Best Adjustable Dumbbells
Everyone needs at least one pair of dumbbells in their home gym. These short bars with weights attached at both ends are definitely must-haves. The uses for dumbbells are endless and they present an easy and convenient way to add more resistance to workouts. This piece of equipment is available in a wide range of weights ranging from 1 lb. to about 125 lbs. and are available in a variety of colors and types including fixed weight dumbbells, plate loaded adjustable dumbbells, and the innovative selectorized adjustable dumbbells that allow users to select the desired amount of weight before picking up the dumbbell.
Table of Contents
Anyone shopping around will soon discover the options available. Fixed-weight dumbbells are the most commonly used type of dumbbell. They are a piece of metal that weighs a certain amount. These are the ones that can be found on the racks at gyms and health clubs everywhere. Plate-loaded adjustable dumbbells look like mini barbells.
Weight is adjusted by loading or removing weight plates. This is the most cost-effective option since the weight can be adjusted rather than having to purchase multiple sets. Selectorized adjustable dumbbells are a new generation of dumbbells. Weight is adjusted with the turn of a dial and thin weight plates are attached to the dumbbells to achieve the desired amount of weight.
CAP Barbell 40 Pound Dumbbell Set
The CAP Barbell 40 Pound Dumbbell Set is not only convenient, but a great bit of workout equipment for both beginners and advanced fitness enthusiasts. This product features different plate weights that come in a plastic case, and dumbbells that can be adjusted according to the user’s weight preference. Equipped with four 2.5 pound plates and four 5 pound plates, this product has plenty of options to give you the workout you desire. There are also two handles and two collars that allow you to workout with a variety of interchangeable settings at once without having to purchase multiple sets. A plastic carry case measuring just 20 inches long by 9 inches wide is included to ensure that the weights stay organized and easily accessible while making it easy to carry your weights wherever you go. Other great features of this kit are the ergonomic grips, the rubber trim collars, and the comfort handles that ensure that the user can achieve a high-performance workout in comfort. Made of durable cast iron, the plates feature a semi-gloss finish to help maintain a rust and maintenance free future. However, this product contains one or more phthalate chemicals that are known to the state of California to cause birth defects and other reproductive harm. If uneasy with this fact, the consumer may return the product for a full refund that includes the shipping cost for both the receipt and the return of said product within 15 days of their receipt.
A plastic carry case measuring just 20 inches long by 9 inches wide is included to ensure that the weights stay organized and easily accessible while making it easy to carry your weights wherever you go. Other great features of this kit are the ergonomic grips, the rubber trim collars, and the comfort handles that ensure that the user can achieve a high-performance workout in comfort. Made of durable cast iron, the plates feature a semi-gloss finish to help maintain a rust and maintenance free future. However, this product contains one or more phthalate chemicals that are known to the state of California to cause birth defects and other reproductive harm. If uneasy with this fact, the consumer may return the product for a full refund that includes the shipping cost for both the receipt and the return of said product within 15 days of their receipt.
Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System
Pros:
-Quick-Lock design makes adjusting the weights easy
-Space saving design
-Sturdy metal build
-Lifetime warranty
Cons:
-No carrying case
-Expensive
The Ironmaster Quick-Lock Adjustable Dumbbell System is one of the latest systems in today’s generation of adjustable dumbbells. These dumbbells can be easily adjusted from 5-75 pounds with their patented Quick-Lock design in under 15 seconds. This set includes a stand at no extra charge, which is great for storing your dumbbells out of the way and keeping them from damaging your floors. The Ironmaster set includes two handles with four locking screws, two 5 pound plates each and four 2.5 pound plates each, as well as the above mentioned dumbbell stand.
The handles themselves weigh 5 pounds, and each locking screw weighs 2.5 pounds, giving the user a starting weight of 10 pounds each before the plates are even added. An add-on kit is available to add up to 120 pounds for each dumbbell.
The dimensions are surprisingly small at only 6.5″ x 6.5″ x 14.5″ at the 75 pound setting. Plus, the dumbbells themselves are completely metal with no plastic parts and boast a limited lifetime warranty.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros:
– Sturdy steel construction
– Easily adjusts to different resistance levels
– Storage case included
– Two year warranty
Cons:
– No carrying case
– Only 52.5 pounds of weight
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 is a unique adjustable dumbbell set with it’s dial system, conveniently combining 15 weights into one. This system saves time and space by virtually eliminating the user’s need for multiple dumbbells, and makes it faster to add or subtract the weight you want as you go through your desired workout. Instead of putting the equipment down and having to manually change the weight, the Bowflex 552 allows the user to just turn a dial to quickly change the resistance level.
