Alternatives to PowerBlock

PowerBlock was founded in 1991 by two fitness industry workers who wanted to reduce the space required to house racks of multiple dumbbells. Their answer to this dilemma resulted in the design for the first adjustable weight dumbbell, which allows for a quick adjustment of weight with the simple placement of a pin in the side of the dumbbell. The popularity of this design has led to numerous competitors of varying design detail and quality.

  1. Bowflex SelectTech

    • Bowflex, perhaps best known for its home gym that utilizes rubber tension bands, also manufactures an adjustable dumbbell that aims to eliminate the need for multiple dumbbells. The difference between the PowerBlock dumbbells and the Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells is in the manner in which the weight is adjusted; SelectTech weights are adjusted with a dial on the end of the dumbbell, rather than a pin. Another difference is in the weights themselves; Powerblock weights are thin metal plates, while SelectTech weights are metal covered in hard plastic.

      Three models of Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells are available to choose from. The most affordable model is the SelectTech 220 which adjusts from 2.5 to 20 lbs. for each dumbbell. The somewhat more expensive SelectTech 552 adjusts from 5 to 52.5 lbs., and the most expensive SelectTech 1090 adjusts from 10 to 90 lbs.

    IronMaster Quick-Lock Dumbbells

    • The IronMaster Quick-Lock set of dumbbells is solidly and durably constructed, with its steel handles and iron plates. Rather than using pin adjustment like PowerBlock's or dials like Bowflex SelectTech's, these dumbbells use square iron plates that are added to or removed from the ends of the dumbbell like a typical free weight dumbbell, except that a quick-locking endpiece makes the procedure faster and more convenient than traditional screw-on end locks. IronMaster Quick-Lock Dumbbells are available in a set that is adjustable from 5 to 75 lbs. The weight is adjustable in increments of 2.5 lbs.

    Reebok Speed Pac

    • The Reebok Speed Pac adjustable dumbbells are a perfect set of weights for the beginning female fitness enthusiast who may be looking to tone more than bulk up. The weights are adjustable from 2.5 to 12.5 lbs. by means of a knob located at the end of the dumbbell. Of the three PowerBlock alternatives, these are the lightest and smallest dumbbells and come with a hard plastic resting tray.