Image 17.5S Treadmill Review

Don't trust the inflated list price here on Amazon, it actually retails for $ 450. This is a closeout model on w a l m a r t.com, search for the model IMTL49606 and you'll see a bevy of true reviews there AND a lower price ($ 374)! It's averaging 3.5/5 stars there so I rated it that as well here on Amazon so other users can have an idea of the quality of this product.

Product Description
Get in tiptop shape even when it's pouring outside with the Image 17.5S treadmill. Powered by a 2.75-horsepower motor, the treadmill offers such features as one-step incline and speed controls, a ClearView backlit LCD display, and an AirSoft Plus Cushioning system, all of which team up to create a comfortable, satisfying home workout experience. The treadmill's most user-friendly features are the Digital Quick Speed Control, which lets you instantly adjust the speed up to 10 miles per hour, and the Quick Incline control, which lets you vary the incline from 0 to 10 percent. Using the one-touch buttons, you can create a custom training regimen whether you want to boost your cardio fitness or challenge your quads and calves. The 17.5S's ClearView display, meanwhile, tracks your speed, time, distance, calories burned, pulse, heart rate, incline, and pace, making it easy to monitor your workout progress. And frequent runners will love the AirSoft Plus Cushioning system, which protects your joints from wear and tear over the long haul.

The 17.5S also offers several preset workout programs to keep you challenged, including two 30-minute workouts designed to help you burn 300 or 400 calories respectively, a pair of 40-minute workouts that help you burn 500 or 600 calories, a 5-kilometer distance program, and a 10-kilometer distance program. Other features include a durable, nonslip 18-by-52-inch tread belt; a step counter that keeps track of your total steps; an EKG pulse grip sensor; a sturdy frame that folds up for easy storage; and a CoolAire workout fan built into the console. The Image 17.5S treadmill, which offers a capacity of 275 pounds, measures 32 by 53.7 by 69.4 inches (W x H x D). The product offers the following warranties: three years on the motor and 90 days on parts and labor.

About Treadmills
Walking is still considered one of the most beneficial cardiovascular exercises for people of all ages, body types, and fitness levels. As a fundamental form of aerobic training, walking has numerous physical benefits for the heart, lungs, and circulatory system, while also increasing muscle tone and burning fat calories. Treadmills provide a convenient way to regularly exercise in all weather conditions in the comfort and safety of your own home.

From beginners just starting an exercise regimen to advanced athletes looking to maintain their fitness level, anyone interested in getting and staying in shape can benefit greatly from regular use of a treadmill. Treadmills allow you to determine the pace, distance, and complexity of the workout based on your needs, all while watching television, talking on the telephone, or reading a magazine. Much easier on sensitive joints like the knees and hips, treadmill walking and running surfaces are typically long, padded platforms that allow ample room for a long stride and comfortable, low-impact walk or jog without the harsh contact of a concrete surface.

While many different types, styles, and price ranges of treadmills exist, many of them offer unique features like a fold-up design for easy storage, an electronic display monitor showing speed, distance, workout time, incline level, and burned calories, and EKG grip pulses to monitor the heart rate while exercising. Regardless of the simple to complex features you may choose, treadmills offer an array of aerobic exercise opportunities that will provide long-lasting beneficial cardiovascular results without a commute to the gym or a jog in the rain.

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ProForm Epic 1200 Pro Elliptical Review

Epic is just yet another brand name created by Icon Health & Fitness which also includes Nordictrack, ProForm, Weider, and Healthrider to name a few.Essentially the Epic EL 1200 is the top-of-the line ProForm.They gave it a new brand because they realize the ProForm brand represents the lower end of the elliptical trainer market.Having previously had a 7-yo top of the line Nordictrack Elliptical, I can vouch (so far) that this machine is indeed pseudo-commercial quality and I would say is on par with the construction quality of ellipticals costing nearly twice as much.The question is, will it last, which is yet to be seen.

It's really beefy and HUGE.This is in part because it has a motorized adjustable ramp to adjust the incline to turn from an elliptical trainer into almost a stair climber.Note that the motorized ramp is patented technology licensed from none other than Precor.Precor is widely acknowledged as the king of the commercial/health club quality elliptical machines and the Precor cost upwards of $3K or more!

