How to Build a Wooden Weight Bench

Visit a local lumber supply or home improvement store and select an inexpensive solid wood. Have them cut the wood on site to the specifications listed in the things you'll need section. Note that the length of the two 6-by-2-inch boards isn't listed. This is because it will depend on the height of the person using the weight bench. It will average about 3 feet to 3 1/2 feet long. Measure the potential bench user from the top of the head to the bottom of the tailbone and add 3 to 4 inches to get the optimal length.

Lay out the two longest boards side by side so that they're touching each other and the widest side is flat on the floor or other sturdy working surface. This will be the surface the weight lifter will lie on when the bench is finished. Next, lay one of the 2-by-4 pieces on top of the long boards, perpendicular to them at roughly the center point. The widest face of the board should be flat against the larger boards. This will provide stability so the long boards don't bow in the middle. Drill four screws through the stabilizer to secure it to both of the larger boards.

Next, take one of the 2-by-4 pieces and attach it to one corner of the larger boards using two screws. This will serve as one of the legs of the bench. Next, attach the next leg on the same end of the bench. Use a third 2-by-4 piece as a stabilizer by laying it flat across both legs and attaching them. Reinforce the boards further by securing them to the longer boards as well. Repeat this process to make the legs on the other end.

Using the coarse sandpaper, rub down any parts of the bench that aren't smooth and flat to avoid splinters.