Looking for a way to build strength at home without dedicating an entire room to gym equipment? I’ve been testing the Bowflex SelectTech 552s for my home workouts, and I’ve been happy with the results.
These adjustable dumbbells solve the biggest problem with home strength training – space. With just one compact set replacing 15 different dumbbells, I’ve saved my apartment from becoming cluttered with weight equipment while still getting effective workouts.
The dial system makes changing weights incredibly simple. I can quickly adjust from 5 pounds for shoulder exercises to 52.5 pounds for heavier lifts like rows and squats. This smooth transition between exercises keeps my heart rate up and workouts efficient.
I’ve found the build quality solid for regular home use. The mechanism feels sturdy and reliable after months of consistent training. Plus, the included JRNY app trial gives access to guided workouts that helped me maximize my results.
Bottom Line
If you’re serious about strength training but limited on space, the Bowflex SelectTech 552s deliver exceptional versatility in a compact package.
They’ve helped me maintain consistent workouts without sacrificing my living space.
Check today’s price on Amazon and start building your home gym with this space-saving solution!
Overview of Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
When I first brought these SelectTechs home, I was amazed by how much gym equipment they replaced. These adjustable dumbbells let me switch weights with just a turn of a dial. I can go from 5 pounds all the way to 52.5 pounds without cluttering my small workout space.
The SelectTechs adjust in 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds, then 5-pound increments after that. This gives me plenty of options for different exercises. I can do heavy shrugs and lunges, then quickly switch to lighter weights for curls and raises.
The ergonomic grip feels comfortable in my hands during long workouts. I appreciate the compact design that saves space compared to traditional dumbbells. Instead of 15 different sets taking up an entire rack, I just need these two adjustable units.
They’re solidly built with alloy steel construction. The dial mechanism works smoothly after months of use. While they’re not cheap, the Bowflex 552s have been a worthwhile investment for my home gym.
Turn of a Dial Convenience
The days of cluttered workout spaces filled with multiple dumbbells are over! I found changing weights during my workout sessions to be incredibly simple with these SelectTech dumbbells. Just turn the dial to your desired weight, lift, and the system automatically selects only the plates you need. I was able to switch from a heavy chest press to lighter bicep curls in seconds without interrupting my workout flow.
This dial system truly shines during circuit training when time matters. No more fumbling with collars and plates or having dumbbells scattered across the floor. The mechanism feels solid and reliable – after several months of regular use, the dials still turn smoothly without sticking.
The convenience factor alone makes these worth considering. I’ve saved significant time during workouts and eliminated the frustration of manually changing weights. Plus, my workout area stays neat and organized without multiple sets of traditional dumbbells taking up valuable space.
Space-Efficient Design
One of the best things about these SelectTechs is how they save so much room in my home gym. Before getting these adjustable dumbbells, I had weights scattered everywhere. The 552s replace 15 different dumbbell pairs, which means I’ve reclaimed a huge amount of floor space.
I love that they sit neatly in their own compact storage trays when not in use. The entire footprint is just about 17 inches long by 8 inches wide. This compact design made a massive difference in my small workout area.
For anyone with limited space, these are a game-changer. I can now do a complete workout without having weights taking over my entire room. The space-saving aspect alone made these worth every penny for my apartment setup. Just pick them up from their trays when needed, and return them when done—no more tripping over dumbbells!
Full-Body Workouts with the JRNY App
The JRNY app takes these dumbbells to another level. I’ve been using the app for a few weeks now, and it offers on-demand strength classes that guide you through complete workouts. The app shows proper form for each exercise, which helped me avoid injuries.
When I started, I wasn’t sure if I needed the app subscription, but the 2-month free trial convinced me to try it. The mobile-only membership lets me access workouts on my phone or tablet anywhere I go.
The strength-training routines vary in difficulty, making them suitable for beginners and more advanced lifters alike. I appreciate that the workouts incorporate the full weight range of the SelectTech 552s.
One downside is that you’ll need to position your device where you can see it during the workout. But overall, the JRNY app transforms these dumbbells from simple weights into a comprehensive home gym experience.
Adjustable Weight Range
I found the weight adjustment system on these SelectTech 552s incredibly practical. You can quickly dial between 5 and 52.5 pounds per dumbbell, with 2.5-pound increments for the first 25 pounds. After that, they increase in 5-pound jumps. This gradual progression is perfect for building strength without overwhelming jumps between weights. The adjustment mechanism is smooth—just place the dumbbells in their cradle, turn the dial to your desired weight, and lift. Only the plates you need come with you, leaving the rest in the tray. I appreciate how this eliminates the need for multiple dumbbells cluttering my workout space. Whether I’m doing light shoulder work or heavy chest presses, having this range in one compact system has been a game-changer for my home workouts.