We did have a problem with the machine initialy in that during assembly at the factory a hole that was drilled hit some wiring causing the resitance function to not work.Being a brand new model from a huge company like Icon that builds all their stuff in China, this is not entirely surprising to me given that I got the very first production run, Version A, model from Costco (last one,floor model - Costco no longer carries it - got a STEAL of a deal).I'm ICON has worked out any assembly glitches since then.

The machine is extremely smooth and as I said, BEEFY.WAY better engineered than our old Nordictrack.Huge bolts, lots of bearings, etc. It does truly feel like a commercial quality machine.Because of the adjustable ramp, the flywheel has to go in back which makes this machine have a very long footprint, much longer than machines with the flywheel in front (like Sole) so if you have space issues, this probably wouldn't be a good choice.The length is 7-1/2 feet long!

It has all the basic functions on the control panel and they all work well.You can even program your own custom workouts.The only feature missing you see on some higher end models is the ability for the machine to alter the resistance automatically based on your heart rate.However from what I understand the Healthrider Accurate wireless health monitor is compatible with this machine so you can at least get wireless heart rate readings.

As with all these machines, it is the long term performance that is important.It only comes with a 90-day warranty which makes no sense considering they created the Epic brand just for the machine apparently to reflect its higher quality but they give it the same warranty as their lower end machines?This may refelect their uncertainty how this brand new machine will perform over the long-term.The 4-year extended warranty though was only like $130 if I recall, so it baffled me why this higher end, 'commercial quality' machine doesn't come with at least a one year warranty.The 90-day is going to scare a lot of people off looking for a high-quality machine I think.

In using it a while and looking it over, it definitely is the most commercial-like quality machine I've seen come from Icon (ProForm, Nordictrack) so far, but it isn't a Precor.There's alot of cheap flimsy plastic parts covering the components.They look fine though and are common on most machines. It does have a decent 18" stride length and oversized foot rests with this grippy gelmaterial.

I researched these machines a lot.Bottom line, if you want an adjustable incline and don't have $3K to spend for a Precor, this is the ticket.If you don't need the adjustable incline, go with the Sole E25 or E35 for $200-$500 more and get an even higher quality machine with a smaller footprint.I think Sole is the best overall value consider their quality, but this is a close second and a first for value if you want adjustable incline.Be sure to get the 4-year warranty extention if you do by one, then you can rest assured you are covered.




Product Description
ProForm Epic 1200 Pro EllipticalStop trouble spots with Quick Target Toning. With the touch of a button select the trouble spot, buns, thighs, back of legs, hips etc, and let the elliptical do the rest. The Power Incline Ramp automatically configures to the right position and the sophisticated resistance mech controls your resistance throughout your entire workout to focus on your selected trouble spot.

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Impulse Sport 9 Heart Rate Monitor Review

This is the 2nd heart rate monitor I've owned.The first one was a Polar which worked great but I lost the watch.So I got this one fir $69 and it works great.I wish I had bought it here for cheaper.Anyhow, the thing works, the straps aren't too bad, it's pretty standard and light.And in fact, the Impulse watch is also compatible with my Polar strap, so in case one breaks, I've got a backup I guess.I'm happy with it.

Product Description
Stylish heart rate monitor featuring dot-matrix type display. Ideal for general fitness training.

Heart rate
Time of day
Calendar
Daily alarm
Single heart zone setting
Hi & lo heart zone alarm
10 hour stopwatch
10 hour single and repeat countdown timer
Scan showing maximum, average and minimum heart rate
LIGHTWEIGHT TRANSMITTER BELT INCLUDED
SHIPPING WEIGHT: 1 Lb

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Pure Fitness Inversion Therapy Table Review

I've been having severe lower back pain for years and have been going to a chiropracter for about 8 months now with no improvment. I purchased this item 3 weeks ago and for the first time in about 3 years, I'm finally getting some relief. I am very encouraged that if I keep using this, my back pain will at the very least be greatly reduced. Although it still hurts, I can tell it's improving. The product itself is very sturdy, and as far as inversion tables go, you can't beat the price I got on Amazon. It was also easy to put together. VERY happy with my purchase!!

Product Description
Inversion table is a great way to keep the body and back in healthy shape, 3 position bench, folds for easy storage, relieves back pressure, increases blood circulation, promotes stretching & improves posture, adjustable leg height, includes water bottle, weight limit 220lb.

