Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells Reviewed

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Bowflex adjustable dumbbells are a great addition to any home gym.  No longer do you need a cumbersome rack of dumbbells in your garage, basement, patio, or wherever you have room. If you are interested in a pair of unique adjustable dumbbells, I encourage you to take a closer look at Bowflex SelectTech, Bowflex’s answer to adjustable dumbbells.

Adjustable weight dumbbells are a great alternative to an entire rack of weights at home.  But, when it comes to choosing adjustable dumbbells, there are a lot of factors to consider, different weight ranges, adjustment mechanisms, build quality, etc.

You really replace a rack (maybe multiple racks) of dumbbells with just one pair of Bowflex adjustable dumbbells. You don’t need a bulky rack of traditional weights that take up a lot of space. Bowflex adjustable dumbbells can replace your whole rack with a single compact design that fits well, just about anywhere. There’s even a kettlebell in Bowflex’s dumbbell lineup.

What makes Bowflex adjustable dumbbells unique?

This locking mechanism is what sets SelectTech apart from other adjustable dumbbells on the market and makes for fast and precise adjustments. Selecting the weight you want is a snap, with the turn of a dial.

With SelectTech dumbbells, you turn the dial to lock in only the weights you want.  When you have successfully selected the weight you want, you will feel the dial settle into a notch, and you will hear a click. It’s as simple as that.

Another unique feature to SelectTech is the offset weight selection, meaning you can choose different weight settings on either side of the dumbbell.  Using offset weights can be a great benefit for more advanced lifting techniques.

Bowflex SelectTech models

There are a few SelectTech adjustable weight models to choose from. Here’s a quick overview of each.

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells

Weight range – Dumbbells adjust from 10 to 90 pounds
Weight settings – Weights are set in 5-pound increments from 10 to 90 pounds

These bad boys help you replace up to 34 dumbbells.  Did you hear that? 34 dumbbells!  The 1090 series is the most substantial set offered in the SelectTech line.  This set is excellent not only for upper-body workouts but the heavier weights have your lower body covered as well.

In addition to reducing your dumbbell count, the 1090 series adjustable dumbbells help you improve your fitness level.  You will not quickly outgrow this set with a wide range of weight options available.  SelectTech 1090 is a versatile set of adjustable dumbbells that you will enjoy for years to come.

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BowFlex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbell (Single)
1,845 Reviews
BowFlex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbell (Single)
  • SPACE EFFICIENT: Say goodbye to 15 sets of dumbbells cluttering your workout space.
  • WIDER WEIGHT RANGE: Each dumbbell adjust from 5 to 52.5 lb. in 2.5 lb. increments up to 25 lb.
  • TURN OF A DIAL: Select the weight you want with the turn of the dial – no more picking up 30 different dumbbells to give you the results you want.
  • 2-MONTH FREE TRIAL: Try our JRNY All-Access Membership for 2 months, free.
  • JRNY MOBILE-ONLY MEMBERSHIP: Get Motion Tracking, strength-training and bodyweight workouts, at home and on the go from your phone or tablet.

Bowflex SelectTech 560 Dumbbells

Weight range – Dumbbells adjust from 5 to 60 pounds
Weight settings – Weights are adjustable in 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, then 5-pound increments to 60 pounds

Next up is the 560 series, which can replace an entire rack of dumbbells.  Among the cool features are Integrated Bluetooth Technology and video coaching.  You definitely will not find these features in your run of the mill weights.

Video coaching offers workouts for all fitness levels, from novice to the more advanced. The dumbbell is not so dumb after all, as it also tracks your progress, including reps, calories burned, and more.

The 560 is a perfect addition to a home gym or is a great way to get started with a home gym.

Bowflex ST560 Dumbbells
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Bowflex ST560 Dumbbells
  • Integrated Bluetooth connectivity syncs and records sets, reps and weight
  • Track and record sets, reps and weight with the three dimensional Trainer app
  • Replaces up to 30 dumbbells and allows you to select your weight with a turn of a dial
  • Durable molding around metal plates provides for a smooth lift off and quieter workouts

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells

Weight Range – Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds to 52 pounds
Weight Settings – 2.5 and 5-pound increments

The 552 eliminates 15 sets of traditional dumbbells and helps to free up your workout space.  This set of adjustable dumbbells has premium grips and an easy to turn dial for selecting your weight.

There are enough weight options for a lot of different exercises and muscle groups.  Given the variety these dumbbells offer, you will see your fitness level continue to improve.

Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell

Weight Range – Adjusts from 8 to 40 pounds
Weight Settings – Varies

Last, but certainly not least is the SelectTech Kettlebell. Kettlebells are very popular today, and you will love the diversity of these weights.  Again, the adjustable kettlebell will eliminate the need for multiple kettlebells that take up space.  This set will replace six kettlebells, and I can tell you from experience, that is a big space saver.

Kettlebells are popular for a wide variety of exercises, including swings, get-ups, and full-body workouts.  Kettlebells are one of my favorite weights to work out with given the versatility and the ability to switch from one exercise to another easily.

