent — the model that the 290 has replaced — featured a much larger area for you to step through. Because of this safety oversight, I’d recommend the Horizon 5.0R over this recumbent for seniors.

Sadly, you won’t get a great labor warranty with the 290. The parts are free if anything breaks on this exercise bike within the first two years. However, the labor warranty is only 90 days — ridiculously short. This means you’ll have to figure out how to replace the part(s) yourself or pay a technician out-of-pocket to repair your bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its JRNY® + ZWIFT apps, Bluetooth speakers and connectivity, and convenient accessories.

Best Folding Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

4.3

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

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This foldable upright bike collapses inward to a compact 21.5-inch depth, and the backrest folds down, so the height is only 47 inches. This means it can easily be tucked away in a closet when not in use. Although it didn’t make our top choice list, a Marcy upright bike can fold. While snagging the best upright exercise bike overall spot is unlikely, the folding feature is underrated if you work out in a small space.

Marcy’s folding bike is relatively portable. It features transport wheels, making it easy to move from one corner to another without lifting and carrying the entire bike. Depending on your strength, you could carry it up or down a flight of stairs if needed because it only weighs 37 pounds — making it one of the lightest exercise bikes featured in this article.

The features of this folding exercise bike surprised me. It boasts a 250-pound weight capacity, which is great for its lightweight frame. When folded out, the 14-gauge steel feels sturdy, so I’m confident it’ll hold up to its listed weight limit. The pedals have foot straps like the Horizon 5.0R Recumbent Bike, and they’re also weighted, which makes getting your feet inserted much easier. The two-year warranty was higher than expected for a budget-friendly folding bike like this.

One downside is that the  Marcy foldable bike’s console is pretty barebones, displaying only the distance, time, speed, odometer, and burned calories. It has no built-in programming, meaning you’re stuck with the manual mode and might need a subscription to vary your workout. Unsurprisingly, the console also lacks Bluetooth or ANT+ connectivity, so no apps or fitness devices will pair or sync with it. If tracking your workout data is crucial, find an alternative method or bike.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its folding feature to save space, portability, and multiple surprising features like sturdiness, pedals, and warranty.

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces: Cubii Move

Cubii Move

3.8

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

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The Cubii Move has six adjustable resistance levels using the knob in the center of the machine, so you can customize your workout intensity and challenge yourself as you progress. 

The LCD screen displays the metric you’ve selected, and this under-desk exercise bike can track a surprising number of metrics, from stride count and mileage to duration and calories burned. The reset button is large enough to press it with your toe without bending down and using your finger.

This under-desk machine is free and compatible with the Cubii app, which lets you manually add your data, join challenges, and access 300+ expert-guided workout classes. Through it, you can connect with other Cubii users and share your achievements and goals.

The Cubii is lightweight and portable, weighing only 18 pounds. Thanks to its glass-filled nylon construction, you can quickly move it from room to room. This means it’s not difficult to bring it home from your office, so you can continue to use it while watching TV after your workday — storing it under your bed or in a closet when not in use.

This under-desk elliptical isn’t suitable if you’re looking for a high-intensity or full-body workout. It only targets your lower body muscles: quads, hamstrings, glutes, and calves. However, the range of motion is significantly smaller compared to a recumbent exercise bike. It also doesn’t provide much cardiovascular or calorie-burning benefits compared to other exercise machines.

The Cubii may not work well on thick carpets as the rubber feet might sink, causing the unit to wobble and shift out of place. Also, it might not fit under some desks or chairs, depending on the height and clearance. You may need to adjust your chair or desk height to avoid hitting your knees on the underside of your desk. Lastly, you may also need to wear comfortable shoes or socks to prevent blisters or discomfort on your feet.

All the above considered, we rank this 3.5 out of 5 stars for its low impact, good metrics, free app, and portable build.

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen: Peloton Bike+

Peloton Bike+

4.4

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

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The screen on the Peloton Bike+ is amazing. It is a 23.8-inch HD (1080p) touchscreen that rotates 360 degrees, so you can easily switch between your cycling workouts and exercising off the bike. The screen also has a high-fidelity sound system, a front-facing camera, and a microphone so that you can interact with other riders and instructors with crystal-clear quality. The camera even has a privacy cover, which many camera-shy people can appreciate.

I like the screen’s responsiveness and how easy it is to navigate. It displays all the metrics you need to track your performance, like cadence, resistance, output, heart rate, and calories burned. It even features a reduced-reflective and anti-smudge coating, so your fingerprints won’t end up all over the touchscreen.

Peloton offers various live and on-demand classes to suit your preferences and goals. I love the availability of classes and the huge selection of music choices like pop, hip hop, rock, R&B, the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and Broadway. The classes range from five to 75 minutes, though from what I’ve seen, most classes fall in the 20- to 30-minute range. Sometimes, if I’m in the mood for a longer workout but can’t find a 45-minute class that interests me, I’ll “stack” two shorter classes together. 

I particularly enjoy the Power Zone classes, where different parts focus on staying within a certain heart rate zone, and the climb or HIIT rides, where the intensity is slightly higher than regular classes. There are also many beginner classes, and even though I consider myself more advanced in fitness, I enjoy the beginner classes occasionally for active recovery.

Unfortunately, the bike is expensive. The Peloton Bike+ costs $2,495, a lot of money for an exercise bike. 

You also have to pay for the accessories, such as the shoes, the mat, the weights, and the heart rate monitor, which can add up to another few hundred dollars. The bike also requires a monthly subscription of $39 to access the classes and features, another recurring cost you must factor in. If you are on a tight budget, the Peloton Bike+ might not be your best option.

The Peloton Bike+ only works with the Peloton app and the Apple Watch, which means you cannot use it with other fitness apps or devices you might already have or prefer. 

For example, you can’t use the bike with Zwift, Strava, Garmin, Fitbit, or any other third-party app or device. You also can’t export your workout data to other platforms unless you use a workaround involving screenshots or third-party apps. This can be frustrating if you want to integrate your Peloton workouts with your other fitness activities or track your progress on other platforms.

It’s also important to realize that you won’t jive with every instructor. As you ride the bike more and familiarize yourself with their personalities and styles, you learn who you connect best with. 

For example, I’m not a big fan of over-the-top cheerleading or motivational talk when exercising, so I avoid the instructors who tend to lean that way during their classes. Several instructors were once competitive cyclists or Ironman/triathlon athletes. They provide a lot of insight into the mindset of an athlete, which I like a lot better, so I take their classes more often. The key is to test out many instructors and stick with who you enjoy most.

All the above considered, we rank this 4.25 out of 5 stars for its outstanding quality console, high-tech screen, and massive range of classes and music.

What Are the Benefits of Exercise Bikes?

Low-Impact Training

Unlike running or jumping, cycling places less stress on your joints, bones, and muscles. This reduces injury risk and makes exercise bike training suitable for all ages and fitness levels, especially seniors and those struggling with excessive weight.

Improved Cardiovascular Conditioning

Cycling increases your heart rate and blood circulation, strengthening your heart, lungs, and blood vessels over time. This allows them to handle higher cardio demands than they could have previously tolerated. Additionally, improved cardiovascular conditioning can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Can Support Weight Loss Goals

Depending on the intensity and duration of your workout, you can burn anywhere from a couple hundred to nearly a thousand calories per hour on an exercise bike. This can help you create a calorie deficit essential for losing weight.

Reduced Stress

Using an exercise bike can help you reduce stress and anxiety, as it releases endorphins and serotonin, which are natural chemicals that make you feel happier and more relaxed. 

Lower Body Strengthening

Exercise bikes work out your lower body muscles, such as your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. This can improve your muscle strength and endurance, as well as your balance and coordination. Stronger lower body muscles can also prevent or alleviate lower back pain, knee pain, and other common ailments.

What to Consider When Buying an Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike Type

There are four exercise bike types: upright, recumbent, spin, and air.

• Upright: An upright bike allows you to sit upright with the pedals directly below you. The handles are elevated and are closer to you than on a spin bike, and the seat is usually wider and more comfortable. This conventional riding position is great if you like longer rides that focus on your legs, but it’s less effective for high-intensity training than an air bike.
• Recumbent: This style of bike has a seat with a back pad to support your middle and lower back, placing you in a reclined riding position. Unlike other styles, the pedals are at the front on a recumbent bike. The recumbent style distributes your weight evenly between the seat and the back pad, making it excellent for longer rides. Since you can relax your upper body more than an upright bike, it’s great for riders with back and joint issues. This style is also lower to the ground, so getting on and off the bike is easier — a major selling point if you struggle with mobility.
• Spin: A spin bike, also known as an indoor cycling bike, is the closest style to outdoor cycling. The narrower seat and lower bring your upper body forward, giving your upper body a workout instead of just your legs. This style is less comfortable than an upright and recumbent bike but offers better performance, which is vital for those wanting to train at higher intensities.
• Air bike: This fan-based bike style is sometimes called “dual-action.” Air bikes feature moving handlebars that you can operate separately or simultaneously with the pedals and provide resistance by the fan blades displacing air. The seat tends to be broader, and the pedals are below it, like on an upright bike. An air bike isn’t the best for long rides because it’s harder to maintain consistent resistance, but this style is unmatched for high intensity.

Cost

Exercise bikes can range from hundreds to a few thousand dollars. Generally, the higher-priced bikes include more features like high-tech consoles, more resistance levels, and better build quality. If you go too cheap, you can miss out on key features that prevent an enjoyable and safe cycling experience.

Dimensions

You want to ensure the bike fits comfortably in your room and doesn’t obstruct your movement or other furniture. You also want to check the weight and portability of the bike in case you need to move it around or store it away.

Remember, you’ll likely need one to two feet of open space on either side of your bike to get on and off and not feel cramped while riding.

Build Quality

The overall build quality of an exercise bike should be top of mind when shopping. Look for a steel frame over aluminum — it’ll be more robust and sturdier. High-quality exercise bikes often feature a higher weight capacity, so you can usually use the bike’s total capacity as a proxy for its build quality.

Noise 

If you’ll be using your exercise bike at home, you’ll want to be mindful of how noisy the bike will be, especially if you’ll be working out when kids or neighbors might be sleeping. Noise level depends mainly on the resistance type of the bike. 

Air bikes are by far the loudest because they’re fan-based, followed by mechanical-tension bikes since they apply resistance using friction pads. The quietest exercise bikes will be those that use electromagnetic resistance due to magnets applying tension to the flywheel.

You’ll also want to consider whether you’ll be watching live exercise classes or follow-along workouts on your console. These will project sound with speakers, but you can usually use headphones or earbuds to minimize the noise from any tech you use.

Seat and Handlebar Adjustability

The adjustability of your seat and handlebars is paramount to avoid injury, even more so if you’re taller or shorter than average.

Typically, you’ll want a bike that lets you adjust the seat in four ways: up, down, forward, and back. Seats with upward and downward angling are also beneficial for a more customized fit. Look for two-point adjustability at a minimum for the handlebars, which means they can be adjustable forward and back.

Console

Like all of the best cardio machines, exercise bikes vary widely in design, so it’s no surprise that consoles can be ultra-basic, high-tech, or even lacking altogether. Although rare, some exercise bikes don’t have a console.

The key is that not every console will show your revolutions per minute (rpm), distance traveled, heart rate, or calories burned — all of which aren’t mandatory for a workout but can be highly motivating for your long-term adherence and progress. Just remember that more detailed displays tend to come with a higher price.

Pedals

Typically, you’ll find three main types of pedals on exercise bikes: flat, cage, and clip-in.

• Flat: This is your classic type of pedal, also known as the “platform” pedal in the cycling world. Flat pedals are precisely as they sound — flat. You just put your feet against them and pedal, making them incredibly easy to use. Unfortunately, they’re harder to control on the ascent of each revolution when you’re pedaling fast, and if your feet slip, you can bang your ankles or scrape your shins against the pedals. 
• Cage: This type of pedal is a flat pedal with toe clips attached to the front, which are flexible “cages”  that slide over the toe box of your shoes. Toe clips hold your feet in place and make biking more efficient because you can apply force upwards without having your foot come off the pedal — allowing you to transfer that force back into the downward stroke. Since you can pull up on the pedal and push down, you can work your legs more to burn more calories.
• Clip-in: Lastly, there are clip-in pedals. Exercise bikes built for serious cyclists will tend to feature clip-in pedals connecting to cyclists’ special shoes. Not to worry though, you can upgrade the pedals of most bikes to clip-in pedals if you like the bike itself, but they only have flat or cage pedals.

Available Programming

Exercise bikes with consoles can have all kinds of built-in workouts. The most popular are hill climbing, cardio, fat burning, and strength training. 

Some bikes don’t include programming, like the Diamondback 1260sc. If you’re using your smartphone or tablet, a console lacking programming might be fine. If not, make sure the bike has Bluetooth connectivity at a minimum.

Bluetooth connectivity is the most popular connectivity method, allowing you to use apps like Peloton and Zwift. AMP+ is another type of connectivity, but it’s mostly limited to heart rate monitors, so I’d recommend using Bluetooth instead. It’s a bit more money upfront but opens up the available connections for apps, workouts, and more.

Available Conveniences

Exercise bikes can come with several convenient accessories to make your workouts more comfortable and enjoyable. Not all bikes include these, but you can often buy them separately to customize your exercise bike later.

• Phone/tablet holder: If you have an exercise bike with a console lacking in streaming service and classes, then a media shelf is a convenient plus. A media shelf is just a hard plastic ridge that sticks out from the console to lay your device without it falling off. Without one, you’ll have to hold your device for the duration of your workout.
• Water bottle holder: Having a water bottle holder is seriously underrated whether you’ll be doing shorter HIIT classes or longer endurance rides. The last thing you want is to interrupt your workout just because your water bottle isn’t within reach. One of our Breaking Muscle staff members runs into this problem every workout — they have an upright bike without a water bottle holder. While it’s possible to buy the holder separately, its absence from the stock version of the bike is an annoying omission by the manufacturer.
• Built-in fans: Built-in fans are more common on the best treadmills than on exercise bikes, but some bikes, like the NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike, include them. If you sweat heavily, live in a hot or humid climate, or enjoy the added comfort of built-in airflow, it can be a convenient add-on for your bike. Remember, if your bike doesn’t include this feature, you can buy and mount a mini fan separately.
• Weight rack: Some riders like combining bike rides with weight lifting using the best dumbbells. Similar to the water bottle holder, having a small weight rack to keep them within reach will save you from getting off your bike whenever you need to use them.
• Wheels: If you’ll be moving your bike often, having wheels built into the bike is a nice feature. It means you don’t have to drag your bike and risk ruining your floor, making it easier to transport bikes over 100 pounds. 
• Heart rate handles: Most bikes are compatible with heart rate monitors, but it’s even more convenient to have handles with heart rate reading capability. Unfortunately, you’ll tend only to see these on upright or recumbent bikes in the premium price range.

Resistance Types

There are three types of resistance for exercise bikes: fan-based, electromagnetic, and mechanical. 

• Fan-based: An air bike is fan-based and creates resistance by the fan blades displacing air. This style offers a (theoretically) unlimited amount of resistance because the harder you pedal and push, the more air the blades will displace, causing greater resistance. 
• Electromagnetic: These bikes work with magnets on either side of the flywheel. As the magnets get closer to the flywheel, they apply more resistance. Because they use magnets, these bikes are smoother, quieter, have lower maintenance, and are easier to select during workouts but more expensive. 
• Mechanical: This style uses mechanical resistance in the form of friction pads made from wool or rubber. Most are designed so that you physically twist the resistance knob to add or remove the tension placed on the flywheel. Because of the friction, these bikes are noisier and often need more maintenance as pads wear out and become misaligned with heavy use — however, they are cheaper as a result.

Drive Type

When you turn the pedals on an exercise bike, the “drive” is connected to the flywheel; when that moves, you’ll feel resistance. There are two types of drives: chain and belt. 

A chain-driven exercise bike will be more durable because the chain is metal, which makes maintenance cheaper in the long run. Unfortunately, it requires regular lubrication to ensure metal parts glide smoothly along each other. Also, chains are noisier than belts and feel rougher, so they’re often in fan-based and mechanical bikes.

Belt drives are quieter and smoother, so they’re usually in magnetic resistance bikes. The downside to a belt-drive bike is that the belt can loosen over time with heavy use and won’t last nearly as long as a chain — costing you more over time.

Resistance Levels

Exercise bikes have a vast range of resistance levels. Because there are also different types of resistance, there’s no universal standard or comparison method.

While knowing how many resistance levels there are on the exercise bike is helpful, the best way to see whether it offers the rate resistance range is to test it in person.

Once you have an exercise bike in mind, look for a local store where you can test it out in their showroom. Remember to bring your athletic attire and cycling shoes if you have them.

Warranties 

There’s a massive range of warranties for exercise bikes, from as little as 30 days to as long as 15 years. I wouldn’t recommend settling with any less than a one-year warranty. 

Based on the exercise bikes included in this article, ten years on the frame, three years on parts, and one year on labor is a solid warranty to look for if you value peace of mind from your purchase.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is an essential factor that affects the safety and durability of the bike because it reflects the craftsmanship and quality of the materials and parts used to build it. Choosing a bike with a higher weight capacity usually means getting a more robust frame and more durable parts like the pedals and flywheel. 

Exercise bike weight capacities range from 200 pounds to over 400 pounds. 

If you’re a heavier user, I’d recommend choosing a bike with a weight limit of at least 125 percent of your body weight. The closer you are to the bike’s weight capacity, the higher the risk of damaging it or injuring yourself. The bike can also become unstable, noisy, or shaky, reducing the quality of your workout.

Flywheel Weight 

If you’re investing in the best exercise bike overall, flywheel weight should be one of the top things you consider. The flywheel is the heavy wheel at the front or back of the bike that spins when you pedal to create momentum. It’s linked to the pedals by a chain or a belt, similar to one in your car’s engine.

Flywheel weights can vary widely, from as little as six pounds to as much as 50 pounds. Most people will have a better biking experience with a heavier flywheel because it closely simulates riding a bike outside. I recommend looking for a flywheel between 14 and 20 kilograms (about 30 to 44 pounds). Typically, a heavier flywheel offers a smoother ride. 

Suppose you’re working with a tight budget. In that case, I encourage you to sacrifice some bells and whistles like a sleek built-in tablet or a monthly class subscription because the flywheel weight is crucial for an enjoyable riding experience.

As a caveat, one Breaking Muscle staff member has used the Keiser M3i Bike extensively, with a flywheel weight of just eight pounds. It’s positioned at the bike’s rear to provide a different feel, but it can still offer an intense workout.

Final Thoughts

Exercise bikes have transformed home fitness, offering amazing exercise variety and adjustability in a small space.

The best exercise bikes combine interactive tech and powerful metric tracking without going overboard on the price.

At the end of the day, the best exercise bike for you depends on your budget, the size of your workout space, and the exercise bike features you value most.

