Bowflex SelectTech 552 Review: Compact and Powerful Fitness Tool
If you’re looking to elevate your home workouts, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells might be the game changer. Designed to replace 15 sets of dumbbells in one sleek package, these versatile, space-saving weights are ideal for those who want a variety of resistance options without the clutter. In this review, we’ll explore the standout features, pros and cons, and why these dumbbells are a must-have for fitness enthusiasts.
Product Details – Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells
- Adjustable weight from 5 to 52.5 lbs
- Weight increments of 2.5 lbs up to 25 lbs
- Ergonomic thermoplastic rubber handle
- Compact design replacing 15 sets of dumbbells
- Space-saving storage trays included
- Dimensions: 16.9” L x 8.3” W x 9” H per dumbbell
- Alloy steel construction
- Comes with a 2-month free trial of JRNY fitness app
- Two-year warranty included
✅ Best For: Fitness enthusiasts needing a full-body workout with minimal equipment space, home gym setups, and individuals seeking easy-to-adjust weights for multiple exercises.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of Bowflex SelectTech 552
✅ Space-saving design eliminates the need for multiple dumbbells, perfect for home gyms.
✅ Wide weight range supports diverse workouts, from light curls to heavy lifts.
✅ Quick weight adjustments via the dial system save time between exercises.
✅ Durable construction ensures long-term reliability and performance.
✅ Ergonomic grip makes handling comfortable, reducing hand strain during use.
Cons of Bowflex SelectTech 552
❗ Length of dumbbells can feel cumbersome during certain exercises.
❗ Plastic tray sometimes causes the weights to snag when removing them quickly.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells have received mostly positive reviews for their versatile, space-saving design and easy adjustability. Users appreciate how they simplify home workouts with minimal equipment.
In-Depth Review of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells are a major upgrade for anyone seeking a versatile and efficient home workout solution. These dumbbells stand out for their wide weight range, ease of use, and compact design, making them a favorite among fitness enthusiasts.
Adjustable Weight Range: Versatility for Every Workout
The SelectTech 552 dumbbells offer an impressive weight range, adjustable from 5 to 52.5 pounds. Whether you’re performing lighter exercises like bicep curls or heavier movements such as lunges and squats, this flexibility ensures that these dumbbells suit a variety of strength levels and exercise routines. The ability to adjust the weight in 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds is especially helpful for beginners who need gradual resistance increases.
This feature also enables advanced users to fine-tune their weight choices, eliminating the need for multiple sets of dumbbells and freeing up valuable workout space. The compact nature of these dumbbells is one of their most compelling features—15 sets of traditional dumbbells would take up significantly more room.
Quick and Easy Adjustments: A Time-Saver
One of the Bowflex SelectTech 552’s standout features is the dial-based adjustment system. With just a quick turn of the dial, users can shift between different weight settings in seconds, eliminating the need to manually swap out plates or pause to grab different dumbbells mid-workout.
This efficient adjustment mechanism encourages consistent, uninterrupted workout flow. For those practicing circuit training or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), where time is crucial, this feature is indispensable. However, it’s worth noting that the dumbbells must be returned to their trays for adjustments, which could be a slight inconvenience if space is tight or you’re moving quickly between sets.
Compact Design: Perfect for Home Gyms
If space is limited in your home gym, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells provide a smart solution. The compact design replaces 15 sets of dumbbells with just one pair, saving precious floor space. At 16.9 inches long, these dumbbells do occupy more horizontal space than traditional dumbbells, but their overall footprint is still small compared to the amount of equipment they replace.
Additionally, the accompanying storage trays keep everything organized and make it easy to store the dumbbells when not in use, helping keep your workout area tidy. This combination of versatility and space efficiency makes them an excellent choice for apartment dwellers or those with minimal workout space.
Build Quality and Durability: Made to Last
Constructed from high-quality alloy steel, these dumbbells are designed to handle regular use without compromising their structural integrity. While the plates are well-secured, users have mentioned a slight “rattle” during exercises, but this doesn’t affect performance. The durable materials ensure longevity, as long as you’re careful not to drop them from excessive heights, as the plastic components can be more prone to damage compared to solid iron dumbbells.
The handles are coated with thermoplastic rubber, providing a secure and comfortable grip. This added grip helps prevent slipping, even during sweaty sessions, and the ergonomic design ensures that your hands won’t feel cramped, even during longer workouts.
JRNY Fitness App Integration: Training Guidance at Home
Included with your purchase is a two-month free trial of the JRNY fitness app, which offers personalized strength training and bodyweight workouts. This mobile-only membership integrates perfectly with the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells, providing structured workouts designed to help you get the most out of your equipment.
This extra feature adds value, especially for beginners who might need guidance in developing effective workout routines. Whether you’re looking to build strength, tone muscles, or perform full-body workouts, the JRNY app offers on-demand, trainer-led classes to complement your training regimen.
Drawbacks: Are They Right for You?
Despite the versatility, there are a couple of trade-offs to consider. The length of the dumbbells can make them feel cumbersome during exercises requiring a more compact size, such as chest presses or shoulder raises. In some movements, you may need to adjust your range of motion to avoid hitting the dumbbells together. Additionally, the plastic tray can sometimes cause the weights to snag, which slows down the process of switching weights during fast-paced routines.
These minor inconveniences are manageable, especially when weighed against the space and cost savings, but they’re worth considering if you’re used to more streamlined, fixed-weight dumbbells.
Who Should Consider the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells?