The user can begin at 5 pounds of weight on each of the dumbbells, and increase their desired weight to 52.5 pounds. This convenient feature is great for both beginners and hardcore workout enthusiasts alike. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells feature a sturdy steel construction and a textured rubber hand grip.
This feature makes this unique pair of adjustable dumbbells both extremely comfortable and durable. Other added plusses of this set is it’s convenient storage case and its 2 year warranty.
Bowflex SelectTech 1090
Pros:
– Easily adjustable
– Up to 90 pounds of weight for each dumbbell
– Added DVD demonstrates over 30 exercises
Cons:
– Only one dumbbell with each order
– No carrying case
– No stand
The Bowflex SelectTech 1090 is an adjustable dumbbell that easily replaces the users need for multiple dumbbell sets. By being able to increase and decrease your weights by small increments, the user has the advantage of being able to suit their workouts to their personal needs, whether it be a lighter workout or a more intense workout with heavier weights simply by twisting the dial.
The kit also includes a DVD that demonstrates over 30 exercises that the user can do with the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 called “Secrets of the 4-Step Rep”. Users can adjust the weights from 10 pounds to 90 pounds, which makes this system friendly for both beginners and workout enthusiasts alike. The general idea is to be to easily increase the weight as your overall strength increases. It may be helpful to keep workout charts to track your performance.
The weight increments are broken down by 5 pounds, meaning the user can very gradually increase the weight as they go without having to purchase separate weight plates or additional dumbbells of specific plates. The plates themselves have a molding on them that allows the user to workout quietly, and a generous three year warranty is a definite plus. However, it is important to mention that only one dumbbell comes with each order.
Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros:
– Highly affordable
– Sturdy chrome and cast iron build
– Generous amount of plates included
Cons:
– No carrying case
– No storage case
– No stand
– Reports of metal shavings on the handles
The One Pair of Adjustable Dumbbells Cast Iron set consists of a pair of brand new 105 pound total adjustable dumbbells, with each dumbbell capable of holding up to 52.5 pounds of adjustable weight. The set includes sixteen 5 pound weights, four 2.5 pound weights, four 1.25 pound weights, two handles, and two collars.
The plates themselves are made of durable cast iron, and the handle is solid textured chrome. The weight can be adjusted for each dumbbell by increments of 2.5 pounds, allowing the user to easily adjust the weight to their preferred setting. The user simply uses the pin to choose the amount of weight they wish to use.
This feature is perfect for both beginners and workout enthusiasts alike. Another added bonus of this dumbbell kit is that it’s quite small and compact, making it convenient for storage and a must have for anyone looking to add variety to their limited workout space. The set is also highly affordable, coming in at under $100.
Cast Iron Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros:
-Affordable
-Thermoplastic rubber handles
-Ergonomic stand included
-Easily adjustable
-Workout Guide included
Cons:
-Plastic parts
-Shorter warranty
-Weights slide while in use
The Universal PowerPak Adjustable Dumbbells with Stand set includes 2 adjustable dumbbells and a sturdy stand. These dumbbells take the place of 18 free weights in one space saving system. Each dumbbell is 14 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 7 inches tall. The weight can be adjusted 4 pounds to 45 pounds with a simple turn of the dial, allowing the user to adjust their workout to their liking in 5 pound increments.
The set also features a proprietary plate locking system that allows it’s users a safe and secure workout. A compact stand and Free Workout Guide is included, ensuring that you have a safe and convenient place to store your dumbbells when you are finished and ensuring that your floors remain damage free. The workout guide is designed to help the user get the most from their dumbbells, and is a great asset to both beginners and workout enthusiasts alike.
The plates are made of coated iron, and the handles are made of thermoplastic rubber. This product comes with a one year warranty.
Bayou Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells
Pros:
-Affordable
-Solid steel build
-Adjustable weight settings
-Ideal for small workout spaces
Cons:
-The pins have been known to stick
-Reports of the dumbbell sticking to the storage rack
-Only one dumbbell comes with each order
Bayou’s Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells eliminate the traditional need for multiple dumbbells in your personal home or office gym. Not only will this save you room, but this bit of exercise equipment is also extremely affordable.
In this unique sliding system, nine sets of weights are combined into one great workout option. To use the dumbbells, you simply adjust the weights from one of the 9 available settings by moving the adjustment knob to the desired setting. The weight selections available are 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, and 50 pounds, ensuring that you have the setting you need for the workout you want. This function is ideal for anyone looking to workout multiple muscle groups.