Best Exercise Bikes: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Exercise Bike Overall

Best Air Bike

Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Best Spin Exercise Bike

Best Portable Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

Best Affordable Exercise Bike

Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Best Folding Exercise Bike

Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

Concept2 BikeErg

CAROL Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

Cubii Move

Peloton Bike+

4.5

4.4

3.6

4.0

3.9

3.9

4.1

4.2

4.0

4.0

4.3

3.8

4.4

Description: Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H Resistance levels: 24 Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription) Weight capacity: 350 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H Weight: 125 pounds Weight capacity: 330 pounds Display: High-contrast LCD screen

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H Resistance levels: 32 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 300 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H Weight: 130 pounds Weight capacity: 300 pounds Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

Description: Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5" Weight: 68 pounds Weight capacity: 350 pounds Display: PM5 monitor

Description: Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W Resistance levels: Not listed Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 325 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: No Weight capacity: 270 pounds Type: Spin

Description: Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H Resistance levels: 25 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 330 pounds Type: Recumbent

Description: Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H Resistance levels: Seven Available programming: No Weight capacity: 250 pounds Type: Recumbent (foldable)

Description: Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H Resistance levels: Eight Available programming: No Weight capacity: Not listed Type: Under desk

Description: Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H Resistance levels: 100 Available programming: Yes Weight capacity: 297 pounds Type: Spin

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Best Exercise Bike Overall

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

4.5

Description:

• Dimensions: 60" L x 22" W x 63" H
• Resistance levels: 24
• Available programming: Yes (requires iFIT subscription)
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best
Air Bike

Assault Fitness AssaultBike Pro X

4.4

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 51.73” L x 24.52” W x 52.51” H
• Weight: 125 pounds
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Display: High-contrast LCD screen

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Best Exercise Bike With Classes

Echelon Connect EX-8s Bike

3.6

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 23" W x 65" H
• Resistance levels: 32
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Exercise Bike for Seniors

Horizon Fitness 5.0 R Recumbent Bike

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66" L x 25.2" W x 52.2" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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Best Spin
Exercise Bike

Diamondback Fitness 1260Sc

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 59” L x 23” W x 50” H
• Weight: 130 pounds
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: LCD monitor to track workout metrics

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Best Portable Exercise Bike

Concept2 BikeErg

3.9

Description:

• Overall dimensions: 48” L x 24” W; seat to pedal height ranges from 31" to 40.5"
• Weight: 68 pounds
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Display: PM5 monitor

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Best Exercise Bike for Weight Loss

CAROL Bike

4.1

Description:

• Dimensions: 45.5" L x 22" W
• Resistance levels: Not listed
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Magnetic Exercise Bike

BowFlex VeloCore Bike

4.2

Description:

• Dimensions: 59.8" L x 24.1" W x 55.3" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 325 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Affordable Exercise Bike

YOSUDA Indoor Cycling Bike

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 40.16" L x 21.65" W x 46.06" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 270 pounds
• Type: Spin

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Best Recumbent Exercise Bike

Schwinn 290 Recumbent Bike

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 66.4" L x 28" W x 47" H
• Resistance levels: 25
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Type: Recumbent

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Best Folding Exercise Bike

Marcy Foldable Recumbent Exercise Bike

4.3

Description:

• Dimensions: 39" L x 22" W x 48.5" H
• Resistance levels: Seven
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: 250 pounds
• Type: Recumbent (foldable)

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Best Exercise Bike for Small Spaces

Cubii Move

3.8

Description:

• Dimensions: 21.7" L x 19.7" W x 9.7" H
• Resistance levels: Eight
• Available programming: No
• Weight capacity: Not listed
• Type: Under desk

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Best Exercise Bike With a Screen

Peloton Bike+

4.4

Description:

• Dimensions: 59" L x 22" W x 59" H
• Resistance levels: 100
• Available programming: Yes
• Weight capacity: 297 pounds
• Type: Spin

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FAQs

The post 13 Best Exercise Bikes for Home Gyms (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

The well-documented benefits of BCAAs make them invaluable to minimize delayed-onset muscle soreness. By incorporating l-glutamine, Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine adds an extra layer to this product’s potential success.

In this Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine review, our team of personal trainers, CrossFit coaches, weightlifting competitors, and registered dietitians breaks down the ingredients, taste, solubility, and effectiveness to assist you in determining the product’s true worth.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

Key Takeaways

• Every serving contains five active ingredients formulated to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, alleviate muscle fatigue, reduce post-workout soreness, boost post-workout muscle growth, and enhance performance.
• Contains zero colored dyes, unnecessary fillers, artificial sweeteners, or harmful additives.
• Suitable for vegan (made with fermented vegan BCAAs) and gluten-free diets.

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine

4.3

• Number of servings: 30
• Price per serving: $1.33
• Amount of BCAAs per serving: Eight grams
• Calories per serving: Less than 40
• Flavors: Blue Raspberry, Sour Green Apple, Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch 
• Third-party tested: Analytical Resource Laboratories Certified; Elite Manufacturing & Packaging Third-Party Tested

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Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Pros

• All active ingredients are included in clinically effective doses, maximizing your chances of reaping their benefits.
• As the name suggests, this BCAA supplement has a transparent ingredient list. It is also third-party lab tested, ensuring you receive a safe product containing exactly what is stated on the label.
• The four unique flavor options can help keep your taste buds refreshed and prevent monotony.

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Cons

• It is pricier compared to alternative BCAA products, making it potentially unsustainable for some budgets.
• The flavors come off as too sour for some customers. If you don’t like tart beverages, you may want to try another BCAA supplement with sweeter or milder flavors.
• It includes stevia, a natural sweetener that may lead to digestive discomfort in some people.

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Specs

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Rating

The Breaking Muscle staff has researched over 50 BCAA products and tested more than a dozen. We’ve acquired a reliable understanding of their comparative strengths and weaknesses by analyzing their taste, the cost per serving, the amount of BCAAs offered per serving, and whether or not they’re third-party tested.

Here’s how we rated Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine:

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Review

With numbers like those you’re probably wondering why this product rates so highly in several key areas. Without further ado, let’s delve into the details to answer all your burning questions.

Price Per Serving

Each 1.28-pound tub of Transparent Labs BCAAs costs around $39.99 when making a one-time purchase. With 30 scoops per tub, each serving costs $1.33. The company website offers a monthly subscription that gives you a 10 percent discount on the total price, plus free shipping. If you subscribe, the product cost comes to around $35.99, and each serving is $1.20.

In comparison, XWERKS Motions BCAAs are priced at $1.63 per serving, while Jacked Factory BCAA Powder is available at $0.67 per serving at the time of this writing. Since Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine falls in the middle of other BCAA supplements we’ve tried, we gave it 4 out of 5 stars.

Formulation

Transparent Labs uses clean, simple, effective ingredients in this product, earning it a solid 4 out of 5 rating for formulation. Active ingredients include a BCAA 2:1:1 ratio of leucine (four grams), isoleucine (two grams), and valine (two grams). These are complemented by five grams of glutamine and one gram of coconut water powder, supplying electrolytes. 

BCAAs are essential amino acids (EAAs) that you must consume through food since the body doesn’t make them. Of the three BCAAs, leucine is most notably a key regulator of muscle protein synthesis, needed to build muscle. (1) The suggested “threshold” for leucine intake is often cited as two to three grams daily to maximize muscle building. (1) However, individual dietary needs may vary, and it’s advisable to consider overall protein intake and dietary sources.

Valine and isoleucine aren’t as involved in muscle protein synthesis, but take on other roles. Valine helps stimulate muscle regeneration and is involved in energy production. Isoleucine supports glucose (sugar) uptake by muscle cells to be used for energy. This could help improve muscular stamina and improve endurance during a workout. 

Glutamine is an addition unique to this product. As the most concentrated amino acid in the human body, it’s crucial for cell function and growth. (2) By enhancing protein synthesis and muscle tissue development, glutamine aids in muscle building and recovery. (2)

One gram of coconut water provides electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These minerals help regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Since you sweat and lose electrolytes during prolonged exercise, electrolytes are important for maintaining proper hydration for optimal physical performance. 

Additional ingredients consist of citric acid for preservation and flavor, natural flavors, stevia for sweetness, tartaric acid for flavor and sourness, and calcium silicate along with silicon dioxide to prevent caking and clumping. 

Stevia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener commonly used in food, drinks, and supplements that may cause gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. Certain components of stevia that are not fully absorbed in the upper digestive tract reach the colon, where they then undergo fermentation, potentially leading to mild gas and bloating.

Available Flavors

The Transparent Labs website offers a selection of four flavors: Sour Green Apple, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade, and Blue Raspberry. This variety allows you to rotate between flavors, so you don’t get bored. However, we’ve tried other BCAA supplements that offer an even larger range of flavors. For example, Xtend Original BCAA Powder is available in 18 flavors on Amazon, and Optimum Nutrition Essential Amino Energy comes in 10 flavors.

Since the number of flavors available in Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine is relatively small compared to the competition, we rated it 3 out of 5 stars here.

Taste

Our expert tester wasn’t thrilled with the Strawberry Lemonade flavor of this BCAA supplement, rating this category a 3 out of 5. She described it as bitter with an unfortunate aftertaste, so diluting it with additional water could help reduce the bitterness. Again, we only tested the Strawberry Lemonade, so your experience may vary depending on the flavor you choose.

It’s important to note that customer reviews on the company website are mixed regarding taste. Like our product tester, some aren’t blown away, but others seem to like it. One customer who approves of the taste says, “Tried a few times, the taste of strawberry lemonade is refreshing and it does boost my energy during the workout!” As taste is subjective, determining your preference for this product may require a personal trial.

Solubility

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine shines in the area of solubility, earning it a high rating of 5 out of 5. When mixed with liquid, our Breaking Muscle tester noted it dissolved well and didn’t leave behind any clumps or floaties. This is where the non-caking agents included in this product come into effect, delivering a smooth, well-dissolved amino acid supplement. 

Potential Benefits and Side Effects

BCAAs may offer an extended sense of energy and increased time to muscle fatigue, meaning you can train harder for longer. Additionally, BCAAs may reduce muscle damage, inflammation, and DOMS after a workout, so you can get back to training faster. Finally, BCAAs may support the preservation of lean mass during times of fat loss, indirectly supporting weight loss. 

The benefits of BCAA supplements are highly dependent on your diet. If you eat enough protein through food or a quality protein powder, your health benefits from additional BCAAs may be limited. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein, therefore a high-protein diet delivers adequate amounts of BCAAs. 

Our product tester didn’t experience any negative side effects while using this product. When taken in appropriate doses, BCAAs are generally safe. Following the recommended dosage instructions on the product label is advised for safety and effectiveness. 

That said, it’s always important to talk with your doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking prescribed medications.

Third-Party Testing

All Transparent Labs products are third-party tested, and we gave their BCAA product a perfect 5 out of 5 here. Third-party testing is crucial for athletes who value product quality, safety, and transparency. On the Transparent Labs website, customers can conveniently access certificates of composition and certificates of analysis. These documents provide detailed information about the quantities of active ingredients in each product, along with the results of testing for harmful microbes and heavy metals.

Customers who purchase Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine can rest easy knowing the product includes what’s on the label and doesn’t contain potentially harmful amounts of heavy metals or contaminants. 

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine vs. XWERKS Motion

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine and XWERKS Motion may both be BCAA supplements, but they have many differences. Unlike BCAA Glutamine, which only includes two grams of carbs, Motion contains 25 grams of cluster dextrin carbohydrates, which are rapidly absorbed and may enhance physical performance and endurance. Customers using XWERKS Motion may feel more energized due to its carb content. 

On the other hand, BCAA Glutamine contains eight grams of BCAAs, while Motion only includes three grams. Unfortunately, XWERKS uses a blend of BCAAs, so it’s unclear how much of each BCAA you are getting per serving. However, with only three grams total, it’s unlikely each scoop contains the two to three grams of daily leucine known to maximize its muscle-building benefits. They both have a BCAA ratio of 2:1:1, which research suggests is ideal for exercise performance. (3)

Furthermore, XWERKS Motion is only available in one flavor (raspberry lemonade), compared to the four flavors available for Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine. All Transparent Labs products are third-party tested, but there is no mention of third-party testing on the XWERKS Motion product page. Finally, Motion is more expensive, costing around $1.63 per serving, compared to BCAA Glutamine, which costs $1.33 per serving at the time of writing. 

XWERKS Motion

3.6

• Number of servings: 30 
• Price per serving: $1.96
• Amount of BCAAs per serving: Three grams 
• Calories per serving: 110
• Flavors: Raspberry Lemonade 
• Third-party tested: Not at the time of this writing

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Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Customer Reviews

The product currently isn’t available on Amazon, however, customer reviews on the Transparent Labs website are positive, with a customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. 

One satisfied customer writes, “I’m so excited and happy with my BCAAs. The flavor is amazing! And it’s working wonders on my sore body.” Another customer noticed improvements in muscle recovery and said, “It gives me adequate energy to push myself even further. I have no recovery pain at all, my muscles are at ease & I can go day after day.”

Customers who were less satisfied with the product generally disliked the taste. One verified customer says, “I’ll likely try a different flavor than blue raspberry, as I can’t say it tastes excellent.” Another writes, “I like the fruit punch as the strawberry lemonade was way too sour.” While the flavor was unfavorable for some, most didn’t mind the sour taste and some even described it as refreshing. 

Final Verdict: Is Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Worth It?

Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine has a lot to offer, with eight grams of BCAAs, five grams of glutamine, and a dose of electrolytes. Depending on your overall diet and training regimen, this product could help you reduce muscle fatigue, improve endurance, and build lean muscle mass. At $1.33 per serving, it’s not the most affordable workout supplement, but the third-party testing and clinically effective doses might make it worth the investment. 

FAQs

Research

1. Plotkin, D. L., Delcastillo, K., Van Every, D. W., Tipton, K. D., Aragon, A. A., & Schoenfeld, B. J. (2021). Isolated Leucine and Branched-Chain Amino Acid Supplementation for Enhancing Muscular Strength and Hypertrophy: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, 31(3), 292-301. Retrieved Nov 24, 2023, from https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2020-0356
2. O’Connell TM. The Complex Role of Branched Chain Amino Acids in Diabetes and Cancer. Metabolites. 2013; 3(4):931-945. https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo3040931
3. Gervasi M, Sisti D, Amatori S, et al. Effects of a commercially available branched-chain amino acid-alanine-carbohydrate-based sports supplement on perceived exertion and performance in high-intensity endurance cycling tests. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2020 Jan 20;17(1):6. doi: 10.1186/s12970-020-0337-0. PMID: 31959202; PMCID: PMC6971972.

The post Transparent Labs BCAA Glutamine Review (2024): The Key to Post-Workout Recovery? appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

In this Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt review, you’ll learn how a company started by a doctor of physical therapy and a US Army veteran developed a cost-effective solution to solve the problem of having to select between two different styles of belts.

Key Takeaways

• The Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt pairs premium leather with high-quality nylon to give you the best of both belt material worlds, as the former offers superior stability and the latter adds extra comfort.
• The velcro strap and self-locking buckle system keep you well-secured so you can safely perform deadlifts, squats, and other heavy lifts with more confidence.
• This self-locking weightlifting belt is versatile enough to be used by powerlifters training to hit PRs to CrossFit enthusiasts crushing dynamic Olympic lifts like power cleans and snatches.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt

4.6

• Material: Leather
• Width: Four inches
• Thickness: Six millimeters
• Locking type: Velcro
• Size range: XS to XL

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Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Pros

• Element 26 offers this hybrid weightlifting belt in five different sizes, which means most lifters should have no trouble finding one that fits comfortably around their belly buttons. From extra small (23 to 27 inches) to extra large (40 to 45 inches), there’s a wide range of options for lifters of all sizes.
• The self-locking mechanism allows for smooth transitions between sets. You can easily unlock the buckle and adjust the strap to take the belt off while you rest, and it stays securely in place when you’re ready to lift.
• At around $60, this versatile weightlifting belt represents excellent value. Although it’s significantly cheaper than a fully leather belt, it’s made of high-quality materials that protect your lower back and core during heavy lifts and other athletic movements.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Cons

• A fully leather belt will provide superior stability to this hybrid version from Element 26. If you want the most support, the SBD 13MM Lever Belt is one of the best weightlifting belt options for powerlifters and athletes who train with heavy loads. Just be prepared to pay north of $300 once you include shipping and taxes.
• While our testing team felt comfortable using the self-locking buckle, a belt with a lever buckle system may provide an extra layer of assurance and security. However, this comes down to a matter of personal preference.
• The uniform four-inch width of the Element 26 Hybrid Belt could cause discomfort for some athletes. Because it’s not tapered in the front, the belt can cause some breathing restrictions, depending on your body position.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Specs

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Rating

The weight belt world includes a wide variety of build materials, designs, and uses. Our Breaking Muscle team of certified personal trainers, CrossFit loyalists, and strength and conditioning coaches have collectively performed thousands of reps of squats, deadlifts, and other exercises over the years wearing dozens of different weight belts. After training with them extensively, we used a proprietary scoring system to rank them based on factors such as design, durability, and versatility.

Here’s how the Element 26 Hybrid Weightlifting Belt scored.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt In-Depth Review

Before you make room for the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt in your gym bag, you’ll want to make sure it’s the best fit for your style of training. After all, even though it can be used for different types of workouts, you may prefer the fit and feel of a tapered belt or the stability and security of a thicker one. We’ll take a closer look at key components like value, versatility, and durability so you can complete the checkout process with zero worries and 100 percent confidence. 

Price and Value

Available on element26.co and Amazon for $59.97, this hybrid weightlifting belt won’t make a huge dent in your gym equipment budget. In fact, you could easily spend double that amount to get a fully leather belt specifically suited for powerlifting — such as the 13mm Forever Lever Belt by Izner — which costs about $140. 

While investing that type of money may get you maximum durability and stability, it may not be necessary. Since the Element 26 Hybrid Weightlifting Belt brings the best of both worlds by using leather and nylon, you can perform just about any type of workout without having to worry about a lack of support. At about $60 and capable of handling nearly anything you throw its way, this belt earns 4.5 out of 5 stars for price and value.

Design and Colors

It’s easy to see why so many users enjoy the design of the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt. At six millimeters thick, it has sufficient girth to support your core and lower back. Plus, a four-inch-wide profile makes it well-suited for performing squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.

How do those measurements stack up against other weightlifting belts? Rogue’s USA Nylon Lifting Belt is just a hair thicker (6.35 millimeters), with the same four-inch-wide profile on the front and sides and a slightly wider (five-inch) back. Meanwhile, even though the fully leather SBD 13mm Lever Belt features a uniform four-inch-wide design like the Element 26 belt, it’s substantially thicker, measuring 13 millimeters. 

Most importantly, Element 26 paired a self-locking buckle with a velcro strap to provide security and peace of mind. While there’s nothing necessarily wrong with nylon belts, relying solely on velcro to keep you locked in while you lift can be risky. Rather than taking any chances of the belt coming undone during a deadlift or a squat, Element 26 doubled down by designing an easy-to-use system that our testing team highlighted as one of the belt’s standout features. 

Unfortunately, Element 26 didn’t get creative when it came to color choices. Available only in black, their hybrid belt won’t capture much attention from a visual standpoint. Ultimately, though, the user-friendly design helps it earn 4 out of 5 stars in this category.

Construction and Materials

Don’t let the relatively cheap price tag fool you. Element 26 built this hybrid weightlifting belt to last by using high-quality materials, including 100 percent premium leather and premium nylon. Heavy-duty stitching near the top and bottom edges provides added reinforcement — along with a nice visual touch.

Meanwhile, the self-locking buckle and heavy-duty Velcro strap give two layers of protection during your workouts. Overall, our testing team found the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt to be well-constructed and more than capable of serving as your only belt for years to come. All in all, it earned 4.5 out of 5 stars in this area.

Adjustability

Having the ability to quickly tighten or loosen your weightlifting belt can make a major difference in how smoothly and efficiently your workout goes. Thankfully, our testing team enjoyed a stress-free experience adjusting the Element 26 belt during their training session.

The velcro strap inserts into the self-locking buckle to ensure the belt doesn’t come loose. Yet even though the system is ultra-secure, the strap is easy to adjust so you can take the belt off and catch your breath between sets. This also comes in handy during CrossFit-style workouts, as you can quickly remove the belt while making a seamless transition from one movement to the next. In addition, the ability to make the belt as tight as you want allows for even pressure distribution and better breathability.

With no issues tightening, loosening, or removing the belt entirely, it earns 5 out of 5 stars for adjustability.

Versatility

Thanks to its hybrid leather-nylon design, this is where this belt truly shines. Both beginners and professionals will appreciate the ability to use this belt for everything from powerlifting to CrossFit-style training that requires more movement and agility. Our testing team found that the belt provided adequate lower back support for heavier lifts while still retaining enough flexibility to protect your abdominal muscles and core during WODs and other types of generalized strength and conditioning work.

Does that necessarily mean this belt is the best for powerlifting? A fully leather version that’s at least a few millimeters thicker, such as the Rogue 10mm Lever Weightlifting Belt, will outshine this Element 26 belt in that area. Plus, because most powerlifting federations stipulate that a belt must have a prong or lever-style adjusting mechanism, you cannot use the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt in sanctioned competitions. However, a thick, heavy-duty powerlifting belt will likely be too rigid and uncomfortable to perform CrossFit workouts, Olympic weightlifting, and functional fitness activities.

On the other hand, a nylon weightlifting belt won’t give the same stability and support as a leather one. So, Element 26 did well to design a hybrid version that can serve multiple purposes at a rock-solid level. Checking the box for versatility, this belt easily earns 5 out of 5 stars.

Durability

Element 26 had maximum durability in mind by crafting the belt from 100 percent premium leather. A resilient material that can withstand the toll of being used time after time, I can attest to the toughness and durability of leather, as my powerlifting belt has held up well for nearly a decade. That should give you plenty of confidence about investing in a belt that’s not only sturdy but also versatile.

And if you have any worries about the belt’s ability to hold up over the long haul, Element 26 includes a lifetime warranty. Although the policy does not cover normal wear and tear, it does cover any manufacturing defects. Overall, this belt earned 4.5 out of 5 stars for durability.

Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt vs. 2POOD

At just north of $50, you won’t find many belts that can compete with the versatility and value of the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt. Still, it’s impossible to ignore another strong contender in the sub-$100 category: 2POOD.

Their four-inch-wide weightlifting belt comes in at a similar price point ($65 on Amazon; $50 on their website as part of a Black Friday sale) and is compliant with USA Weightlifting standards. Available in six sizes (XXS to XL), the 2POOD belt features their WODClamp locking system, which reinforces the velcro and adds security and support.

