Do you even lift, bro? A question heard by many, and one immortalised by amusing memes across the internet. It’s something that can cause laughter or offence, especially when you have been working hard on your lifts and the question is asked. To get you lifting, you might want to consider investing in a set of dumbbells that can really deliver in terms of quality and the delivery of results.

The Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells are ideal for those who want something trusted and reliable to start them off, or even continue their training. Of course, going to the gym can seem like a daunting and overwhelming task – especially when you are at the start of your fitness journey and don’t want to feel judged. The Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells offer you the opportunity to get fit and in shape from the comfort of your home. They have everything you need, and it also means that you can use them on your time – perfect for those who are always busy.

This Bowflex Select Tech 1090 review is packed full of useful information that will help you to determine if this is going to be the ideal model for you. Of course, it does have a few niggles, but these can easily be looked past when you realise just how much it has to offer. Kick back for ten minutes and read through this detailed, yet concise, guide to why you need these dumbbells in your life. The Bowflex selecttech 1090 adjustable dumbbells are ones you will want in your home.

Summary

Durable, reliable, and easy to use, these weights take the stress and strain out of life so that you can have a better and smoother experience when it comes to lifting. An improvement on the 552 model, these offer better increments, an improved experience, and a trustworthy product from a top company. The Bowflex 1090 dumbbells are everything you need and a little more.

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Pros and Cons

Presenting the Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells

The Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells are great for those who want something that is compact and reliable, allowing them to have one set of weights instead of nearly 20. It is easy to use, and the perfect tool for helping you back on the road to fitness. It’s a model that is well worth the money, and this Bowflex 1090 review will help you through the pros and cons that come with this brilliant model.

If you want something that can be dropped like regular dumbbells, these are not the ones for you. There are plenty of other models out there that might be better suited to those who want to drop them when done with a heavy lift. However, they are also really easy to adjust so that you can change the weight setting, which is a massive plus. Either way, there is a model that works perfectly for you.

Features and Benefits

The Design

The Bowflex 1090 dumbbells come in black with red detailing, which gives them a really stylish and professional appearance – meaning that they will fit in perfectly with your home gym or office. Plus, the way that they have been designed means that they take up a fraction of the space traditional cast iron dumbbells do, which is something we look at in more detail a little later.

It can be adjusted in a matter of seconds, with no unreliable collar to keep the plates on. This part of the design makes it a safer model to use, as the collars are famously fickle and often result in plates falling off. This added security means that you can lift weights in complete security and without fear of injury from falling plates.

They are longer than any other dumbbells on the market, giving them a big feel that is both substantial and good to hold. His is because they have a bracket-style design that ensures the size of the dumbbells remains unchanged regardless of which weight you have attached. This means that there is no difference in overall size whether you have a 10lb weight or a 90lb weight attached to it.

The reason that the Bowflex 1090 dumbbells are designed this way is because the handle needs to have open spots that allow for the attachment of more weight plates when you take the dumbbells in and out of the cradle that comes with it. It can be a little awkward to get used to the new length in the beginning, but it actually feels really good when you have been using it for a while – even helping to improve your lift and workout style.

The handles have been contoured to fit your hand comfortably, offering support when you are using them. The grip is made from knurled steel, which can be a little rough on the hands, but this really helps you when exercising and doesn’t leave you with the sometimes odd feel of rubber or padding.

They are also fantastic value for money, despite the fact that they seem expensive when you first look at them and the price. If you think about it, you are getting nearly 20 weights for a price that is far less than they would be separately. There are not many models (or companies) out there that offer more, so you are getting a really good deal.

Adjustability

This is probably the star feature of the Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells, and the one that everyone enjoys the most. It works by dialling in a weight – so all you need to do is twist the dial, and you can change the weight from 10lbs to 90lbs without the need to do anything else. The way it works is actually very simple as well, and something we can explain quickly here.

The Bowflex dumbbell has a dial and bracket system built into the handle of each dumbbell, and this dial is used to change the weight settings, with the brackets inside the handle being what physically attaches the weight plates to the bar for you. So, if you want to select a specific weight, you can twist the dial at each end to match it.

The brackets will then grab the weight plates it needs to make that weight up and lock them onto the handle. All you need to do after is pull it out of the cradle, and you are ready to go. If you want to increase or decrease the weight, slide it back into the cradle, make the necessary adjustment using the dial, and then you will pull the dumbbells out with the new weight locked on. It’s a really simple and easy system to use.

