when I initially have this stand under consideration it be not price , quality , or durability I have in-mind . I read several review about the difficulty of put the darn thing together . I think `` can it really be that hard ? '' . well , upon receive my stand I pull out the instruction guide with some trepidation . I be please to find out that with one thorough review of those instruction , a check of all include item , and digging out a couple of tool to help with the set-up I have no problem assemble the stand in about 45 minute . no skin knuckle or overly sore hand either . I do not want to make light of other reviewer and they assembly difficulty . either I just understand explode diagram really well and have that magic mechanical touch or more likely Bowflex revise the assembly guide . so , do not worry about assembly if you be at least a tad mechanically inclined and at least have a few decent tool lie around . my only negative comment about the stand be the manner in which it be pack . a little more insulation or styrofoam would have be nice on each component because I notice some scuffing and scratch -lrb- nothing so terrible as to warrant a return -rrb- that really should not be there if a little more care be take when pack the item . other than that I be really happy I spend the extra dollar to get the dumbbell up off the ground . the stand and weight on it look great , my lower back be happy , and the stand work just as advertise .