Review Dumbbells Gym Equipment

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells Review (Select-a-Weight Model)

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(21 years of Oly Lifting experience)

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A good home gym product needs to be compact, durable, and challenging. The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells meet all these requirements, as it allows you to have a great full-body workout with its adjustable weight that varies from 10 pounds to 55 pounds, and you can choose between two different variations of dumbbells – 25 pounds and 55 pounds.

While also coming with special features like the iFit app, through which you can have great instructor led training sessions. Once you’re finished with your workout, you can stow them away neatly, thus avoiding any needless mess.

nordicktrack adjustable dumbbells review

The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells Quick Review

The NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

nordictrack adjustable dumbbells
  • Number Of Settings: 15 weight increments
  • Weight Range: 10lbs to 55lbs
  • Weight Increments: 2.5lbs or 5lbs
  • Dimensions: 11.4 x 19.4 x 19.4 inches
  • Adjustment System: Dial adjusting technology
  • Materials: Mix of neoprene and steel
  • Additional Features: Comes with a 30-day free trial of their iFit app
  • Warranty: 30-day return policy, 2-year warranty
  • Weight: 55 pounds
  • Color: Black

NordicTrack is a health and fitness brand, which specializes in treadmills, strength training equipment, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and accessories. It is best known for its Nordic ski machines and have begun to produce high quality adjustable dumbbells as well.

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells score by an expert

35 EXPERT SCORE

The NordicTrack Dumbbells can provide you with a full-body workout, while the compact nature of the product is easy to store.


Weight Selection:10
Ease of Use:10
Design:10
Material Quality:10

Positives:

  • Easy to change the weight
  • 30 day iFit membership
  • Easy to store
  • Covers a variety of weight options
  • High quality material

Could be better:

  • No drop coverage

In Depth NordicTrack Select a Weight Review

In putting this review together, we used our own experience with the dumbbells and took into account ratings and feedback from other customers. This way, we could give you a complete picture based on both our hands-on use and what others have said.

New Straps V2 - WBCM

1. Weight Selection

The NordicTrack dumbbells come in three different weight selections, which can cover your beginner and intermediate needs. The different weight selections also have their own benefits.

• 25-pound Select-A-Weight Dumbbell Pair

25 lb select-a-weight dumbbell pair. With this, you would get two dumbbells that increase in increments of 2.5lbs. So, you can adjust the weight from 5 lbs to 7.5 to 10 to 12.5 on each side. The complete 25lb pair is good for beginners.

• 25-pound Select-A-Weight Single Dumbbell

25 lb select-a-weight dumbbell single. The increments of this dumbbell work the same way as the 25lb pair product, the only difference being you’d be getting just a single dumbbell rather than a set of two. This can be used for various single arm and single leg exercises.

nordicktrack dummbells close view

• 55-pound Select-A-Weight Dumbbell Pair

55 lb. Select-a-Weight Dumbbell Pair. Perhaps the most popular of the NordicTrack options is the NordicTrack 55 lb. adjustable dumbbell set replaces up to 30 dumbbell pairs. The weight increments increase from 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 22.5, 25, 30, 32.5, 35, 40, 42.5, 45, 50, 52.5, and 55 Lb. weight.

This is an excellent option to round out your home gym as the various weights provide a challenging, full-body workout.

2. Weight Adjustment

NordicTrack has improved on its previous weight adjustment technique, making this one smoother and easier to do. All you have to do in order to change the weight of the dumbbell is to place the dumbbell back in its tray, and simply move the dial on the inside of the dumbbell, either forward or backward, to your desired weight.

The dials can either move in 5lb increments or 2.5lb increments.

weight plates for adjustable dumbbells

Once you pick the weight you’d like, simply pick the dumbbell up from its tray and it will leave the unwanted plates on the tray, so as not to create a mess. While the dumbbell itself will only have the plates required for the weight you chose.

The plates are also marked with a weight value, so you know exactly how much you are lifting.

How to Choose the Weight: 2.5-pound or 5-pound increments?

2.5-pound increments are ideal for fine-tuning your strength training and making smaller, more precise adjustments. This is especially useful for exercises where incremental increases are beneficial, like isolation exercises or when you’re aiming for gradual progression. 

5-pound increments are better for people who want more significant changes in weight, which will work especially great for exercises where you want to lift heavier weights. This increment can also help with faster strength gains if you’re progressing quickly in your workouts.

3. Design

The 55 lb. NordicTrack Select-A-Weight Dumbbells feature a traditional and comfortable shape with rounded edges.