However, unlike Element 26, 2POOD did not incorporate leather into the design. Instead, they used a combination of velcro and Cordura nylon to give you the flexibility to lift heavily and still be able to move around without restrictions. That tradeoff may not suit you if you primarily focus on powerlifting-style workouts, as leather provides superior stability. Yet with an average rating of 4.6 stars on Amazon, it’s clear 2POOD’s cross-training belt has left a strong impression on hundreds of satisfied customers.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for maximum support for heavy lifting, your best bet is to go the Element 26 route. If you’re more concerned about general protection for more dynamic workouts, the 2POOD nylon lifting belt will get the job done for about the same cost.

2POOD Weightlifting Belts

4.0

• Material: Nylon
• Width: Three, four, or six inches
• Thickness: 20 centimeters
• Locking type: Velcro, hook-and-loop WODClamp
• Size range: XXXS to XXL

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Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Customer Reviews

Element 26 hit a home run by releasing a belt that accommodates such a wide range of users. Receiving widespread praise for its user-friendly design, the Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt has earned a rating of 4.6 stars based on 113 Amazon reviews as of the time of this publication.

One customer appreciated the ability to make small adjustments and that the belt worked great for heavier lifts. Another satisfied user pointed out that the belt provided “plenty of support for an amateur lifter.” Overall, many liked the combination of rigid leather with comfortable nylon (plus the velcro strap).

However, a few reviews mentioned the belt’s thickness (or lack thereof) as a potential drawback, noting that this model from Element 26 is not as thick as a traditional powerlifting belt. This is an important factor to keep in mind if you primarily focus on the big three lifts.

Final Verdict: Is the Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Worth It?

Based on its high-quality construction, and excellent versatility, the Element 26 Hybrid Weightlifting Belt deserves a spot in your gym bag. Capable of being used for WODs or heavy lifting sessions, it provides plenty of lower back and core support without being overly restrictive. If you’re looking to invest in one belt that suits multiple styles of training, this well-priced model from Element 26 will certainly get the job done. 

FAQs

The post Element 26 Hybrid Leather Weightlifting Belt Review (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

As we age, our NAD levels drop, leading to a decline in these functions. Not surprisingly, this contributes to the aging process. This is why people are trying to maintain or boost their NAD levels. Experts believe maintaining higher levels of NAD can potentially slow down aging and promote longevity. (18)

One of the ways to increase NAD levels is with NMN supplements. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to NAD, meaning it’s a substance that the body can convert into NAD. It’s like a raw material that cells can use to create more of the NAD ‘currency’ they need to function optimally.

With two decades of experience as a personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist, I’ve witnessed a shift in client inquiries from how to get six-pack abs to a desire for longevity and improved quality of life. People don’t just want to live longer; they want to feel better too. While exercise and diet are important, NMN supplements offer a promising way to naturally boost NAD levels. For my review, I tested several options to help you find the best NMN supplement.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best NMN Supplements

I’d argue that choosing the best NMN supplement is more difficult than most other supplements because it hasn’t been on the market for very long. With limited time for rigorous scrutiny, finding products that truly align with the science can be a challenge.

Here at Breaking Muscle, there are several factors that we consider to ensure you get the best NMN supplements for your budget and lifestyle.

Science-Based Formulas

We give priority to products featuring ingredients backed by proven scientific evidence. 

Ingredients such as NMN, resveratrol, and vitamin D have consistently demonstrated anti-aging benefits in studies. (5)(8) (14)

What’s more, we evaluate the dosage of each ingredient, aiming to closely align it with the quantities shown in these studies for maximum effectiveness.

Third-Party Verification

Let’s face it: Supplements that undergo third-party testing instill greater confidence. 

We’ve favored products that have been through legitimate testing by independent laboratories, assuring purity and potency.

Real-World User Feedback

Real-life experiences offer invaluable insights. We’ve conducted a thorough review of user feedback, meticulously examining reports of effectiveness, benefits, and any potential drawbacks to provide you with a comprehensive assessment.

Company Reputation

The track record of a brand matters. We’ve chosen companies with a reputation for integrity, transparency, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Balancing Value

Our aim is to recommend supplements that strike the right balance between cost and effectiveness, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment.

Safety

Above all, your well-being is our top concern. We’ve focused on supplements that incorporate proven, safe ingredients without unnecessary additives or fillers. 

Naturally, products associated with a long history of adverse effects have been excluded from our list.

Our Top Picks for the Best NMN Supplement

• Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN
• Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
• Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol
• Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+
• Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

Best NMN Supplement Overall: Lifeforce Peak NMN

Lifeforce Peak NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

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I’ve been a big fan of Lifeforce since I tried the brand in my search for the best testosterone booster. Once again, they didn’t disappoint. In fact, the team and I were so impressed with Peak NMN that we assigned it as our best NMN supplement overall.

What clinched it for us? 

A combination of science-backed ingredients at doses that work, all without breaking the bank. Plus, Peak NMN targets something special: it not only supports long-term cellular health but also takes on blood sugar — a key factor in aging. Consistently elevated blood sugar can damage mitochondria or cellular ‘powerhouses’ and contribute to age-related diseases. (1)

Lifeforce tackles this with two key ingredients: Berberine HCl (660 milligrams) and White Mulberry Extract (200 milligrams), both proven to support healthy blood sugar levels. It also includes spermidine, which helps with cellular growth and renewal. It’s known for aiding in autophagy, the body’s way of cleaning out old cellular junk to make way for new, healthier cells. (2)(3)(4)

Naturally, Lifeforce’s star ingredient is NMN, which has been shown to boost NAD levels, helping to keep your cells strong. NAD plays a significant role in all cellular processes, most notably, energy production, DNA repair, and the regulation of cellular aging. (5)

For me, one of the features of Peak NMN that stands out from other NMN supplements is its quality and stability. It contains HPLC-tested NMN boasting 99 percent purity and a 24-month shelf life. 

Not only are you getting the highest quality form of NMN but it’s also going to last much longer than most other NMN supplements. For context, most brands of NMN have a three-month shelf life when stored at room temperature. To get around this, simply put your NMN supplement in the refrigerator.

Finally, one of my favorite features of Lifeforce supplements is the option to add a specialized home blood test that evaluates dozens of biomarkers focusing on aging and longevity. This test, supported by telehealth consultations and individualized guidance from a healthcare professional, aims to provide insights into biological age, cellular health, and factors influencing lifespan. Taking these tests before and several months after consistently using the supplement (and following the advice of the telehealth experts) can showcase how your cellular health is improving.

One of the team members at Breaking Muscle went through this Lifeforce Diagnostics test, and he was amazed at the professionalism of the team as well as the preciseness and quality of the information he received from it. He especially liked the convenience factor of having a phlebotomist come to the location of his choice. It’s very easy to schedule and the whole process takes less than 10 minutes from the comfort of your home.

Why didn’t Peak NMN get a perfect score? My only gripe with the supplement is the dosage of NMN. Sure, it provides 375 milligrams per serving, which may be enough if you’re new to NMN and want to avoid potential side effects like digestive issues and skin irritation. But what happens when your body adjusts, and you want to take a dosage closer to 1,000 milligrams (the higher end of the recommended daily dose)? 

Compare the 375 milligrams of NMN in Peak NMN to the 900 milligram serving in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN – A huge difference. If you want to get close to this when taking Peak NMN, you’ll have to either double the dose or take a separate NMN supplement. If you choose the latter, I’d recommend going with our choice for the best budget NMN supplement, Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+, to save some cash.

Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement: Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

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On a list of NMN supplements all claiming to reduce the impacts of aging, how does one stand above the rest as the best anti-aging NMN supplement?

For us, it’s all about a multi-targeted approach to fight the signs of aging. In other words, we want to see a supplement with multiple ingredients known for longevity benefits. And that’s what sets Wonderfeel Youngr NMN apart from the rest.

NMN is one of several anti-aging ingredients in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN. Let’s break down the ingredient list, starting from the top with vitamin D3. This is one of my favorite vitamins and one that I believe most people are lacking in.

Vitamin D3 is often associated with bone health, but it does so much more than that. When it comes to anti-aging benefits, vitamin D3 enhances immune function, supports cardiovascular health, and staves off cognitive decline. (14)

For men, vitamin D3 is especially important for hormonal health as it acts as a building block for testosterone. Low levels of testosterone are associated with weight gain, muscle loss, mood swings, and fatigue – All things that are pro-aging. (15)

Most importantly for our purposes, vitamin D3 is particularly useful because it seems to help stop the build-up of certain proteins that are commonly found in older people. Also, taking extra vitamin D3 may help reduce signs of aging at the cellular level, which suggests it might help to slow down how quickly we age biologically. (14)

There is one issue with the inclusion of vitamin D3 and it’s the exclusion of vitamin K2. When you take supplements, you want to try to pair or group ingredients that have a synergistic effect. In this case, vitamin K2 improves the bioavailability of vitamin D3. I’m not saying your body won’t see any benefit from the vitamin D3 in Wonderfeel Youngr NMN, but some level of bioavailability and potential benefit could be lacking thanks to the absence of vitamin K2.

NMN is the next ingredient on the list. What I love about Wonderfeel Youngr NMN is that it provides a dosage level that’s on the higher side at 900 milligrams per serving. As mentioned above, this is close to what David Sinclair takes on a daily basis.

Next up, we have trans-resveratrol. Again, this is another homerun ingredient. Trans-resveratrol is better than traditional resveratrol because it is the more bioavailable and biologically active form of the compound. While it is the preferred form of resveratrol, it is lacking in dosage at only 100 milligrams per serving. For reference, the standard dosage starts at 250 milligrams.

The next ingredient is olive fruit extract, which contains hydroxytyrosol, a powerful antioxidant that supports cardiovascular health by promoting healthy cholesterol levels and blood flow (circulation). It also has a lot of polyphenols and these compounds offer protective effects against oxidative stress—a key factor in aging—and inflammation, contributing to overall longevity. (16)

Finally, the ingredient list caps off with a super antioxidant known as ergothioneine, offering benefits for anti-aging, vascular health, and neuroprotection. It combats oxidative stress and inflammation, which reduces age-related cellular damage. It’s also thought to preserve telomeres, the chromosome endcaps that typically shorten with age. (17)

Cementing its place as the best anti-aging NMN supplement, is there anything that could make this supplement better? 

You bet! It is the first supplement on our list that focuses on earth-friendly packaging. Your first order will arrive in a durable and refillable glass bottle. After that, you’ll receive your supplement in completely recyclable and biodegradable pouches. Simply refill the glass bottle and recycle the pouch. Even if the pouch winds up in the garbage, it will break down within six to 42 months, leaving behind no trace of microplastics.

Do something positive for yourself while doing something productive for the environment.

Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement: Omre NMN + Resveratrol

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

4.5

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

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When the longevity trend started, the abbreviations “NMN” and “NAD” were virtually unheard of. Instead, everyone was talking about resveratrol. Just because NMN is now taking center stage within the cellular health and longevity movement doesn’t mean resveratrol is obsolete. In fact, we recommend taking them both together. And that’s why our pick for the best NMN and resveratrol supplement is Omre NMN + Resveratrol.

What exactly is resveratrol?

A type of antioxidant known as a polyphenol, resveratrol is found in the skin of red grapes and berries as well as cocoa. Antioxidants fight against oxidative stress in your body, which is caused by an excess of free radicals. These are molecules that can damage cells and they are linked to several chronic diseases along with aging.

And this is where resveratrol comes in as an all-around longevity supplement. 

From a cardiovascular standpoint, resveratrol has been shown to support heart health by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation. Some research even suggests it can support healthy blood sugar levels. (Remember what we said above about blood sugar levels and aging?) (6)(7)

For our purposes, the most important benefits of resveratrol are its anti-aging properties, which include:

• DNA repair: Activates proteins called sirtuins, aiding in DNA repair and cellular health. (8)
• Antioxidant properties: Protects cells against oxidative stress, which contributes to aging. (9)
• Cognitive protection: Offers neuroprotective effects that may slow neurodegenerative diseases. (10)
• Cellular health: Improves mitochondrial function, leading to increased energy production and cellular vitality. (11)

Combining resveratrol with NMN may offer synergistic benefits. Most notably, the antioxidant activity of resveratrol complements the role of NMN in supporting mitochondrial (cellular) function.

I love the idea of combining two longevity heavy hitters. This is something you don’t see in many NMN supplements. And the fact that Omre uses trans-resveratrol earns it extra points. Why? Trans-resveratrol is the more bioavailable form of resveratrol meaning your body can properly ingest and assimilate the ingredient.

What’s more, both ingredients are dosed at 500 milligrams per serving, well within the same range used in studies and research. If you are interested in gradually building up to a higher dose, you can simply double your dose and you’ll be within the same range as longevity expert, David Sinclair.

Best Budget NMN Supplement: Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

3.5

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

If there’s one thing that you’ll quickly notice about NMN supplements, it’s the price tag. The sticker shock is going to naturally lead to the question of whether the best budget NMN supplement exists and if it’s worth buying. Thankfully, that can be answered with a double “yes.”

Introducing Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+.

There are three major differences between Genuine Purity NMN and the rest of the options on this list: price, dosage, and bioavailability.

Let’s start with the obvious one: price. Even if you purchase a single bottle of Genuine Purity, you’re only paying $1.17 per serving, which is half of what some of the other brands are charging. If you want an insanely good deal for inexpensive supplements, you can’t beat buying one year’s worth upfront.

But there’s a reason for the lower price point and it has to do with ingredients and dosage. The only ingredient you’ll find in Genuine Purity is NMN. So, if you want those other ingredients that support longevity and cellular health, you’ll have to buy them separately and build your own stack. This is something I highly recommend. Not only can it be more cost-effective, but you’re guaranteed to get the proper dosage.

Speaking of dosages, you’ll see that it’s on the lower end of what the major studies used. Most of the studies mentioned above used anywhere from 250 milligrams to 1,250 milligrams. Genuine Purity provides 250 milligrams of NMN, which is among the lowest on our list. It isn’t bad if you’re just starting out and you want to see how your body responds to NMN, but for the long term, you’ll need to double or triple the dosage. 

Here’s the thing about that: At this price point, that’s still a good deal! If you buy a year upfront, you can easily triple your dosage and it’ll still end up being cheaper than most of the other NMN supplements out there.

Finally, let’s talk about bioavailability, which might be a double-edged sword for Genuine Purity. On one hand, it uses liposomal delivery technology, which can significantly enhance the absorption of NMN into the bloodstream. Liposomal delivery means that the NMN is encased in a sort of protective bubble made from lipids (fats). As a result, the NMN can bypass the harsh acids in the digestive system and get delivered directly into the cells where it’s needed most. (12)

On the other hand, not all liposomal products are created equal. The quality and size of the liposomes, as well as the stability of the liposomal structure, can greatly affect the uptake of NMN. Luckily, Genuine Purity claims to use high-quality liposomal encapsulation to ensure that you’re getting the most out of each serving.

One final point about bioavailability involves the shelf stability of the product. NMN supplements are notorious for having a poor shelf life. Yes, brands do spend the extra cash to ensure a longer shelf life like Lifeforce: Peak NMN. However, Genuine Purity doesn’t mention anything about an extended shelf life. As I mentioned above, if your aim is to take double or triple the serving size, shelf life isn’t something you’ll need to worry about.

Best Pure NMN Supplement: partiQlar Pure NMN

partiQlar Pure NMN

4.0

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

It should come as no surprise that the quality of supplements can range drastically. Take protein supplements as an example. If you buy whey protein concentrate, you might be getting a product that’s only 60% protein. If you buy whey protein isolate, you’ll get a hyper-filtered product that can deliver over 99% protein per serving. Both are protein supplements, but one is vastly superior to the other in terms of purity.

And the same goes for NMN supplements.

Purity or how much NMN you’re getting in every serving can vary wildly depending on the brand. On our list, we made sure to find products that had no less than 96% purity, which is the minimum you should always look for when shopping for an NMN supplement. With a product that pure, does it really matter which one you choose? 

Absolutely. Those last few purity points can really make a difference especially if it’s paired with a bioavailability delivery system ensuring optimal uptake.

When it comes to the best pure NMN supplement, partiQlar Pure NMN gets our vote for three reasons: a pure product, a knack for transparency, and an awesome team.

partiQlar’s NMN boasts an industry-leading purity that exceeds 99% and that’s a huge deal. This isn’t just some marketing ploy, it’s a claim that’s backed up by independent third-party laboratory testing. If you visit the official website, you’ll see that all the test results are right there on the homepage. (13)

Aside from the absurdly high purity of partiQlar’s NMN, one of the factors that I noticed is how transparent they are about the team behind the product. Not only is this pretty uncommon for NMN supplements, but you’d be hard-pressed to find this transparency with any supplement.

Knowing who is making your product means you can become a Google investigator and do your research for your own peace of mind (and to appease your supplement OCD). Very long story short: partiQlar sources their NMN from Effepharm. According to the official website, they are supposedly renowned for their research and development team of U.S. specialists along with their rigorous testing process.

Continuing with the idea of transparency and testing, partiQlar upholds rigorous standards to align with USP (United States Pharmacopeia) quality benchmarks. Also, the production facilities responsible for crafting partiQlar’s NMN are recognized by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) and Underwriters Laboratories (UL), reflecting adherence to the stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) guidelines.

Now, with that said, adhering to GMP guidelines is commonplace even if a supplement doesn’t specifically mention it on their website. Supplement manufacturers in the United States must adhere to GMP standards in order to operate. So, while it’s not exactly unique, it is nice to know that your supplements are in good hands.

In short, with an elite team, production facilities, and third-party testing, partiQlar is serious about the purity and effectiveness of its NMN.

What Is NMN?

Aside from being almost impossible to pronounce correctly on the first try, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) has an essential role in all cellular functions. 

The catch is that NAD levels naturally decline as you get older. This can lead to a variety of age-related health issues like slowing metabolism and cellular dysfunction. In a vicious cycle, the less NAD you have, the worse these issues get and the faster you age.

Enter nicotinamide mononucleotide, or NMN, a precursor to NAD. 

Put simply, NMN is what your body uses to make more NAD. Recent studies and praise from longevity experts like David Sinclair have sparked interest in NMN supplements to naturally boost NAD levels. 

The goal? To fight back against age-related decline in cellular health while improving overall longevity.

Benefits of Taking NMN

As a precursor to NAD, research suggests several potential health benefits associated with NMN supplementation:

Anti-Aging and Longevity 

NMN has exhibited numerous potential benefits against aging in different animal studies, including better metabolism and protection against diseases that come with age. Research suggests it may boost energy management within the body and enhance the body’s response to insulin as well as overall blood fat levels. (19)

Increased Energy Metabolism and Physical Activity

Supplementation with NMN has been suggested to improve energy expenditure and physical activity. A study indicated that NMN supplementation enhances neuronal function and physical activity, suggesting it may prevent the decline in energy metabolism associated with aging​​. (20)

Enhanced Physical Endurance and Metabolism

Continuing with the point above, research has found that NMN supplementation can improve endurance capacity, particularly in amateur runners, by enhancing oxygen delivery to muscle tissue and bringing energy to cells that are depleted during exercise​​. (20)

Cognitive and Cardiovascular Health

NMN supplementation has been linked to improved neuronal function in the brain and is suggested to have preventive and therapeutic potential in vascular cognitive impairment. (21)

How Long Does It Take for NMN to Start Working?

The one thing that I can’t stress enough is that NMN supplements are not like your favorite pre-workout supplements. You’re not going to feel them kick in with a bang after 20 minutes.

While several prominent biohackers suggest that you can use NMN as a nootropic (cognitive focus) supplement, I don’t agree with this. I believe the idea with NMN supplements is to promote improved cognitive function over the long term.

Besides, most nootropic-focused NMN supplements also contain other fast-acting ingredients that you’ll feel right away like caffeine and theobromine. Be sure not to confuse longevity supplements with nootropics.

It’s important to keep in mind that NMN is a long-term investment in your cellular health and overall longevity. So, don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Stay consistent with your NMN supplement. The best way to determine if NMN is working for you is to take a biological age test once every several months and compare the differences. As mentioned above, we highly recommend Lifeforce Diagnostic, which measures more than 40 biomarkers and includes a personalized plan to optimize your health.

What Is the Best Way to Take NMN?

Hands down, the gold standard of absorption is intravenous. If you have the money and the time, you can find NAD drips at your local health spa. The results are immediate with many people citing a difference in how they feel the same day and throughout the week. The catch? NAD drips are notorious for making you nauseous. They are also extremely pricey. 

The simpler and more affordable way is with the NMN supplement.

NMN can be a bit finicky when it comes to how it’s best absorbed. The consensus is that sublingual (under the tongue) absorption is the way to go. This method allows NMN to bypass your digestive system and head straight into your bloodstream for faster results.

