Setting Up the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells: What to Expect

Getting started with the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is straightforward — but there are a few things worth knowing before you open the box. Here's what to expect.

What We Think, Straight Up

The Bowflex 552s replace a 15-dumbbell rack in the space of two. They're the best investment for a home gym if you have $350 to spend.

If you've been on the fence, here's how we'd frame it: the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is designed for anyone cancelling their gym membership and building a home setup from scratch. If that's you, it's very likely the right choice. If it's not, there's probably a better fit at a lower price point.

The Performance

We ran the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells through daily use across several weeks. The things that impressed us most are the ones listed below — not the marketing claims, the actual experience of using it regularly.

There's a difference between products that sound good in spec sheets and ones that feel right in practice. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is in the second group.

What We Love

• Adjusts from 5 to 52.5 lbs in 2.5-lb increments up to 25 lbs
• Dial mechanism is fast — change weight in seconds
• Replaces 15 sets of traditional dumbbells
• Compact storage
• 2-year warranty

Room for Improvement

• Expensive upfront — pays off over gym memberships quickly
• Handle length stays fixed even at light weights
• Not drop-safe — need to lower them carefully

Who Should Buy It

This is for anyone cancelling their gym membership and building a home setup from scratch. If that's you — buy it. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is one of those products where you'll look back and wonder why you waited.

If you're on the fence because of price, consider how often you'll use it. Most quality purchases amortise down to almost nothing over their lifespan.

The Value Question

At $349.00, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells sits at the higher end of the category. Our take: it's priced correctly for what it is. There are cheaper options. They are cheaper for a reason.

We've tested the alternatives. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is the one we kept.

Our Verdict

The short answer: yes. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells is our recommended pick for anyone cancelling their gym membership and building a home setup from scratch. It's well-built, performs as advertised, and we haven't found anything at this price point that beats it.

Buy it. Use it. You'll stop second-guessing the purchase within a week.