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Smooth Fitness 5.45 Folding Treadmill Review

Consider buying it from the manufacturer web site (smoothfitness.com).Why?This thing is massive!Read on...

GOOD POINTS:My wife and I use it every day.It is solid as a rock and quiet.We absolutely got our money's worth and I'd buy it again, hands-down.

BAD POINTS: It is MASSIVE!Because we bought this from Amazon, it came shipped to us just like you'd think.But at 200+ lbs, it remained in our garage until five guys from church came and carried it to our basement.Once there, I had to assemble it.

Mind you, assembly is mostly-done for you.But there's work for you to do, and don't make any mistake about it.Setting this thing up takes time and effort, but it's worth it.

ADVICE: buy this from the manufacturer's web site and pay for their White Glove service.If you do, once it arrives someone will lug it to any room in your home and *then* assemble it for you.Trust me on this, just spend the money and let someone else deal with it!Learn from my mistake.If you opt to save money like I did, you will be sorry you did when this thing arrives at the end of your driveway.At least I was.

One last thing: make sure where you put it has an AC outlet nearby.You will need it (this thing needs power).If you do like me and put it in your basement, go out and buy a power-strip (with a 10-foot or more cord) and have it handy, so the installation people can plug it in once it's all assembled.In our case, I even taped-down the power-strip cable to the floor, so you don't trip over it.

Again, once assembled and where it's suppose to be in your home, this is money well spent.I can't tell you enough how solid and reliable it is.Just pay someone else to deal with the set-up hassle and you'll be all set.

Product Description
When designing the 5.45 folding treadmill we took one of our all-time best selling units, the Smooth 5.25, and made it better but kept the same low price. The 5.45 folding treadmill continues our tradition of manufacturing quality treadmills at an affordable price. At 210 pounds this "budget" treadmill is as solid a machine, as sturdy as any you've used at the health club. Smooth's legendary Swing Arm Shock Absorption provides unrivaled comfort. The 5.25 offers a variety of training programs and a generous 20" x 55" deck this treadmill will be an outstanding exercise partner for years to come.

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Six Mode Multi-function Cross Training Safety Light Review

great light, different blinking modes.Could be better to mount on the body, but second use for bike mount is awesome!

Product Description
A light combo that does it all it will clip on your waist or you can use it with the included armband. and also Will mount on your bike with the included bike mount. will work for Bikes or people walking or jogging. Has six diffrent modes of lighting from steady on to slow and fast flashing. this is a real eye catcher which is ideal for anyone wanting to be seen. Requires 2 AAA Batteries (not included) 2500 foot Visibility ***Item is on backorder and may not be in untill 12/22 and is not Gaurenteed for Christmas Delivery, Sorry***

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Weighted Balls by WellnessGear 1-Pair 2 LB WW-6055 2 LB. Review

These weighted balls are very easy to hold and didn't slip out of my hands.I'd highly recommend them.

Product Description
Our Weighted Balls are big improvements on dumbbells in that they are easier to hold more versatile and safer. Available in three weights they are perfect for aerobics pilates yoga walking and general upper body exercises. Grab the easy-to-grip soft balls and you will be able to conduct dozens of exercises that will tone and strengthen your triceps biceps chest and shoulders. Highly durable they will not burst if dropped and will never deflate. Filled with a precision weighted material for perfect balance. (1-pair) Choose between 1 lbs 2 lbs and 3 lbs.

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Lauren Peterson: The Yogi's Companion Review

This is a well thought out class. Nice sequencing, clear instructions. The Cd makes it very versitile, as you can do the whole CD, which is a challenging class, or choose to leave out some of the more advanced tracks. I find I reach for it often, even if I only have a short time to practice. Music by Deva Premal is perfect.

Product Description


TRACKS

1.)Starting Out -14:40 Play MP3 sample
2.) Stoking the Fires -19:17 Play MP3 sample
3.) Getting Centered -11:35 Play MP3 sample
4.) Challenge Yourself -5:55 Play MP3 sample
5.) On the Floor -14:52 Play MP3 sample
6.) Connecting -6:17 Play MP3 sample

Designed by internationally-recognized yoga instructor Lauren Peterson for fit beginners and intermediate/advanced practitioners, The Yogi's Companion contains a large (22" x 23 3/4") and comprehensive foldout chart with over 175 photos of the yoga-flow sequences. The CD is divided into six individual yoga programs, including options for long or short yoga sessions, as well as beginner or advanced practices, and is easily tailored for personal use.