This product is made out of heavy-duty steel and covered in a beautiful chrome layer that is sure to provide the user with years of use. Impressively, this product also comes with its own special storage rack. The dumbbells in the rack measures 15 5/8″ long, 9 5/16″ wide and 9″ high. This product also comes with a limited one year warranty.
The Best Adjustable Dumbbells
Are you looking to tone your muscles and sculpt your body, but have limited room? Are you on a bit of a budget, but just HAVE to build that muscle bulk you’ve been wanting for years? If you answered yes to any of these, then adjustable dumbbells may just be the answer you’ve been looking for! Adjustable dumbbells are a great way to not only workout, but save yourself valuable space and money. With their unique ability to replace multiple dumbbell sets, these adjustable sets allow you to change up your workout with the simple twist of a dial or slip of a pin without taking up precious space. In fact, many of these sets can be carried in a carrying case, allowing you to take your workout with you! Whether you’re new to the workout scene or a hardcore enthusiast, these products are perfect for working towards the body you’ve always wanted.
Aside from the basic and very popular bicep curls, dumbbells can be used in a variety of exercises included squats, lunges, chest flys, rows and numerous abdominal exercises. That variety combined with the space saving aspect is why they are recommend for home gyms. Users are able to activate a large number of muscle fibers, improve coordination, increase strength and correct any strength imbalances (since a weight is held in each hand) safely with a set or a few sets of weights that require little space. In many instances dumbbells can take the place of a barbell and produce similar if not better results.
A home gym is incomplete without dumbbells but the correct ones have to be selected. The best place to start is determining price range. Once that is taken care of, find the right amount of weight and get to work! Finding the right amount of weight is a gradual process. Start light, master form and technique and then gradually increase the weight being lifted. Be sure to track the number of sets and reps that are able to be completed.
Adjustable Vs. Regular Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells combine multiple sets of dumbbells into one compact unit. Some kits can replace up to 18 individual free weights! Imagine all that saved space and money! Traditional dumbbell sets require quite a bit of room, and can cost anywhere into the thousands per full set. With adjustable dumbbells, the user simply has to set their dumbbells down and add or subtract more weight.
There’s no need to move about the room, searching for another particular pair of dumbbells. This allows the user to keep their workout going at a smooth, uninterrupted pace. Another plus of adjustable dumbbells is that many kits include carrying cases, allowing the user to take their workout with them wherever they go.
Guidelines
Before purchasing an adjustable dumbbell kit, you should carefully consider what it is exactly you are looking for. You need to consider the different types, such as dial adjustments and manual pin adjustment sets. You will also need to consider your price range, and how many pounds of adjustable weight you would like to have as well as the amount of space you have to store the kit, as some kits include a stand and/or storage case.
Another thing to consider is that the bars on adjustable dumbbells are usually quite a bit longer than those on traditional dumbbells, and this may be uncomfortable to some users. Remember also to check out warranties and the build of any adjustable set you intend to buy, and if your purchase will come with a pair of adjustable dumbbells or only a singular item.
Should I Buy Dumbbells Online?
Many people wonder if buying their dumbbells online is a wise choice, and the answer is simple: YES! By purchasing your dumbbells online, you have the unique opportunity to read the personal reviews of other buyers and can shop around for the best price for what you want. Also, many manufacturers and sellers offer discounts and promotional codes to people who buy online. This is a definite plus as some of these kits can get quite a bit pricey. Many sellers and manufacturers also offer free shipping if you purchase an item in a particular price range or more.
You also have the opportunity to have the dumbbells delivered right to your door so you don’t have to lug them to your car, drive them home, and then lug them inside. Trust me, many of these kits are quite heavy, and having them delivered to your front door is a definite plus. You don’t even have to worry about them being damaged during delivery as most kits are made of solid steel or cast iron. Personally, I suggest you do your research, shop around, and purchase your adjustable dumbbell kit only when you have found the perfect kit for your needs, at a price you can afford.
You also have the opportunity to have the dumbbells delivered right to your door so you don’t have to lug them to your car, drive them home, and then lug them inside. Trust me, many of these kits are quite heavy, and having them delivered to your front door is a definite plus. You don’t even have to worry about them being damaged during delivery as most kits are made of solid steel or cast iron. Personally, I suggest you do your research, shop around, and purchase your adjustable dumbbell kit only when you have found the perfect kit for your needs, at a price you can afford.
