Bowflex and CAP Barbell are two of the best-known makers of Adjustable Weight Benches. We have an in-depth look at two of their most popular models, the Bowflex 5.1 vs the CAP Barbell Adjustable Weight Bench – which is the best for you?
Bowflex 5.1 vs CAP – Specifications
| Bowflex SelectTech 3.1 | CAP Barbell Deluxe Utility Weight Bench | |
|---|---|---|
 |  |
|
| Unit Weight | 59lbs | 46.3lbs |
| Dimensions | 56" L x 26" W x 20" H | 55.5" L x 27" W x 47" H |
| Max Weight Capacity | 480lbs | 500lbs |
| Max User Height | Up to 6'2" | Up to 6' |
| Foam Pad Thickness | 2" | 2.5" |
| Incline/Decline Position | Incline, Decline, and Flat 90 degree seat adjustment | 7 Back Pad Positions 3 Seat Positions |
| Design and Features | Heavy-duty quality steel Removable leg hold-down brace Quality stitched padded upholstery | 2" x 2" steel tubing Powder-coated Box-stitched seating Transport wheels & handle |
| Storage | Not foldable Has wheels for easy storage | Not foldable |
| Warranty | 15 years frame 1-year upholstery | 30 days |
| Cost (amazon.com) |
Bowflex vs CAP – Brand Comparison
Bowflex – Who Are They?
Bowflex manufactures fitness equipment, including treadmills, dumbbells, exercise trackers and more. The company was first founded by an Ethiopian man who arrived in America with $500 in his pocket. He created the Bowflex machine which has since sold over $3 billion worth of products. The company has grown into one of the largest fitness brands in America, and continues to sell several fitness machines, from treadmills to dumbbells to exercise trackers.
CAP Barbell – Who Are They?
CAP Barbell, based in Texas, was founded in 1993. The company sells over $30 million worth of exercise equipment every year. In the beginning, CAP only sold free weights and weight benches, but they have expanded into other categories, now selling over 1000 different products, such as weight training equipment, strength equipment, medicine balls, and more.
Bowflex 5.1 vs CAP Adjustable Weight Bench – Similarities
Neither adjustable weight bench is foldable
- The Bowflex 5.1 Adjustable Weight Bench is not foldable.
- The CAP Barbell Adjustable Weight Bench is also not foldable.
- Both Weight Benches have wheels for easy moving and storage.
Bowflex 5.1 vs CAP – Differences
Both Weight Benches have different unit weights
- The Bowflex bench is lighter, weighing 46.3lbs, while the CAP bench weighs 63lbs.
Both Weight Benches have different dimensions
- The Bowflex 5.1 is 56 inches long, 26 inches wide, and 20 inches high.
- The CAP Barbell is 55.5 inches long, 27 inches wide, and 47 inches high.
Both Weight Benches have slightly different maximum weight capacities
- The CAP Barbell has a higher maximum weight limit of 500lbs, while the Bowflex 5.1 is at 480lbs.
- Both maximum weight recommendations include the user’s body weight and the weights used to exercise.
Both Weight Benches have slightly different maximum user heights
- The Bowflex 5.1 Adjustable Weight Bench has a maximum user height of up to 6’2″, while the CAP Barbell Adjustable Weight Bench’s limit is lower at up to 6′.
Both Weight Benches have different foam pad thickness
- The CAP Barbell Adjustable Weight Bench has a thicker foam pad at 2.5″, while the Bowflex 5.1 Adjustable Weight Bench’s foam pad is thinner at 2″.
Both have different incline/decline positions
- The CAP bench is capable of 7 Back Pad Positions & 3 Seat Positions.
- The Bowflex bench has 6 positions: 17-degree decline to 90-degree incline.
Both have different design and features
- The Bowflex bench features heavy-duty quality steel, removable leg hold-down brace, and quality stitched padded upholstery.
- The CAP bench has 2″ x 2″ powder-coated steel tubing, box-stitched seating, and transport wheels & handle.
Conclusion
The Bowflex 5.1 and CAP bench have a fair share of similarities and differences. It might be challenging to choose between the two, so here are some notable facts that might help:
- The CAP bench is lighter than the Bowflex 5.1, however some users prefer a heavier bench for stability.
- There are more adjustable positions offered by the CAP bench (7 vs 6), possibly making your workouts slightly more challenging.
- The Bowflex 5.1 has a much better warranty than that offered by CAP.