I like kettlebells because they let you combine cardio and strength training for a great workout.  They provide an off-balance experience, which is also great for helping to develop core strength. The same dial technology as the dumbbells is used with the SelectTech KettleBells, so choosing your weight is easy.

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BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
7,088 Reviews
BowFlex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell
  • TURN OF A DIAL: With the turn of a dial, you can easily adjust from 8 to 40 lbs., rapidly switch from one exercise to the next, and perform a wide variety of full-body exercises.
  • SPACE EFFICIENT: Replaces up to 6 kettlebell with weights at 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40 lbs.
  • 2-MONTH FREE TRIAL: Try our JRNY All-Access Membership for 2 months, free.
  • JRNY MOBILE-ONLY MEMBERSHIP: Workout at home or on the go with inspiring trainers, and just-for-you adaptive workouts, from your phone or tablet.
  • WIDE WEIGHT RANGE: Offers a variety of workouts, including swings, rows, squats, twists and more.

What I like about the Bowflex adjustable weight dumbbells

Weight range

No matter which SelectTech dumbbell you choose, you can improve your fitness level with the wide weight range.  If you are a beginner or more advanced workout fiend, there is ample weight to get a great workout.

Weight settings

The weight settings are fantastic because on the lower end, you have smaller increments and on the higher end, more significant increases. These settings help you improve performance no matter what your current fitness level is.

Extra weights for lower body

The SelectTech 1090 offers the most substantial weight range and is suitable for folks who are looking to bulk up or those who need heavier weights.  The heavier weights are great for improving lower body strength through exercises like lunges and squats.

Eliminates the need for racks of dumbbells
Space-saving is the single largest factor with these Bowflex adjustable dumbbell weights; you can remove a rack of dumbbells.  Just think of all the space you can save.

Who needs a gym membership?

Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells and BenchCombine a set of Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells with a Bowflex adjustable bench, and you can get a complete workout in the comfort of your own home.  You don’t need a gym membership to get a great workout on your own time in your own place.  You can save time and money, not to mention you don’t have to fight over equipment as you do at the gym.

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Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) 5.1S Stowable Bench
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Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) 5.1S Stowable Bench
  • Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds; adjusts in 2.5-pound increments up to the first 25 pounds
  • Lets you rapidly switch from one exercise to the next
  • The Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Bench is our top of the line weight bench
  • Adjusts to six different positions, 17 degree decline to 90 degree incline

Wide variety of adjustable dumbbells to choose from

Whatever your fitness goals are, you can achieve them with Bowflex adjustable dumbbells.  There is a set of dumbbells for just about everyone.

Downsides? The only real negative we came across was that the dumbbells do not come with a stand, but you can purchase one separately.

Who are Bowflex adjustable dumbbells for?

Who are these good for?

  • People who want to gain muscle and burn fat
  • People looking to workout at home
  • Sports and strength training enthusiasts
  • Anyone who wants to improve their overall fitness level
  • Folks who want to eliminate a lot of dumbbells from their workout area
  • You want to start a space-saving home gym

Who are these not good for?

  • If you are super into cardio only, you probably want a treadmill or Max Trainer instead
  • Serious big time bodybuilders who need a dedicated gym with a ton of weight

Conclusion: Bowflex adjustable weight dumbbells

SelectTech adjustable weights allow you to get a great workout at home, and eliminate a lot of dumbbells. The ability to replace up to 34 dumbbells is pretty darn impressive. Bowflex has designed an excellent dial and locking system with the adjustable dumbbells that is top-notch.

The kettlebells are a great addition to this lineup, and I love working out with kettlebells.  The ability to work on cardio and strength at the same time is a great advantage over traditional weight training.

The dial and locking mechanism make choosing your weight easy.  A wide variety of weight ranges and increments is fantastic for all fitness levels.

If you want to get a great workout at home and improve your fitness level, I encourage you to take a closer look at these adjustable weights from Bowflex.

Bowflex Adjustable Weight Dumbbells
  • Available Features - 95%
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  • Functionality - 95%
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  • Design - 95%
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16 thoughts on “Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells Reviewed”

  1. Thank you for this great article. The select Tech adjustable dumbbells are really great because they give you fast and precise adjustments. For someone who is into more serious lifting, they might want to get the 1090 set right from the beginning. That way they will always have that ability to go up to 90 lb per hand. But for someone who doesn’t intend on going that far then something like the 560 or 552 would be plenty.

    I always enjoy reading about fitness equipment, and you explain these dumbbells very well. The videos and images were very helpful. I hope that when people are looking for reviews of this product they find your page, because I think it will give them the best Help with deciding. Have a great day!

    Reply
    • Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it.  I agree with you, SelectTech1090 is great for someone who wants to lift heavier now, or in the future. The other sets are great for people looking to tone up or maintain a certain fitness level. I am glad you enjoyed this article as much as I enjoyed writing it.  Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate your kind words.

