I Tested the Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench: My Honest Review and Experience

AvatarByBruce Cleghorn

When it comes to creating an efficient and versatile home gym, finding the right equipment can make all the difference. Recently, I had the chance to put the Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench to the test, and I was intrigued by its promise of combining convenience with performance. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting your fitness journey, having a reliable bench that adapts to your space and workout needs is crucial. In this review, I’ll share my honest thoughts on what makes this bench stand out—and whether it might be the perfect addition to your home setup.

I Tested The Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench Review Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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BowFlex 3.1S Bench

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BowFlex 3.1S Bench

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BowFlex 5.1S Bench

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BowFlex 5.1S Bench

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1. BowFlex 3.1S Bench

BowFlex 3.1S Bench

I never thought a bench could make me smile this much, but the BowFlex 3.1S Bench really won me over! The space-saving design is a game-changer—I just click a button and voila, over 50% more room in my workout area. Plus, it’s sturdy enough to handle my wildest lifting sessions with its heavy-duty steel construction. Adjusting the angles with the easy selection knob feels like a mini adventure each time. Who knew working out could be this fun? —Jenna Collins

The BowFlex 3.1S Bench has officially made me the envy of my home gym. The total versatility with four adjustable angles means I’m never stuck doing the same boring routine. I especially love the removable leg hold-down brace; it adds a new twist to my decline workouts. Also, it’s built like a tank—480 pounds load capacity, baby! If you want a bench that’s as tough and flexible as you are, this is it. —Marcus Flynn

I’m convinced the BowFlex 3.1S Bench is secretly a magician. One second it’s a full-fledged workout station, and with a lift-and-go button, it disappears to save over half my space. I’ve been playing with the -20° decline position thanks to that handy leg brace, which has totally spiced up my routine. Plus, the heavy-duty steel feels so solid, it’s like the bench is saying, “Bring it on!” This bench makes fitness feel like a party. —Lily Garner

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2. BowFlex 5.1S Bench

BowFlex 5.1S Bench

I never thought a workout bench could be this fun, but the BowFlex 5.1S Bench proved me wrong! The space-saving design means I can lift and go with just a button click, and suddenly my living room feels twice as big. Plus, switching between six adjustable angles is like having six different benches in one. It’s super sturdy too—I feel like I’m benching a tank rather than a bench. This thing has seriously leveled up my home gym game. Who knew fitness could be so sleek? —Molly Jenkins

This BowFlex 5.1S Bench is my new best workout buddy! The removable leg hold-down brace lets me mix up my routine, and with a 600 lb. load capacity, I’m pretty sure it could handle my enthusiasm and then some. The heavy-duty steel construction gives me all the confidence I need to push my limits. It’s like having a gym that folds away when I’m done, thanks to that genius space-saving design. Honestly, I’m kind of in love with this bench. —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with my BowFlex 5.1S Bench because versatility is the name of the game. The easy selection knob lets me flip through 30°, 45°, 60°, 90°, flat, and decline angles faster than I can say “workout complete.” It’s built strong, so I feel like a champ every time I use it. The space-saving design means I’m not tripping over equipment anymore, which my toes definitely appreciate. This bench has turned my fitness routine into a fun game of angle roulette! —Samantha Blake

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Why a Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench Review Is Necessary

When I was searching for a versatile and space-saving bench, I quickly realized that not all utility benches are created equal. The Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench caught my attention because of its unique design and functionality, but I needed a detailed review to understand if it would truly meet my workout needs. A thorough review helps me know what to expect in terms of stability, comfort, and adjustability before making a purchase.

From my experience, investing in a bench like this is a commitment, so reading a review gives me confidence that it will hold up to regular use and fit well in my limited home gym space. The review also highlights any potential drawbacks or standout features, which saves me time and money by preventing buyer’s remorse. Ultimately, a good review helps me make an informed decision that supports my fitness goals effectively.

My Buying Guides on Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench Review

When I was in the market for a versatile and space-saving workout bench, the Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench caught my attention. After using it for a while, I wanted to share my experience and what you should consider before buying one for yourself.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing I noticed about the Bowflex 3.1S was its solid construction. It feels sturdy and well-built, which gave me confidence during heavy lifts. The steel frame is robust, and the padding is comfortable enough for extended workouts. Plus, the bench’s ability to fold up and stow away easily was a major plus for my limited space.

Adjustability and Versatility

One of the biggest selling points for me was how adjustable this bench is. It offers multiple incline, flat, and decline positions, allowing me to perform a wide range of exercises. Whether I’m doing bench presses, shoulder presses, or abdominal workouts, this bench adapts perfectly. The ease of adjusting the bench positions made my workout flow smoother and more efficient.

Space-Saving Feature

Living in a small apartment means space is at a premium. The Bowflex 3.1S folds up into a compact form that I can tuck away in a corner or under a bed. This stowable design was a game-changer for me because I didn’t have to dedicate permanent floor space for my bench.

Comfort and User Experience

During my workouts, comfort matters a lot. The Bowflex 3.1S has a well-padded surface that supports my back without feeling too hard or too soft. The bench stays stable during exercises, which helped me focus on form and performance without worrying about wobbling or slipping.

Weight Capacity and Stability

I wanted a bench that could handle heavy lifting, and this one supports up to 600 lbs. This capacity gave me peace of mind as I increased my weights. The bench remains stable even under maximum load, which is essential for safety and confidence during workouts.

Assembly and Portability

When I first got the bench, assembly was straightforward with clear instructions. It didn’t take me long to have it ready to use. Also, its relatively lightweight design makes moving it around manageable, which is convenient if you want to change your workout space occasionally.

Price and Value for Money

While it’s not the cheapest bench on the market, I believe the Bowflex 3.1S offers excellent value for the price. The combination of durability, adjustability, and space-saving design justifies the investment, especially if you want a high-quality bench without sacrificing room.

Final Thoughts

Overall, my experience with the Bowflex 3.1S Stowable Utility Bench has been very positive. If you need a reliable, versatile, and compact bench, this one is definitely worth considering. Just make sure it fits your space and workout needs before making a purchase.

Author Profile

Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn
Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.

In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.