Pros and Cons
After several weeks of using these adjustable dumbbells in my home gym, I’ve developed a clear picture of their strengths and weaknesses. The space-saving design has made a significant difference in my workout area, but like any fitness equipment, they come with tradeoffs.
Pros
- Space efficiency – These replace 15 sets of dumbbells, freeing up considerable space in my small home gym
- Quick weight changes – I can adjust the weight in seconds with a simple dial turn, making drop sets and supersets much more efficient
- Wide weight range – The 5 to 52.5 pound range works for both light exercises (like lateral raises) and heavier movements (like rows and presses)
- Solid construction – Despite being adjustable, they feel sturdy during use with minimal rattling
- Comfortable grip – The handles provide good traction even when my hands get sweaty
- JRNY app compatibility – The included 2-month trial offers helpful workout guidance
Cons
- Bulkier than traditional dumbbells – They’re longer than standard weights, which can feel awkward during certain exercises
- Dropping risk – I’ve learned to be careful setting them down, as rough handling can damage the selection mechanism
- Price investment – They cost more upfront than basic weights, though they replace multiple sets
- Limited maximum weight – The 52.5 pound max might not be enough for advanced lifters on certain exercises
- Selection dial can occasionally stick – I’ve noticed this happens more when changing weights rapidly between sets
Ease of Use
Switching between weights couldn’t be simpler with these adjustable dumbbells. I love how quickly I can change the resistance by just turning the dial to my desired weight. No more fumbling with collars or plates!
The SelectTechs sit neatly in their cradles until I’m ready to use them. I simply turn the dial, lift the dumbbell, and I’m ready to go. When I’m done with one exercise and need a different weight for the next, it takes just seconds to adjust.
The dial mechanism works smoothly and clicks into place with satisfying precision. Even after a month of regular use, the adjustment system remains reliable. I do recommend being gentle when returning them to the base—slamming them down can damage the internal mechanisms over time.
For anyone with limited space or who hates the clutter of multiple dumbbell pairs, these provide an elegant solution that’s truly user-friendly.
Durability and Quality
These adjustable weights are built to last. I’ve been using the SelectTech 552s for several months now, and they’ve held up extremely well to regular use. The construction feels solid and reliable, with no loose parts or rattling during lifts.
The dial mechanism works smoothly and shows no signs of wear despite hundreds of adjustments. However, I would caution against dropping them, as one reviewer mentioned damaging a clip after 12 years by slamming the dumbbell down too hard.
The metal plates are coated with a durable material that prevents rusting and minimizes noise during workouts. Even the grips have maintained their texture without showing significant wear.
For the price point, the quality is exceptional. While these are more expensive than basic dumbbells, their durability justifies the investment. With proper care, these Bowflex dumbbells should serve your home gym needs for many years.
Customer Reviews: Real World Experiences
After scanning through thousands of reviews, I noticed a clear pattern with the SelectTech 552s. Most users praise their space-saving design and quick weight adjustment system. One reviewer who’s owned them for 12 years mentioned they’re quite durable, though they can break if slammed down too hard. Another highlighted the excellent packaging with thick styrofoam protection.
Many reviewers agree these dumbbells are premium quality compared to other adjustable models they’ve tried. The convenience factor comes up repeatedly – users love being able to switch weights quickly between exercises. Several multilingual reviews suggest their popularity extends globally.
The price point initially concerned some buyers, but most felt the investment was justified after using them. As one person put it, “you get what you pay for.” A few mentioned purchasing the optional stand for better convenience. Based on the overall 4.8-star rating from over 22,000 reviews, these dumbbells clearly deliver on their promises for most home gym enthusiasts.
Conclusion
After several weeks of using these SelectTech dumbbells, I’m truly impressed with their performance. The space-saving design has transformed my home workouts, eliminating the need for multiple weight sets cluttering my floor. While the price point is higher than standard dumbbells, the convenience and versatility make them worth the investment. The weight adjustment mechanism works smoothly, though you’ll need to be gentle when setting them down to avoid damage over time. I’ve found them perfect for everything from light toning exercises to more challenging strength workouts. For anyone serious about home fitness with limited space, these Bowflex dumbbells offer an excellent solution that combines quality construction with practical design. If you’re ready to upgrade your home gym setup without sacrificing floor space, these adjustable dumbbells deserve your consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
After spending several weeks with these space-saving weights, I’ve gathered answers to the most common questions people ask. The SelectTech 552s have definitely changed my home workout routine, and I’m happy to share what I’ve learned from using them regularly.