As Lauren says, "A consistent yoga practice over time will result in a strong, supple body and a steady, quiet mind. You will enjoy increased energy as the systems of the body are stimulated and purified, leaving you calmer and more centered. Enjoy the journey!

Selected as an Editor's Choice by Yoga Journal, this instructional CD contains beautiful background music by Deva Premal.

A portion of the proceeds from this recording will benefit the music program at Malibu High School.



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Supertraining (Misc.) Review

WOW.This is a very deep and thorough book.I'm not sure where to begin...How about some questions:

- Can you define strength deficit?
- What's the difference between "strength-speed" and "speed-strength?"
- Distinction between central fatigue and peripheral fatigue?

The above concepts and much more were covered in only the first twenty pages.Get the picture as to the depth of this text?

I have the CSCS certification.I thought the CSCS was tough when I took the exam.But, looking back on it now and comparing it to Supertraining, the CSCS material is kinda pathetic.Cheers!

Product Description
6th Edition by Mel Siff.Perhaps the most complete book on strength training ever written! Covers explosive strength, power, speed training, polymetrics, loading, flexibility, circuit training, periodization, weightlifting and much more.

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Ultra Toner by SPRI BLUE Review

This is a great product to use to tone your arms and it takes up very little space.Everything arrived on time and just as promised.

Product Description
The patented Ultra Toner will help you build explosive power in your punches, and increased speed of your defenses. The Ultra Toner offers progressive resistnce levels for multiple uses and fitness levels. Allows for isolation of targeted muscle groups and full range of motion exercise. Ideal for group exercise, personal training, and traveling. Yellow is the easiest resistance and purple is the most challenging.Colors: Yellow, Green, Purple, Blue, Red

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Drops of Emptiness [IMPORT] Review

"Drops of Emptiness" is a CD compilation of the songs and poetry of Plum Village, a Buddhist monastic community located in southwestern France. The monks and nuns of this community are refugees from Vietnam, but their influence reaches far beyond the Vietnamese or Buddhist traditions.Their words are inspirational: drawing strongly on images of nature to move the listener toward meditation and prayer.The format is simple, most of the poems are either chanted or sung acapella, a few are accompanied by the deep reverberations of a bell or lighter taps on a "song lang" a traditional Vietnamese instrument used to keep time.

For those interested in exploring Buddhism, this CD is a must.For those interested in new insights into spirituality, "Drops of Emptiness" is anything but empty.

Product Description


In the Vietnamese Zen tradition, mindfully chosen music and words can serve as "soothing droplets" to cool the heart. Recorded on location at Plum Village in France, Drops of Emptiness invites listeners into the sanctuary of this practice. These deeply felt works include the poetry of legendary Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, the Vietnamese folk songs and Buddhist hymns of Sister Chn Khng, and chants performed by the nuns and monks of Plum Village. Drops of Emptiness is an opportunity to share in musical contemplations rarely heard outside the seclusion of this cherished Zen monastery. In English, French, and Vietnamese.

1 CD

62 Minutes in length

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Airzone 8-Foot Spring Trampoline and Safety Enclosure Combo Review

Very good product. Well made and safe. My kids 3 and 5 love to play on the trampoline. Its good for exercise. It does not take all of your yard space. I would highly recommend this. I would give 5 stars if it would have came with stakes to attach to the ground. Its bit hard to find stakes which has round heads, which can get along with pipe legs.

Product Description
8' Spring Trampoline/Enclosure Combination offers a great bounce for hours of outdoor family fun. This trampoline is designed with set-screws on the frame, set-bolts on the legs, designed for maximum strength and stability, steel springs for a better bounce.

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Bladez H914 Jet Indoor Cycling Bike Review

I received the bike today and was pleasantly surprised by the quality! The fit and finish is absolutely fantastic! It took me about 25 minutes to assemble. I took my time, so it could take less to assemble. Nearly everything is pre-assembled except for the footing and the peddles. Most things just needed tightening down. It came with all the tools you will need except for a screw driver. It appears that they use standard bike components, so upgrades or repairs shouldn't be a concern. I was a bit hesitant to buy this product since I couldn't find any reviews, but I am glad I did. It rides well for a stationary bike. It is relatively quiet. The only down side to the bike but I think it is the same with any other bike is, I wish changing the seat height was a bit quicker. My wife is 5'3" and I am 6'4", so it is going to be a pain switching back and forth.