How Much NMN Should I Take Per Day?

This really depends on how comfortable you are with taking a “David Sinclair dose.” Some people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day. 

But if you want to play it safe, many beginners start with around 250 milligrams to 500 milligrams per day. This is a good baseline to see how your body responds. As you continue to take the NMN supplement, you can gradually increase the dosage, but only if it makes sense for your goals and budget. 

What To Consider When Looking for an NMN Supplement

When shopping for an NMN supplement, here are some of the key factors to keep in mind:

Your Goals

When looking for an NMN supplement, I suggest asking yourself, “What do I want to accomplish by taking this?” 

• Do you want to support long-term longevity in your body and brain? 
• Are you looking to lower your biological (cellular) age?
• Or are you looking for something fast-acting that can help you focus?

If the first two goals sound like what you’re after, then an NMN supplement can be a great complement to a healthy diet and exercise program.

If you’re more interested in that third goal, an NMN supplement isn’t going to give you what you’re after. As I mentioned above, although NMN is sometimes marketed as a nootropic, it’s not going to give you a feeling comparable to caffeine. Only stimulants will do that and NMN is not a stimulant.

So, before you buy an NMN supplement, make sure it aligns with what you’re trying to accomplish in your health journey.

Recommended Dosage

The typical dosage for NMN supplements ranges between 250 milligrams and 1,250 milligrams. 

Should you start with a lower dosage? That really depends on your comfort level. 

Plenty of people jump right into taking 1,000 milligrams per day without any issues. If you’re someone who is new to NMN or supplements in general, consider starting out with 250 milligrams. If your body responds well to this dosage for a few weeks, gradually increase it. You can do that by simply doubling the serving that you’re currently taking.

With all that said, always consider speaking with a healthcare provider to help tailor your choice of the proper dosage based on your medical history and goals.

Ingredients and Ingredient Quality

You know you want to take an NMN supplement and you’re confident about the dosage. Now it’s time to make sure you’re getting quality ingredients. 

Here are several factors to look for when buying an NMN supplement:

• Purity: Buy an NMN supplement that contains at least 96 percent purity.
• Third-party testing: Look for products that have been third-party tested for quality assurance.
• Certifications: Certifications such as GMP or NSF signify a product’s high-quality manufacturing.
• Complementary ingredients: Check that added ingredients enhance efficacy and offer additional health benefits.
• Additives and fillers: Avoid supplements with unnecessary additives, fillers, or any low-quality ingredients.
• Product reviews and company reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation and read customer reviews to gauge the effectiveness and reliability of the product.

Safety

NMN supplements shouldn’t be a gamble. You should be able to confidently take your choice of supplement without worrying about your safety. 

Here are some tips to keep yourself safe when shopping for NMN supplements:

• Check for interactions with medications. If you are currently taking medication, it’s crucial to understand how NMN might interact with those medications. Consult with a healthcare provider to ensure there are no potential negative interactions.
• Ensure the supplement is backed by clinical research. Look for supplements that have been supported by clinical research. While research on NMN is still emerging, some products may have more scientific backing than others.
• Ensure the brand adheres to safe manufacturing standards. Check to see if the supplement is produced in facilities that follow high safety standards, such as GMP-certified facilities. This ensures that the product is made with a high degree of consistency and control.

Potential Side Effects

NMN supplements are usually very safe and easy to handle. Still, some side effects have been reported, including the following:

• Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
• Gastrointestinal discomfort, including bloating and indigestion
• Skin irritation and allergic reactions
• Flushing and headaches

If you experience any of these, reducing the dosage or discontinuing use may be necessary. Either way, I’d recommend speaking with your doctor. Also, be sure to check the ingredient label to ensure the side effects are coming from the NMN and not another ingredient.

If you’re concerned about the potential side effects of NMN supplements, start with a lower dosage like 250 milligrams, and gradually increase it to gauge your body’s tolerance. Keep a close watch on your body’s reactions after starting NMN supplementation. Any new or unexpected symptoms should be taken seriously and discussed with a healthcare provider.

How To Get the Best Results from an NMN Supplement

There’s more to throwing a supplement capsule in your mouth and going about your day. If you want to get the most from your NMN supplement, here are several tips to consider:

Be Consistent

Above all, if you want to see results, you need to be consistent with taking your supplement. When taken at the same time each day, NMN supplements can help maintain stable levels of NAD in the body. 

In addition to consistency, the timing of your NMN dose might play a role in its efficacy. (And I stress the word “might.”)

There’s some evidence to suggest that taking NMN in the morning could align with your body’s natural rhythms for producing NAD. 

On the other hand, I’ve read that some experts recommend taking NMN at night to help with sleep. 

Does it matter? Overall, I’d recommend finding a time that works best for you and sticking with it. Better to be consistent with taking the supplement than trying to time it perfectly amidst a chaotic schedule and missing doses.

Remember That Diet and Exercise Come First 

Don’t forget, supplements are just part of the equation. As I always say to my clients, “Supplements are supplemental.” They should never be the star of the show – That privilege belongs to diet and exercise.

Eating right and staying active are essential if you want to see the best results. Before considering supplements, I’d suggest reviewing your current fitness and meal plan. Could they use some work? If so, then focus your time, energy, and money on those first.

Once your foundations with food and fitness are solid, then you can bring supplements into the mix.

Consider Synergistic Supplements

Assuming your diet and exercise program are all taken care of, you can look at longevity supplements beyond NMN.

While incredible on its own, NMN can be part of a broader supplement strategy. For example, combining NMN with resveratrol, a compound that also supports cellular health, may enhance the effects of NMN.

This isn’t a requirement but something to consider if your goal is to optimize anti-aging benefits and longevity.

Monitoring Progress and Adjust

Finally, I’d recommend keeping track of how you feel before and after starting the NMN supplement. Use the notepad on your phone and track any changes in energy levels, cognitive function, and overall wellness to gauge the supplement’s effectiveness.

Outside of noting how you feel, if you’re serious about tracking your results, I’d suggest a biomarkers panel test like the one Lifeforce offers. Doing this every quarter or every six months will give you the best idea of how you’re progressing and the changes you might need to make, especially if you’re chatting with a longevity expert.

Final Thoughts

I’m glad that longevity is finally a big focus in the industry. I’m ecstatic when clients ask me questions about living a longer life AND feeling better during those extended years.

Most importantly, I believe that NMN supplements have the potential to play an important role in achieving those anti-aging goals.

However, I’m still a big believer in the basics. 

There’s no “magic pill” that’s going to keep you young forever — at least, not yet there isn’t. Until that day arrives, I can’t stress this enough: Focus on mastering your nutritional choices, get consistent with an exercise program, and consider mental health exercises like meditation so you can live a well-balanced, healthy life. Once these are in order, you can complement your lifestyle with NMN supplements.

Best NMN Supplement: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best NMN Supplement Overall	Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement	Best Budget NMN Supplement	Best Pure NMN Supplement	Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement
Lifeforce Peak NMN	Omre NMN + Resveratrol	Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+	partiQlar Pure NMN	Wonderfeel Youngr NMN
4.5	4.5	3.5	4.0	4.5
Description: Daily dose: Three capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving NMN per serving: 375 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine  Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving NMN per serving: 250 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: No	Description: Daily dose: One capsule Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving NMN per serving: 500 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide Third-party testing: Yes	Description: Daily dose: Two capsules Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving NMN per serving: 900 milligrams Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine Third-party testing: Yes
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best NMN Supplement Overall

Lifeforce Peak NMN

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Three capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $3.00 per serving / Monthly subscription: $2.33 per serving
• NMN per serving: 375 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, berberine HCl, white mulberry extract, spermidine, lithium
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

Best NMN and Resveratrol Supplement

Omre NMN + Resveratrol

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: One-time purchase: $1.99 per serving / Monthly subscription: $1.89 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: NMN powder, resveratrol, BioPerine 
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

Best Budget NMN Supplement

Genuine Purity Liposomal NMN+

3.5

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.49 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.55 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.17 per serving
• NMN per serving: 250 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: No

Check Price

Best Pure NMN Supplement

partiQlar Pure NMN

4.0

Description:

• Daily dose: One capsule
• Cost per serving: Annual: $0.71 per serving / Semi-annual: $0.90 per serving / One-time purchase: $1.20 per serving
• NMN per serving: 500 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

Best Anti-Aging NMN Supplement

Wonderfeel Youngr NMN

4.5

Description:

• Daily dose: Two capsules
• Cost per serving: Introductory monthly subscription: $2.43 per serving / Regular monthly subscription: $2.76 per serving / One-time purchase: $2.93 per serving
• NMN per serving: 900 milligrams
• Key ingredients: Nicotinamide mononucleotide, vitamin D3, trans-resveratrol, olive fruit extract, ergothioneine
• Third-party testing: Yes

Check Price

FAQs

Research

1. Rungratanawanich, W., Qu, Y., Wang, X. et al. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and other adducts in aging-related diseases and alcohol-mediated tissue injury. Exp Mol Med 53, 168–188 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s12276-021-00561-7.
2. Liang Y, Xu X, Yin M, Zhang Y, Huang L, Chen R, Ni J. Effects of berberine on blood glucose in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a systematic literature review and a meta-analysis. Endocr J. 2019 Jan 28;66(1):51-63. doi: 10.1507/endocrj.EJ18-0109. Epub 2018 Nov 3. PMID: 30393248.
3. Thondre, P.S., Lightowler, H., Ahlstrom, L. et al. Mulberry leaf extract improves glycaemic response and insulaemic response to sucrose in healthy subjects: results of a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutr Metab (Lond) 18, 41 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12986-021-00571-2.
4. Kiechl S, Pechlaner R, Willeit P, Notdurfter M, Paulweber B, Willeit K, Werner P, Ruckenstuhl C, Iglseder B, Weger S, Mairhofer B, Gartner M, Kedenko L, Chmelikova M, Stekovic S, Stuppner H, Oberhollenzer F, Kroemer G, Mayr M, Eisenberg T, Tilg H, Madeo F, Willeit J. Higher spermidine intake is linked to lower mortality: a prospective population-based study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018 Aug 1;108(2):371-380. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy102. PMID: 29955838.
5. Igarashi, M., Nakagawa-Nagahama, Y., Miura, M. et al. Chronic nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation elevates blood nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide levels and alters muscle function in healthy older men. npj Aging 8, 5 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41514-022-00084-z.
6. Tomé-Carneiro J, Gonzálvez M, Larrosa M, Yáñez-Gascón MJ, García-Almagro FJ, Ruiz-Ros JA, García-Conesa MT, Tomás-Barberán FA, Espín JC. One-year consumption of a grape nutraceutical containing resveratrol improves the inflammatory and fibrinolytic status of patients in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Am J Cardiol. 2012 Aug 1;110(3):356-63. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2012.03.030. Epub 2012 Apr 19. PMID: 22520621.
7. Zhu X, Wu C, Qiu S, Yuan X, Li L. Effects of resveratrol on glucose control and insulin sensitivity in subjects with type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2017 Sep 22;14:60. doi: 10.1186/s12986-017-0217-z. PMID: 29018489; PMCID: PMC5610395.
8. Baur JA, Sinclair DA. Therapeutic potential of resveratrol: the in vivo evidence. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2006 Jun;5(6):493-506. doi: 10.1038/nrd2060. Epub 2006 May 26. PMID: 16732220.
9. Leonard SS, Xia C, Jiang BH, Stinefelt B, Klandorf H, Harris GK, Shi X. Resveratrol scavenges reactive oxygen species and effects radical-induced cellular responses. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2003 Oct 3;309(4):1017-26. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.08.105. PMID: 13679076.
10. Jang JH, Surh YJ. Protective effect of resveratrol on beta-amyloid-induced oxidative PC12 cell death. Free Radic Biol Med. 2003 Apr 15;34(8):1100-10. doi: 10.1016/s0891-5849(03)00062-5. PMID: 12684095.
11. Lagouge M, Argmann C, Gerhart-Hines Z, Meziane H, Lerin C, Daussin F, Messadeq N, Milne J, Lambert P, Elliott P, Geny B, Laakso M, Puigserver P, Auwerx J. Resveratrol improves mitochondrial function and protects against metabolic disease by activating SIRT1 and PGC-1alpha. Cell. 2006 Dec 15;127(6):1109-22. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2006.11.013. Epub 2006 Nov 16. PMID: 17112576.
12. Gopi S, Balakrishnan P. Evaluation and clinical comparison studies on liposomal and non-liposomal ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and their enhanced bioavailability. J Liposome Res. 2021 Dec;31(4):356-364. doi: 10.1080/08982104.2020.1820521. Epub 2020 Oct 6. PMID: 32901526.
13. “Quality.” partiQlar, 6 Jan. 2023, partiqlar.com/quality/.
14. Fantini C, Corinaldesi C, Lenzi A, Migliaccio S, Crescioli C. Vitamin D as a Shield against Aging. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Feb 25;24(5):4546. doi: 10.3390/ijms24054546. PMID: 36901976; PMCID: PMC10002864.
15. Pilz S, Frisch S, Koertke H, Kuhn J, Dreier J, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Wehr E, Zittermann A. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on testosterone levels in men. Horm Metab Res. 2011 Mar;43(3):223-5. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1269854. Epub 2010 Dec 10. PMID: 21154195.
16. D’Angelo C, Franceschelli S, Quiles JL, Speranza L. Wide Biological Role of Hydroxytyrosol: Possible Therapeutic and Preventive Properties in Cardiovascular Diseases. Cells. 2020 Aug 21;9(9):1932. doi: 10.3390/cells9091932. PMID: 32825589; PMCID: PMC7565717.
17. Paul BD. Ergothioneine: A Stress Vitamin with Antiaging, Vascular, and Neuroprotective Roles? Antioxid Redox Signal. 2022 Jun;36(16-18):1306-1317. doi: 10.1089/ars.2021.0043. Epub 2021 Dec 7. PMID: 34619979; PMCID: PMC9221166.
18. Shade C. The Science Behind NMN-A Stable, Reliable NAD+Activator and Anti-Aging Molecule. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2020 Feb;19(1):12-14. PMID: 32549859; PMCID: PMC7238909.
19. Mills KF, Yoshida S, Stein LR, Grozio A, Kubota S, Sasaki Y, Redpath P, Migaud ME, Apte RS, Uchida K, Yoshino J, Imai SI. Long-Term Administration of Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Mitigates Age-Associated Physiological Decline in Mice. Cell Metab. 2016 Dec 13;24(6):795-806. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2016.09.013. Epub 2016 Oct 27. PMID: 28068222; PMCID: PMC5668137.
20. Liao B, Zhao Y, Wang D, Zhang X, Hao X, Hu M. Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2021 Jul 8;18(1):54. doi: 10.1186/s12970-021-00442-4. PMID: 34238308; PMCID: PMC8265078.
21. Tarantini S, Valcarcel-Ares MN, Toth P, Yabluchanskiy A, Tucsek Z, Kiss T, Hertelendy P, Kinter M, Ballabh P, Süle Z, Farkas E, Baur JA, Sinclair DA, Csiszar A, Ungvari Z. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) supplementation rescues cerebromicrovascular endothelial function and neurovascular coupling responses and improves cognitive function in aged mice. Redox Biol. 2019 Jun;24:101192. doi: 10.1016/j.redox.2019.101192. Epub 2019 Apr 10. PMID: 31015147; PMCID: PMC6477631.

The post Best NMN Supplement: Fountain of Youth in a Bottle? (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

We’ll update this page frequently as we gather more information about New Year’s sales, so be sure to bookmark it and keep checking back so you don’t miss any deals.

• Featured New Year’s Fitness Sales of 2024
• Best New Year’s Sales on Cardio Equipment
• Best New Year’s Sales on Strength Equipment
• Best New Year’s Sales on Smart Home Gym Equipment
• Best New Year’s Sales on Supplements and Nutrition
• Best New Year’s Sales on Apparel

Featured New Year’s Fitness Sales of 2024

REP Fitness

Last year, REP offered discounts throughout their site on select products

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NordicTrack

Last year, NordicTrack offered discounts of up to $500 off on cardio equipment

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Tonal

Last year, Tonal offered a 90-day free trial with all purchases made through the end of January. If you didn't like it, you could return it for a full refund.

Get Deal

Best New Year’s Sales on Cardio Equipment

The new year is a popular time to buy the best cardio machines, as many people are eager to start or re-establish healthy habits. Fortunately, cardio equipment brands make it easier on your wallet by offering significant savings on rowers, ellipticals, treadmills, exercise bikes, and more.

• Aviron: Last year, Aviron offered $300 off the Impact and Strong Series rowers for subscribers
• CAROL Bike: The CAROL Bike was $250 off for New Year’s last year
• Echelon: Last year, Echelon offered up to 20% off all connected and strength training equipment plus free shipping
• Horizon Fitness: For New Year’s 2023, Horizon offered massive savings of up to $1,000 off cardio equipment
• Hydrow: Through January 9, 2023, rowers and rower packages were up to $300 off, and Hydrow offered free standard delivery
• Life Fitness: Strength and cardio equipment were up to 50% off last year
• NordicTrack: Last year’s deal was up to $500 off cardio equipment
• Schwinn: Last year, buyers could save up to $200 and get free shipping on all exercise bikes
• Sole: Select treadmills were discounted last year

Best New Year’s Sales on Strength Equipment

Excited to lift some heavy weights and set PRs in the new year? Check out the deals below from some of our favorite strength equipment brands.

• Bells of Steel: Last year, select items on Bells of Steel’s website were up to 40% off
• Force USA: Last year, shoppers could get a free barbell on X-Series models or a free dip handle attachment with any MyRack purchase
• Fringe Sport: In 2023, Fringe Sport offered 5% off all purchases from December 26 through January 2 and 10% off all gym packages starting January 2
• PRx Performance: The brand offered 10% off orders of $1,750 or more last year
• REP Fitness: Last year, REP offered deals on select items, and we’re hoping to see the same this year. Plus, you can always check out our REP Fitness discount code page for additional ways to save.
• Rogue Fitness: To ring in 2023, Rogue offered daily deals, HUNDO pricing, free shipping, and more
• Titan Fitness: Last year, we saw multiple flash deals, including up to $200 off strength training equipment

Best New Year’s Sales on Smart Home Gym Equipment

Smart home gym equipment can be a great solution for those with limited space, as it gives you access to features like auto-adjusting weights in one compact unit. But it can be even more expensive than a top-notch barbell and squat rack combined, so waiting for a good holiday sale is usually worth it.

• Tonal: Last year, through January 31, you could try Tonal for free for 90 days. If you weren’t satisfied, you could return it within 90 days of installation and get a full refund.

Best New Year’s Sales on Supplements and Nutrition

A healthy lifestyle doesn’t just require consistent exercise. A proper diet is also essential, whether you want to lose weight or build muscle. Products like protein powder can help with either goal, and we’ve compiled the best New Year’s deals on supplements from the brands we trust the most.

• Kaged: Last year, this brand that makes my favorite pre-workout offered 20% off through January 31 with the code NEWME20
• Myprotein: Last year, Myprotein offered 50% off hundreds of items and 30% off all others with the code SAVE30

Best New Year’s Sales on Fitness Apparel

I pretty much live in leggings and workout apparel, so I’m always on the hunt for discounts on gym clothes. We’re still waiting for sales for 2024 to come in, but here are the deals we saw last year on some popular apparel brands.

• Adidas: Adidas offered up to 60% off apparel, shoes, and accessories last year
• Columbia: Select items were up to 60% off last year
• Fabletics: Last year, new VIP members could get 70% off everything
• lululemon: This popular men’s and women’s fitness and lifestyle apparel brand offered discounts on shorts, leggings, and much more last year
• Nike: Last year, with the code CHEERS, shoppers could get an additional 20% off select sale styles
• Reebok: Reebok ran an end-of-year sale last year where you could get an extra 50% off with the code EOSS

How to Find the Best New Year’s Fitness Sales

Consider Your Must-Have Features and Set a Budget

I know from personal experience how easy it is to blow a huge chunk of money on workout equipment. I’d argue that investing in items that can improve your health and wellness is worth it, but I also recognize the importance of saving money.

By doing some research in the weeks leading up to New Year’s Day, you’ll get a good idea of how much various exercise equipment costs and what you get for the price. For example, you can buy a rowing machine with a touchscreen monitor and the ability to stream classes for over $2,000. Or, for less than $500, you can buy a model with a simple screen that tracks a few basic performance metrics.

Once you identify the features that are most important to you, you can decide how much you’re willing to spend to get everything you want in your desired piece of equipment — just make sure you stick to your budget! And if you’re struggling to find equipment in your price range, check out our guide on the best budget home gym equipment.

