Obsession Fitness | Exercise Equipment, Home Gyms » powerblock

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.

More Info & Price Comparisons

PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbell Set | SportBlock 3-24 Pounds, Body Toning Free Weights

Steve — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 04:14:09 +0000

Adjustable dumbbells have become more than just a trend as consumers increasingly opt for an alternative to storing an entire set of different weights.

The SportBlocks are smaller and lighter than the standard PowerBlock set that adjusts from 5 to 45 lbs. They are less cumbersome, offer weight settings between 3 to 24 lbs and are ideal for developing muscle definition by doing more reps with less weight. They’re also among the the best options for women and others with smaller hands.

Using one set of SportBlocks allows you to seamlessly adjust weight in 3 pound increments (from 3 to 24 lbs) rather than using eight different sets of dumbbells. The handles fit inside each other and weight is adjusted by moving the secure selector pin into the desired slot. It’s a remarkably cost and space-efficient concept.

The small build allows most users to perform dumbbell strength training exercises with proper form and balance. Bodybuilders and others looking to add mass may want to upgrade to the 5-45 pound PowerBlock Personal Dumbbell package.

The SportBlocks are designed to expand as your strength increases to help slim and tone your shape and reduce body fat. They come with padded handles for wrist protection and a limited 10-year warranty.

More Info Price Comparisons

PowerBlock Classic Adjustable 5 to 45 Pounds Dumbbell Set | Space & Cost-Efficient Strength Training

Steve — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 16:13:59 +0000

This modern type of all-in-one adjustable dumbbell has become extremely popular among home fitness enthusiasts. As with the Bowflex SelectTech series, the PowerBlock Personal Adjustable Dumbbells save space and money by using one multi-weight unit rather than several sets of fixed weight dumbbells.

The PowerBlock Personal Dumbells are adjustable from 5 to 45 pounds per hand. The selector pin allows you to easily add weight in increments of 5 pounds (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45). The weight handle fits inside the first weight, which fits inside the second, which fits inside the third, etc. This system effectively replaces 9 pair of fixed-weight dumbbells that would normally have a combined weight of 450 lbs.

The pin changes easily and quickly but the user needs to ensure they are firmly in place before starting a set. Safety is more important than convenience. It might seem that a square dumbbell would restrict movement or feel awkward, but this is not the case. During your workout the feel is rock solid with no loose parts or clanging plates. And there’s no chance of them rolling away when placed on an uneven floor. The padded handles add extra comfort.

Compare these to the dial-up type dumbbells, the Bowflex SelectTech 552s.