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Best Ab Machines
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Style
As you will learn, there are several different types of ab machines out there. Selecting the right type for your needs should be concern number one.
Without going into too much detail, it is important for you to understand that there are several different types of ab machines out there. Not only will different types offer different features but many of them will offer completely different workouts. To better explain, let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular types. For starters, you have your sit-up benches (and other similar exercise machines) and you really can’t go wrong here. Due to their adjustability options (with most models), they can be tailored for both beginners and experts. Without question, they are excellent machines.
However, you also have what is known as a Roman chair. This machine tends to work more on your lower back and is a bit weaker when it comes to your abs. Still, typically, Roman chairs are versatile machines. Then you have ab wheels (often called ab rollers) and these are very simple in their design. While they can provide an excellent work out for your abs, they can also work out your upper torso. Also, they take up very little room and can be transported easily. Then again, they require a lot of core strength and are not ideal for beginners. There are also ab chairs and these are suited for beginners because they protect your back when you perform simple crunches on them. Of course, they will not offer enough resistance for users with stronger cores.
Durability
No matter the type you prefer, the build needs to be sufficient and should last a lengthy amount of time.
No matter what style you end up going with, if the individual model is not built to last then you may want to pass it all together. What is really nice is you do not necessarily have to break down each individual type to determine what to look for in regard to the build quality. Instead, most types will integrate the same types of materials. For instance, in regard to the frame, or the structural foundation of the model, most of the time you will see steel used as the primary material. Steel itself is a very strong metal that boasts fantastic characteristics. If you want the steel to be protected, though, you better look for models that come with a powder coating. Oh, and you should always keep an eye out for the weight limit. If you are a heavier individual, this concerns you more as the ab machine needs to be rated to support your weight without breaking.
Outside of the foundation, you also need to assess the design of the upholstery. The integrated padding not only needs to be comfortable but also durable. So, look for high-quality materials such as EVA foam and vinyl and also superior stitching methods (such as double-stitching and seam-stitching).
Features
There will be certain features that you will need to keep a close eye out for. But, perhaps none compare to the adjustability.
When you assess the features of a specific type of ab machine, it does come back to the actual style. For example, you would look out for different features when looking into an ab wheel as opposed to a sit-up bench. While there are small and minute features that you can keep an eye out for, there is one that comes to the forefront with pretty much all ab machines (no matter the style). This is, of course, referring to the adjustability. That word right there needs to be drilled into your cranium as it is essential when looking into an exercise machine.
With the ability to adjust your machine, you can not only vary the exercise itself but you can also enhance or decrease the difficulty. Think about it for a second; once you master a specific setting, will you not get bored of it if you can’t change it? The simple ability to alter the resistance level or adjust the height of an ab machine can really make all the difference in the world, folks.
Comfort
Sure, the machine needs to be effective but the darn thing better also be comfortable.
Look, it really does not matter what type of features an ab machine offers or the performance of the model if it is unbearable to use. It really goes without saying that the comfortability is extremely important. But, what you do need to know is what to look for so you can whittle out the pretenders, so to speak. For certain, the padding that is integrated needs to be sufficient, for starters. Much like on a bicycle where the seat needs to have ample padding, any area that comes in contact with your body on an ab machine needs to have comfortable padding.
But, the padding is just one variable in the overall equation. The other is the ergonomics. In short, the more ergonomic an ab machine is designed, the better. Every aspect of the model should be ergonomically designed (from the frame itself to the positioning of the padding and of the grips).
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST AB MACHINES
1. XMark Fitness
The best model on this list is actually a sit-up bench and it is very versatile thanks to its multiple height adjustments. Of course, this is also built like a tank and will last for years to come.
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As mentioned, this is a sit-up bench and it is designed to allow users to target their abs from a variety of angles. Also, it comes equipped with 12 vertical height adjustments.
Durability
XMark Fitness is all about quality and it shows here. Their model is built with an all-steel frame (11-gauge) and sports powder coating. Also, the upholstery is double-stitched and made of vinyl.
Features
Although it is simple, an integrated support handle allows you to easily mount and dismount on this machine.
Comfort
Everything is in order when it comes to the comfort of this model. It sports contoured roller pads, optimally placed leg rollers, and three-inch-thick cushions.
Size
Let’s just say that this is a beast right here. At 65 inches by 26 inches by 6 inches, it is going to take up a lot of room.
Overall
If you truly want the best then you need to look no further. Though the price is steep, the quality and the design are more than warranted.