Check the Pricing History

As someone who loves shopping, I’ve become familiar with the (sometimes shady) selling tactics of various retailers. They’ll jack up the prices of their items right before the holiday season, then offer discounts on the increased price. Unknowing shoppers may not even realize this happens and think they’re getting a good deal. In reality, they’re essentially paying the original price.

I recommend using tools like Karma to look up the pricing history of your desired gym equipment. For products sold on Amazon, Camelcamelcamel is a good resource.

Read Customer Reviews

In addition to checking the pricing history of the equipment you want, I recommend reading reviews — from multiple places, if possible. Some companies hide negative reviews on their websites, so you won’t learn the common complaints about a particular item unless you check various sources.

At Breaking Muscle, it’s our job to review fitness products, and we don’t shy away from pointing out the benefits and drawbacks of the items we test. To help guide you toward making the right decision for your needs, we’ve compiled several guides on the best home gym equipment:

• Best treadmills
• Best rowing machines
• Best squat racks
• Best barbells
• Best weight benches
• Best adjustable dumbbells
• Best kettlebells
• Best resistance bands
• Best massage guns
• Best CrossFit shoes

Read the Fine Print

When dropping potentially thousands of dollars on a large piece of gym equipment, you’ll want to ensure your money won’t be wasted if something is wrong with it or you don’t like it. Read up on things like:

• The company’s return policy
• Whether or not there’s a free trial
• How long the warranty lasts and what it covers
• Whether or not you can finance the item

FAQs

The post New Year’s Fitness Sales (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

In this Titan Series Adjustable Bench review, we’ll dive deep into what makes this newly released model arguably the best value in the industry. From its attractive price point to its sleek appearance to its wide range of adjustable positions, this well-designed Titan bench can handle all your heavy bench presses and other lifts without taking a huge bite out of your garage gym budget.

Key Takeaways

• The Titan Series Adjustable Bench costs $449.99, making it one of the best budget-friendly options if you’re looking for a high-quality adjustable bench that won’t break the bank.
• This newly released bench features nine back pad positions and three seat pad positions, giving you 27 custom configurations to perform a variety of free-weight exercises.
• Tipping the scales at 120 pounds, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a 1,000-pound weight capacity for the flat position and a 600-pound max for the incline position.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench

4.3

• Dimensions: 17” H x 56.5” L x 24.75” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds (flat), 600 pounds (incline)
• Materials: 11-gauge steel frame, HeftyGrip Vinyl
• Warranty: One-year warranty

Check Price

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Pros

• Made with 11-gauge steel, this heavy-duty adjustable bench is incredibly sturdy. Titan took the stability factor to the max by welding the entire frame together (other than the back foot), leaving essentially zero wriggle room and creating ultra-tight tolerances.
• Titan’s HeftyGrip Vinyl compares favorably to the material used on more expensive weight benches like the REP Fitness BlackWing. Thick and durable, it provides an extra grippy surface for you to perform your lifts so you don’t have to worry about sliding around or feeling unsafe.
• With a $450 price tag that includes free shipping, this Titan bench provides excellent bang for your buck. You can use those extra savings to invest in better bumper plates, an Olympic barbell for CrossFit-style workouts, or other strength equipment to round out your home gym.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Cons

• Despite a solid overall design, this adjustable weight bench isn’t quite as comfortable as some of its competitors when used in a flat position due to the 1.5-inch gap between the seat pad and back pad. The hinge that moves both pads can dig into your back if you’re positioned lower on the bench.
• Unlike the BlackWing model from REP Fitness, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench does not accommodate attachments like a leg roller. This limits your ability to use the bench to perform accessory exercises such as sit-ups, crunches, and Nordic curls.
• Titan only offers a one-year warranty period for all products. On the other end of the spectrum, Rogue includes a limited lifetime warranty on all frames and a three-year warranty on sewn items.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Rating

From price to padding to portability, our Breaking Muscle Team assesses weight benches using a propriety scoring system we developed from testing dozens of different benches to perform a variety of free-weight exercises. We look for critical factors that lead to a positive purchasing experience, including how well the bench is made, how easy it is to use, and how many adjustable positions you have at your disposal.

Here’s how the Titan Series Adjustable Bench fared across each category:

Titan Series Adjustable Bench In-Depth Review

It’s never too late to change your reputation. While Titan hasn’t earned a ton of praise for their benches before, that will surely change once more lifters get a chance to try out their newest creation. Safe, sturdy, and supportive, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench seems more than capable of serving as the only bench in your home gym for years to come.

Not only does it give you the versatility to adjust the seat pad and back pad, but it’s also designed to store vertically — a neat feature that cuts down on the bench’s footprint. Most importantly, though, Titan’s latest release comes in at a price point that makes it the best value, even in a crowded market full of high-quality adjustable bench options. 

Price and Value

It almost seems too good to be true for an adjustable bench built to International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards to be available for well under $500. Yet thanks to Titan, you can enjoy the benefits of having a flat, upright, and incline bench all in one for the tidy price of $449.99. Plus, you don’t have to leave any room in your budget for freight costs, as Titan offers free shipping on all orders.

Compared to other similar adjustable benches, the Titan Series comes at a more affordable price point. For example, although REP marked its popular AB-5200 model down to $449.99 as part of a Black Friday sale, it typically costs about $500. Meanwhile, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 normally costs $50 more than its current sale price of $545.

Considering you get two more back pad adjustment choices with the Titan Series for less money, it’s hard to put the AB-5200 above its competitor from a value standpoint. Plus, Titan offers two- and three-year protection plans for $54.99 and $64.99, respectively, along with flexible payment options.

Overall, Titan deserves a tip of the cap for pricing their top-end bench at a budget-friendly rate. We rated it 5 out of 5 stars for price and value.

Construction Quality

The aptly named Titan Series certainly meets the mark from a quality standpoint. Despite being priced rather aggressively, Titan didn’t go the cheap route with the materials on what should become their signature bench.

Built with 11-gauge steel that’s known for holding up well over time, it epitomizes the word “sturdy.” Actually, our team found the Titan Series Adjustable Bench to outrank the Rogue AB 3.0 from that perspective, highlighting that the bench did not budge an inch during testing. That type of stability speaks volumes about Titan’s innovative engineering, as the decision to weld the base into one solid piece contributes to the bench’s sturdiness.

Titan also went the extra mile in other areas. A knurled handle in a powder-coated black finish on the front post plate feels rock-solid and makes maneuvering the bench much easier. Meanwhile, a plate with UHMD plastic on the top of the back pad allows you to store the bench upright securely.

Finally, the HeftyGrip vinyl that covers the durable padding made our team feel right at home. With ample support from the steel frame, thick padding, and extra-grippy vinyl, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench scored 5 out of 5 stars for construction quality.

Delivery and Assembly

Titan takes some of the financial burden off your shoulders by offering free shipping on all orders. Eager to try out the brand’s newest foray into the adjustable bench world, our team did not encounter any issues during the delivery process. Sent to our Springfield, MO, headquarters via UPS/FedEx in one box that was sturdy but still easily movable, it didn’t take long for our testers to have the Titan Series Adjustable Bench up and running.

In fact, the assembly process proved far easier (and quicker) than past experiences with other benches that require multiple tools and a ton of patience. Because the base is all in one piece, you only need to attach the pads and wheels on the back. 

That smart design choice by Titan — which also likely reduced the manufacturing and shipping costs — helped this bench score 5 out of 5 stars for delivery and assembly.

Dimensions

At 17 inches tall, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench meets the IPF standard for height. A 40-inch-long back pad and a 12-inch long seat pad make it one of the longer benches in its category. With a total length of 56.5 inches, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench measures 4.5 inches longer than the REP AB-5200. However, it actually weighs five pounds less (120) than one of REP’s most popular models.

Unfortunately, one dimension-related flaw stood out for our testing team: the 1.5-inch pad gap. Having that space between the back and seat pads can cause discomfort, especially because the hinge that moves both pads sits fairly high and digs into your back. If you don’t want to deal with a seat gap at all, the REP BlackWing or the AB-5000 are excellent options that still give you plenty of adjustable positions.

All in all, this bench scored 4 out of 5 stars for dimensions, as the potential discomfort from the hinge inside the pad gap knocks the rating down a notch.

Padding

If sturdiness matters most in a bench, then comfortability doesn’t fall far behind. While budget-friendly benches on Amazon often come with cheaper, thinner padding, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench features the exact opposite.

Measuring 2.5 inches thick, both the seat pad and the back pad provided plenty of support for our testers as they performed rows and the flat bench press. Plus, lifters with broader frames won’t have to worry about pad width problems, as the back pad is a great size at 12 inches. As someone with a wide upper body, I can appreciate Titan’s decision to use a wide enough back pad that allows you to bench without having your shoulders roll off.

Part of that also has to do with the extra-grippy HeftyGrip Vinyl that envelops the thick padding. Our testers said it felt similar to the vinyl REP uses on their benches, which shows Titan is serious about contending with the big-time bench manufacturers. From a padding perspective, we gave the Titan Series Adjustable Bench 5 out of 5 stars.

Footprint and Portability

Based on its dimensions, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a footprint of 9.71 feet. As one of the longer adjustable benches on the market, it has a more sizable footprint than the REP AB-5200, which checks in at just 8.25 square feet. On the other hand, the REP BlackWing has a far larger footprint than the Titan Bench at 10.7 square feet.

Tipping the scales at 120 pounds, this well-built bench surprisingly wasn’t too difficult to maneuver. Our testing team took advantage of the knurled handle in the front and the oversized rear wheels in the back to move the bench around and store it upright using the rubber stopper on the back. Titan’s space-saving design allows you to reduce the overall footprint from 9.71 to just 2.92 square feet, making it a great fit if you have a smaller home gym. 

Despite being a longer bench, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench should still fit well into your space, and having the ability to store it vertically can save you valuable room. Plus, Titan smartly used an enclosed ladder system to prevent the adjustment arm from sliding out of place when the bench is stored upright. We scored it 4 out of 5 stars for footprint and portability.

Performance and Ease of Use

Although our team has been left disappointed in the past by some Titan benches, this model made them reconsider their stance. They were already impressed by its rugged look before using it for a single lift. The Titan Series Adjustable Bench backed up its impressive appearance with a flawless performance.

Utilized for both single-arm dumbbell rows and dumbbell bench presses, our testers had no trouble using the ladder-style adjustment system to go from a flat position to an upright angle. The inclusion of red anodized knobs also made it simple to go from one position to the next. Our team also enjoyed being able to anchor their feet securely thanks to the inclusion of a single front post plate that’s fairly narrow. Meanwhile, the bench’s rubber feet keep it firmly anchored to the floor.

However, Titan did drop the ball a bit by using a metal joint between the back and seat pads that comes up a little too high. If you are too low on the bench, the hinge can cause discomfort in your back and create an unnecessary distraction that could affect your performance.

Overall, though, this straightforward, no-nonsense bench was easy to use and seems more than capable of being the only bench in your home gym. The Titan Series Adjustable Bench received 4.5 out of 5 stars for its impressive performance and ease of use.

Incline Levels

Because it’s not an FID bench, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench does have some limitations. Still, it’s tough to complain about a sub-$500 bench that gives you nine back pad positions (0, 15, 30, 38, 45, 55, 60, 70, and 85 degrees) from which to choose. Plus, seat angles of 0, 15, and 30 degrees open the door to 27 configurations for your home workouts.

The ladder-style adjustment system on this bench will look familiar if you’ve ever used a Rogue bench. Nearly identical in design, it features a bolt wrapped in heavy-duty UHMW plastic that made a pleasing clicking sound when our testers changed the position of the bench. The laser-cut numbers on the seat and back pads also made it simple for our team to identify the angle they wanted to set the bench.

By comparison, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 provides slightly more flexibility with your angle options, as it has 10 back pad positions. Meanwhile, the REP Fitness AB-5200 only offers seven, along with the same three seat pad angles.

Overall, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench has enough options to get the job done and utilizes a user-friendly ladder system that feels secure. Although it would be great to have decline position options, we still gave this bench 4 out of 5 stars for incline levels.

Warranty

Titan Fitness falls short of the competition with their warranty policy. The company only offers a one-year limited warranty with all of their products, including the Titan Series Adjustable Bench. According to Titan’s website, the warranty coverage only includes defects in material or workmanship and excludes accidents, damage, negligence, improper assembly and maintenance, abnormal operating conditions, and alterations.

On the other hand, REP Fitness includes a 10-year warranty on bench frames, plus a one-year warranty on sewn items. Rogue takes customer service even further with a limited lifetime warranty on frames that voids if a product has been damaged due to negligent or faulty use, alteration, maintenance, storage, or handling by the user. In addition, Rogue covers sewn items for up to three years.

Finally, Force USA backs up its benches with a lifetime warranty for frames, a 10-year warranty on moving parts, and one year of coverage for upholstery and attachments. This applies to equipment used exclusively in private indoor home settings, such as basements and garages.

Ultimately, Titan doesn’t come close to other bench manufacturers from a coverage perspective. Since you only get a one-year warranty protecting your $450 investment, we scored the Titan Series Adjustable Bench 2 out of 5 stars in this category.

RELATED: Titan X-3 Power Rack Review

Titan Series Adjustable Bench Specs

Not only did Titan produce a bench that meets International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) standards, but they did so at an excellent price point. Built to handle all your lifts without busting your home gym budget, this adjustable bench looks, feels, and performs like one that should be more expensive. From its pad dimensions to its weight capacity, here are the full specs for the Titan Series Adjustable Bench.

Dimensions

The Titan Series Adjustable Bench measures 56.5 inches long, 24.75 inches wide, and 17 inches tall for a total footprint of 9.71 square feet. This 120-pound heavy-duty bench has a back pad that’s 40 inches long and 12 inches wide.

Meanwhile, the seat pad measures 12 inches long and 12 inches wide. There’s also a 1.5-inch gap between the back and seat pads.

Materials

Titan built its newest adjustable bench with high-quality materials, including 11-gauge steel for the frame — the same material used in REP’s AB-5200 and BlackWing models and the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. This helps give the bench its sturdy feel and 1,000-pound weight capacity, with the powder-coated black finish providing a badass overall look.

For the padding, Titan used their HeftyGrip polyurethane vinyl, which our testers found to be extra grippy and comfortable. Red anodized knobs add a nice visual and tactile touch to the design. Plus, a knurled stainless steel handle makes transporting the bench a breeze.

Pad Thickness

Titan Fitness didn’t skimp on the padding, as both the back pad and seat pad measure 2.5 inches thick. This makes for a comfortable lifting experience, as you feel fully supported from end to end.

Weight Capacity

The Titan Series Adjustable Bench has a max weight capacity of 1,000 pounds in the flat position. This puts it right on par with the BlackWing and the AB-5200 models from REP Fitness. In addition, the Titan Series has an angled weight capacity of 600 pounds, which is just 100 pounds shy of how much the REP AB-4100 can support in a flat position.

Titan Series Adjustable Bench vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

Ironically, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 seems to be one of the sources of inspiration behind the design of Titan’s newest adjustable bench. Built to nearly the same specifications using almost the same exact materials, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench compares favorably to one of Rogue’s most popular models.

Still, there are some important differences to note between the two models. First, the Titan Series costs significantly less, checking in at $450. On the other hand, the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 requires a more substantial investment of $595. Plus, upgrading to a stainless steel frame increases the total cost to nearly $700.

Second, the Titan Series doesn’t offer the same flexibility when it comes to adjustments and finish options. While having 27 configurations should be enough for most home gym owners, Rogue’s model provides 30 thanks to 10 incline positions ranging from 0 to 85 degrees and three seat positions (0, 15, and 30 degrees). In addition, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench only comes in a powder-coated black finish, whereas the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0 is available in 10 colors: black, gun metal, blue, bright green, red, white, dark red, burnt orange, dark blue, and satin clear.

Finally, consider where your bench comes from. If you prefer USA-made fitness products, Rogue is the way to go. If you’re comfortable investing in a bench that’s made overseas, there’s certainly nothing wrong with opting for the more affordable Titan Series Adjustable Bench.

Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

4.5

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 52” L x 11” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel, vinyl cover, rubber feet
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on the frame

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Titan Series Adjustable Bench Customer Reviews

Because it’s a new release, there are currently no reviews available for the Titan Series Adjustable Bench. However, given its impressive spec list, high-quality build materials, and ability to be used in 27 configurable positions, we expect it to earn high marks from customers who get a chance to explore all of its capabilities. 

Final Verdict: Is the Titan Series Adjustable Bench Worth It?

Even though Titan benches typically fall short of expectations, that’s simply not the case with their newest model. The design team deserves major props for putting together a true FID weight bench that provides 27 possible configurations in a well-priced package. Built from high-quality materials that should prove durable over time, this bench packs a serious punch, especially considering how cheap it is compared to similar offerings from REP and Rogue.

While the seat gap issue shouldn’t be overlooked, it’s difficult to find any other obvious flaws with what should become the company’s flagship bench. If you’re looking to preserve some of your home gym budget, the Titan Series Adjustable Bench is an ideal solution that will allow you to still have the financial flexibility to purchase other fitness products and strength equipment accessories.

FAQs

The post Titan Series Adjustable Bench Review (2024) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells are a space-saving and cost-effective option for adjustable weights. However, like all fitness equipment, they aren’t going to check the box for everyone. Therefore, to help you decide if it’s a practical choice for you, the Breaking Muscle team has put them to the test. Plus, as a health and fitness writer who loves sharing my honest home gym workout experiences, I’ll also be spilling the tea. So, let’s jump right into this NordicTrack adjustable dumbbell review!

Key Takeaways

• These can replace 15 individual dumbbells, so you can really maximize your home gym space. They range in weight from 10 to 55 pounds (4.53 to 24.94 kilograms).
• The handle diameter is fixed, which may not be ideal if you prefer a more ergonomic handle.
• The sliding pins weight selection system is easy to use, but adjusting the weight may take longer than it does on other adjustable dumbbells. 

NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Adjustable Dumbbell

4.1

• Weight range: 10 to 55 pounds
• Weight increments: 2.5 to five pounds
• Adjustment type: Sliding pins
• Dimensions: 19.4” L x 11.4” W x 8.5” H with storage tray 
• Materials: Steel, plastic
• Warranty: 90 days

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NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Pros

• NordicTrack’s adjustable dumbbells are some of the more affordable adjustable dumbbell choices.
• They can be adjusted in 2.5-pound increments, which is ideal for those who prefer to make smaller jumps in weight.
• The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells are compact and take up less room than a full set of high-quality dumbbells. They can fit into most small gym spaces with ease.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Cons

• The plastic parts may cause durability issues.
• During our testing, we noticed that the weight plates can shake and rattle when in use.
• The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells can’t be dropped, so they may not be suitable for CrossFitters or lifters who like to train to failure.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Rating

The Breaking Muscle team has tried out A LOT of adjustable dumbbells, so we know what a real high-quality one looks like. We use our proprietary factor methodology system to rank everything from price for value to the variety of weight increments.

Here’s how the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells score. 

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Overview

The NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells come as a pair and provide a combined 110 pounds (49.89 kilograms) of weight. With a handy-dandy weight selection system and 15 different weight assortments, you can do a variety of home workouts from squats and lunges to bicep curls and overhead presses. Plus, if combined with an iFit membership (for around $39 per month), beginners and intermediate trainees can access hundreds of weightlifting workouts. 

In this second iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells, you get a less bulky product that feels a little more like a fixed weight. The original version, which had blue weight selector tabs, featured more plastic and felt less sturdy. Some consumers even questioned its safety and reliability. But in NordicTrack’s new and improved version of this set of adjustable dumbbells, it seems to be a lot better. 

Who Should Buy the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

• New and intermediate trainees who are looking for dumbbells they can progress with. 
• Individuals who don’t have a spacious home gym and need a compact solution. 
• Home gym lovers who enjoy interactive training — these dumbbells are an excellent choice for strength training workouts through iFIT (which requires a subscription of about $39 per month)

Who Should Not Buy the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

• Those who prefer the feel and functionality of traditional dumbbells 
• Advanced weightlifters who need more than 55 pounds 
• Trainees who’d prefer longer warranty coverage. NordicTrack only offers a 90-day warranty.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Review

Before you even think about swiping your card to order this product, there are a few things you should know. While this set of adjustable dumbbells will check the box for some people, it may be completely underwhelming for others. To give you some perspective, we’ll jump into the price, construction quality, warranty, and more. 

Price and Value

As of this writing, the 55-pound (24.94 kilograms) NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell costs $399, but is that reasonable? The short answer is yes, and here’s why we ranked these 4 out of 5. 

When compared to similar options, their price actually seems to fall in the middle. For instance, when we compared options, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 was $429, The Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set was $359, and the Nuobell Classic Adjustable Dumbbell Set was $595.