Product Description
The Bladez Jet offers a club quality indoor training cycle to bring the spin class home.

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Lil Mynx Dance Pole Polished Stainless Steel Free Bottle of Mighty Grip Review

This pole can hold anyone up to 200-lbs.Great for all pole tricks.I THREE of these in my living room.Easy installation and the the removability of the pole is literally seconds.Highly recommended.

Product Description
The Original polished stainless steel Lil' Mynx is a one-piece high polished stainless steel pole. It looks just like chrome. It comes with a black base and black slider tube (the smaller adjustable tube that couples the ceiling mount) It comes standard for an 8'-10' ceiling with hardware pack.This pole is also available in your choice of Black, White, Red or Pink.Free bottle of Mighty Grip included

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BH Fitness X4 Elliptical Trainer Review

I bought the BH Fitness X4 Elliptical Trainer at a Gold Box price and am well pleased with my purchase. It was a little intimidating at first when the box arrived and there were so many parts inside. However, it was obvious by the packing and the instructions that this was not a cheaply-made piece of equipment. It was well laid out how to put it together, but even so expect it to take at least 3 hours assembly time from start to finish. The end result is quite impressive. The picture doesn't quite prepare a person that it's going to stand so tall and take up so much room, but it makes me feel like I got my money's worth in a gym-quality piece of equipment.

As for the actual use of it, I had to start off slow and build up to even 15 minutes on it because of the workout intensity it provides. And I've not even scratched the surface of its capability. This particular trainer probably works best for people over approximately 5'5" tall and up to probably 6'2" tall, but that's just my guess. Everyone at my house falls in that range so it's good for us. It runs smoothly and quietly which is always a plus. No problems so far.

Product Description
Reliable, attractive and solidly durable, the BH Fitness X4 elliptical trainer is a great choice for getting a total body cardio workout in your home with its solid construction, user-friendly consoles with multiple preset workout programs, and motivational displays showcasing workout statistics including a program profile graph. This elliptical machine has a 20-inch stride length with anatomically correct foot pedal spacing for a more comfortable workout and sport grip handlebars for a secure hold. It also includes a heart rate control program to optimize your cardio workout using either the included wireless chest strap or pulse grips integrated into the handles.

Features and Specifications:

• Natural 20-inch stride length
• 12 built-in programs include manual, weight loss and heart rate control
• Polar chest strap and wireless heart rate
• Slip-resistant pedals
• Anatomically correct foot pedal spacing
• Dual guide rails for maximum stability
• Sport grip handlebars
• True elliptical motion to reduce joint stress
• Contact heart rate sensors
• Blue backlit LCD Matrix window displays speed, distance, time, calories, incline and wireless heart rate
• Program profile graph
• 16 levels of resistance
• Poly V belt drive system
• Transportation wheels
• Water bottle holder
• Dimensions: 63.5 x 29.25 inches (LxW)
• Weight: 155 pounds
• Maximum user weight: 325 pounds
• Warranty: Lifetime on the frame; five years on parts; one year on labor

About Elliptical Trainers
Elliptical trainers represent the next wave of advancement in low-impact cardiovascular exercise machines and continue to grow in popularity. By simulating motions experienced through walking, stepping, cycling, and skiing, elliptical machines allow for a smooth and fluid motion while building strength in the arms and legs. Similar to the exercise position for treadmills, elliptical trainers are used by standing in an upright position while holding the handrails of the machine. With elliptical trainers, however, your feet remain in the foot pedals throughout the exercise regimen and circulate in a smooth and seamless motion, resulting in little to no impact on the knees, back, and hips.

Elliptical trainers are compatible for all ages and fitness levels and allow you to select the difficulty level through the incline and intensity settings. Additionally, elliptical trainers allow you to determine the complexity of your workout based on your needs, all while listening to music, watching television, or reading a magazine while exercising in the comfort and safety of your own home.