2. Fitness Reality X-Class
The X-Class is actually another sit-up bench but this one allows for multiple types of workouts. Much like the top model, though, it is also built to last and can accommodate users up to 650 pounds.
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With its 14 different height adjustments, this sit-up bench is designed to be versatile. In fact, it may just be the most versatile model on this entire list.
Build Quality
This bad boy can handle up to 650 pounds of weight, as mentioned, and this is thanks to its steel frame. Also, the double-stitched vinyl upholstery is moisture-resistant.
Features
Both the push-up and dip handlebars are slip-resistant to provide a nice stable base for you to support your body.
Comfort
The foam that is integrated on the X-Class is 2.5 inches in thickness. Also, as mentioned, it is sweat-resistant which enhances the breathability.
Size
Yep, this is another large machine. However, to help the maneuverability, it comes equipped with transportation wheels for your convenience.
Overall
Once again, you are going to pay for this ab machine. However, it just goes to show how great sit-up benches can really be. Without question, this is highly recommended.
3. Body Champ VKR1010
Body Max presents another workout machine on this list. But, the VKR1010 is really nice and is dubbed the 4-Station for its high versatility.
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The Body Champ VKR1010, as mentioned, is another exercise machine but it comes with four different “stations”. All of which can target specific muscle groups.
Build Quality
Although this is made of heavy-duty steel, enhanced stability would have been nice as it can wobble if you try. In addition, the cushions are seam-stitched to enhance longevity.
Features
Of the four stations, you have a vertical knee raise station for your legs, pull-up bars to build on your shoulder area, a dip station to develop your triceps, and also push-up bars.
Comfort
Each of the cushions that are included is heavy-duty and box-styled. Additionally, the handles have grips on them to prevent any slipping.
Size
There is no way to sugarcoat this, you will need room for this. It measures 83 inches in height and 58.5 inches in length. It is a beast and will need a dedicated location.
Overall
Versatility is the name of the game here. However, this is going to be overly complex and too large for some buyer’s needs. And, that is okay.
4. Perfect Fitness Ab Carver
Unlike the previous options, this right here is a little different. This “machine” is actually an ab roller and it is powered by its kinetic engine. With this, it is able to produce exceptional core workouts.
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As mentioned, this is powered via a kinetic engine and it uses a carbon steel spring to provide resistance and this delivers the workout. Also, the wheel has been made extra wide to offer stability when you are carving in different directions.
Build Quality
The interior is comprised of the aforementioned steel spring and it is very durable. As for the core, not too many buyers have experienced durability concerns.
Features
The spring mechanism is not foolproof and some users have noted it can lock on them from time to time. Most of the time, however, it seems to work efficiently.
Comfort
While the alignment with your shoulder width could be improved, the ergonomic hand grips have been raved about. Also, this comes with a high-density foam kneepad.
Size
This is a handheld device and measures nine inches by eight inches by nine inches. It weighs less than six pounds and the handles can even be removed when you store it.
Overall
When the internal spring mechanism is functioning correctly, this design is both functional and practical. It may lock up on your from time to time, though.
5. Ab Circle Pro
To say this is unique is a bit of an understatement. What is really nice about it, though, is that it works your lower and upper abs, as well as your obliques.
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This almost looks like a mini trampoline or even a part of a drum set. But, it is actually an ab machine that works out your lower and upper abs (and also can provide your obliques nearly a 360-degree turn).
Build Quality
Ab Circle constructed their model out of gym-quality steel and this allows the base to have a capacity of 275 pounds. In other words, this is not for 300 pounders.
Features
To vary up the exercise, there are actually three different resistance levels that you can select from. Plus, this can also enhance the challenge factor.
Comfort
Without question, this is the area that has been criticized the most. Buyers have felt the padding for the knees was insufficient and others have noted the padding itself is not very secure.
Size
When not in use, this is actually able to fold down completely. Thus, you can store it under your bed or even vertically in your closet.
Overall
With some superior padding, this could have been even better. The concept is brilliant and it really provides an excellent work out for your abdominal region, however.
6. Cap Barbell
Some ab machines can really put a hurting on your wallet. However, this ab trainer does not and it utilizes a simple concept to produce optimal results.
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Being a crunch tool and nothing else, this is simple yet effective. It is not very versatile but it certainly succeeds in its designed purpose.
Build Quality
Do note that the tubing is made of steel. But, the tubing itself is not incredibly sturdy, making this unsuitable for larger folks. If you feel a significant bend, you are probably too heavy for this.