They’re all compact and have comparable weight options and increments, but the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight set is the only one that goes up to 55 pounds. On top of that, you’d get free shipping and a 30-day iFIT trial. Financing may be an option, too, if you’re not ready to pay it all upfront. There are 12 and 39-month 0 percent APR payment options, meaning you could end up paying a little over $10 or $33 per month.  

So, if you’re comparing those and trying to determine which one would provide the most value, I’d recommend NordicTrack. For the quality, price, and functionality, these are one of the best adjustable dumbbells. However, if you want a set of dumbbells with a greater weight range or higher quality, expect to pay more. 

Also, let’s not forget that traditional dumbbells cost about $1 to $4 per pound. A set of five to 50-pound (22.67 kilograms) rubber hex dumbbells could easily cost you $800, and these are practically half the price. In short, these just might be worth replacing a whole rack of dumbbells. 

RELATED: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

Construction Quality

The first iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells had plastic handles and, according to some consumers, cheaply made weight selector tabs that would occasionally break. If those broke, the product became virtually useless, as you couldn’t select a different weight. 

While it’s unclear if they improved this in the newer version, which now has orange adjustment pins, I can say that I haven’t seen nearly as many negative reviews about them breaking. I did come across one poor review on Amazon where the buyer stated that they dropped the adjustable 2.5/5 pound (1.13/2.26 kilograms) section on a horse mat. Afterward, they were no longer able to adjust the five-pound setting and had trouble getting a replacement. 

You should also be aware that the inside of the weight plates are made of plastic as well. In terms of durability, they should work fine for a while but will likely wear down over time. This could cause the plates to stick and not lock into place correctly. My advice is just to be careful. If you’re aggressive when using them or set the weight plates or tabs down too hard, they’ll probably break down much sooner. 

What I really like about the new NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells is the metal handle with moderate knurling. This upgrade means you’ll be able to maintain a better grip when completing different exercises. It’s very uncommon to see metal handles on adjustable dumbbells at this price point, so this is truly a standout feature.  

Overall, the construction is pretty good for the price, and that’s why we made it a 4 out of 5. It’s clear that NordicTrack has made some efforts to improve this set of dumbbells so buyers can get more use out of them. Although it’s a bummer when gym equipment like this breaks, we must remember that these aren’t traditional dumbbells. Many lifters have a habit of dropping their weights down after an intense set of reps, but you shouldn’t do that with adjustable dumbbells with plastic parts. 

Ergonomics

These aren’t the most comfortable pair of dumbbells in the world, but they’re by far not the worst, either, so we gave these a 4 out of 5. 

To start, the handles don’t have a thick center that tapers down at each end, which is considered “ergonomic.” Many people find ergonomic handles more user-friendly as they are better at distributing the weight in your hands. This is especially noticeable when using heavier weights. 

However, while those may feel better to hold, a fixed-diameter handle, like the one here, offers more contact and a firmer grip. The moderate knurling assists with maintaining your grip as well and does so without hurting you. More aggressive knurling is sharper and makes it challenging to do high-rep training. 

Although NordicTrack hasn’t disclosed the exact diameter of these 10-pound handles, the Breaking Muscle team assumes they’re about 30 millimeters. This isn’t terrible, but it’s on the thicker side for a smaller dumbbell and possibly not wide enough for a heavier one. To give you some perspective, Rogue’s Rubber Hex Dumbbells that are 12.5 pounds (5.66 kilograms) or heavier sport a 35-millimeter diameter handle. For any less than that, the handle is 25 millimeters thick.

“Fat gripz” on heavier dumbbells are more common because large dumbbells require you to utilize more muscles. Muscle growth is stimulated with thicker grips because they make the forearm, bicep, and hand muscles work harder. Over time, this may make you more effective at handling heavier weights. 

Unfortunately, the diameter of NordicTrack’s Adjustable Dumbbells doesn’t change when you make a weight adjustment, but this is common among adjustable dumbbells. Therefore, we can’t completely zonk it. The brand likely picked 30 millimeters because it’s in the middle and should work for those with small and large hands. 

Now, let’s consider the weight plates from a comfort perspective. When the Breaking Muscle team tried these out, they noted that the round weight plates slightly shook and made a click-clacking noise. While that won’t physically interfere with your workout, it could be problematic if you’re sensitive to such noises and sensations. Once again, this is the sort of thing that just comes with the adjustable dumbbell territory. 

For the most part, these are shaped and perform a lot like traditional dumbbells, but you shouldn’t use them for push-ups. The plate’s rounded design just doesn’t support that, so stick to lifting instead. 

Ease of Use

A lot of people are intimidated by adjustable dumbbells, but these are pretty easy to use. The storage tray has clear weight markings, so you can move the four adjustment pins to select the amount of weight you want. Then you have to do the other dumbbell, so it’s not the quickest process and could take some getting used to.

I personally prefer the twist-lock technology found on the Core Fitness dumbbells that I own. With those, I just set my dumbbells in the cradle and twist the handle until I reach my desired weight. 

Weight Options

What makes the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight Dumbbells really attractive are the 2.5 and five-pound increments. If you’re anything like me, making a five-pound (2.26-kilogram) leap is challenging, especially when it comes to doing bicep curls. I’d much rather progress in 2.5-pound increments because it allows me to maintain a better form and reduces my risk of injury. 

However, do note that 2.5-pound increments are not available across the board, so if you’re hoping for 7.5 (3.40 kilogram) or 17.5 (7.93 kilogram) weight options, it’s not possible. In some cases, you’ll just have to be okay with a five-pound increment, such as when you go from 15 (6.80) to 20 pounds (9.07 kilograms). 

RELATED: Best Kettlebells for CrossFit, Beginners, and More

Adjustment Mechanism

When you’re ready to adjust the weight of these dumbbells, all you have to do is pull out the orange weight pin selector and slide it to your preferred weight. The markers on the storage tray are set up in 10-pound (4.53 kilogram) increments (e.g., 10, 20, 30 pounds/4.53, 9.07, 13.6 kilograms), etc.), so you know where to place them. 

However, here’s where it gets tricky. There’s a slider inside of each dumbbell for the smaller 2.5 and five-pound increment options, but it’s not exactly clear which way you’re supposed to slide those to select the one you want. Over time, you’d probably figure it out; however, it’s annoying to be doing this in the middle of a workout. 

Also, adjustments can probably be done in five to ten seconds with these, but this is annoying when you’re doing supersets. The dial method is more attractive in terms of speed, which is why this adjustment mechanism gets a 3.5 out of 5 rating. 

Warranty

One area that NordicTrack could’ve done better is the warranty. Compared to other companies that provide two and five-year warranty coverage on parts and labor, they only offer 90 days. 

Such short coverage will make some consumers raise their eyebrows and question the product’s durability. This is especially concerning because the plastic weight-changing pin is susceptible to breakage. Therefore, don’t be forceful when making weight changes because if you break it, it’s not covered under warranty, and finding a replacement may be incredibly challenging. 

In addition, there is a 30-day return policy, but here’s the kicker. You’ll be charged a $250 non-refundable return shipping fee and a 10% processing fee.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Specs

When looking for a pair of adjustable dumbbells, it helps to look at certain factors and be aware of your own preferences. For example, you’ll want to know about a dumbbell’s dimensions and materials so you can assess if the size and feel will work for you. Also, knowing its weight range and whether or not it has mobile app capabilities is crucial, especially for beginners. Below, we’ll dive into what you can expect from the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells.  

Dimensions

The newest version of these NordicTrack dumbbells is much more compact. The older one was 26.59 inches long, 21.25 inches wide, and 10.53 inches high when the dumbbells were set inside the plastic tray. This one is 19.40 inches long, 11.40 inches wide, and 9 inches tall. Length-wise, it’s a whole seven inches shorter. Therefore, if you don’t have a dedicated home gym space, these are small enough to hide under the bed or in the closet. 

RELATED: Best Budget Barbells

Materials

This iteration of the NordicTrack Adjustable dumbbells has steel handles and weight plates, which is a considerable improvement. It gives them a more premium feel. There is some plastic in the top middle of the plates where the weight selector tabs are meant to be placed. However, compared to the hardened plastic-coated weights on the blue ones, this isn’t so bad. The fitted storage trays are still made of plastic, so you must be careful with those. If you slam the weights down too hard, it may break.  

Weight Range

Each dumbbell is between 10 and 55 pounds (4.53 and 24.94 kilograms). There are 15 weight adjustments, which are as follows: 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5, and 55 pounds (4.53, 5.66, 6.80, 9.07, 10.20, 11.33, 13.60, 14.74, 15.87, 18.14, 19.27, 20.41, 22.67, 23.81, and 24.94 kilograms). 

Mobile App Compatibility

If you like having access to live and on-demand video workouts from iFIT personal trainers, you’re in luck. There are multiple strength exercises on there. This is helpful for beginners who might not know what to do and even more experienced persons who are looking to switch it up. 

When you purchase this adjustable dumbbell set, you’ll get a 30-day iFIT family membership that includes up to five profiles. There’s even a leaderboard to log your workouts and track your progress. As long as you have WiFi and a compatible TV screen, tablet, and/or phone, you should be good to go. Once the trial ends, it’ll be around $39/month plus tax.  

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells vs. BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

The BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells are very popular, and this is partially because BowFlex is a name people trust in the fitness space. Seriously, when I think of my childhood, 1990s BowFlex commercials come to mind. 

There are areas where the BowFlex dumbbells outshine the NordicTrack dumbbells, such as with their simple and quick dial system and two-year warranty. In addition, they’re quieter since the metal plates are encased in a molding. 

I personally like that it starts at five pounds (2.26 kilograms) and has 2.5-pound (1.13 kilogram) increments up to 25 pounds (11.33 kilograms). This may be important for those new to training, who might appreciate 7.5 and 17.5-pound (3.40 and 7.93-kilogram) weight options. NordicTrack has more adjustable increments between 20 and 50 pounds, though, so it really depends on your preference and fitness goals. 

Here’s where BowFlex lacks in comparison, though. Their max weight caps at 52.5 pounds (23.81 kilograms), the handles lack knurling and have a subpar rubber grip, and it’s made with a lot of plastic. In fact, several of their customers have complained about the plastic breaking. At around $429, they’re still considered a relatively affordable option, but you have to ask yourself if you may get more value out of the NordicTrack Select-a-Weight dumbbells.  

Neither of these options comes with an expansion kit, which may be a deal-breaker for anyone looking for much heavier weights.

BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

4.5

• Weight range: Five to 52.5 pounds
• Weight increments: 2.5 to five pounds
• Adjustment type: Sliding pins
• Dimensions: 16.9" L x 8.3" W x 9" H 
• Materials: Steel, nylon, ABS, thermoplastic rubber
• Warranty: Two-year parts warranty

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NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Customer Reviews

NordicTrack doesn’t feature any reviews on their website, but Amazon has over 1500. At the time of this writing, almost 80% are 5-star ratings, and only four percent are 1-star. 

One customer stated, “Best adjustable dumbbells in this price range! Top features are that they are dumbbell shaped with flat weight ends, and the handles are very well done.” Another said, “Best investment I’ve made in my own gym, and I’m happy I went with these…not sure if anything above this is really worth it unless you need 80lbs dumbbells and have a large budget or just want to super nice dumbbells that are $700 to $800.”

Among the negative reviews, some stated that the product arrived broken. One customer said, “The weights arrived broken, with one of the disks having noticeable cracks that prevented the selector switch from moving past it, making it impossible to adjust the weight properly; a critical feature for this product.” One other customer mentioned, “Item arrived in a beat-up box with no styrofoam packing or insulation really of any kind. Weights inside were banged up and scratched though not damaged nearly as badly as other people seem to have gotten.” 

Final Verdict: Are NordicTrack Dumbbells Worth It?

NordicTrack is mainly known for its high-end treadmills and ellipticals, so when I found out they sold dumbbells as well, I was slightly taken aback. I mean, could they really be a leader in the adjustable dumbbell space, too? As it turns out, they’re making a name for themselves as being one the most valuable options out there for its price range.    

The NordicTrack dumbbells are winning in a few areas. They’re cost-effective, space-saving, and feel a lot like regular dumbbells. While they cannot utilize Alexa to respond to voice commands that change the weights like the NordicTrack iSelect Adjustable Dumbbells, it offers other notable features. It’s certainly not every day that you’ll see 2.5 (1.1 kilogram) and 5-pound (2.26 kilogram) weight increments or a dumbbell set that goes up to 55 pounds (24.94 kilograms). Plus, adding iFIT could take your workout game to an entirely different level. 

So, are they worth it? For someone who doesn’t mind the quirks that come with adjustable dumbbells and is short on space, yes. There are definitely options with greater durability and more than 110 pounds (49.89 kilograms), but given the price tag here, the NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells are winning. 

FAQs

The post NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbell Review (2024): Are These Value Dumbbells Worth It? appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

We know that most shoppers enjoy a good deal, and using a REP Fitness discount code can help you save even more money. Below, we’ve compiled all the ways you can score special discounts on the equipment you need to build the ultimate home gym.

REP Fitness Discount Codes

Because their products are already reasonably priced, you won’t find too many REP Fitness promo codes. That said, there are ways you can still get the best discount possible on their equipment. Here are all the ways you can save money when shopping on REP Fitness’s website:

• Rewards points: Get points for spending money, leaving reviews, following REP Fitness on social media, or signing up for texts. You also receive points each year on your birthday. For every 100 points you earn, you’ll receive a $5 reward.
• Local pickup discounts: If you live near REP’s showrooms in Moreno Valley, California, or Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and can pick up your items yourself, you may get up to 15% off your order.
• Customer referrals: Refer a friend and offer them $10 off their purchase of $100 or more. Earn $10 in points for every successful referral.
• Free shipping: There’s no need to enter any promotional code for free shipping. As of this writing, REP offers free shipping on all orders made within the lower 48 states.
• Financing: If you prefer to pay for your purchase in smaller installments, choose PayPal or Shop Pay as your payment method at checkout. Financing through Affirm is also available for purchases over $650.

How to Apply REP Fitness Coupon Codes

1. Visit repfitness.com.
2. Sign up for rewards on REP’s Loyalty Program page with your name and email address. You’ll get points just for creating an account (don’t worry — it’s free) and then earn points for each dollar you spend on the REP Fitness website. Other ways to earn points include following REP’s social media accounts, leaving reviews, and signing up for text alerts. You’ll also receive points on your birthday. One hundred points equals $5 in rewards.
3. Redeem your eligible points when completing your order on REP’s checkout page.
4. At checkout, selecting PayPal or Shop Pay as your payment method will allow you to pay for your purchase in installments. REP also offers financing through Affirm on orders over $650.
5. Save money by picking up your items from one of REP’s showroom locations, if possible. Their showrooms are located in Moreno Valley, California, and Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Discounts start at 10% off purchases up to $2,500 and go up to 15% off purchases of $7,500 or more.

REP Fitness

REP Fitness offers commercial-quality yet affordable gym equipment for home gym owners. From barbells to weight benches to adjustable dumbbells, you can find almost everything you need to get stronger and fitter at home.

Get REP Fitness Discounts

When Are REP Fitness Products on Sale?

Like most major fitness equipment brands, REP Fitness offers sales around major shopping holidays, such as Cyber Monday. They don’t always offer sitewide sales, but they do usually have daily and weekly deals on select items.

Signing up for REP Fitness’ email newsletter is the best way to get notified when their products go on sale. It’s also an excellent way to get alerts about new products. Alternatively, you can learn about REP Fitness coupons and special discounts by following their social media pages.

For information on fitness equipment deals from all of our favorite brands, keep checking our holiday sales guides below.

• Labor Day Fitness Sales
• Black Friday Fitness Deals
• New Year’s Fitness Sales

Why We Love REP Fitness

I’ve owned several items from REP for nearly four years, and our Breaking Muscle product testers have tried dozens of REP Fitness barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells, weight benches, functional trainers, and power racks. Almost everything we’ve tested has received high marks for quality, durability, and performance.

Some of our favorite REP Fitness products are listed below:

• Colorado Bar
• Double Black Diamond Bar
• BlackWing Adjustable Bench
• The FT-5000, which topped our list of the best functional trainers
• The AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench, which we consider a high-quality piece of budget-friendly home gym equipment

Why Shop at REP Fitness?

As mentioned, the Breaking Muscle staff is frequently impressed with the quality of REP Fitness’s products, especially considering how reasonably priced much of it is. We also appreciate that REP Fitness offers the following perks:

• A loyalty program with rewards points for completing certain actions on the REP Fitness website or their social media pages
• Free shipping on all orders within the lower 48 United States (as of this writing)
• The ability to finance purchases over $650 through Affirm
• The ability to pay in installments with PayPal or Shop Pay
• Local pickup discounts
• Discounts for successful customer referrals

FAQs: REP Fitness Discount Code

The post REP Fitness Discount Code (2024): Ways to Save and Earn Rewards appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Today, many brands, like REP Fitness, Rogue, Sorinex, and Titan, produce high-quality benches. However, none of them will be a good fit for everyone. Therefore, you have to evaluate your budget, fitness goals, and preferences to ensure you pick the right one for you. 

As a 5+ year Public Health Professional and Writer, I’ve researched and written on several weight benches. I’ve also had a chance to try out a few for myself. In this REP AB-5200 adjustable bench review, I’m giving you all the deets so you can decide if this is personally worth the buy. 

Key Takeaways

• On their website, the bench is automatically set to the fixed post option, making it a flat-incline bench. If you’d prefer a FID bench, select the “adjustable post” option. 
• If you don’t like the bench, REP Fitness offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, but there will be a 15 percent restocking fee applied if it’s not returned in its original packaging. 

REP Fitness AB-5200

4.1

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 57.6” L x 25.8” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel
• Warranty: 10-year frame warranty

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REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Pros

• Six different color options are available for the frame and rails. You can add a pop of color to your home gym or coordinate your bench with your other equipment.
• The AB-5200 can be stored in an upright position, which is beneficial for those with small spaces who want to tuck it away when they’re done working out.
• The bench has a 1,000-pound weight capacity, making it suitable for the majority of lifters.

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Cons

• The wide pad doesn’t meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) requirements, so the AB-5200 may not be ideal for powerlifters who want to train at home.
• No compatible attachment options are available. The REP AB-5200 isn’t as versatile as other adjustable benches we’ve tried, which can be limiting for lifters who want to perform a wider variety of exercises at home.

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Rating

At Breaking Muscle, we’ve been fortunate enough to try out some of the best weight benches on the market. From flat and FID benches to foldable weight benches – we’ve put them to the test. Here’s how the REP AB-5200 2.0 scored after we put it through our proprietary factor methodology system. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Overview

If I’m being honest, I think REP Fitness did their thing in this second iteration of the AB-5200. It’s evident that they listened to their customers and aimed to improve on the things they previously missed. 

To start, the customization options are out of this world. It’s rare to find a weight bench that allows you to select from a plethora of frame and guide rail colors. Next, they’ve implemented their proprietary padding that’s grippy but also comfortable. Then, one of their most significant changes is to the adjustable back post, which is a win for those who like doing certain exercises, like decline bench presses. 

This FID bench (flat-incline-decline) is attractive, high-end, and nice enough to pass as commercial gym equipment. Their attention to detail is undeniable, as you’ll find the laser-cut REP logo on the ladders and black hardware and stainless steel parts in various places. This space-saving bench has a lot going for it, but if we’re being honest, it’s certainly not the most budget-friendly option on the market. Plus, some things may make this a dealbreaker for you.

We’ll get into who should buy it and who might be better off looking for something else below. 

Who Should Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench

• Those who prefer ladder-style adjustments over pop-pin adjustments.
• Elite lifters who want a weight bench that’s stable enough to handle heavier weights.
• Individuals who prefer to customize their adjustable bench so that it fits their preferences/needs.

Who Should Not Buy the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench

• Trainees planning to do core exercises that may require leg rollers. 
• Individuals who are looking for a budget-friendly bench. 
• Anyone who likes adding attachments to their weight bench to increase exercise versatility. 

RELATED: REP Fitness BlackWing Adjustable Bench Review

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review

In order to make a sound purchasing decision, there are a few things you should know. Therefore, in the following few sections, we will go over different factors, like price, construction, footprint, and more. We’ll expand on why we ranked each factor the way we did and address things that are easy to overlook. That should help you discern if this bench makes sense for your lifestyle. 

Price and Value

At the time of writing this, the REP Fitness AB-5200 2.0 is $549.99, but that price is for the fixed post only. The fixed post version only works as a flat-incline bench, but if you upgrade to the “adjustable post,” you’ll get three additional decline angles. That’ll cost you an extra $30, bringing the price to $579.99. There’s also an option to get wider back and seat pads for $20. So, if you add that along with the adjustable post, you’re looking at $599.99. 

