NordBench Pro Review - Worth It for a Home Gym?
The NordBench Pro is marketed as a compact, multi functional piece of equipment that can replace multiple machines in your home gym. It claims to handle everything from Nordic curls to back extensions, dips, GHRs, and more. After testing it in real training, the question becomes simple - does it actually live up to that promise, and more importantly, does it earn its space?
Right away, the biggest selling point is how compact and foldable the NordBench Pro is. It stores flat, uses a magnetic latch system, and can be set up quickly by dropping the base and adjusting the ladder system. There are multiple adjustment points including the footplate, the back pad, and the ladder positions, all of which allow you to configure the bench for different movements. On paper, it offers a lot of versatility in a very small footprint.
When it comes to actual performance, the two standout movements are back extensions and Nordic hamstring curls. Back extensions feel excellent on this bench. There is a slight amount of side to side movement, but once you are actually performing the exercise, it feels stable enough and does not interfere with the movement. The biggest highlight here is the pad. It is comfortable, supportive, and has just the right amount of grip. That matters more than most people think, because if the pad is not good, the entire movement suffers. In this case, they got it right.
Nordic hamstring curls are another area where the NordBench Pro really shines. The adjustable angles allow you to progressively work your way down to more difficult variations, which is huge for most people since full Nordic curls from the floor are extremely challenging. The setup is simple, the pad is comfortable on the knees, and the movement feels solid. This is easily one of the best use cases for the bench.
To give a clearer breakdown of how each movement actually performs, here’s how I would rate them:
Back Extensions - A+ (best movement, pad really shines here)
Nordic Hamstring Curls - A+ (great progression and setup)
Dips - B (usable, but some instability especially for heavier lifters)
Mummy Sit-Ups - B- (decent option, but better alternatives exist)
Bulgarian Split Squats - B (works well, nice bonus use)
Heel Elevated Squats - B (solid feature, but not a primary reason to buy)
GHR (Glute Ham Raise) - C (possible, but not ideal setup)
Step Downs - C (works, but easily replaceable with simpler options)
Hip Thrusts - D (limited range of motion, not practical)
After those two main movements, the versatility starts to feel more like a bonus rather than a primary selling point. Dips are usable, but there is some noticeable movement in the bench, especially if you are a heavier lifter. The back end can lift slightly, and while there is an optional stability bar available, it is something to consider if dips are a big part of your training.
Some of the other advertised movements are less impressive. GHRs are technically possible, but the setup does not feel ideal and positioning can be awkward. Step downs work, but they are not a reason to own this piece since you can replicate that with basic equipment. Heel elevated squats are a nice added feature, especially if you enjoy quad focused training, but again, they are more of a bonus than a main draw.
Core work is a mixed bag. Traditional GHD style sit ups do not feel quite right due to the angle, but mummy style sit ups performed in a flat position work better and feel more natural. Even then, there are still better options like a decline bench or floor work depending on your setup.
There are a few additional movements like Bulgarian split squats and hip thrusts, but these feel more like afterthoughts. The Bulgarian setup works fine, but hip thrusts are limited due to the positioning and range of motion. These are not movements that would justify buying the bench.
When you zoom out and look at how this would actually be used in a real home gym, it becomes clear that the primary value comes from just a few key movements. Back extensions and Nordic curls are where this bench truly delivers. Everything else falls into the category of extra versatility rather than core functionality.
The other major advantage is space saving. In a garage gym, especially one where you are trying to maximize what you can fit, having a piece that folds up and can replace a larger standalone machine is a big deal. This is where the NordBench Pro makes the most sense. If you are tight on space, it offers a lot of functionality without taking over your gym.
That said, this is not a commercial grade piece of equipment. The build quality is clearly aimed at home gym use. The ladder system is small and can feel a bit flimsy at times. Some of the adjustment points can be sticky or awkward to use, especially out of the box. Using a little oil can help smooth things out, but it is not the most refined system.
There are also some small annoyances. Certain knobs can loosen in ways that are not ideal, and some components may need minor fixes or adjustments over time. The handles can spin, and some of the finishing details feel more budget oriented. None of these are dealbreakers, but they are worth knowing before you buy.
At its current price point, the NordBench Pro sits in a reasonable position for what it offers. It is not trying to compete with high end commercial equipment. Instead, it is offering a compact, versatile solution for home gym owners who want to do a few key movements really well without dedicating a large amount of space.
In the end, this comes down to what you value most in your setup. If you want a single piece that can replace a back extension machine and give you a solid way to train Nordic curls in a small footprint, this is a strong option. If you are expecting a perfectly built, ultra stable, commercial level machine that excels at every movement it claims, this is not that.
Even with its flaws, it is a piece that still makes sense for the right person. In a space limited home gym where every piece needs to earn its spot, the NordBench Pro does enough well to be worth considering.