Although different types of elliptical trainers offer an assortment of features, many of them include an array of challenging programs, forward and reverse directional movement, EKG grip pulse handles, a lightweight portable design with easy fold-up capability, and a monitor displaying calories burned, distance, speed, time, and heart rate. Other types of exercise machines, namely treadmills and bikes, offer excellent cardiovascular exercise and muscular training for the legs in a forward-motion exercise. Elliptical trainers take this to the next level by offering an upper and lower body workout with dual motion, challenging and diverse programs, and a low-impact exercise machine that won't strain sensitive joints.

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Spectrum Blindfold Set (Set of 6) Review

These blindfolds work very well, I am a Children's Pastor and needed them for the kids to use during games.They fit every child's head so far thanks to the velcro and elastic. They also make everything really dark so there is no cheating.

Product Description
Features an elastic headband with a hook and loop closure that fits most kids and adults. Set of 6 fabric blindfolds, one of each Spectrum color: red, yellow, blue, green, orange and purple.

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Powertec Leg Lift Attachment Review

I received both the Powertec P-UB bench and this leg extension attachment for my birthday last month (I specifically asked for both) and really like them.They are very well-made and not very difficult to put together.The cushions on the attachment feel solid and it is nice to be able to lock the extension in place and use the bench for ab work with legs anchored.

All-in-all I am very impressed with both products.

Product Description
For use with the Powertec Utility Bench (P-UB) and Olympic Narrow Bench (P-ONB).Frame color matches only the 2008 and later models. The leg lift attachmentincludes a swivel catch to lock your legs in place for abdominal work. ...

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Yukon Fitness Angled Back Machine ABM-157 Review

I received this for Christmas.Full assembly was required, but it was not difficult and can be accomplished in less than a half hour if you have an adjustable wrench and a socket wrench set.My shipment included "revised" assembly instructions in the packing slip.I didn't realize that until I called the shipper for help.

The finished product is very sturdy, moves smoothly, and can be adjusted for position at several locations to ensure a comfortable and effective workout.

I'd have given this five stars if the two grip bars weren't constructed to be so far apart.There are six different grip options, and I'm too short to use one of them due to the wide spacing.That's only remarkable because I'm 6'2" tall.

All in all, a great product at $280.

Product Description
The Angled Back Machine is designed to build a wide, massive, highly defined back in no time at all! Constructed with the same heavy duty 12 gauge steel that accompanies all of our equipment, the Angled Back Machine is superior in design and function. Fully adjustable to accommodate users of any size. The Angled Back Machine is superior to any other machine for building that huge, chiseled back.

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Troy VTX Olympic Grip Plate - 300 Lb Set Review

I was amazed in the quality of this weight system it is worth the money and was delivered in less than 4 days right when I needed it.If I didn't miss the delivery man would have been delivered in 2-3days ( make sure someone is home when its shipped to sign for pkg.the painting on the weight looks to be very durable and couldn't have asked for more HIGHLY RECOMMEND this product.

Product Description
SHIPPING INCLUDED The VTX Wide Flange Olympic Grip Plate 300 Lb Set includes:(1) Olympic 7' Chrome Bar(2) Spring Collars (2) 45 Lb Plates(2) 35 Lb Plates(2) 25 Lb Plates(2) 10 Lb Plates(4) 5 Lb Plates(2) 2.5 Lb Plates ...

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PowerBlock Elite 90 Adjustable 5 to 90-Pounds per Dumbbell Set Review

After years of collecting the old standard hex dumbells, and trying to maintain a home gym in the city in various apartments (usually in the common basement) I found the PowerBlock dumbells.For someone without a dedicated room (with lots of space) for their workout equipment, these are fantastic dumbells.They go up to 85 or 90lbs without the add-on kit, and they are super fast and easy to change the weight. They are pricey, but considering the amount of dumbells they replace, well worth it, for the right user.

After using the PowerBlock setup for a couple years I came across IronMaster, another brand with adjustable dumbells.They go to 75lbs without the add-on kit, and cost a little less than the PowerBlock dumbells.I have BOTH in my home gym now, and I will go over the pros and cons of each for those of you trying to decide on a set up like this.

PowerBlocks:

Pros: Well made, comfortable grip, fast and easy to change the weight in 10lb increments, nice stand included, made in USA, ability to go up to 85-90lbs as is, and 120lbs with add-on. Excellent for exercises where you change weight quickly or frequently. Square dumbells don't roll.