This may be completely out of some people’s budgets, but with it being a higher-end product, it will cost more. Products like the FLYBIRD weight bench on Amazon cost around $149 and can get the job done, but, as someone who owns that, it’s missing features that the AB-5200 2.0 has. 

For one, this wobbles when I’m doing most workouts, which limits its versatility. I don’t feel 100% comfortable using it to do step-ups with my adjustable dumbbells because of this. While it’s very maneuverable, since it’s only 28.5 pounds (12.92 kilograms), it lacks stability. It simply wouldn’t work for those wanting to use heavier weights, like a powerlifter. Plus, the pop-in adjustment slows me down. These are things you have to consider when you go cheaper. 

Overall, I’d say you’re getting a very good amount of value for the price with the AB-5200 2.0, which is why we ranked it a 4.5 out of 5. If you want to pay a little less, check out the REP AB-3000 FID bench (for around $319.99) or the REP AB-5000 Zero Gap adjustable bench (for about $449.99). 

RELATED: Best Budget Barbells

Construction Quality

When it comes to the overall build quality of this weight bench, we’ll easily give it a 4.5 out of 5. 

The frame comprises 11-gauge steel and heavy-duty bolts, which can support over 950 pounds (430.9 kilograms). This type of material makes for a heavier bench (i.e., 115 pounds), but it also means it should be more stable. The AB-5200 2.0 is a solid piece of equipment that should remain sturdy no matter what back pad and seat pad adjustments you make. It’s the type of stability I wish my FLYBIRD had. 

Although this weight bench is kind of heavy, it’s still on the lighter side compared to other high-end options. Heck, even the previous model of this was 10 pounds heavier. It’s also very maneuverable, thanks to the knurled, stainless steel handle that you can use to pick up the front of the bench. The ladder system and adjustment post have knurled handles as well. The older model just featured a stainless steel metal handle that wasn’t knurled. 

REP Fitness also upgraded the pad material. The original one had premium, grippy vinyl, but this new one has proprietary CleanGrip pads, which we’ll expand on later.

RELATED: REP Fitness Colorado Bar Review

Delivery and Assembly

If you order the AB-5200 2.0 directly from the REP Fitness website, you’ll get free shipping. Be sure to select the frame and rail color you desire to customize it to your liking. There are six color options to choose from: metallic black, blue, army green, white, matte black, and red. 

Once they ship it, your product will likely arrive in three to four well-packaged boxes. It’s a bolt-together bench, which cuts down the cost of shipping and lets the brand send the product in smaller packages. 

As a consumer, I find that bolt-together benches are easier to pack when moving, but that also means assembly is required when you first get it. Fortunately, that’s not difficult to do. In fact, a team member said all they had to do was attach the back adjustment piece, the pads, and the feet. 

In our book, the delivery and assembly process deserves a 4.5 out of 5 since the whole experience was straightforward. 

Dimensions

Before you buy the AB-5200 2.0 for your home gym, it’s crucial that you know how much space it’ll take up and if it’ll work for your body type. When assembled, it’s 57.6 inches long, 25.8 inches wide, and 17.5 inches high. To give you perspective, it’s about ¾ as long as a twin-size bed, four US dollar notes wide, and about two women’s size five shoes high. 

If you’re a competitive powerlifter, knowing these details is essential, as it’s best to train on benches that meet International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) height requirements. Interestingly, many weight benches are too low, which can interfere with your form and cause your hips to sit too far down. The wrong height can also compromise leg drive and your ability to push back into the bench, making it hard to correctly perform exercises like bench presses. 

Whether you’re tall or short, the length of this bench should accommodate you. It’s a tad bit longer than some other benches, which is an advantage. With this one, you’ll have good head support when in an incline position and still be able to put your feet flat on the ground if you’re lying on your back. 

Now, let’s switch gears to the pad dimensions. At 41.7 inches long, the back pad makes up much of this bench’s length, and its width depends on which version you select. 

The standard version is 12 inches wide and will work for most people. But if you’ve got wider shoulders and lift big weights, consider the 14-inch one. Otherwise, you risk overhanging, which isn’t safe or stable when lifting heavy weights. If you opt for the wider pad, it won’t meet the IPF width requirements, and some people believe that getting a wider pad interferes with their range of motion. So keep that in mind before you buy. 

The seat pad length is 11.4 inches long with a standard width of 12 inches that tapers to 8.9 inches. The wide version is 14 inches and tapers to 11 inches. Both the back pad and seat pad are 2.5 inches high. 

One other thing you have to pay attention to with adjustable benches, in particular, is the pad gap. The pad gap is the distance between the back pad and the seat pad when it’s in a flat position, which is only 1.4 inches here. This is considered a “little gap,” so it shouldn’t feel like you’re sitting on a hole. If you’re trying to avoid pad gaps altogether, consider a flat bench or the REP Fitness AB-5000 zero-gap bench. 

Based on the information above and our knowledge of weight benches, the dimensions here receive a 4.5 out of 5.  

Padding

Experience has taught me that not all weight bench pads are created equal, so it’s refreshing that REP Fitness has put a lot of energy into this. As previously mentioned, the new iteration features the CleanGrip Pads. This is said to be grippier, firmer, and easier to clean than others. The brand says they made this upgrade in response to customer feedback, as trainees wanted something to stop them from sliding when bench pressing. 

We had a member of the Breaking Muscle team give it a try, and they enjoyed using it during their workout. They said the pad was thick and firm, and it wasn’t uncomfortable at all, whether they were seated, on their chest, or on their back.

Based on our proprietary rating system, the padding on this bench gets a 4.5 out of 5. 

Footprint and Portability

When the AB-5200 2.0 bench is fully assembled, it only takes up 10.33 square feet. To help you visualize how it might fit into your home gym space, consider this. The average bedroom is 132 square feet, and a one-car garage is about 240 square feet, so if you have that much area to work with, you probably can give this bench a dedicated space. Of course, this also depends on the other equipment you have in the room, like power racks, furniture, etc. 

Now, if you’re short on space and need to stow your bench after use, say hello to vertical storage. You can stow it vertically, and it’ll only take up 3.1 square feet. To do this, just pull up the knurled, stainless steel front handle until it stands all the way up. 

Although it’s 115 pounds (52.1 kilograms), the actual roll weight is more like 54 pounds (24.49 kilograms), so it’s not difficult to maneuver. To protect your floor, there’s UHMW plastic on the end of the bench to prevent scratches. This feature wasn’t on the last model, so it’s nice that REP Fitness made an update here. Lastly, the closed ladder design further ensures the pads are protected and stay in place. 

All in all, it’s a solid space-saving choice and isn’t challenging to move around, so we gave it a 4.5 out of 5. 

Performance and Ease of Use

Performance-wise, this bench may actually be better than some commercial gym options. It’s tough and can handle a powerlifter doing some serious barbell bench presses. REP Fitness says this bench was designed to allow for optimal performance no matter what position you’re in.

For example, they say that this bench only declines up to -8 because that level still lets you maintain proper leg drive for specific exercises. As a result, leg rollers aren’t even required for this bench. However, the lack of leg rollers might be a dealbreaker for those who want to use their bench to do a lot of core exercises and Nordic curls.  

This bench uses a closed-ladder mechanism to make angle adjustments to the seat and back pads. All you have to do is use one hand to move the ladder to one of the steel-cut grooves. It’ll fall in place so you can return to your workout without worrying about the bench flimsily moving around. Sadly, I can’t say the same for my FLYBIRD weight bench. 

Please note: If you get the adjustable post, there is an extra step you have to take. You’ll need to loosen the pop-pin on the post, pull it to adjust the angle, and twist it to tighten. Beginners may prefer the fixed post since it has fewer moving parts. 

Because it’s so simple to use and doesn’t impede one’s workout experience, we’re giving it a 4.5 out of 5. 

Related: Do This To Increase Your Bench Press

Incline Levels

If you stick with the fixed post, the bench will provide ten different back pad angles and four seat pad angles. The back pad angles are 0, 20, 30, 37.5, 45, 52.5, 60, 67.5, 75, and 80. If you upgrade to the adjustable post, you’ll have three additional decline angles, which are -8, -6, and -4. The seat pad angles are 0, 8, 20, and 30.

The original AB-5200 only had seven back pad angles and three seat pad angles, so the 2.0 model is a definite upgrade.

Available Attachments

At this time, the AB-5200 2.0 is not compatible with their leg roller or spotter platform attachments. Based on REP Fitness, the decline angle just isn’t aggressive enough to require a leg roller to help you hold your position. If that’s something you’d want, it might make sense to consider one of their other weight benches. Since attachments aren’t an option, we’re giving this a 1 out of 5. 

Warranty

The warranty on this FID bench isn’t bad, but we’ve seen better. For instance, there’s a ten-year warranty on the frame but only 30 days on the upholstery. We would’ve liked to see at least a 90-day warranty on the upholstery, like what you’d find on the Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. Because of this, we rate it a 4 out of 5. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Specs

As you’re comparing the REP AB-5200 2.0 to other weight benches, there are some specs you need to keep in mind. Below, we’ll provide a quick overview of its dimensions, the materials it was made with, its weight capacity, and more. 

Dimensions

The REP AB-5200 2.0 has the following dimensions:

• Length: 57.6”
• Width: 25.8” 
• Height: 17.5”

Materials

The frame is made of 11-gauge steel, and the pads are created with their proprietary CleanGrip material. The latter is sticky enough to rip a paper towel, so it’s best to clean it with cloth. Even easy-to-overlook details are well-made, like the stainless steel handles and heavy-duty bolts. 

Pad Thickness

The seat and back pad are 2.5 inches thick. This foam pad is denser than the original AB-5200, but it’s still comfortable. 

Weight Capacity

This weight bench can support a 1,000-pound weight capacity, making it a good choice for beginners and advanced trainees alike. 

Compatible Attachments

Currently, there are no available attachments for the REP AB-5200 2.0 weight bench. 

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench vs. Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

A comparable option to the REP Fitness AB-5200 is the made-in-the-USA Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0. It’s a quality-built adjustable weight bench with an 11-gauge steel frame that provides different color options, includes ten back pad angle positions, and is stowable. 

However, this product, which has a smaller back pad width (11 inches) and doesn’t feature a decline option, costs around $595. On top of that, it’ll cost you an extra $100 if you want stainless steel rails and premium wheels. Those are very neat features, but they’re ones that many people might not care a whole lot about. 

If you’re trying to decide which one of these would be the best adjustable bench to buy, I’d say the REP AB-5200 2.0. It will give you similar functions and quality as the Rogue 3.0 but at a better price. Now, the Rogue 3.0 bench may be a better option if you’re super tight on storage space (it’s slightly smaller than the 5200) and want hardly any pad gap (one inch versus four inches)  Both are great options, though. What you pick comes down to personal preference and budget. 

Rogue Adjustable Bench 3.0

4.5

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 52” L x 11” W
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Materials: 11-gauge steel, vinyl cover, rubber feet
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on the frame

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Related: Best Home Gym Machines

REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Customer Reviews

Currently, REP Fitness has no authorized resellers in the United States, so you can only purchase products from their website. As a result, the only customer reviews we could find on the AB-5200 2.0 were on their own website. 

There are only 53 reviews at this time, and all of them are positive. Forty-nine of the reviews had 5-star ratings, with customers making remarks like, “The bench was exactly what I was hoping it would be. I’m a fairly big guy 6’4″ 290lbs, and the bench doesn’t budge.” Another happy customer said “I’ve been using this for a few weeks now and it’s a MASSIVE improvement over my previous bench. This thing is a tank. Super solid.”

There were four 4-star reviews. One customer said, “Great bench, but doesn’t decline low enough”. One other individual remarked, “I’ve used many benches in the last 14 years, and this one seems to be the most solid! Just don’t order it in red… it’s not really red.”

Final Verdict: Is the REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Worth It?

Right now, the new and improved version of the REP AB-5200 2.0 Adjustable Bench is stealing the show. Unlike other benches, this one allows customers to have some creative freedom. They can select colors and even choose whether or not the decline option is something they want. Plus, it’s very well-constructed and attractive to the eye, making it stand out in any home or commercial gym it’s in. 

While the price might cause some people to look elsewhere, this bench packs a ton of value. 

Although it’s missing some versatility since you can’t add any attachments, it would still be worth it to most individuals. The knurled handles will come in handy when your palms are sweaty, and the stowability benefits those short on space. Anyone looking for a high-end FID bench built to promote optimal performance should consider the REP AB-5200 2.0.

FAQs

The post REP AB-5200 Adjustable Bench Review (2024): Expert Tested appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

But not all wrist wraps are created equal. Depending on your goals, preferences, and type of training, you’ll need a different style of wrist wrap. Some wraps are longer and stiffer, while others are shorter and more comfortable. Whether you’re into bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, or CrossFit, you’ll find the ideal pair of wrist wraps on this list for you.

How We Chose the Best Wrist Wraps

We’re a diverse team of certified fitness experts, exercise enthusiasts, and knowledgeable product testers. We have dozens of years of combined experience using wrist wraps for various activities and sports, and we tried out more than a dozen different pairs of wrist wraps specifically for this guide.

To help you choose the best wrist wraps for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of the eight top-rated wrist wraps on the market. We’ve reviewed their features, benefits, pros, and cons and compared them. During testing, we judged wrist wraps on their materials and construction, length and stiffness, closure mechanism, price, and more — rating each wrist wrap with a score between 1 to 5.

Our Top Picks for the Best Wrist Wraps

• Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps
• Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps
• Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps
• Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps
• Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Best Wrist Wraps Overall: Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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The Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps offer great wrist support. They’re 18 inches long, which gives you at least two wraps around your wrist if you have an average build. I find the 18-inch length to be just right; it’s not so long that there’s a ton of bulk on my wrists due to the extra material, and their support is adequate for most weight training exercises.

Their three-inch width provides plenty of wrist coverage, covering enough of the base of your hand and wrist area for the wrap to do its job. Also, the cotton-elastic blend gives enough stretch for solid compression and wrist support in your workouts. I especially like the blended material of these wraps  — they’re soft, and the cotton breathes enough to help avoid excess sweating in the first place.

Moreover, the Velcro closure system of the Classic Wrist Wraps is intuitive and easy to use. The thumb loop offers an excellent anchor point to help put them on tightly, and, unlike other brands, the double-stitching is high quality. I especially like how the Velcro section is sticky and well-sized. Some brands use such a long strip that can cause the extra material to hang off the end, which can get caught on things and unravel your wraps. Plus, the thumb loop makes it easy to hang over a hook to dry between workouts. 

One of my favorite features of the Iron Bull wraps is their multi-functionality. They’re suitable for various training styles, from bodybuilding and Olympic weightlifting to CrossFit and powerlifting.  Their 18-inch length and cotton-elastic blend make them lightweight on your wrists for the dynamic workouts of CrossFit and supportive enough for heavier powerlifting. This means that you can continue using them when you want to switch up your training styles without having to buy a different pair of wrist wraps.

Unfortunately, the Iron Bulls aren’t perfect. The 18-inch length is a solid general length, but most people with average wrists will only be able to get two revolutions of the wraps around their wrists. This means you’ll have less support on heavier lifts, which might be noticeable if you’re at an advanced level in powerlifting.

On that note, these wrist wraps are USPA, IPL, IWF, and USAW-approved… but they aren’t approved for use in the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). Suppose you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in the highest level of powerlifting in the future and want to use wrist wraps in competition. In that case, this means you’d have to buy a separate pair that’s approved for IPF use — you might want to consider the SBD Wrist Wraps instead if that applies to you.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their great wrist support, easy-to-use Velcro closure system, and multi-functionality for different training styles. 

RELATED: Best Home Gym Equipment Essentials for Cardio, Strength Training, and More

Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The standout feature of the SBD Wrist Wraps is that they’re IPF-approved. Investing in a pair of wrist wraps that you can practice with allows you to push your training harder, so you can (hopefully) get even stronger while getting comfortable using them before a competition. This way, you’ll step on the platform confidently in your support wear — letting you focus entirely on executing your attempts instead of worrying about your gear and how it’s fitting.

If you live and breathe powerlifting, these wrist wraps will not disappoint. They’re designed specifically for excellent wrist support; the thumb loop is heavy-duty and attached along industrial-grade fastening. But they didn’t stop there. 

SBD crafted them to match the maximum allowable width of 8 centimeters/3.15 inches, so you’ll get the best coverage between your hand and wrist for a solid cast-like level of support. They even have proprietary wide elastics in these wraps. One customer who bought the stiff mediums said they took a few times to break in, but after that, they give you the best protection from heavy weights. I’m seriously impressed and confident that whether you’re pushing new bench press PRs or back squat records, these wraps will help you hit them safely.

What surprised me the most about the SBDs is their range of lengths and stiffnesses. On their product page, they have three different lengths available: small (15.7 inches long), medium (23.6 inches long), or large (39.4 inches long). Combined with their detailed sizing chart, this means that whether you have small, average, or large wrists, you can find a wrist wrap length that will work great for you. 

Their two stiffness options, flexible or stiff, are built with varying amounts of polyester and rubber (elastic). For example, the flexible wraps have a 70% polyester-30% rubber blend that allows some wrist flexion and improved comfort due to the higher amount of polyester. The stiff wraps are woven with significantly more rubber, giving them more stretch and compression to fully immobilize your wrists. SBD mentions that most athletes will prefer the medium-length flexible wraps, but use their size guide to determine the ideal length for you.

These wrist wraps might be uncomfortable, especially if you choose their “stiff” option. One reviewer mentioned that their large-sized stiff wraps are excellent but can get really tight and start to cut off blood circulation to their wrists. 

When I didn’t see the material specs on their product page, a Breaking Muscle staff member reached out through their live chat and discovered that the stiff wrist wraps are 56 percent rubber (elastic) and 44 percent polyester blend. With over half the wraps’ material being elastic and zero cotton included, it’s no surprise these can be a tad uncomfortable.

It should come as no surprise that excellent quality comes at a price. At the time of writing, the SBDs retailed for $42.50. This makes them the most expensive wrist wraps out of all those featured in this article and possibly out of the budget of financially constrained lifters.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IPF approval, excellent build quality and durability, and various length and stiffness options available.

Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting: DMOOSE Wrist Wraps

DMoose Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Despite their affordable price, the DMOOSE Wrist wraps have a solid quality construction. The thumb loop features double stitching, so it will stand up to the rigorous Olympic lifts you’ll be performing with them. I found the Velcro fastening strip to be of good quality, so it won’t wear down within a couple of months as the poor-quality wrist wraps do.

These wrist wraps from DMOOSE are the best for weightlifting because, unlike other wrist wraps featured in this article, these have no polyester included. When woven with elastic, cotton is more flexible compared to polyester, and this pays off big time for the Olympic lifts. 

This lack of restriction allows you enough wrist mobility for your wrists to rotate freely in the snatch and to extend fully in the front rack portion of the clean and jerk. Despite its flexibility, the cotton-elastic blend still gives noticeable wrist support when the bar is extended overhead in the final step of both exercises.

I appreciate that these wrist wraps are offered in a 12-inch and an 18-inch option. The latter will fit and work well for average-sized wrists, but the former is still useful. Even though they’ll outgrow them, 12-inch long wrist wraps would be the ideal length for most teenagers because their bones are still growing, and the wrist wrap length they need is significantly smaller than that of the average adult. 

However, you might also find the 12-inch length useful if you are petite and/or have extremely small wrists – make sure to use the sizing chart before ordering a 12-inch size just to be sure it’s the right fit.

Although the 12-inch length is an option, I wouldn’t recommend it if you have average-sized wrists. 12 inches won’t give you enough length on the wraps to get an adequate number of revolutions for the wraps to provide significant support.

Sadly, it doesn’t look like these wrist wraps are approved for any weightlifting federations. This means that if you want to wear wrist wraps in a future weightlifting competition, you’ll have to invest in a separate pair to use them in both your training and your competitions.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their Olympic lifting-friendly design, two length options, and comfortable material.

Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit: 2POOD Wrist Wraps

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These are the best wrist wraps for CrossFit due to their lightweight, supportive design. Out of all the wrist wraps in this round-up article, this pair of 12-inch wraps is the shortest we’ve featured, but that’s good for CrossFit. 

The typical WOD can be up to 30 minutes of continuous movement, so the last thing you want to do is constantly tighten, loosen, and otherwise fiddle with your 18 to 24-inch wrist wraps. Thanks to their 12-inch length, you can’t apply the 2POODs super tight in the first place, so they’ll stay comfortable and non-constricting during the entire workout. 

Plus, the secure hook and loop closure means these wrist wraps won’t randomly fly off during your WOD, whether you’re crushing some dumbbell power snatches or butterfly pull-ups. One of our product testers explained that they could see these being an asset because you can set and forget them. 

