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Adjustable Weight Dumbbell Review | 2012 Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Model

Steve — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 06:05:07 +0000

People kept asking and Bowflex listened. The best-selling Bowflex SelectTech 1090 dumbbells are back. An alternative to the extraordinarily popular SelectTech 552 Dumbbells (adjustable from 5 to 52.5 pounds), the 1090 model boasts a top weight of 90 pounds.

The Bowflex SelectTech series features technology that is helping revolutionize exercise equipment. The weight adjustment selection dials effectively replace up to 17 pairs of individual dumbbells while providing the same functionality, allowing you to work smarter, not harder.

Let’s take a look at how the technology works and assess the advantages and disadvantages of the SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells.

Purchasing a full set of dumbbells can be prohibitively expensive and consume a substantial amount of space in your workout room. A complete set requires a large rack and can lead to additional costs to store the equipment. Even in professional gyms, space can be difficult to allocate. Compact, space saving equipment allows gyms to offer more workout options to their members.

Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Dumbbells take up no more space than a traditional 90 lb dumbbell and can be adjusted from 10-90 lbs in 5 lb increments, all very easily and efficiently. Purchasing an entire set of dumbbells with this weight range could cost upwards of $1000, when including a stand. The Bowflex SelectTechs, with all their advantages, are available at less than a third of that cost.

The weight adjustment mechanism is quite simple. After placing a dumbbell on the included stand, simply turn a dial to select the desired weight. The handle will attach itself to each increasing weight plate as the dial is turned. This simple function makes it possible to very quickly adjust resistance and save time during a workout.

These dumbbells are designed for total body results, with the wider weight range accommodating heavy exercises such as shrugs and lunges, as well as lighter exercises such as curls and raises. The durable molding around each metal plate provides a quieter workout with a smooth lift-off and no more clanging metal plates!

A minor criticism of the new 1090s is that the grips are slightly different than previous models. Where earlier versions had a nice rubber handle for a secure grip, Bowflex has opted for a chrome metal finish on this model, which can become slippery from sweat during a hard workout. This can be alleviated with tape, but we would have preferred rubber handles.

A second issue is that the mechanism of adjustment may occassionaly jam if the weight is not seated in the stand correctly. This can be fixed by releasing all of the weights and starting over.

A special free bonus workout DVD “Secrets of the 4 Step Rep” with over 30 exercises and over 80 variations is included and the system comes with a 30 day money back guarantee.

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Lifesmart Adjustable Dumbbell Review | Space Saving 5-55 Pound Dumbbell Set

Steve — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:20:32 +0000

Here’s another entry in the increasingly crowded adjustable dumbbell market. An affordable alternative to the popular Bowflex SelectTech series, Lifesmart Adjustable Dumbbells feature a secure slide-and-lock, “click & go” mechanism to adjust weight from 5 to 55 pounds in 5-pound increments.

New adjustable dumbbell technology eliminates the burden of storing an entire set of separate weights. Lifesmart Adjustable Dumbbells essentially do the work of 44 sets of weights (1,260 pounds) but occupy the home gym space of just one.

The shape of this model is unique among adjustable dumbbells. Using them may seem awkward at first, but contoured, ergonomically designed handles provide a comfortable and secure grip.

Lifesmart Adjustable Dumbbells are drop tested to ensure high quality and a reliable locking system. While they feature commercial-grade cast iron plates, the holding trays and dumbbells themselves are constructed with a fair amount of plastic, which may lower durability over time.

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Adjustable Chrome Dumbbell Pair | Stamina 10-50 Pound Versa-Bell II

Steve — Sat, 20 Feb 2010 22:34:56 +0000

Adjustable from ten to fifty pounds in five-pound increments, each Stamina Versa-Bell II Dumbbell essentially replaces nine free weights in one versatile, space-saving unit. This package comes with two dumbbells and a durable nylon weight tray for convenient storage.

The chrome weight plates and handlebars are remarkably sleek, modern and attractive. Weight is adjusted with a quick-select pin system.

Unlike many popular adjustable dumbbells that start at just 5 pounds, the lowest setting on the Versa-Bell is 10 pounds. This may be a concern if your workout includes low weight, high rep sets. See our Bowflex SelectTech 552 review for a dumbbell that adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5 pound increments.

One downside to any adjustable dumbbell when compared to individual weights is the time needed to make the actual adjustment. While this is generally a quick and easy process, it may not be ideal for exercise programs that require rapid back-to-back sets with varied weights. See all of our dumbbell reviews here.