✅ Fitness enthusiasts with limited home gym space
✅ Those seeking a versatile, all-in-one weight system
✅ Individuals who prefer quick and easy weight adjustments
✅ People using strength training or circuit training regimens
✅ Beginners looking for a gradual increase in resistance
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ People who prefer compact dumbbells for exercises like chest presses or shoulder raises.
Customer Experiences with Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells
We’ve thoroughly researched honest customer experiences with the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells, and here’s what users had to say:
✅ Convenient and space-saving: Users found that these dumbbells take up minimal space, perfect for those with small home gyms.
✅ Smooth weight adjustments: Most users love the ease of adjusting weights with the turn of a dial, which significantly reduces downtime between sets.
✅ Comfortable grip: The ergonomic handle was appreciated for making even long workouts more manageable without causing hand fatigue.
🚫 Weight balance issues: Some users noticed a slight imbalance when lifting, as the dumbbells’ length makes them feel awkward during certain movements.
🚫 Snagging in the tray: A few users reported occasional snagging of the weights when trying to lift them out of the plastic tray.
Value Analysis of Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are not just any pair of adjustable weights—they’re designed to replace a full set of traditional dumbbells, making them a worthwhile investment for serious home fitness enthusiasts.
Key Strengths: Space-Saving, Versatile
- Space Efficiency: The biggest advantage of the SelectTech 552 dumbbells is their ability to condense 15 sets of weights into one compact design, making them ideal for those with limited workout space.
- Versatile Weight Range: The adjustable weight range offers flexibility for beginners and advanced users alike. Whether you’re lifting for strength or endurance, these dumbbells will meet your needs.
- Cost-Effective: Compared to purchasing individual dumbbells, the SelectTech 552 provides excellent value for its price. Considering that a full set of traditional dumbbells can easily cost thousands, these dumbbells are a smart buy for those on a budget.
Considerations: Size and Build
- Length of Dumbbells: While these dumbbells save space, their length can feel a bit cumbersome in certain exercises. Those who prefer more compact weights might find this a drawback, particularly for movements like presses or curls.
- Durability: The materials are built to last, but the inclusion of plastic components means you need to handle them with care. Dropping these dumbbells can cause damage, so they’re not ideal for those who want to throw around their weights carelessly.
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are an excellent investment for fitness enthusiasts seeking space-saving, versatile workout equipment. With their wide weight range and easy adjustability, they provide great value for both beginners and experienced lifters.
Final Thoughts: Is the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Worth It?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells offer a cost-effective solution for home workouts, providing versatility, space-saving design, and solid performance. While the length can be limiting for certain exercises, their overall functionality makes them an excellent choice for most users.
FAQs – Bowflex SelectTech 552 Review
How does the weight adjustment system work on the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells use a dial-based adjustment system. Each end of the dumbbell has a dial, allowing users to select their desired weight. When you pick up the dumbbell, the selected weight is locked in place while the other plates remain in the tray. This system eliminates the need for multiple sets of dumbbells and enables users to switch weights quickly between exercises.
Are the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells durable?
Yes, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are made from alloy steel, offering durability and stability. However, they do have plastic components, including the tray and adjustment mechanism, which means they require careful handling. Dropping these dumbbells can damage the internal mechanism, so it’s essential to use them with care.
Can I use the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells for intense strength training?
Yes, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are suitable for intense strength training. With an adjustable weight range of 5 to 52.5 lbs, they can accommodate both light exercises and heavier lifts like squats, deadlifts, and lunges. Their versatility makes them perfect for full-body workouts.
Do the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells take up a lot of space?
No, one of the key selling points of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells is their space-saving design. These dumbbells replace 15 sets of traditional dumbbells, making them ideal for home gyms where space is limited. They come with storage trays that help keep your workout area organized.
Are these dumbbells easy to adjust between sets?
Yes, the adjustment system on the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells is designed to be quick and easy. With a simple turn of the dial, you can switch between different weights in seconds, making it convenient for high-intensity training or circuit workouts.
How does the JRNY fitness app enhance the use of Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells come with a free 2-month trial of the JRNY fitness app, which offers personalized workout programs. The app includes strength training and bodyweight routines tailored to your fitness level, helping you maximize your dumbbells’ potential. It’s a great tool for beginners looking for guided workouts or advanced users wanting variety.
Do these dumbbells rattle or shift during use?
Some users have reported slight rattling during exercises due to the adjustable nature of the dumbbells. While this doesn’t affect their performance, the plates can feel slightly loose compared to fixed-weight dumbbells. This is a minor drawback, especially when considering the convenience of adjustable weights.
Can the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells be used with other Bowflex equipment?
Yes, Bowflex offers compatible accessories, such as the Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell Stand with Media Rack, which is designed to enhance the experience of using the SelectTech 552 Dumbbells. The stand keeps the dumbbells at a convenient height and offers space for a tablet or smartphone for easy access to the JRNY app.
How much weight do the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells go up to?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells go up to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell. The weight increases in 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, and after that, the increments increase by 5 pounds. This range makes the dumbbells suitable for a variety of exercises, from light toning to more intense strength training.
Are the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells worth the investment?
Yes, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are worth the investment, particularly for individuals who want a versatile and space-saving solution for home workouts. Their wide weight range, ease of use, and compact design make them an excellent choice for those looking to save money and space on multiple dumbbell sets.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Review – Conclusion
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are a space-saving, versatile solution for those looking to bring a full range of strength training to their home gym. From their easy-to-use dial system to the wide range of exercises they support, these dumbbells offer excellent value for both novice and advanced users. While they may take up more horizontal space than traditional dumbbells, the convenience and functionality more than make up for this minor drawback.
For anyone serious about strength training but short on space, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells are a smart, efficient investment that will keep your workouts diverse and challenging.