Out of all the adjustable dumbbells we have covered, the Power Block Elite adjustable units are by far my favorite! They increase at a small rate of just 5 pounds each time you change the weight by a selector pin that is easy to use. They are also affordable for what you are getting and they belong in almost any gym setting out there!
We all know how much time is wasted in between sets getting another set of dumbbells that are taking up more room than they have to. If you want to switch weights, you have to stop what you are doing, put down the weight, and go find the correct weight. If you are using this set, you have 5 up to 70 pounds at your disposal in a matter of mere seconds!
Power Block has been around the block when it comes to making fitness equipment. They started in 1991 with their first adjustable set and since then have remained on top or close to the top. This is one of the sets that starts at a low weight and goes up higher than most other sets on the market. This means that this one set takes the place of over 22 single weight dumbbells. It may seem expensive at first, but when you look at it this way, the price really is not that bad at all.
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Quick feature rundown
- Small compact unit
- 5-90 pounds
- Go up 5-10 pound increments depending on the pair you buy
- Block design
- Durable, fast weight changing design
- All Steel Weight
- Time saver
- Great price
- USA made
What we like
This set is called the power block for a reason, they look just like a block and you will grab it in the middle where the handle is. This may feel weird at first, but it is actually an excellent feature that makes this set of adjustable dumbbells incredible sturdy. Durable to the core, this set is heavy, yet will stand up to many years of abuse in a home gym setting. Changing the weights is easy, and the tool you use to change the weight is built well so it will not break.
To change the weights, i would say that it only takes a second or two to bump the weight up by 5 or 10 pounds depending on what unit you purchase. To change the weight, take the selector pin out, pick your new weight, and slide it back in, it is that easy! I really love how fast you can change the power blocks weight which makes my workouts that much shorter.
If you are doing traditional exercises, you will quickly notice that while using this set, they tend to stay out of the way because of their box like design. This does seem off at first, but when you are not touching your body with the weight, you are focusing more on the muscles you should be targeting.
Usability is great, but what really makes this set my favorite are how great the grips are. Other products seem to try and save money here, but with the blocks, your hands actually go inside the box and does not allow you to twist your wrist as much, thus preventing any awkward movements you may have made in the past.
If you were to purchase a full rack of dumbbells, you would need to purchase 22 sets. Can you image how much that would cost you? For just a fraction of the price, you can get this adjustable set, and if you need to add more weight, power block even sells an add on set for increased weight.
Power Block Elite also backs up this great product by a staggering 10 year warranty based in the USA. They have created a great product and they will stand behind it!
What we think they could improve
When it comes to changing weights, sometimes each little plate may stick to the others. This really only happens if you have not used the dumbbells much and when they are brand new. Just make sure to use your set often and be mindful of how much weight is selected. Always remember to lift safe!
The increments go up by 10 pounds for the most part. If you want to change the increments at this weight, it will be incredible fast and simple to do in a few seconds. However, if you want to increase the dumbbells by 5 pound increments, this will take you a bit longer. The reason for this is that you have to remove the piece your hand grips to take out some of the weight from inside the dumbbell. This can get very frustrating so I would only recommend this set to you if you are comfortable with 10 pound increments or have been lifting for at least 6 months to a year.
I am a huge fan of the grips because they feel like a cage. My hands and wrist feel very safe inside it but if you are used to other, more traditional sets, this may seem strange to you. Just practice with the same form you have used with all your other lifts and if you are like me, you will probably learn to like this new protective grip.
Wrapping It Up
For anyone who is looking to build strength, has been lifting for a while, or is trying to complete or start a home gym, the Power Block Elite Adjustable Dumbbells should be your go to pick when looking to purchase a product. They are incredible sturdy and built to last while being a small compact size so they do not take up nearly as much room as individual dumbbells. They are also easy on your wallet when you consider that if you were to buy a traditional set, you would be spending at least twice as much. If you want to change the weight, this can be done extremely fast, leaving less time in your overall workout with improved heart rate during your working sets.
I will say that I really do enjoy the grips on the power block elites. They feel enclosed, and while some think that feels a little bit off, I think it protects my wrists from injury. Some reviews said that they had trouble changing the weights at smaller increments and I would agree. It just takes a little bit longer, but does not really mean it is harder. I would stay away from this set if you do not want to jump up 10 pound increments quickly. I think it was meant for the more seasoned lifter.
I must say, this set of adjustable dumbbells would complete any home gym or workout routine. Build to a maximum standard of quality, everyone I have talked to says that these dumbbells are on par with the quality they would find at a commercial gym. Any lift you can use a dumbbell for, you will find you can easily do with this set. Grab a pair today and see what they can do for your overall fitness!
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