As a note, the cradle is the tray that the dumbbells are placed in when you are not using them. Essentially, it is a base without a stand, and it is shaped to fit the dumbbells (along with all the weight plates) in an upright position that allows you to slide them in and out with absolute ease. It is an essential part of the set, and in order to twist the dials in the first place, they need to be secured in the cradle . Once they are removed, it locks into place so that it cannot move during a workout (including the plates). This is part of the safe and secure system that we mentioned in the section above.

Quality and Durability

When it comes to the quality and durability, it is easy to make comparisons to the 552 model – which is the highest rated dumbbell from the Bowflex range. The same level of quality is expected from the 1090, and in many ways, it definitely lives up to expectations.

It is made with high-strength metals that provide a secure lock on the weight plates when the bracket system is in use (as mentioned above), and the weight plates themselves are coated in a thick plastic liner that helps it become more durable and withstand a little more rough treatment than it would usually be able to.

The plastic lining also does a little more though, and you will find that it allows the weight plates to move smoothly next to each other because of the way in which the dumbbells have to slide in and out of the cradle when you are adjusting the weight settings – which is massively handy.

The only thing you really need to be careful with is dropping them, the same as with the 552 model. The dial and bracket system is incredibly precise and intricate, so it needs to be handled carefully and was not made to withstand being dropped. The multitude of small parts that makes it work so well can be damaged if the weights are dropped at any point, and this is why there is so much emphasis on not dropping them – both here and in the owner’s manual. Of course, working out can be rough, but you need to make sure you don’t drop these after every set (or at all, if possible).

Weight and Storage

The Bowflex 1090 Dumbbells were built with stronger athletes in mind, so it offers a wide range of weight for you to work with. It starts at 10lbs and moves all the way up to 90lbs, using 5lb increments for you to move up at a good pace. This leaves you with 17 different weight settings, saving space and leaving you with a much smoother transition and workout.

If you are comparing it to the 552, the only thing that is different is the fact that you cannot move up in 2.5lb increments – but also meant that the maximum weight was smaller than the 1090. Also, once you get past 25lbs, the bigger increments are much more effective, and the weight is perfect for serious athletes that have been working on their training and fitness.

The storage is also great as well. As we mentioned before, they take up a lot less space as there are 17 weights in one model, and the cradle means that they can be put away neatly after use. There is also the option to buy a stand to go with it, which keeps it at a better height for picking them up smoothly.

Here are some other dumbbells for you to look at, just in case the Bowflex Dumbbells 1090 were not quite to your taste. These models are similarly priced, but many have different features that you might find more advantageous when you are working out.

Bowflex 1090 Dumbbell FAQs

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Bowflex 1090 dumbbells – giving you a concise summary, as well as a few answers to the most common queries and concerns.

What Makes Them Different From the 552 Model?

The weight is the main difference between them. The 552 goes up to 50lbs, but the 1090 has a 90lb limit. So, if you are interested in something with more weight for training, you should choose the 1090 model every time. There is also a difference in price, with the 1090 being the more expensive of the two, but it is worth every penny, and you get what you pay for – the 1090 means way more features and additional weight.

What Kind of Exercises are They Used for?

There are loads of exercises that can be done with these weights. There isn’t really anything specific that you have to do with these, but there are a number of very popular exercises that are commonly used with these weights. Here are a few examples:

• Squats
• Lunges
• Bench
• Shrugs
• Shoulder Presses

What Happens if You Drop Them?

With these dumbbells, they cannot be dropped like regular ones. You have to be careful and place them on the floor with relative gentleness. This is because dropping them can completely ruin the dials – which will end up breaking the entire dumbbell over time.

Does it Come with a Warranty?

Yes, these dumbbells come with an excellent two-year warranty that will cover all of the parts and weight plates. There is also a one year warranty that covers labour, ensuring that you have full protection against any potential accidents.

To Conclude

Hopefully, this Bowflex selecttech 1090 review has helped you to decide if these are going to be the right weights for you, and also good enough to help with your fitness goals and training. It’s an impressive set, and the adjustable weights mean that you are able to go through smoother transitions and achieve your goals faster, as well as in a way that won’t cause you to have to take excessive breaks between lifts.