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Stamina 50-Pound Versa-Bell Adjustable Dumbbell Pair on Amazon
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Stamina 50-Pound Versa-Bell Dumbbells on eBay

Stamina® - 50 Lb. Versa-Bell® II Pro Adj Dumbbell Pair
US $299.99
Auction Ends: Thursday May-24-2012 20:19:38 PDT
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STAMINA 50 LB VERSA BELL II - ADJUSTABLE DUMBELL
US $149.00
Auction Ends: Monday May-28-2012 11:36:11 PDT
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Cap Barbell Simple 40-Pound Dumbbell Set | With Portable Storage Case

Steve — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 01:19:18 +0000

Here’s a cheap alternative to the trendy and often pricey adjustable dumbbells flooding the market. This is one of the lowest priced 40-pound dumbbell sets available.

Nothing fancy here, just a simple setup that should suffice for basic upper body toning. The 40-pound set consists of two 5-pound handles, four 5-pound plates and four 2.5-pound plates. You can adjust between 5 to 20 pounds on each dumbbell or load a single dumbbell to up to 35 pounds. Standard 1″ plates can be added for additional weight.

The carrying case is made of heavy plastic, looks sleek, not bulky and is very handy for storage or travel.

Many users report the iron’s rust prevention treatment gives off a mild odor. This will definitely go away with time — wiping down the materials with almost any type of cleanser will help.

The Cap Barbells feature ergonomic grips, comfort handles, and rubber trim collars.

Cap Barbell 40-Pound Dumbbell Set Product Details

40 pound set
Durable cast iron plates
Two 5-pound handles
Four 5-pound plates
Four 2.5-pound plates
Semi-gloss finish
Comfortable handles
Threaded collars for secure fit
Rust and maintenance-free
Durable plastic storage case
Rack storage system
Case Dimensions: 20″ x 9″ x 8″

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Dosho Gym 5000 | DG5009 Compact, Adjustable Full Body Weight Training

Steve — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:46:06 +0000

The Dosho Gym 5000 uses a remarkably space-efficient and innovative design to provide a true full body workout — using real steel, not cables. The gym is creatively engineered for easy, efficient and safe transitions between exercises.

Two unique, patented features caught our attention. The Lift-Assist System and adjustable Depth-Limiter Bar act as a personal spotter and facilitate perfect form for squats and a full range of ab exercises.

See how the technology works in the video demonstration below (featuring former Workout With Jackie Warner cast member Greg Plitt).

The patented adjustable 45 pound clam-shell Dosho Bells allow for a complete upper body workout but also attach to the leg-extension system for lower body work. Weight adjustment is easy using the Dosho Bell locking mechanism.

The system includes a 78-page training program with descriptions of over 40 gym-quality free weight exercises suitable for beginners to advanced users

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Click here for the Dosho Design DG5009 Dosho Gym 5000

Video Demonstration

Adjustable Weight Dumbbell Pair | Reebok Speed Pac 25 Pound (2 x 25) with Storage Tray

Steve — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:55:16 +0000

Adjustable dumbbells have been around for awhile now but continue to gain popularity as large manufacturers refine their designs and new players enter the market. Having one dumbbell do the job of several saves time, space and money.

These stylish dumbbells from Reebok are an affordable alternative to the highly recommended but relatively expensive Bowflex and PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells.

The Speed Pac 25 includes a pair of dumbbells maxing out at 12.5 pounds each, adjustable in 2.5 pound increments. It’s important to note that the maufacturer’s reference to 25 pounds is for both dumbbells combined. For some users 12.5 pounds on each hand may not be enough.

Weight is adjusted by moving the knob to your desired setting and then lifting the dumbbell to lock it in place. The dumbbells come with a specially designed storage tray measuring only 7.5 x 13.5 inches, small enough to fit on an end table or bookshelf. They also include cushioned handgrips for added comfort.

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Find the Reebok Speed Pac 25 Adjustable Dumbbell Pair on Amazon
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Other Adjustable Chrome Dumbbells on eBay

Adjustable Dumbbells 5 - 25 lbs Chrome Set of 2 - NEW Lee Med Fitness Dumbbell
US $149.95
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ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELL - 50lbs.chrome plated. PERFECT for P90X HOME FITNESS WORKOUT
US $176.98 (0 Bid)
Auction Ends: Friday May-25-2012 13:03:43 PDT
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Bicep Bomber Curl Belt & Neck Pad | Body-Solid BB23 Arm Muscle Isolating System

Steve — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 22:45:12 +0000

The Bicep Bomber improves curling efficiency by isolating the arm and shoulder muscles for every rep of every set. It facilitates proper form and can help reduce the risk of injury.

