Bowflex
Selecttech Dumbbells Review
A
full review of Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells model 552 and 220.
The
Bowflex dumbbells come in two flavors - Bowflex 552 (5 pounds
- 52.5 pounds), and the Bowflex 220 dumbbells (2.5 pounds - 20
pounds).
Both
sets of dumbbells are identical in function and design, so I'll
primarily be reviewing the Bowflex 552's since that's what most
people are looking for anyway.
What
I liked about the Selecttech Dumbbells
The
selecttechs are a giant leap forward in dumbbell design from a
mechanical and aesthetic viewpoint. Unlike Powerblock dumbbells,
the Bowflex Selecttechs are beautiful in their design, and similar
in function for the fact that you won't need to give up 20 square
feet of floor space in your gym.
The
selecttech dumbbells are unique in the fact that you can incrementally
adjust the weight of each dumbbell from a mere 5 pounds all the
way up to 52.5 pounds(2.5 lb. increments the first 25 lbs.) with
a quick turn of the endcap dial.
Bowflex
thought long and hard about the ergonomics of the selecttech's
design and it shows right away when you pick up a set for the
first time.
The
thing that struck me right away, was the fact that the dumbbell
handle is the pro style grip (found on more expensive club level
dumbbells). This may seem like a trivial fact to some, but you'll
be glad you have a superior grip when you're busy using them each
day - that's why you're going to buy them right?
As
far as using the dumbbells for a workout, I found the selecttechs
to be very simple to operate and had no trouble adjusting between
weight changes on the fly.
I
must add that I did find them 'easier' to adjust with the optional
stand where you can perform the dial adjustments at waist level
instead of crouching down (in other words buy a stand with them
if your budget allows).
During
my workout I felt the dumbbells were stable and solid, and had
no misgivings about placing the weights in harms way over my head.
Overall my experience with the Bowflex 552 dumbbells was a very
pleasant surprise.
What
I didn't like about the Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells
My
comments to this point have been positive about the selecttechs,
but I do have two words of caution if you're considering buying
a set for your home gym.
First
off, since the selecttechs do have mechanical linkage parts inside
of them I would caution against dropping these dumbbells repeatedly
or you may end up breaking them (or your floor for that matter)
- on the other hand Bowflex doesn't offer a long warranty so it
shouldn't be an issue anyway.
And
second, although the design and ergonomics are great, I wish they
didn't top out at 52.5 pounds. Most people won't ever need more
weight than this, but if you're a serious strength athlete you
should look elsewhere for dumbbells like the Powerblock Elite
set that goes up to 130 pounds each.
Conclusion
I
recommend the Bowflex Selecttech Dumbbells for the average home
gym user who is looking for weight set that works great and takes
up a bare minimum of valuable floor space, for the money you can't
beat them for ease of use and functionality.
get
the Bowflex
SelectTech 552 Dumbbells on sale w/ easy payment plan
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