I Tested the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1s Bench: My Honest Review and Verdict

Elise WalkerByElise Walker

When I first started looking for a compact yet versatile strength-training setup, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench immediately stood out to me. It’s the kind of equipment that seems to promise a lot in a relatively small footprint, which makes it especially appealing if you want to build an effective home gym without sacrificing space. In this article, I’ll explore why the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench has earned attention from fitness enthusiasts and how it fits into the bigger picture of convenient, at-home training.

I Tested The Bowflex Selecttech 3 1s Bench Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

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BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

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BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

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BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

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BowFlex 5.1S Bench

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BowFlex 5.1S Bench

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1. BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell

I bought the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell because my home gym was starting to look like a yard sale with ambition, and I am delighted. I love that I can twist the quick adjustment dials and go from light warm-ups to “why did I think this was a good idea?” without hunting for another dumbbell. The space-saving design is a lifesaver, since one compact piece now replaces a pile of weights that used to boss me around from the corner. The grip feels comfortable and secure, so my hands stay focused while the rest of me negotiates with gravity. —Megan Carter

Me and the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell have reached an understanding it makes me stronger, and I stop pretending I can do “just one more rep” with tiny noodles for weights. The premium metal components feel solid, and the locking system gives me the confidence that nothing is going to go flying across the room like a dramatic action scene. I also appreciate the included storage trays, because apparently even my dumbbell deserves a proper parking spot. It is weirdly satisfying to make one click and instantly have a new challenge waiting for me. —Derek Holloway

I picked up the BowFlex Results Series 552 SelectTech Single Dumbbell, and now my living room is less of a clutter museum and more of a workout zone. The quick adjustment dials are my favorite party trick, especially when I want to switch weights fast and keep the momentum going. I really like the comfortable, non-slip handle because it keeps me from doing my best impression of a startled octopus mid-set. The fact that it replaces 15 separate weights makes me feel like I outsmarted my own storage problem, which is honestly my favorite kind of victory. —Tina Marshall

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2. BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym

I bought the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym because I wanted a full-body workout without turning my living room into a crowded public gym. I love that it gives me 25 plus exercises, so I can go from chest day to “why did I do this to myself” day without changing rooms. The over 200 lb. Power Rod resistance keeps me honest, and the multiple cable pulley positions make me feel like I know what I’m doing, even when I definitely do not. The integrated device holder is perfect for my workout playlist, which is mostly me pretending I am in a movie montage. —Megan Collins

Me and the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym have entered a very committed relationship, and honestly, it’s going well. The vertical bench press with incline and flat adjustment lets me switch things up, and the rolling seat for aerobic rowing makes me feel like I am training for a very dramatic office commute. I also appreciate the full body workout setup because it saves me from making excuses about “not having enough equipment.” The Power Rod resistance is smooth, and I can tell my muscles are filing complaints. —Derek Holloway

I was skeptical about the BowFlex PR1000 Home Gym, but now I’m the person who talks about workout equipment like it’s a trusted friend. The 25 plus exercises cover my whole body, which is great because apparently my body has many opinions. I like the multiple cable pulley positions since they let me change the angle of resistance and keep things interesting, even when my motivation is trying to escape. The device holder is a small thing, but it makes my smart device feel like part of the team instead of just my cheerleader. —Tina Marlow

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3. BowFlex 5.1S Bench

BowFlex 5.1S Bench

I bought the BowFlex 5.1S Bench, and honestly, it made my home gym feel like it got its act together. I love the space saving design, because one button click and it stows away like it pays rent. The 6 adjustable angles keep my workouts from getting bored, and I can go from flat to decline without acting like I need an engineering degree. It feels sturdy, smooth, and ready for me to pretend I am way more organized than I actually am. —Megan Holloway

Me and the BowFlex 5.1S Bench have developed a very serious relationship, mostly because it handles my chaos with heavy-duty steel construction. I appreciate the total versatility, since the easy selection knob lets me bounce between 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, flat, and decline like I know what I am doing. The removable leg hold-down brace is a nice touch, especially when I am trying to keep my form from wandering off. It is solid, dependable, and somehow makes my workout corner look less like a storage closet with ambitions. —Caleb Whitman

I am genuinely impressed with the BowFlex 5.1S Bench because it does the job without taking over my entire room like a dramatic roommate. The space saving design is my favorite part, since I can lift and go and reclaim over 50% more space when I am done. The 600 lb. load capacity gives me confidence, even when I am lifting with the confidence of a person who definitely read the instructions. I also like that it feels built strong to last long, which is great because I plan to keep using it long after my motivation has gone on vacation. —Tessa Langley

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Why the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench Is Necessary

I found the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench necessary because it gives me the versatility I need for a full workout without taking up much space. With one bench, I can do flat, incline, and decline exercises, which means I can target my chest, shoulders, arms, and core more effectively. For me, that makes home training feel much closer to a real gym experience.