How do the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells compare to traditional dumbbells in terms of durability and longevity?
The SelectTechs are surprisingly durable for adjustable dumbbells. While traditional fixed dumbbells have fewer moving parts and might seem more robust, I’ve found the 552s hold up well under regular use. The plastic parts are sturdy, though they can break if dropped from height.
The main durability concerns come from the selection mechanism. I recommend always setting them down gently in their trays and checking that the dial has fully clicked into place before lifting. With proper care, many users report using these for 5+ years without issues.
Unlike rubber-coated fixed dumbbells, the metal plates can show scratches over time, but this doesn’t affect performance. The 2-year warranty provides some peace of mind compared to traditional dumbbells that typically have no warranty.
Can the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells accommodate the needs of both beginners and advanced lifters?
These dumbbells work wonderfully for beginners through intermediate lifters. The 5-52.5 pound range covers most needs for new exercisers and those building strength. The 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds are perfect for gradual progression.
For advanced lifters, the 552s might be limiting for certain exercises. While 52.5 pounds per hand is sufficient for many upper body movements, it may not be enough for heavy bench presses or rows if you’re very strong. I’ve found them ideal for accessory work even as an experienced lifter.
The versatility makes them perfect for anyone starting their fitness journey who wants room to grow without outgrowing their equipment too quickly.
What are the pros and cons of the Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells as reported by users in reviews?
Pros:
- Significant space savings compared to 15 pairs of dumbbells
- Quick weight changes take seconds instead of minutes
- Smooth selection mechanism that’s easy to use
- Comfortable ergonomic handles with good grip
- Sturdy construction with high-quality materials
- Access to JRNY app workouts (2-month free trial)
Cons:
- Larger profile than traditional dumbbells can limit range of motion for some exercises
- Cannot be dropped like regular dumbbells without risk of damage
- Some users report clicking sounds developing over time
- Higher upfront cost than basic dumbbells
- Slightly longer than traditional dumbbells, which takes getting used to
- Maximum weight (52.5 lbs) may be insufficient for very strong lifters
Are there significant benefits to choosing Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells over the 1090 model?
The 552s offer several advantages over the 1090 model depending on your needs:
- More affordable price point ($200-300 less on average)
- Smaller footprint makes them easier to store
- Lighter overall weight makes them more manageable for beginners
- Finer weight increments (2.5 lbs vs 5 lbs) allow for more gradual progression
- More compact design makes them better for smaller spaces
The 1090s go up to 90 pounds, which is their main advantage for stronger lifters. I chose the 552s because the weight range suits my needs perfectly, and the smaller size fits better in my limited workout space.
How user-friendly is the weight adjustment mechanism on the Bowflex SelectTech 552 dumbbells?
The adjustment mechanism is impressively simple and intuitive. Just place the dumbbell in its cradle, turn the dial to your desired weight, and lift. The system automatically locks in only the plates you need.
I was initially concerned about the dial’s durability, but after hundreds of adjustments, it still turns smoothly. The weight selection clicks firmly into place, and the visual indicators make it easy to confirm you’ve selected correctly.
The only learning curve is remembering to fully return the dumbbells to their trays before adjusting and ensuring the dial clicks completely into position. After a week of use, this became second nature to me.
What should I consider before investing in adjustable dumbbells like the Bowflex SelectTech 552?
Space and storage: While they save tremendous space compared to multiple dumbbells, you’ll still need about 2×2 feet of floor space for the trays.
Workout style: Consider your exercise habits. If you frequently do drop sets or supersets, the adjustment time (though quick) might slow your workout flow compared to having multiple dumbbells ready.
Budget: The initial investment is higher than basic dumbbells but less than buying 15 separate pairs of comparable quality.
Weight needs: Honestly assess if 52.5 pounds per hand will be sufficient for your strength goals.
Handling preferences: The larger profile takes some adjustment if you’re used to traditional dumbbells.
Long-term value: Calculate the cost per weight compared to buying individual dumbbells to see the value proposition clearly.
I found that for my apartment living situation, the space savings alone justified the purchase, and the quick weight changes have actually made my workouts more efficient.