The system includes a contoured, webbed nylon belt and a soft neoprene neck pad that lock the back and elbows into ideal curling position, maximizing exercise efficiency. Thick elbow pads add extra comfort.

This device can also be used for sports rehab as it helps maintain proper form throughout each exercise, avoiding undue stress on other muscles or body parts.

To avoid overworking the muscles it’s advisable to use less weight than you’re accustomed to for the first day or two. You’ll be really targeting the biceps and incorporating some surrounding muscles not always in use.

The Bicep Bomber can be used with either a barbell or dumbbells. It has a 1-000 lb capacity and includes a lifetime warranty.

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Click here for the Body Solid BB23 Bicep Bomber on Amazon

PowerBlock Personal Trainer Adjustable Dumbbell Set (2.5 to 50 Pounds) | Efficient, Cost Effective Strength Training

Steve — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:17:13 +0000

The PowerBlock Personal Trainer model adds 5 additional pounds to each dumbbell over the PowerBlock Classics (50 lbs vs. 45 lbs) but also increases versatility by lowering the increment value. The Personal Trainers are adjustable in 2.5 lb increments, compared to the 5 lb increments of the Classic set. In effect, the Personal Trainers replace 20 pair of dumbbells (2.5 – 50 lbs in 2.5 lb increments) while the Classics replace 9 pair (5 – 50 lbs in 5 lb increments).

All PowerBlock models are ingeniously engineered to save gym space and cost less than a full set of dumbbells covering the same weight range. Weight is adjusted using a selector pin that allows you to quickly increase or decrease weight between exercises. The weight handle fits inside the first weight, which fits inside the second, which fits inside the third, and so on. Padded handle grips increase comfort and wrist protection.

Weight can be adjusted in different variations, not just at 2.5 lb stages. Selecting in increments of 10 lbs is very quick, while smaller adjustments require removing the handle from the weight set, taking out a cylinder and then re-engaging the handle.

For some users the rectangular shape initially feels odd and clunky. One advantage to this design is that the size of the dumbbell decreases as you remove plates, improving the range of motion. By contrast, the Bowflex SelectTech adjustable dumbbells use a dial-up adjustment mechanism that maintains a constant dumbbell size regardless of weight. Another criticism of adjustable dumbbells in general is that you can’t drop them on the floor after a set like traditional dumbbells.

The Powerblock Personal Trainer Dumbbells are designed to expand with your needs and can be used to build muscle mass, firm and tone or reduce body fat. They come with a limited 10-year warranty.

An optional PowerBlock Personal Dumbbell Set Stand is available.

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Powertec Fitness P-DR Two (2)-Tier Dumbbell Rack |1,500 Pound Home Gym Weight Storage

Steve — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 19:55:26 +0000

For those averse to adjustable dumbbells — and we know you’re out there — here’s a solid, heavy duty rack that stores all types of standard dumbbells from Powertec Fitness.

The heavy gauge steel frame holds 1,500 pounds of weight and the bent tubing and angled weight shelves make it easy to remove and replace your dumbbells.

The two shelf design and sleek, simple look help give your home gym a professional gym appeal.

The dimensions are 52″ x 26″ x 34″ and the bench weighs 69 pounds. For added security there are built in corner stops to hold the dumbbells in place.

Assembly is quick and easy. If you haven’t already guessed, dumbbells are sold separately.

In addition to benches and racks, Powertec Fitness is an industry leader in plate loaded leverage equipment, combining the true feel and results of free weights while ensuring control and safety.

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Weider Fitness Weight Adjustable 40-Pound Dumbbell Set | Chrome Plated Bowflex SelectTech Altnerative

Steve — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 22:25:10 +0000

The Weider Chrome Dumbbells are an affordable alternative to the high profile adjustable models offered by Bowflex and PowerBlock. This is an excellent space-saving option when compared to a set of individual fixed weight dumbbells. Weight is gradually increased in 3 or 5 pound increments by adding additional plates.

The EZ Spin-Lock collars make adjustment fairly quick and easy. But this shouldn’t be confused with the one-step adjustment mechanisms (dial up and selector pin) used with the higher priced options. With these dumbbells you must still manually add, subtract and store the individual plates. The set comes with four 3-pound plates and four 5-pound plates for a variety of configurations, maxing out at 40 lbs (20 lbs on each dumbbell).

The chromed solid steel look and feel are very appealing and the grooved (knurled) handle texture provides a secure and safe grip.

These dumbbells are good for toning (not bulking up) biceps, triceps, chest, shoulders and back and are a good investment in a fit body.