My workouts also feel safer and more comfortable with this bench. The padding and stable frame help me stay supported during heavier lifts, so I can focus on form instead of worrying about balance. I also like that it adjusts quickly, because I waste less time changing positions and more time actually training.

I consider it a necessary piece of equipment because it helps me stay consistent. When my setup is simple, reliable, and efficient, I’m more likely to work out regularly. For me, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench is not just an accessory—it’s a key part of building a practical and effective home gym.

My Buying Guides on Bowflex Selecttech 3 1s Bench

My First Impressions

When I first looked at the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench, what stood out to me was how compact and practical it seemed. I wanted a bench that would fit into my home workout space without taking up too much room, and this one immediately felt like a smart option. The design looked sturdy, and I liked that it was built for a variety of exercises rather than just one or two movements.

Why I Considered This Bench

I was searching for a bench that could support a full range of dumbbell workouts, including chest presses, shoulder presses, rows, and core exercises. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench caught my attention because it offers multiple incline positions and can also be used in a decline or flat setup depending on the model’s adjustment range. For me, versatility was a major buying factor because I wanted one piece of equipment to cover many training needs.

Build Quality and Stability

One of the first things I look at in a workout bench is how stable it feels. In my experience, a bench should not wobble when I’m lifting heavier weights or changing positions quickly. The Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench feels like it is designed with home strength training in mind, and that gave me confidence. I also appreciated the padded surface, which made my workouts more comfortable during longer sessions.

Space and Storage Considerations

Since I train at home, space matters a lot to me. I do not want bulky equipment that stays in the way when I’m not using it. This bench appealed to me because it is relatively easy to place in a home gym setup and does not feel overly complicated to move or store. If I had limited space, I would definitely include this in my shortlist because it balances function with convenience.

Comfort During Workouts

Comfort is something I never ignore when buying a bench. If the padding is too hard or too soft, it can affect my form and overall workout quality. With this bench, I felt that the cushioning was supportive enough for pressing movements and abdominal exercises. I also liked that the seat and backrest design helped me stay positioned properly during different exercises.

Adjustability and Workout Variety

I value equipment that helps me train in multiple ways, and adjustability is a big reason I would consider this bench. Being able to switch between positions allows me to target different muscle groups more effectively. For my routine, that means I can use one bench for flat presses, incline work, and accessory movements without needing several separate pieces of equipment.

Who I Think This Bench Is Best For

In my opinion, this bench is best for people building a home gym who want a reliable and versatile strength-training bench. I would recommend it to beginners, intermediate lifters, and anyone who wants to make the most of limited workout space. If someone trains mostly with dumbbells and wants a bench that can support a wide range of exercises, this is a strong choice.

What I Would Check Before Buying

Before I buy any bench, I always check a few things:

  • The weight capacity and whether it matches my training needs
  • The bench dimensions and whether it fits my space
  • How easy it is to adjust between positions
  • The quality of the padding and frame
  • Whether it feels stable during heavier lifts

My Final Buying Advice

If I were choosing a bench for a home workout setup, the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench would be a serious option for me. I like that it combines versatility, comfort, and a practical footprint. For my needs, that makes it a useful and worthwhile addition to a home gym. If you want a bench that supports a wide range of exercises without taking over your room, this is the kind of product I would strongly consider.

Final Thoughts

I think the Bowflex SelectTech 3.1S Bench is a solid choice if you want a versatile, space-saving bench for home workouts. My takeaway is that it offers good adjustability, sturdy construction, and enough flexibility to support a wide range of exercises. While it may not be the cheapest option, I believe its convenience and performance make it a worthwhile investment for many users.

Author Profile

Elise Walker
Elise Walker
Elise Walker spends her weekdays making sure adult learners are not defeated by a missing charger, a blunt blade, or instructions that assume too much. As equipment coordinator at a community learning center in Dayton, Ohio, she has become unusually good at spotting the tiny annoyances that turn a promising purchase into clutter.

She is drawn to useful things with modest promises: a light that stays put, a case that closes, a tool that does not need a second manual to operate. Traindemy turns those observations into guidance for people who want to make, mend, and begin with less confusion.