Adjustable dumbbells are a space-saving gamechanger, that let lifters modify weight with a simple adjustment.BowFlex
Paul Landini is a personal trainer, health educator, and regular contributor to The Globe and Mail.
The advent of adjustable dumbbells has been one of the biggest game-changers in the world of home fitness. Unlike traditional dumbbells, which require multiple sets of different weights, with adjustable dumbbells, lifters can modify the weight with a simple mechanism, allowing for a single pair of dumbbells to replace an entire rack.
When these space-saving miracles first appeared on the market, there were only a few different brands to choose from, so choosing one was relatively easy. These days, though, the array can be overwhelming. If you’re looking to upgrade your home gym, I’m here to help. I’ve narrowed down the choices to three of the more popular brands and categorized them by price. I’ve also compared a few key factors – design, weight range, adjustment mechanism and build quality – to help you make an informed decision.
PowerBlock Elites provide a weight range of five to 50 pounds.Supplied
PowerBlocks are one of the original brands of adjustable dumbbells, instantly recognizable by their unique, rectangular “block” design. Instead of a traditional dumbbell shape, with plates on the end, PowerBlock weights nest inside each other, sort of like Russian tea dolls. A selector pin system allows for simple and efficient weight changes.
Of all the different series in the PowerBlock family, the Elite offers the best value for your money. Starting at around $500 per pair, they’re priced reasonably and are built tough. The best feature, though, is their versatility. Out of the box, PowerBlock Elites provide a weight range of five to 50 pounds; get a hold of an expansion kit and the resistance goes up to 90 pounds.
Pros
● Versatility: Most models allow for weight adjustments in 2.5- or five-pound increments. Along with weight expansion kits, the Elite is also compatible with attachments such as straight bars and EZ curl bars.
● Durability: Built with high-quality materials, these dumbbells are designed to withstand rigorous use. The solid construction ensures they’ll last (nearly) a lifetime.
Cons
● Ease of Adjustment: While the selector pin mechanism is easy to operate, the way in which the incremental weights are housed within the unit can cause the weights to stick to each other.
● Handle Comfort: The handle is enclosed in a cage-like structure, which can be uncomfortable for users with larger hands. Also, the rubber handle may be annoying for anyone who prefers the knurled metal handles found on traditional dumbbells.
These BowFlex dumbbells have a weight range of five to 52.5 pounds.Brenton Salo/BowFlex
The BowFlex SelectTech series is a popular choice thanks in part to its reasonable price tag. Shop around and you can find them for less than $500 per pair. With a weight range of five to 52.5 pounds, the BowFlex SelectTech 552 is a versatile, user-friendly option for just about all fitness levels.
Unlike the PowerBlocks, BowFlex’s adjustable dumbbells are not expandable. This means you’re stuck with the weight range offered, which means you may outgrow them as you get stronger. If that’s a concern, the 1090 series may be a better option, as they go up to 90 pounds each.
Pros
● App Integration: The BowFlex JRNY app provides access to guided workouts and progress tracking. Purchases of the SelectTech series typically come with a free trial of the app.
● Ease of Adjustment: The weight adjustment mechanism is straightforward and quick, using a dial system to change weights in increments of 2.5 pounds.
Cons
● Bulky: The dumbbells are somewhat long and bulky, which can make certain exercises awkward. This can take some getting used to compared with traditional dumbbells.
● Durability: While generally durable, there are a lot of plastic components compared with other brands. These parts may not withstand heavy use as well as metal parts.
NÜOBELL 580: Best for traditionalists (… with deep pockets)
These pricey NÜOBELL dumbbells are solid metal.Supplied
Every product has its premium brand, and adjustable dumbbells are no different. Even before you see the price, you can tell NÜOBELL is that fancy-pants brand based on the all-caps font and the umlaut. Is it worth spending upwards of $1,000 for a pair? Probably not, but the NÜOBELL 580s sure do feel nice in your hands.
Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. Cheap adjustable dumbbells are mostly made from plastic and have flimsy adjustment mechanisms. You can’t say that about NÜOBELL. The handle and the plates are solid metal.
Pros
● Ease of Adjustment: NÜOBELL’s elegant twist handle system allows for faster weight changes than with most brands.
● Traditional Feel: Unlike some adjustable dumbbells that can feel bulky or awkward, NÜOBELL sticks with a traditional dumbbell shape. The knurled handle design enhances the overall tactile experience.
Cons
● Durability Concerns: While the overall build quality is excellent, the plastic components used in the twist handle system may not withstand heavy use as well as metal alternatives.
● Price: These dumbbells ain’t cheap, which may be a barrier for some potential buyers, especially when compared with other options on the market.