Cons: Funky design with 4 pillars around your hand/wrist. It works, but it makes me nervous at higher weights that if I were to drop them I could somehow catch my wrist in there and hurt myself.Difficult to quickly switch weights in increments smaller than 10lbs.This is a problem for many exercises.Although they are sturdy, and have never given out on me, they rattle and the plates move a little when you use them. Again, they seem sturdy but when doing shoulder or bench press it's a little disconcerting.You need to make sure the magnetic pins are fully inserted and in the right spot or disaster could ensue.The dumbells get long when using a lot of weight which can be somewhat awkward for certain exercises.

Overall:These dumbells are best for exercises where you change the weight frequently, or quickly, and work best for non-press exercises in my experience. The add-on kit is a nice option, but the dumbells are already pretty long at 85-90lbs, so it may be impractical for a lot of exercises.They were the first of their kind, they are still a serious contender in this ring.

IronMaster:

Pros: Well Made. More traditional looking & feeling dumbells.Up to 75lbs as is, and 125lbs with kit.Not as long as PowerBlocks, no awkward pillars to stick your hand in between.Nice stand included.Great bench and other accessories available (better than PowerBlock bench after using both). No rattling or moving of plates when in use.Sturdy and well balanced and made in USA. Excellent for press exercises. Just as quick to change the weight in 2.5lb or 5lb increments as it is by 10lbs or more.

Cons: Takes significantly longer to change the weight than PowerBlocks.For press exercises I find this to be less of an issue, but for curls and other quick change exercises it's a bit of a pain.No locking mechanism for the screw in pins.This has never been an issue, or caused a dumbell to fall apart during use, but there's no locking mechanism (or magnet such as PowerBlocks) just friction preventing the pin from unscrewing.I'm not too worried about it, but it has crossed my mind.

Overall: These dumbells are best for users who use higher weights for press exercises and want the traditional look and feel of a dumbell you might find in the gym.They don't rattle or move, and are very solid.They also go higher in weight than the PowerBlocks with the add-on kit, and cost less.Not as good for users using ligher weight and requiring quick changes.

Conclusion:For me, having both pairs is a pretty good set up, but If I were to choose just one, I would stick with the IronMaster.I like them for their sturdiness and lack of rattling especially when using heavy weight.In addition to the IronMaster, I would buy a cheaper set of adjustable dumbells with a lower maximum weight (50lbs maybe) that could be easily adjusted in 5lb (or smaller) increments to use for curls and kickbacks etc...and stick with the IronMaster for the heavier weights, where I really don't mind the extra minute of rest to change the weight! In fact, I think I will sell my PowerBlocks and get a set up like this, and have some money left over for Muscle Milk! :)

P.S. the IronMaster adjustable bench is the BEST I have used!

Product Description
The only dumbbell system that can expand to meet your strength needs, PowerBlock dumbbells are the most versatile and effective exercise tool ever developed for strength training. PowerBlocks work intuitively. Rather than requiring you to buy a room full of dumbbells, PowerBlocks act just like a weight stack at the gym, with a handle that fits inside the first weight, which fits inside the second, which fits inside the third, etc. When you want to change weights, you simply move the weight selector pin into the appropriate slot and you're set. As you lift the core, all the weights above the selector pin are lifted at the same time, turning your 5-pound dumbbell into a 10-pound dumbbell, or your 10-pound dumbbell into a 20-pound dumbbell. Not only is the system remarkably easy to use, but it's also cost- and space-efficient, as a single pair of dumbbells can do the work of dozens.

This Elite 90 set adjusts from 5 to 90 pounds in 5-pound increments, in effect doing the job of 28 pairs of traditional dumbbells. In essence, you'll be storing 2,565 pounds of free weights while taking up the space of just one dumbbell air (each 90-pound dumbbell is only 16 inches in length). And if that's not enough for your workouts, you can expand the set to 130 pounds per hand using the 8-11 Elite Big Block kit. Boasting black powder-coated weight plates in a traditional square shape, the free weights are ideal whether you're trying to build muscle mass, firm and tone your physique, or get rid of unwanted body fat. The Elite 90 dumbbells measure 16 by 6 by 6 inches (W x H x D) each and carry a 10-year limited warranty.

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