Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells
Unless you live in a cave, you've probably heard of the brand name ‘Bowflex’. This company is known for their state-of-the-art workout equipment that tends to combine multiple machines into one. These include best-selling items such as the TreadClimber, MaxTrainer, or their line of all-in-one home gyms. And another of their best sellers is the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell Set.
Based on their innovative nature, it should come as no surprise they manufacture a line of high-quality adjustable dumbbells. These adjustable dumbbells feature a turn-dial selector with weights enclosed in a durable plastic molding.Benefits of the Bowflex SelectTech 552
Easiest Adjustment on the Market
It’s pretty undisputed that Bowflex has developed the easiest system for adjusting the weight needed for your exercise. With just a quick turn of the large dial on each side of the dumbbell, the 552 model adjusts to anywhere from 5 to 52.5 pounds and every increment in between.
The process takes a few seconds and you don’t have to fuss with pins, or making sure the dumbbell is on a flat surface. Simply place the weight in the included holder, twist, and pick up.
When finished, the dumbbell goes right back into its fitted slot. With one quick turn of the dial, you're ready for your next set.
Encased Metal Plates
Unlike some traditional weights and models offered by competitors, Bowflex has placed the metal plates, where the weight is actually stored, in a durable plastic molding. This helps to improve the life of the plate, as well as protect floors, walls, or anything else they may bump into.
Recent Improvements
Bowflex is a huge manufacturer and has been around for over three decades. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that they do listen to their customers. One major complaint in models prior to 2015 was the turn dial. Bowflex went back to the drawing board and made improvements so the turn dial is smoother and quicker.
Small Increment Adjustments
For the first 25 pounds, these dumbbells can be adjusted in 2.5-pound increments and then 5-pound increments thereafter. This is a fantastic feature for new weightlifters as you have the ability to really dial in on the correct resistance and focus on form over increased weight.
Drawbacks of the Bowflex SelectTech 552
Some Plastic Parts
Unfortunately, some users have shown us that Bowflex uses plastic parts in areas where metal may be a better option. For example, the locking mechanism that holds the weight onto the handle is a plastic component.
Large Design
While some like the large design of this Bowflex set, most do not. The dumbbells can feel very bulky compared to traditional dumbbells and are less compact compared to competitors. This can be a problem if you have difficulty stabilizing the weight during an exercise. Although this may be a preference more than anything, it should be noted these dumbbells are larger than what most people will be used to.
Summary
For most, these dumbbells have been fantastic, for others, it has been the exact opposite. It appears in the 2000’s and early 2010’s, Bowflex was experiencing some quality issues with not just their dumbbells, but other products like their home-gym units. Since then, Bowflex has really stepped up their game and fixed many of these issues.
Many of the reviews on Amazon and similar sites won’t do these dumbbells justice. Since all reviews from the 2000’s to present are combined into a single listing, different reviews are essentially reviewing different versions of the same product. While one person may have received an earlier model another will have received the latest and thus, result in conflicting experiences and reviews.
If purchasing from a third-party seller, look to be sure they are getting their inventory directly from the official manufacturer to ensure you receive the latest model.
In terms of price, this set is ideal if you’re on a tighter budget, but need more weight than what the PowerBlock Sport 24’s offer. These dumbbells won’t set you back $300.00 like some competitors, and you’ll be receiving an improved product from a well-known company.
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