      Reply
  2. this is really good stuff for me because i have been looking to start my own personal home gym and I have gotten me some really good equipment already. Adding the Bowflex adjustable dumbells will be really good. I think my pick will be the kettlebell. sounds like a really good one to go for me and it reaches up to 40pounds. do you think it is okay for a beginner?

    Reply
    • Thanks for your comment. I love kettlebells because they are very versatile.  I also love the fact that the weight is off balance with a kettlebell, which makes you work just a bit harder.  

      One of the nice features of the SelectTech dumbbells is the offset weight selection, so you can set one side heavier than the other, again the off-balance tactic like the kettlebell.  

      I don’t think you can go wrong with the kettlebells.  Please let me know if you have any further questions, I am happy to help.

      Reply
  3. Hi Steve; it looks like I am going to choose one of these Bowflex adjustable Dumbells for my home gym so that I can have some more space in my Garage. 

    I have nowhere else to store my home gym equipment and I can no longer walk via my Garage to my room. I found it easier to have a home gym it saves me time. 

    Do you think I can use the adjustable Bowflex Dumbells to reduce underarm weight?

    DorcasW

    Reply
    • Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it.  Absolutely you can use these weights to help reduce underarm weight.  You can do bicep curls, tricep extension, tricep press, chest press (with the help of the adjustable bench).  I am glad you may have found a solution to not only saving space in your home but also helping to get your arms in tip-top shape. Thanks again for stopping by!

      Reply
  4. Hi Steve,

    I’m always a fan of being able to save space as I have a home gym/ office so not having loads of individual dumbbell laying about is a plus. The Bowflex Adjustable Weight Dumbbells sounds like it may be ideal for what I need. I notice you’ve got prices for US and Canada, do you know if it is available in the UK?

    Reply
    • Hi Nate, thanks for your comment.  These dumbbells can help save space for sure.  Unfortunately, these are only available in the US and Canada.  I appreciate your comment, thanks again.

      Reply
  5. I’ve used Bowflex dumbbells for the first time a few years ago in a local gym. I must admit, at first it was a bit strange since I was used to regular dumbbells. But after a few sessions, I never went back to ‘normal-style’ dumbbells. It’s crazy how practical these are. You just have to turn the dial to the weight you want and lift. I have to get a set of these when I’m going to build my home gym. It’s going to be a huge space and money saver! Thanks for the review!

    Reply
    • Ivan, thank you for your comment. I agree with you, these Bowflex adjustable weight dumbbells are very practical, and can replace an whole rack of traditional dumbbells. I also like the fact these weight can be offset adding variety and complexity to a workout. Yes, these are definitely designed to save space and are excellent for a home gym, or a trainer who works in a clients home. Please let me know if you have any questions, I am happy to help.

      Reply
  6. Hi there,

    Well this review is very informative. Lots of things to consider when making this sort of investment to your home Gym. Adjustable dumbbells are great. They take up less room in your living space and they can be transported easily. Also, if you are a trainer and work with clients in their homes you can easily bring them with you. This review will help make a well informed decision. It also comes down to preference as there are lots of adjustable dumbbells out there.

    Reply
    • Thanks for your comment. You make some excellent points, about saving space and working out at home. I agree that adjustable weight dumbbells are excellent for personal trainers who work in a clients home. These Bowflex adjustable weight dumbbells are great for transporting. Yes, there are a lot of options out there in the market and I know these Bowflex dumbbells are very popular. Thanks again for stopping by, I appreciate it.

      Reply
  7. Hi, Steve:
    I enjoyed reading this post about the Select Tech dumbbell and kettlebell products. I have never used adjustable barbells and can see the great savings in space that these offer. Even the kettlebells provide the same space-saving advantage. And the weight levels seem very appropriate. As your summaries say, these are all great for someone who just wants to get or keep fit and perhaps add some bulk to their body. Not for the dedicated bodybuilder, but most of us aren’t in that category anyway. I am 67 and these would fit well into my fitness program. Thanks for the great information.

    Reply
    • Hello Jack, thank you for stopping by. You make some great points, these adjustable weight products are great for a lot of users. It sounds like fitness is a big part of your life and I hope when I am 67 I will be as dedicated as you are :).

      Please let me know if you have any questions, I am happy to help.

      Reply
  8. Hi Steve,
    These weight sets look amazing.
    We will be downsizing soon, and I won’t have room for my big treadmill. I was thinking of doing some weight training instead, just to stay toned.
    My doctor suggests I start doing more of that anyway, to strengthen my bones. I’m not a young chick anymore, lol.
    Is their “552” set the smallest? I doubt I’d get up to 52 lbs.
    Thanks for the great info,
    Suzanne

    Reply
    • Hi Suzanne, thanks for your comment. Bowflex adjustable weight dumbbells are a great way to stay toned. I completely understand getting rid of a large treadmill. Yes, the SelectTech 552 is the smallest in terms of weights so that would be the best option for you. Thanks for your comment, I appreciate you stopping by. Let me know if you have any more questions.

      Reply

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