The metal handle comes with good knurling, so you can get a strong grip as you lift the weights.

The storage capacity of the dumbbell is one of its strong selling points. Each dumbbell fits inside its own tray, which takes up minimal space, and can be tucked away in the corner of your home gym or room.

Plus, when adding or subtracting weight, you won’t have to deal with a mess of plates lying around your room as each plate is left on the tray in an upright position, so you can place the dumbbell back on it smoothly.

4. Materials & Quality

The dumbbells are made out of neoprene material, which is typically water resistant material that works well in a range of environmental conditions. This will allow you to keep a firm grip on the dumbbell even while you’re sweating.

On top of that, neoprene is softer than steel, and with an additional plastic layer on the top of the neoprene, the dumbbells are unlikely to damage or scratch your floors if you happen to drop them.

adjustable dumbbells in use

The handle is made of alloy metal, which makes them easier to grip. This also means that you’re unlikely to get blisters while using this product because the dumbbell will not be shifting as much in your hands. But, if you prefer to use gloves for your safety, you can still get a firm grip on the dumbbells.

5. Value for Money

NordicTrack values their customers as they have a 30-day return policy, which allows you to return the dumbbells if you aren’t satisfied with the product.

However, the 30-day return policy does not cover drop damage. So, if you accidentally drop your weight too hard and it damages the dumbbell, you are out of luck.

Additionally, there is a three-year warranty plan as well. This plan begins when you purchase the product and comes with an option of a technician check up once per year to make sure the product is working well.

Not to mention the fact that you’re getting upward of 30 pairs of dumbbells with just one purchase. If you were to purchase 30 separate dumbbell pairs, the total would far exceed the NordicTrack value price.

6. Special iFit Feature

If you purchase the NordicTrack select a weight 55 lb adjustable dumbbell set, you will also get a free 30 day trial of NordicTrack’s iFit app. This app can be downloaded on your tablet or smartphone and comes with trainer led workouts for you to perform.

You can perform these exercises outside or at the comfort of your home. Plus, the trainer-led workouts show you the correct form and technique as you exercise to make sure you’re performing them safely and effectively.

The app is a great tool for beginners as the workouts and exercises are provided for you. So, you won’t have to worry about trying to find out what workout programs to do.

7. Warranty

The warranty on these dumbbells is really good. NordicTrack offers a 30-day return policy and a 2-year warranty. If the NordicTrack adjustable dumbbells 55 lbs don’t meet your expectations, you’re welcome to return them within 30 days of receiving them.

The warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, provided you use them normally. If the dumbbells are defective within these 2 years, NordicTrack will either repair or replace them free of charge. They’ll also cover all shipping costs associated with warranty claims. T

8. Portability

The NordicTrack Select-A-Weight 55 lb. adjustable dumbbell set is designed to be compact and space-saving, so it’s ideal for home use. Each dumbbell set will replace 30 dumbbells so it will significantly reduce the amount of space you need for a full set.

taking nordicktrack adjustment dumbbells

They’re lightweight and easy to move, so if you need (or want) to work out at a different location, you can just take them with you. Although their construction is super solid, the dumbbells themselves are easy to handle, so you don’t have to worry about them being awkward to carry. 

9. Safety

This is one of the key features of the Select-A-Weight dumbbells. The weight plates are made of a durable combination of steel and hardened plastic, so they’ll be able to withstand intense use without compromising safety.

The smooth weight selection system allows you to quickly and securely adjust the weight increments and the risk of accidents that can happen with loose or unsecured weights is minimal. Also, the fitted storage trays provide a safe space to store the dumbbells when you’re not using them and you won’t have to worry about tripping over them.

The overall design makes sure you can work out safely and peacefully. 

10. Compatibility with Different Exercises

These dumbbells are compatible with all sorts of workouts. After all, they’re dumbbells, and versatility is one of their main selling points, regardless of the brand. And with the Select-A-Weight dumbbells, you get all these weight increments, so they’re even more versatile than what you would normally expect from dumbbells.

They’re ideal for many exercises, like bicep curls, tricep extensions, shoulder presses, goblet squats, etc. You can do full-body workouts with them and take your home workouts to the next level. 

11. Adjustment System

The weight selection is smooth and the system allows you to quickly and easily adjust the weight of each dumbbell. There are 2.5-pound and 5-pound increments which provide a high level of customization for your workouts. To adjust the weight, you just turn the dial to the setting you want, and the dumbbell will lock into place.