Features
Truth be told, this is all but devoid of any features. It is a simple concept through and through.
Comfort
Thanks to the ergonomic design, this is going to help eliminate back and neck pain that is associated with crunches. However, it is not optimized for short people as the hand grips can be difficult to reach.
Size
Though this can’t be folded down, it is quite compact and only weighs five pounds. Due to the shape, however, it can be a bit odd to store it.
Overall
Is this design perfect? No, but for the right demographic, this is going to get the job done with flying colors. Ironically, that demographic is people who are not too short or too heavy.
7. Tristar Products Inc
At first glance, you could mistake this for an elliptical machine. Admittedly, this is a bit less advanced. Yet, still, it uses a unique design to target your entire core.
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The secret to the success of this design is the smooth bottom-up motion. Basically, because of this natural arc, it creates a constant core contraction to engage your entire core.
Build Quality
This is supported by a frame that is comprised of steel. However, it can only handle up to 300 pounds and some users have even said they have felt flexing at around 220 to 250 pounds.
Features
What is nice is you can twist the seat and work out your obliques. And, even though a counter is included, it is highly inefficient and not consistent in the slightest.
Comfort
There have been one-star reviews that have claimed this can cause serious pain to your knees. However, the seat is properly cushioned and easy to kneel on.
Size
As you may have guessed, this is going to require a bit of room. Also, it weighs nearly 55 pounds and is not exactly light.
Overall
It is only natural that there will be those of you who are not appealed to this design. That is fair but if you allow it to, this can more than deliver a satisfying abdominal workout.
8. Powerline Roman Chair
Powerline is not going to blow very many users away with the design of their Roman chair. It is not a flashy design but it does get the job done, for the most part.
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Powerline classifies this as a roman chair and it is a device that is specifically designed to target your hamstrings, abdominal region, back, and gluteus.
Build Quality
Overall, this can support up to 250 pounds. The frame is comprised of heavy-gauge, two-inch thick steel that has been finished with a powder coating.
Features
While the ankle pad height is actually adjustable, the actual padded post can’t be adjusted. Quite a few users, though, have claimed the design would have been better if it were.
Comfort
While not exactly optimized for comfort, this is also not unbearable to exercise on. However, what would have helped is longer foam rollers.
Size
With this assembled, it measures 36 inches tall by 46 inches long by 25 inches wide. It is not massive but much like some of the others on this list, it will require some room.
Overall
To put it best, this is a simple yet effective design. It does not sport all the bells and whistles but it is designed with the purpose of delivering abdominal workouts.
9. RitFit Evolution
To be honest, this seems to be a hit or miss with most buyers. It seems to be you either love this design or you hate it. Let’s find out why shall we?
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This works almost identically to the other crunch tool on this list. It will support your neck, head and upper body while you perform crunches.
Build Quality
Being made with steel, this has a weight capacity of 220 pounds. Also, the foam that is utilized is thick EVA foam and built to last.
Features
As with the last crunch tool, this is devoid of extra design features. It does have extra handles on the sides, however, so that is nice.
Comfort
The foam for the headrest is not necessarily the issue here as much as the design is. You see, when you use this the entire base will move. This action causes the headrest to jam down your spine which can be a bit unsettling.
Size
While not overly large, this can still be a bit awkward to store due to its engineering. Still, it is pretty light and fairly easy to maneuver.
Overall
There are many redeeming qualities to this design and many users have loved using it. With that in mind, it can cause discomfort and that may be enough to scare some of you off.
10. Core Max Star Uno
This is one of the more raved models on this list. The main reason it is not higher is it is limited in its resistance levels. For the right people, though, this will be money.
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Due to the Fast Track technology and also the power-assisted spring (which is hidden from view), this ab machine is able to work you just like a personal trainer.
Build Quality
The core makeup of this model is made of steel and not too many reviewers have had negative comments about the build quality, in general.
Features
In reality, more than three resistance levels should have been implemented. But, that is what you get here (along with a workout DVD, an exercise guide and a healthy eating guide).
Comfort
Some softer foam could have been integrated into this design as the foam that is present has been criticized for being too hard and too firm.
Size
This is already a compact design but when you add in the fact that you can fold the arms down flat, it makes it all the better.
Overall
Buyers have excellent use out of this product. Just because it landed number 10 on this list does not mean you will not love it. But, some specific buyers have pointed out its weaknesses.