There are a few downsides to this model, namely the fact that dropping them can damage the dials and lead to the weights not working properly afterwards. Of course, it’s not necessarily a massive issue – just remember not to drop your weights like they are regular dumbbells and they should last you a long time. The handles can also be a little rough on the hands, but this is something you will get used to over time. Really, the benefits and genius design offered by these weights overshadow the flaws. All in all, we’d happily give these dumbbells an incredibly well-deserved 4/5 stars.

What did you think of our Bowflex 1090 review? Do you agree with our thoughts, or are there others that you think are better suited to the task? We love hearing from you, so make sure you leave us a message in the comments below.

The Bowlflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells could be the perfect solution for you, as it offers a better range of weights and smaller increments that will give your regular workout the boost and flexibility it needs to help you improve. Bowlflex weights are some of the best, and these are no different. To see if they are going to work for you, take some time to kick back and read through this Bowlflex SelectTech 552 review to see if they are going to be right for you.

Summary

The Bowlflex SelectTech 552 is the perfect set of dumbbells for beginners and experts alike, and a set that you will not be disappointed with. Reliable, sturdy, and ready to use in a matter of seconds, they make for a quick and simple solution to any workout. The Bowlflex 552 review below can help you to make the right choice.

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Pros and Cons

Presenting the Bowflex SelectTech 552

The Bowlflex SelectTech 552 is the perfect set of dumbbells for those who are looking for a good weight range and something that comes at a more affordable price. It is perfectly suited to the majority of those who lift, and can be used by both beginners and veterans alike. They are reliable and pretty easy to use as well, which makes them pretty good all-rounders.

However, they are not suited to everyone. While they do promise some challenge, they aren’t the best option for the professionals that are in search of a heavier weight range. If you match this description, you are much better off trying out the Bowlflex SelectTech 1090 instead. This set has a weight range that goes all the way up to 90lbs.

Features and Benefits

Affordability

This dumbbell set is priced really well, making it one of the more affordable options on the market. Usually, when you are looking at a set similar to this one, you can expect to pay around $1000, which is not something most people can afford. The Bowlflex SelectTech 552 retails at $279.99, but you can find it cheaper elsewhere on places like Amazon where there are always deals and discounts available. It’s the ideal option for something that is affordable but doesn’t skimp out on the quality or reliability.

Weight Range

One of the shining features of the Bowlflex SelectTech 552 is the fact that it has a fantastic weight range of 5-52.5 pounds, so you can keep adjusting and improving as you go. In total, there are 15 weight increments for you to choose from. This range also makes them suited to a number of different people, both beginners in the field and those who have more experience.

The weight increments themselves are small and precise, which is ideal for gradual improvement. Until you hit 25lbs, it will go up in increments of 2.5lbs. Once you reach over the limit, it starts to increase by 5lbs. Unlike most other sets that go up by 5-10lbs throughout, the smaller increments ensure that you get more versatility out of your set.

The other advantage to the smaller increases is the fact that it ensures that your muscles are able to keep up. Larger increments, like the ones mentioned above, can be too difficult for your muscles and cause strain. This means you end up unable to complete your workout and prevents you from building up your strength. It’s a more efficient and effective way to work out, and one that will allow you to build strength faster as well as in the right way.

Adjustability

The patented system used by Bowlflex is part of what makes the brand so fantastic, and it is one of the best features that this particular model has to offer. On each end of the dumbbell, you will find a numbered dial that you can twist to select a different setting. You can attach weight plates to the inside of each handle, so that when you turn the dial and choose your setting, the brackets will grab the required plates and leave the rest behind. Those that remain simply rest in the cradle, so they are kept out of the way.

So, if you want a 25lb weight, you simply need to turn both dials to the correct number and pull the dumbbell out of the tray. In that short space of time, you are left with a dumbbell at the correct weight. Plus, if you want to change the weights you just have to put it in the cradle and go again. The process takes about five seconds (and often less), which means you can start working out sooner. Plus, the fast adjustability makes them ideal for fast-paced exercise routines.

Grip and Shape

The Bowlflex SelectTech 552 uses ergonomically shaped handles to provide a better grip while they are in use. The set is very comfortable to hold as a result, and it really feels like it was made for you to hold. Plus, the handle provides superb grip, which means that there is no slipping if your hands start to get sweaty.