You don’t need to manually add or remove plates, which saves you time, plus there’s less risk of errors. The clear weight markings on the dial make it easy to select the weight you need.

Who Are NordicTrack Dumbbells for?

1. Beginner and Intermediate Gym Goers

The NordicTrack dumbbells are great if you’re just starting out as the range of weight is perfectly suitable and challenging for you. The dumbbells allow you to perform full body exercises, so you can build up a strong foundation.

Even if you’re an intermediate athlete, the NordicTrack 55 lb. adjustable dumbbell set will be challenging enough for you to see strength and muscle gain.

nordicktrack adjustable dumbbells

For example, these dumbbells will allow you to do the following exercises:

  • Chest: Flat and incline dumbbell bench press, flat and incline flys, pushups, and floor presses.
  • Back: Single-arm rows, chest supported rows, bench rows, and dumbbell pullovers
  • Legs: Goblet squats, dumbbell squats, different variation of lunges, Bulgarian split squats, dumbbell Romanian deadlifts, and a variation of hip thrusts, including single and double legs.
  • Shoulders: Dumbbell press, lateral raises, front raises, rear raises, and dumbbell upright rows.
  • Arms: Dumbbell curls, hammer curls, incline curls, lying tricep extensions, overhead tricep extensions, and single arm tricep extensions.

2. Athletes Who Train Multiple Times a Day

Professional athletes typically have to train more than once a day in order to maximize their potential. So, if you’re in this position and want to save some time and get a quick workout in, you can use the NordicTrack dumbbells to your benefit.

Having the set nearby, you can use the dumbbells to round out your physique and hit the areas that you might not have had a chance to in your previous workout.

3. Athletes Looking to Fix Imbalances

One of the best ways to fix muscular imbalances is to address the muscle group by using a singular dumbbell. The NordicTrack’s can assist with this as you can adjust the dumbbell to your need and perform single leg or single arm exercises at home, after your workout, and balance out your muscles.

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Other NordicTrack Models

NordicTrack is a health and fitness brand, which specializes in treadmills, strength training equipment, ellipticals, exercise bikes, and accessories. It is best known for its Nordic ski machines and have begun to produce high quality adjustable dumbbells as well.

Compared to NordicTrack Speed Weights

The NordicTrack Speed Weights have many similarities with the NordicTrack Dumbbells, as both come with storage trays, options of using the iFit app, and can be adjusted to different weights.

However, the two main differences are that the Speed Weights are made more of plastic, which decreases the chances of damaging your floors, but can break quicker than the NordicTrack Dumbbells, which are made of neoprene.

Second, the Speed Weights can replace up to 26 pairs of dumbbells as they offer 14 weight selections, but the NordicTrack Dumbbells replace 30 pairs of dumbbells. So, you’re more likely to get more out of your investment with NordicTrack Adjustable dumbbells.

FeatureSelect-A-WeightSpeed Weights
Weight Range10-55 lbs10-55 lbs
Number of Weight Increments15 per dumbbells14 per dumbbell
Weight Increments2.5 lbs and 5 lbs2.5 lbs. 5 lbs, 10 lbs
Adjustment MechanismDial adjustment systemSpeed switch system
MaterialsNeoprene, Steel, Hardened PlasticPlastic, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
StorageFitted storage trays includedFitted storage trays included

NordicTrack Dumbbells Alternatives

1. NordicTrack vs Bowflex Dumbbells

Bowflex Dumbbells

Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells
  • Dimensions (Per Dumbbell): 16.9" L x 8.3" W x 9" H (43 x 21.2 x 22.8 cm)
  • 15 Weight Settings (Per Dumbbell): 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23, and 24 kg
  • Material: Steel, Nylon, ABS, Thermoplastic Rubber

The NordicTrack Dumbbells have two distinct advantages over the Bowflex dumbbells. First, the shape of the product. The shape of a Bowflex dumbbell is longer than normal dumbbells, which can throw off your lifting technique as you’re not used to that kind of dumbbells. The NordicTrack’s are easier and more comfortable to use in comparison.

Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbell Stand with Media Rack Instagram
Photo by @frankzen

Second, and more importantly, the NordicTrack dumbbells go up to 55 pounds, while the Bowflex dumbbells go till 52.5. So, you get more options and heavier weights with the NordicTrack’s.

