A sit-up bench, or abdominal bench, is a type of workout bench designed to allow users to isolate their abdominal muscles effectively and comfortably. Using a sit-up bench is generally more comfortable then performing abdominal exercises on the floor. Such benches can also be adjusted to various levels of incline, to allow for more effective abdominal workouts. There are several types of abdominal benches available on the market. They generally allow for different types of abdominal exercises, according to the needs of various users.
The incline, or inverted, sit-up bench may be a good option for those who want an intense abdominal workout. This bench allows users to perform abdominal exercises upward against an incline, so that they must work against gravity to perform the exercises.
The adjustable abdominal bench may be the most versatile of the sit-up benches. It can be placed in a horizontal position, or adjusted at varying degrees of incline. The adjustable sit-up bench typically offers users the most options for performing different types of abdominal exercises. It can also allow users to adjust the intensity of workouts.
The curved abdominal bench is often recommended for users who suffer from back pain. This type of sit-up bench conforms to the shape of the user's back to minimize discomfort. For users who don't have a lot of space, folding sit-up benches are available. These benches can generally be broken down for storage in a compact space. The Weider bench, which is adjustable and usually fastens to the bottom of a door, is also quite compact.
The Roman bench is a type of abdominal exercise bench mostly used for isolating the muscles of the lower abdomen. Unlike most other benches, this type of bench typically requires the user to sit upright while drawing the knees toward the chest, which isolates the lower abs. This type of sit-up bench is often popular in gyms, but most home users don't invest in them. They are considered very effective for isolating the lower abs, but they usually can't be used for exercising the other muscle groups of the abdomen.
Abdominal benches can make abdominal exercises easier and more effective for most users. Users are generally advised to follow manufacturer's instructions for use, to maximize effectiveness and safety.