Their cotton-polyester-elastic material is great for exercises like thrusters, where some extra wrist support can be helpful, but they won’t hamper the wrist mobility needed for handstand walks. Further, the Velcro part of the fastening system is easy to apply and adjust, so using these for the first time is a piece of cake even for beginners.

Sponsorships aren’t always an indicator of quality, but it’s hard to deny the influence that the 2POOD wrist wraps have on the CrossFit community. After all, these wrist wraps became the official wrist wraps of the NOBULL CrossFit Games. This means that they got a large amount of publicity from the athletes, who presumably ended up wearing them during the events, and the fans who attended in person or those who watched online.

Surprisingly, some customers have left reviews about how the Velcro isn’t quite what they had hoped for. Instead of the Velcro strip being higher quality and sticky, several customers mention that it didn’t last more than a month on their wrist wraps before it began deteriorating and losing its adhesiveness. For example, one customer left a note saying that the wrist wraps perform great, but they’ve been experiencing Velcro issues with one of them, so it’s not gripping as it should and is leaving them slightly disappointed.

Finally, the 2POOD wrist wraps aren’t IPF-approved, but I don’t think that matters much. Unlike the SBD wrist wraps, these aren’t designed to help you excel at powerlifting — they were made to assist your CrossFit performance.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their lightweight support, security, and easy-adjustability tension system.

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching: Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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The Classic Wrist Wraps from Gymreapers are excellent for benching. They feature a heavy-duty thumb loop, so you can use your thumb to anchor the wrap down before cinching it tight. I especially appreciate the 30/70 elastic-polyester blend; this is stiffer than a cotton-elastic blend. The former is what you want when trying to bench press as much weight as possible because the more rigid polyester material will provide more stiffness. 

One customer said that these wraps have a lot of elasticity, which helps provide better support on heavy pushing movements because they’ll offer better support due to the amount of stretchiness in the material. Also, the three-inch width is generous and offers plenty of hand & wrist coverage for maximal support. 

Gymreapers has made a serious push to get their support wear certified by well-known federations, and it shows. Their wrist wraps are IPF, IPL, and USAPL-approved, which means that if you’re competing in any of these federations, you can practice with the same gear in your training as you’ll compete with on the platform for a competitive edge.

I’m blown away by their warranty, which offers a lifetime replacement — this is practically unheard of for wear-and-tear items. The benefit is that whether they fail due to a factory defect or regular old wear and tear, you have total peace of mind about getting a replacement for free. 

One commenter explained that even when they had a small issue with one of their wrist wraps, Gymreapers just sent another set. So, if you want complete peace of mind, I think these are worth it. Another reviewer mentioned that they used them all the way up to a 385-pound bench press, and they did the job. If they can hold up to a near-400-pound bench press, they can hold up to almost anything.

It’s great that they’re approved in multiple federations, but seriously strong bench pressers might not find the Gymreapers wrist wraps supportive enough. Due to their 18-inch length, these will only wrap around average-sized wrists twice instead of the three revolutions you’ll get with a 24-inch wrist wrap. Because you get one less revolution, these wraps will feel less supportive. On an elite bench press attempt, that lack of stability is not something you’ll typically want.

Compared to cotton wrist wraps, the elastic-polyester blend of the Classics is noticeably less comfortable. If you have sensitive skin or you bruise easily, you might not enjoy using these as much as you would a cotton-elastic wrist wrap like the DMOOSE Wrist Wraps.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their durable materials and construction, their approval for the IPF, IPL, and USAPL federations, and their lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Premium Wrist Wraps: SBD Wrist Wraps

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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This is the second time we’ve featured the SBD Wrist Wraps in this article. Compared to the Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting section, we’ve included why they’re also our top choice for premium wrist wraps below.

First, the build quality of the SBD Wrist Wraps is excellent. From the extra-thick thumb loop with commercial-grade stitching to their proprietary wide elastics, these wrist wraps live up to the hype. That’s why we’ve named them twice on this list—their quality makes them worth the premium price point.

I’m impressed that they took note of the maximum allowable width from the IPF rules on wrist wrap dimensions and matched it. The 3.15-inch width means that your hands and wrists will get the most robust support on the market. But the story is far from over; SBD offers their wraps in three sizes (small, medium, and large) to fit as many lifters as possible while even catering to their wrap stiffness preferences. 

Yes, that’s right — they offer two stiffnesses to their wraps: “flexible” to allow more wrist movement and “stiff” to immobilize your wrist completely. With this quality and range of choice, it’s clear that they’re the premium wrist wrap option.

Many brands source their products from developing countries because it’s cheaper. Unfortunately, these savings often come at the expense of worse workers’ rights and unsafe manufacturing processes. The SBDs are designed and manufactured in Great Britain, so you’re supporting local manufacturing and jobs, which adds to the list of reasons these are the best premium wrist wraps.

Regarding support wear, SBD is the cream of the crop. Even though “SBD” means “Squat, Bench, Deadlift”, which refers to the power lifts themselves, the quality and workmanship that backs this brand could be why many of the top athletes in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and Strongman/Strongwoman decide to sport this gear. 

With that in mind, it’s hard to go wrong with these wrist wraps when the SBD brand is trusted by many athletes at the top of their sport. Oh, and being approved by the most stringent powerlifting federation in the world (the IPF) is a nice touch, too.

For how well-made these are, I’m amazed at their affordability. The SBDs retail at just $42.50 and they have everything you expect in a premium wrist wrap: a sturdy yet flexible material with a secure closure system — all of which is manufactured in Great Britain. Coupled with their IPF approval, two stiffness options, and three lengths, they’re the ultimate choice for anyone who wants the best wrist wraps on the market.

Unfortunately, shipping fees are not waived. I wasn’t expecting the shipping to be free, but considering the premium price and small packaging compared to larger home gym equipment items, shipping could disappoint some shoppers. Full disclosure: I did a mock checkout with these wraps, and the 3-6 business day option with USPS was only $5.00 — nothing to get worked up about.

Lastly, these wrist wraps from SBD are all in metric sizes only. For instance, the lengths are 40, 60, and 100 centimeters for the small, medium, and large wraps — respectively. This may seem trivial, but as the premium wrist wrap option in this article, it would be great to see imperial sizes offered as well for American shoppers.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their excellent quality, sizing, and stiffness options, local manufacturing, and brand trust.

Best Stiff Wrist Wraps: Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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These wrist wraps from Gymreapers are your ticket if you want a stiff level of wrist support. First, they’re made from more rigid cotton that’s less flexible than the Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps. There’s also a reinforced elastic material woven into the cotton that strengthens the main body of the wraps. The end features a longer, flexible area with the Gymreapers logo in silicone so that maximal compression can be applied to your wrist. Even the thumb loop is thicker and has more durable stitching to avoid tears and maximize durability. 

I’m glad there are multiple length options offered for these wrist wraps. Four sizes are available: 12-inch, 18-inch, 24-inch, and 36-inch. This means that whether you have a petite wrist, an average-sized wrist, or a larger wrist thickness, you can find an ideal fit for your wrist wraps. 

However, the extra-long 36-inch wrap also allows regular lifters to size up if they want. Doing so would let you get one or two additional revolutions around your wrists with the wraps, making them even tighter and maximizing their stiffness.

Similar to the Gymreapers Classics, the stiff wraps are backed by an impressive warranty — the lifetime replacement guarantee. This warranty stipulates that you can get a free replacement for your wrist wraps throughout their life. Defect issues are also covered at no cost.

The major downside to these wraps is that they’re simply not as comfortable as standard cotton wrist wraps because of the specific cotton and reinforced elastic materials. Discomfort is just the beginning, though. In the worst-case scenario, an over-zealous wrapping job could cause bruising or minor cuts in your skin.

Honestly, I’m shocked that these aren’t IPF-approved. The Classics from Gymreapers are certified for competition use in the IPF and have less robust specs than these, so I thought for sure the same would go for their stiff wrist wraps. Their compression and material would be ideal for competitive powerlifting, warranting a submission to the IPF-approved gear application process… maybe next year?

Lastly, these wrist wraps aren’t the most affordable. They retail closely to the other most expensive pair of wrist wraps in this list, around $30 at the time of writing, but you do appear to be able to save 10 percent on your order by entering your email address into the pop-up window on their website.

All the above considered; we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their stiff, heavy-duty construction, four length options, and lifetime replacement guarantee.

Best Budget Wrist Wraps: Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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These Harbinger wrist wraps are the best budget option I found. It should come as no surprise that they’re widely affordable, roughly $16 at the time of publishing. Compared to the most expensive pair of wrist wraps on our list, the SBD Wrist Wraps, these budget-friendly ones cost you about a third of their price — before shipping fees. 

Speaking of shipping fees, these wrist wraps are sold on Amazon, which means that if you’re a Prime member, you can save even more! Two-day (or faster shipping) is often available to Prime members while shopping through Amazon, giving you access to their generous and convenient return policies.

For how well-priced these are, I’m pleasantly surprised with the features they have. They have what appears to be a decent-quality thumb loop, a durable elastic body, Velcro that looks like it will work for at least a few months, and an 18-inch length that will be suitable for most weight-lifting activities.

What caught my eye on the product page was the amount of praise these wrist wraps have received from customers. Harbinger is a well-known brand that’s been in business for years, but it’s comforting to know that most customers are happy with the quality of these wrist wraps. For example, they achieved a 4.7 out of 5 stars on Amazon with over 4,400 reviews. 

One Breaking Muscle staff member also saw a special notice when viewing the page that said, “Customers usually keep this item” and explained that compared to similar products, the Harbinger wrist wraps had fewer returns than average. Perhaps that’s a testament to their excellent quality.

Unfortunately, I had no luck finding their construction material on the product listing. While I wouldn’t be surprised if these were made with an extra-cheap material to cut costs even further to generate a profit, they look like a cotton-elastic blend like many wrist wraps in this list. I think it’s pretty far-fetched to expect these to be IPF-approved, considering their budget-friendly price, so don’t expect to step on a competition platform with them any time soon.

All the above considered, we rank these 3.5 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, inclusion of useful wrist wrap features, and availability of Amazon perks for Prime members.

Benefits of Using Wrist Wraps for Lifting

Wrist Stability and Support

The main benefit of using wrist wraps is stability. When worn correctly around the base of your hand and wrist, the stiffness and compression from the wrist wrap material prevent your wrist from moving — similar to how a cast immobilizes an injured limb. This effect is most noticeable in free-weight pressing exercises like the barbell bench press or barbell overhead press, where they limit wrist flexion and extension even when the weight is heavy.

However, wrist wraps will continue to support your wrists even if they flex or extend under load. For example, some lifters use wrist wraps to keep the wrists extended on their low-bar back squat, holding the barbell in the correct spot across their rear delts. Despite being bent backward with hundreds of pounds pushing down on them, powerlifters continue to set world records with extended wrists while squatting — and their wraps continue to keep their wrists safe even under these extreme loads.

Additional Support After Injury

Injuries to the hand, wrist, or forearm can sometimes prevent you from holding a barbell or dumbbell correctly, even after you’ve healed. In extreme cases, even a slight deviation from a neutral wrist position under heavy weight could cause severe pain and/or further injury. In these situations, wrist wraps may provide enough wrist stability, compression, and support for you to continue to exercise. Always consult your medical doctor to ensure you can train safely after an injury.

After breaking their wrist years ago, one of our Breaking Muscle staff members finds it still bothers them when they perform the barbell overhead press, even though it’s technically healed. Using wrist wraps on their heavier sets allows them to push the movement hard without wrist pain. 

Weight May Feel Lighter in Your Hands

The weight of a barbell in your hands can feel lighter or heavier depending on how tight you grip it. This is because of proprioception, which is how your body senses itself and the world around it. Proprioception is triggered by receptors in your skin, muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to your brain. The more you squeeze the barbell, the more signals you send, and the more aware you are of the weight and body position. 

When applied tightly, the compression on your forearm muscles from wrist wraps can make your fingers curl inward, making your grip stronger than usual. This is why some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. They make you feel more confident and strong — so wrist wraps can provide a psychological benefit that might encourage you to lift heavier or push for more reps than you would without them.

When Should You Use Wrist Wraps?

Generally, you’ll want to wear wrist wraps on exercises where force pushes down into your wrist joint — the most common examples are below.

Pressing exercises

Bench presses and overhead presses are the most popular lifts to use wrist wraps for. During these exercises, maintaining a neutral wrist position is helpful to transfer force more efficiently into the implement you’re lifting. Wrist wraps are often used with the free-weight variations of these pressing exercises, but they can still provide noticeable benefits when used on their machine variations, too.

Back squats

Surprisingly, wrist wraps can also be an asset on back squats — particularly low-bar back squats. Since the low-bar position requires the barbell to be placed lower on your back across your rear delts, this style sometimes forces lifters to hold their wrists in extension to keep the bar in place. Unfortunately, this position can be painful with hundreds of pounds pushing downward — wrist wraps can help absorb the load and make the position painless.

Olympic lifts 

You should also consider wearing wrist wraps on Olympic lifts like snatches and clean & jerks. Although the first part of each lift is a pull from the floor, both movements finish overhead in a position that will put downward pressure on your wrists. The issue is that both exercises, especially the clean and jerk, require a significant amount of wrist mobility during the initial parts of the movement. For this reason, consider using a shorter wrist wrap and/or experiment with the tightness and technique of how you put them on.

Deadlifts

As mentioned previously, some elite deadlifters use wrist wraps when they deadlift. This is because the compression on your finger-flexing muscles can cause your hand to close, which can trick you into thinking you have a stronger grip. The key is to make a fist and wrap the wrist wraps as tightly as you can.

Most of the time, you’ll find lifting straps more helpful on deadlifts than wrist wraps. However, they might be worth practicing with and using if your federation allows them to be used in competition — because wrist straps almost certainly won’t be permitted. 

What to Consider When Buying Wrist Wraps

Materials and Construction

Wrist wraps are usually made of a thumb loop on one end, an elastic body, and a Velcro closure system on the other end. The thumb loop helps to secure the wrap around your wrist, while the elastic body provides support and stability for your wrist joint. The Velcro closure system allows you to adjust the tightness and fit of the wrap according to your preference and comfort.

There are different types of materials used for wrist wraps, such as a cotton-elastic blend or a tri-blend of elastic, polyester, and cotton. Cotton and elastic wraps are softer and more breathable, but they may stretch over time and lose their elasticity. Elastic, polyester, and cotton blends are more durable and resistant to stretching, but they may be less comfortable and more prone to causing skin irritation.

Another important factor to consider is the construction of the wrist wraps, especially the seams. Since wrist wraps are subjected to a lot of pulling and tension during use, they should have strong and sturdy seams that can withstand the stress. Double-stitched seams are recommended at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, the anchor point that gets the most tension when you put on the wrist wraps. You should also check the quality of the Velcro and make sure it is not too rough or too weak.

Similar to knee sleeves, there’s a significant amount of pulling and tension involved in using wrist wraps. They should have double-stitched seams at a minimum, especially for the thumb loop, because that’s the anchor point that gets the most tension when the wrist wraps are being put on.

Length

The length of wrist wraps can range from 12 inches up to 36 inches long. Here are the most common lengths.

• Twelve inches is a good length for teenagers due to their still-developing bones and for adults with extremely small wrists. Additionally, 12-inch lengths are suitable for CrossFit because they provide lightweight support without compromising the high degree of wrist mobility needed in the sport.
• Eighteen inches can be great for those with smaller wrists and Olympic weightlifting; because of the shorter length, they won’t wrap around your wrists as many times, which can give you more mobility in your snatches and cleans while still giving some support for your jerks.
• Twenty-four inches is the sweet spot for most people because this length allows for about three wraps around the average person’s wrist, which is just right for providing a noticeable level of support.
• Thirty-six inches is starting to get excessively long. Ordinary people will find these wrap around your wrists a lot, which can add too much bulk to your wrist area. That said, some folks with large wrists may find that the 36-inch length gives enough revolutions to provide adequate support. Also, experienced powerlifters can sometimes prefer four to six wraps around their wrists than the standard two to three that 20-inch wraps will offer.

Stiffness

One of the main factors to consider when buying wrist wraps is stiffness, which depends on two things: the material and the length. 

Wrist wraps with a blend of cotton, elastic, and polyester will provide more tension than those only made from cotton and elastic. This means they will support your wrists better and prevent injuries, but they will also limit your range of motion and flexibility. 

Longer wraps also allow you to perform more wraps around your wrist, increasing stiffness and stability. However, too many wraps can cut off blood circulation and cause discomfort. Therefore, you should choose the stiffness level that suits your goals and preferences.

Type of Training

Different types of training will require different types of wrist wraps. Depending on your goals and preferences, choose wrist wraps that suit your specific needs. Here are some common types and the corresponding wrist wraps that may work best for them:

• General fitness: If you’re doing general fitness exercises, such as push-ups, dumbbell presses, or kettlebell swings, you won’t need heavy or stiff wrist wraps. You can opt for lighter and more flexible wrist wraps that provide enough support that you’d find in a 12-inch length.
• Powerlifting: If you’re doing powerlifting exercises, such as the back squat and bench press, you’ll need more rigid and supportive wrist wraps to handle heavy loads and prevent wrist injuries. You should opt for thicker and stiffer wrist wraps with more elasticity and less give. 24-inch is a great length or 36-inches for advanced powerlifters.
• Olympic lifting: If you’re doing Olympic lifting exercises, such as snatch, clean, or jerk, you’ll need more flexible and dynamic wrist wraps that can allow you to move your wrists freely and quickly. Opt for thinner and softer wrist wraps made from a cotton-elastic blend and are no longer than 18 inches.
• CrossFit: If you’re doing CrossFit exercises, such as thrusters, burpees, and pull-ups, you’ll need shorter and less compressive wrist wraps that can handle different movements and extended workout periods. You should opt for lightweight wrist wraps that are made from cotton and are between 12 to 18 inches long.
• Strongman/Strongwoman: If you’re doing strongman/strongwoman exercises, such as atlas stones, farmer’s walk, or log press, you’ll need durable and resilient wrist wraps that can withstand extreme pressure and abrasion. Choose stiff wrist wraps made from a tri-blend for high elasticity and low give — the 24 to 36-inch length is ideal for this sport.

Competition Approval

If you plan to compete in powerlifting meets, you may need to check if the governing bodies approve your wrist wraps for those sports. Different federations may have different rules and regulations regarding the specifications and usage of wrist wraps.

For example, the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) is the world’s leading powerlifting federation that organizes international events like the World Powerlifting Championships. The IPF has strict rules on the size, material, design, and brand of wrist wraps that can be used in competitions. The maximum length of wrist wraps is one meter (39 inches), and the maximum width is eight centimeters (three inches). The IPF also has a list of approved brands that can be used in its competitions.

You should always check with the competition organizers before using wrist wraps to ensure they comply with their rules.

Final Thoughts

Wrist wraps are a valuable accessory for anyone who wants to improve their performance and protect their wrists from injury. They come in different sizes, colors, styles, and stiffness levels. When buying wrist wraps, you should consider the material and the length of the wrap, as they affect the tension and support the wrap provides.

Best Wrist Wraps: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Wrist Wraps Overall	Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting	Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit	Best Wrist Wraps for Benching	Best Stiff Wrist Wraps	Best Budget Wrist Wraps
Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps	SBD Wrist Wraps	DMoose Wrist Wraps	2POOD Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Wrist Wraps	Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps	Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps
4.5	4.5	4.0	4.0	4.0	4.0	3.5
Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff) Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L) Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic blend Length: 12 or 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend Length: 12 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No	Description: Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend  Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Not listed Length: 18 inches Closure type: Velcro IPF-approved: No
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps Overall

Iron Bull Strength Classic Wrist Wraps

4.5

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Best Wrist Wraps for Powerlifting

SBD Wrist Wraps

4.5

Description:

• Material: 70% polyester/30% rubber (flexible), 56% rubber/44% polyester (stiff)
• Length: 15.7 inches (S), 23.6 inches (M), or 39.4 inches (L)
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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Best Wrist Wraps for Weightlifting

DMoose Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic blend
• Length: 12 or 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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Best Wrist Wraps for CrossFit

2POOD Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton-elastic-polyester blend
• Length: 12 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

Check Price

Best Wrist Wraps for Benching

Gymreapers Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: 30% Elastic and 70% Polyester blend 
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

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Best Stiff
Wrist Wraps

Gymreapers Stiff Wrist Wraps

4.0

Description:

• Material: Stiff cotton with reinforced elastic
• Length: 12, 18, 24, or 36 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: Yes

Check Price

Best Budget Wrist Wraps

Harbinger Red Line Wrist Wraps

3.5

Description:

• Material: Not listed
• Length: 18 inches
• Closure type: Velcro
• IPF-approved: No

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FAQs

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