<p><strong>Read more: <em><a href=” target=”_blank”>How Men’s Health Thoroughly Tests and Reviews Fitness Products</a></em></strong></p><h2 class=”body-h2″>What to Consider</h2><h3 class=”body-h3″>Type</h3><p class=”body-text”>There are a few different styles of back extensions—mainly 45-degree (like the Titan and Finer Form picks below) and 90-degree models (like Marcy). The 45-degree back extensions are what you’re used to seeing at a commercial gym; typically, they’re easier to use and, therefore, a great utility pick for anyone at any fitness level. A 90-degree back extension is nearly identical to a <a href=” target=”_blank”>glute ham developer (GHD)</a> where your body starts in a straight line with little to no hip support; your core has to work a lot harder to raise and lower your torso, but these types of back extensions usually offer more exercise variety and a more significant stimulus.</p><p class=”body-text”>Whichever type of back extension you choose, you should be able to hinge forward and extend up as far as you’re capable of without the machine hindering your range of motion. If you have pre-existing lower back issues or are new to lower back exercises, it’s a good idea to opt for a 45-degree hyperextension machine. If you’re more experienced in the gym and looking for a greater challenge, consider using a 90-degree hyperextension machine.</p><p class=”body-text”>You also want a machine that allows you to adjust the angle and height of the pads. This helps tailor the machine to your body, making various exercises as comfortable and safe as possible.</p><h3 class=”body-h3″>Durability</h3><p>Look for a machine made from high-quality materials like 11-gauge steel and dense, moldable foam. You don’t want it falling apart after a few sessions, nor do you want your hips in agony after just a few sets.</p><p>Also, sturdier materials mean a more secure base because nobody wants to feel unstable while their torso dangles over the floor mid-rep. (Choosing a machine with a broader base will also help it stabilize.)</p><h3 class=”body-h3″>Weight Capacity</h3><p>This one is obvious, but always check the machine’s weight limit—especially if you’re a larger person. It should handle your body weight and any extra weights you may add. We don’t recommend using a machine rated to support less than 300 pounds.</p><h3 class=”body-h3″>Your Space</h3><p class=”body-text”>Most back extensions take up a few square feet of space, which you need to be mindful of, especially if you live in an apartment or don’t have a dedicated space for your gym. If you’re just beginning to build out a home gym, we’d suggest starting with more essential pieces (like <a href=” target=”_blank”>weight benches</a>, <a href=” target=”_blank”>adjustable dumbbells</a> and kettlebells, and <a href=” target=”_blank”>barbells</a>). If you still have space and are sold on a back extension machine, you’ll want about five square feet to store the machine and perform the exercise.</p><h2 class=”body-h2″>How We Chose</h2><p>For the past several years, <em>Men’s Health</em> fitness editors and experts have been testing the best back extension machines in gyms worldwide. Experts, including our fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., senior fitness editor Brett Williams, NASM, and fitness and commerce editor Charles Thorp, NASM, tested and assessed the best back extension machines from top-rated brands for warm-ups, finishers, and everything in between.</p><p>When evaluating each machine, we looked at factors like durability, stability, adjustability, size, and value. In addition to our personal favorites, we also considered Reddit reviews to discover which back extension machines have impressed other fitness enthusiasts. The following list represents our picks for the best back extension machines of 2024.<br></p>”/>
Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?
Charles Thorp is the Fitness and Commerce Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world.
Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.
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