Ever thought of the possibility of owning a home gym that can fully match professional gyms in terms of equipment availability?
Home gyms, or simply just exercising from home offers way more privacy than going to the gym down the road. Yet; it has its own set of limitations… Fewer equipment options rank at the top of those limitations.
Enter: Adjustable dumbbells!
Since adjustable dumbbells came to the market, people can now stay fit and healthy within the confines of their own homes.
Yes!
And today I’ll look at the two best choices available if you are looking for a set of adjustable dumbbells to get your groove on at home; Bowflex vs Powerblock. Which are the best?
First, let’s look at a Bowflex vs Powerblock comparison table:
Contents
Should I get Bowflex or Powerblock Adjustable Dumbbells?
When it comes to selectorized adjustable dumbbells, Bowflex Selecttech 552 is king. In fact, they introduced the concept at least two decades ago, introducing a product that would change the world of fitness…
Its major rival in the business is none other than the Powerblock Elite, and rightly so. Powerblock Elite has carved a name for itself by producing adjustable dumbbells with tons of useful features.
If you are in the market for a conveniently adjustable dumbbell, you’ve probably hit a brick wall with these two.
Which of them is better?
Given that they are the two most popular and efficient dumbbells on the market, it’s difficult to make a choice.
Annoying isn’t it?
We’ve all been there, and admittedly I’ve been there too!
Below are a few facts on each dumbbell that could help you as you try to make an informed decision on which are the best adjustable dumbbell set for you:
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
THE PROS
- Easy To Adjust Weights
- High Maximum Weight Limit
- Comfortable To Use
- Easy Usage
- High Durability
THE CONS
- A Little Wide Base
Easy To Adjust Weights
The major advantage when it comes to using Bowflex Selecttech 552 for exercise is that it is super-easy to adjust. On each side of the dumbbell are dials that allow for a quick change in weight amount.
Sounds easy right?
And as if that is not enough, the weight amount is numbered allowing you to identify them without hassle. This makes it quick and easy for the user to adjust to their suitable weight seamlessly.
This aspect of convenience allows for a faster and easier workout routine!
How can you possibly beat that?
High Weight Maximum
Depending on the Bowflex model that you purchase, you’ll have a good amount of weight to work with… The Bowflex Selecttech 552 comes with a maximum weight of 52.5 pounds.
There is also a different model that offers a higher weight maximum as compared to the Bowflex Selecttech 552. Their 1090 model comes with a maximum weight of 90 pounds.
Yeah, 90 pounds!!!
Can it possibly get any better?
Comfortable To Use
Apart from convenience, most people also like being comfortable while exercising.
Bowflex Selecttech 552 effortlessly meets this need.
Why do I say this?
Well, for one their handlebars are perfectly crafted to ensure thy fit your hand like glove!
Easy To Use
Bowflex Selecttech 552 can be used by both professional and amateur fitness enthusiasts. Hence, if you are just starting out with your exercise goals, owning a pair of adjustable dumbbells would be a perfect option for you.
Likewise to those that are advancing in their fitness goals and needs, a heavy pair will be perfect as well.
Durability
Like everything else, anything that is of quality will cost you a considerable amount of money…
Every Bowflex equipment is often crafted from long-lasting materials for increased durability and wear resistance.
And since the dumbbell comes with adjustable weights, you don’t have to purchase several dumbbells as you get stronger. Even though the initial cost is pricey, it does help save on the cost of having to purchase other dumbbells as these will last for YEARS!
Weights
Some find the weight a bit wide.
This can be annoying for some and interfere with their exercise. Moreover, the wide base of the dumbbell makes it hard to lift the weight with your legs.
Some find the weight limit of 52.5 pounds limiting as well.
“Dumbbells can provide both the two types of overload that lead to muscle growth: mechanic and metabolic. This makes dumbbells an extremely versatile type of exercise equipment”
Reference: acefitness.org – 5 Benefits of Dumbbell Training
Power Block Elite Dumbbells
THE PROS
- Comfortable To UseEasy
- Weight Adjustment
- Extreme Durability
- Large Weight Scale
THE CONS
- Sometimes the Weights Stick Together During Weight Adjustment
- Handlebars not Perfect for People With Large Hands
Comfortable To Use
Powerblock Elite is specifically designed to offer comfort during exercising.
- Its block design allows for an easier hand lifting motion.
- Its flat ends make it easy to place on the legs for lifting.
Weight Adjustment
The Powerblock Elite dumbbell comes with a selector that allows you to adjust your weight during exercise.
By simply pulling the pin out, you can easily select the weight you prefer. However, changing the weight on the dumbbell isn’t as fast when compared to adjusting the weight on the Bowflex…
Durability
Can I be honest with you?
Powerblock Elite may be a bit on the pricey side, so naturally, you want to ensure you get your money’s worth.
And when it comes to Powerblock Elite, you can be assured that you get quality for your money!
Not only will you be able to enjoy your exercise, but as with the Bowflex the equipment will last you for years…
Weight Adjustment
Granted, the dial makes it easy for the user to adjust and increase the weight quickly.
However, sometimes the plates tend to stick together. But the good news is this is an easy fix and shouldn’t be a problem.
The Handlebars
Okay, I’ll admit.
The handles may not be for everyone, especially those with large hands.
This is because the plates at the end of the handlebars are square plates, instead of round plates. This does limit the amount of space on the handlebars and could be a little frustrating for people with Hulk-hands.
10 Dumbbell Exercises For a Total Body Workout
With a pair of solid adjustable dumbbells, you will have the ability to train every single muscle of your body. There are literally 1000’s of different dumbbell exercise combos eagerly waiting for you to try them out!
Pretty cool, huh?
Here are 10 exercises you could do owning only a set of dumbbells. The exercises illustrated using a barbell will simply be done using dumbbells instead.
Enjoy!
From Visually.
For even more dumbbell exercises check out this great article from MensHealth.com containing both descriptions and illustrations of their 10 best dumbbell exercises.
Final Words: Bowflex vs Powerblock
So, Bowflex vs Powerblock. Which are really the best smart lock dumbbells?
All in all, each dumbbell has its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
- If you’re looking for ease and convenience while adjusting the weight amount, go for Bowflex Selecttech 552.
- If you’re looking for maximum comfort during exercise, then go for Powerblock Elite.
However, they are all made to boost fitness needs and goals with efficacy and ease.
Either dumbbell should help you achieve the lean and strong body that you want!
Do you need some more equipment to complement your dumbbells? Well, I’ve got you covered! I have reviewed a TON of at home strength training equipment to help you put to gather the home gym of your dreams!
Or maybe you just want to take a look at my favorites?
Then you should read my EPIC guide on easy & affordable home gym equipment, a collection of my top 9 choices for strength training!
See you there!