2. NordicTrack vs SMRTFT Nüobell

SMRTFT Nüobell

smrft nuobull adjustable dumbbells
  • Max Weight Versions: 50LB and 80LB
  • Color: Black, Ash, Tactical or upgraded to full Matte Black w/ aluminum handles and cradles
  • Warranty: 2-year

SMRTFT’s Nüobell is a great alternative and these dumbbells are packed with excellent features. First off – the design. It’s sleek, space-saving, and the dumbbells look awesome in any kind of setup.

The construction is robust and they’ll be able to withstand years of intense use, even if it’s on a regular basis. The weight plates are secure and there’s no loose components or those annoying rattling noises that are much too common with adjustable dumbbells.

The adjustment mechanism is their best feature because it’s super fast – all it takes is a twist of the handle. The weight ranges from 5 to 80 pounds. The handles are ergonomic, so the grip is both secure and comfortable. The knurling is just right – not too aggressive, but still textured enough so you don’t have to worry about slipping. 

They’re excellent in all aspects, except for the price. Although you can count on using them for a long, long time, they’re certainly an investment.

FeatureSelect-A-WeightBowflexSMRTFT Nüobell
Weight Range10-55 lbsUp to 52.5 lbs5-80 lbs
Shape and DesignCompact, traditional shapeLonger, bulkierCompact, traditional shape, smooth satin finish
Adjustment MechanismDial adjustment systemDial adjustment systemHandle twist adjustment system
MaterialNeoprene, Steel, Hardened PlasticMetal, Molded PlasticSteel, Plastic (aluminum in matte version)
Price$$$$$$$$$$

FAQ

What happens if I Drop NordicTrack Dumbbells?

It depends on how hard you drop it. The material used for the dumbbells should protect it and your floors to a certain degree. But, if the weights are dropped from considerable height and with a lot of force, you can potentially break the adjustable marker or the locking mechanism.

Are NordicTrack Dumbbells Safe to Use?

The NordicTrack Dumbbells are very straightforward in the way they work. So, yes, they are safe to use. However, with any gym equipment, you have to be aware that there are potential risks, especially if you misuse the equipment. So, only perform exercises that are suitable for this product.

Are NordicTrack Dumbbells Good for Beginners?

The NordicTrack Dumbbells are great for beginners because of the way the weight increment works. Typically, a beginner will need to move up in weight slowly, to avoid injuries, so the 2.5lb weight increase is perfectly suitable for this task.

Progressive overload is also a great technique to build muscle and strength, where you progressively increase the amount of weight you’re lifting, usually in small increments, as to have longer term progress. The NordicTrack dumbbells are great for this technique.

The weight range, from 10 pounds to 55 pounds, should cover a beginner lifter for the majority of their lifts for a long time to come.

Nordictrack Dumbbells Review Conclusion

The NordicTrack Dumbbells can provide you with a full-body workout, while the compact nature of the product is easy to store. Also, the material used helps with proper grip and can protect your floor from scratches and damage. You can also take advantage of all the special features available in the iFit app upon purchase.

Also read:

References:

  • Training Techniques To Reduce Your Muscle Imbalances! // Bodybuilding.com:
    https://www.bodybuilding.com/content/the-advantages-of-two-a-days.html
  • The Advantages Of Two-A-Days! // Bodybuilding.com:
    https://www.bodybuilding.com/content/the-advantages-of-two-a-days.html
  • Photos by Torokhtiy Media Team.

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Ihor Shymechko

Author: Ihor Shymechko
Pro Olympic Weightlifter, Coach

Experience: 26 years
Best Results: Snatch – 208 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Ihor has been a professional weightlifter since 1996, boasting over two decades of competition experience. His notable achievements include clinching the European Championship in 2009 and securing a silver medal in the 105kg division at the Senior World Championships in 2011. Ihor represented his country in the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Summer Olympics. After retiring from competitive weightlifting, he transitioned to coaching, leveraging his vast experience to guide athletes who now compete on both national and international stages.

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Oleksiy Torokhtiy

Reviewed by: Oleksiy Torokhtiy
Olympic Weightlifting Champion

Experience: 21 years
Best ResultsSnatch – 200 kg,
C&J – 240 kg

Oleksiy Torokhtiy is a professional athlete boasting 20 years of experience in Olympic weightlifting. With multiple European and World titles under his belt, he has showcased his prowess in two Olympic Games (Beijing 2008 and London 2012). Upon concluding his illustrious career, Oleksiy dedicated himself to coaching. By 2022, he had conducted over 200 weightlifting seminars worldwide. He is the visionary behind an international sportswear and accessories brand known for its motto, “Warm Body Cold Mind.” Additionally, he is an esteemed author and the creator of a series of training programs and eBooks.

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