They aren’t shaped like a modern dumbbell either, instead, they have a more traditional design. This does not necessarily impact anyone or the way in which you work out, but it does help some people to complete their exercise regimes in a smoother and more controlled fashion. Not to mention that the design gives them a pretty good looking and stylish appearance.

Quality and Durability

Bowlflex is one of the best brands for exercise equipment, and they are known for producing premium quality items. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the Bowlflex weights we talk about here are both a reliable and pretty durable piece of kit. They are not only best-sellers but the highest rated adjustable dumbbells on the market, and that should tell you everything you need to know.

The handle, the core, and the brackets are made with high-strength metal that is able to combat just about anything you put it through. They can withstand rough and fast-paced workouts with no issues, and the weights themselves have a hard-plastic coating that would even allow them to withstand regular use at your local gym.

The only thing to think about with the Bowlflex SelectTech 552 is the fact that they are a little more delicate than most adjustable dumbbells. Due to the dial adjustment and the way it is incorporated they aren’t necessarily the most reliable and cannot handle being dropped regularly. Of course, you’re going to drop them on occasion (we all do), but as long as you aren’t doing it after every set, you should be just fine.

Accessories and Storage

If you are in search of some good accessories for the Bowlflex SelectTech 552, the accompanying dumbbell stand is your best bet. This has been specially designed for the 552 and 1090 dumbbells, so you can keep them safe and accessible at all times, and it’s really handy if you happen to have a home gym.

It can help to save your back, as it means you no longer have to bend down in order to puck the weights up, and it looks great too. There is even a towel rack built into it for those who really work up a sweat when they lift, but it also goes well with the rest of your exercise equipment. The stand can be found on Amazon, and it is usually no more than $120 (sometimes less), which is a real steal.

Warranty and Guarantee

Bowlflex offers a great warranty and guarantee on all of its products, with the Bowlflex SelectTech 552 included. The standard two-year warranty includes parts and labour, which means you are fully covered at all times if something happens. Most companies tend to cover parts and nothing else, so this is a nice little bonus.

The guarantee, however, is probably the best part. If you receive your dumbbells and you decide that you don’t actually like them, Bowlflex has things under control. They offer a 6-week fitness results guarantee on every purchase, which means that you get a full refund if you can’t get on with them. Plus, it’s a no questions asked policy, so you don’t have to go through an interrogation for a refund.

Exercises for the Bowlflex SelectTech 552

The exercise range for the Bowlflex SelectTech 552 is pretty versatile, which is part of what makes them so appealing. Just about every part of your body can be covered with a pair of these, and with spectacular results. Here is a list of the exercises that you can do when using the Bowlflex SelectTech 552:

Leg Exercises:

• Wide squats
• Calf raises
• Stationary lunges
• Stiff-leg deadlift
• Reverse lunge
• Side lunge

Back Exercises:

• Alternating rows
• Wide row
• Deadlift

Chest Exercises:

• Flat chest press
• Incline chest press
• Flat fly
• Incline fly
• Decline chest press

Abdominal Exercises:

• Ab crunch
• Reverse crunch
• Lying trunk rotation
• Twisting side crunch
• Lying leg raise

Arm Exercises:

• Standing curls
• Concentration curls
• Incline bench curls
• Scott curls
• Overhead triceps extension
• Triceps kickback
• Lying triceps extension
• Hammer curls

Shoulder Exercises:

• Standing shoulder press
• Lateral raise
• Seated overhead press
• Front raise
• Rear delt row
• Shrugs

To Conclude

Hopefully, this Bowlflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells review guide has helped you learn more about this fantastic piece of kit and the ways in which it can benefit you and your workout routine. These sturdy and reliable pieces of equipment are sure to make your daily lifts a much easier and more versatile process, helping you to become stronger and fitter in a more effective manner.

These SelectTech weights are the perfect price for just about anyone as well, as they come at a really reasonable price that beats all of the competition. Names as the best adjustable dumbbells on the market, we know you won’t be disappointed when you try these out. They are sure to change the way you see your exercises forever.

What did you think of our Bowlflex SelectTech 552 review? Do you agree with our thoughts on the models listed, or are there others that you think are better suited to the task? We love hearing from you, so make sure you leave us a message in the comments below.