If you’re looking to build a home gym, you’ve probably considered Bowflex dumbbells. They’re a fantastic space-saving solution, but their price tag can make you wonder, do Bowflex dumbbells go on sale? Knowing the best time to buy can save you a significant amount of money, letting you invest in other gear.
This guide breaks down the sales cycles, retailer strategies, and insider tips to help you snag a pair for less. We’ll cover everything from annual events to price tracking tools so you can make a smart, informed purchase.
Do Bowflex Dumbbells Go On Sale
Yes, Bowflex dumbbells do go on sale, but not with the frequent discounts you might see on clothing or electronics. Their sales are more strategic and seasonal. Because they are a premium, durable product with high demand, retailers use sales to clear inventory or drive traffic during specific shopping periods.
You won’t see deep discounts every week, but if you’re patient and time your purchase right, you can typically save between 15% and 30% off the retail price. Sometimes, bundled deals that include a workout bench or other accessories offer even greater value.
Understanding the Bowflex Sales Calendar
The key to finding a deal is knowing when retailers are most likely to discount fitness equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the best times throughout the year.
New Year’s Resolution Period (January – February). This is arguably the peak season for fitness sales. Retailers capitalize on everyone’s post-holiday motivation. You’ll find widespread discounts, but also high competition and potential stock shortages. It’s a great time for a deal if you act fast.
Black Friday and Cyber Week (November). This is consistently one of the best times to buy Bowflex dumbbells. Major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from Bowflex.com offer substantial doorbusters and week-long deals. Discounts often include free shipping or bundle offers.
Amazon Prime Day (Usually July). While not guaranteed every year, Amazon frequently includes Bowflex SelectTech dumbbells in their Prime Day sales. Prices can rival Black Friday deals. It’s wise to check other retailers during this time too, as they often run competing sales.
Memorial Day & Fourth of July (May & July). These summer holidays often feature “home fitness” sales events. While not as massive as Black Friday, you can still find solid discounts of 10-20% at department stores and sporting goods retailers.
End of Financial Quarters (March, June, September, December). Retailers often discount slower-moving inventory at quarter-ends to meet sales targets. This is a bit of a hidden gem and requires more active price watching, but can yield surprise discounts.
Where to Find Bowflex Dumbbell Sales
Knowing when to look is half the battle; knowing where to look is the other half. Here are the primary retailers to monitor.
Bowflex Official Website (Bowflex.com). Buying direct often gives you access to their full range, refurbished models, and exclusive bundle deals. Their sales are usually aligned with the major holidays mentioned above. Signing up for their email list often nets you an immediate coupon.
Amazon. A major retailer for Bowflex, Amazon’s prices fluctuate frequently. They honor all major sale events and sometimes have warehouse deals on open-box items. Their easy return policy is a big plus.
Best Buy. Surprisingly, Best Buy has become a strong player in home fitness. They offer in-store pickup and frequently run sales that include free shipping or gift cards with purchase.
Dick’s Sporting Goods / Academy Sports. These stores run seasonal fitness sales, especially around New Year’s and major holidays. They sometimes have exclusive bundle packages that aren’t available elsewhere.
Walmart and Target. While less consistent, both big-box retailers occasionally discount Bowflex dumbbells during store-wide clearance events or online specials. It’s worth a quick check.
Pro Tips for Getting the Lowest Price
Beyond just waiting for a sale, use these actionable strategies to ensure you get the best possible deal.
Set Up Price Alerts. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel (for Amazon) or the Honey browser extension to track price history and set alerts. This way, you’ll know immediately when the price drops.
Consider Certified Refurbished Models. Bowflex often sells refurbished dumbbells directly on their site and through Amazon. These are units that have been inspected and repaired to like-new condition, often coming with a warranty at a fraction of the cost.
Look for Open-Box or Warehouse Deals. Retailers like Amazon Warehouse, Best Buy Open-Box, and eBay (from reputable sellers) offer significant discounts on items that were returned, often just because the box was damaged.
Check for Military, Student, or First Responder Discounts. Some retailers offer year-round discounts for these groups. It never hurts to ask or look for a verification portal on their website.
Don’t Forget About Shipping Costs. A “sale” price with expensive shipping might be worse than a slightly higher price with free shipping. Always calculate the final total cost. Some retailers, like Bowflex.com, often offer free shipping during sales events.
What to Avoid When Buying on Sale
The excitement of a sale can sometimes lead to rushed decisions. Keep these cautions in mind.
Avoid Unknown Third-Party Sellers. Stick to authorized retailers or highly-rated marketplaces. Counterfeit or damaged equipment is a risk with unofficial sellers, and warranty support may be void.
Beware of “Too Good to Be True” Prices. If a price is drastically lower than every other retailer, it’s likely a scam, a used item mislabeled as new, or a counterfeit product.
Check the Return Policy. Sale items sometimes have different return windows or restocking fees. Know the policy before you buy, incase the dumbbells aren’t right for you.
Are Bowflex Dumbbells Worth It?
This is a common question, especially when considering the investment. Here’s a quick breakdown of the value proposition.
Space Efficiency. They replace an entire rack of dumbbells, which is a huge advantage for home gyms with limited space.
Convenience and Speed. Changing weight with a dial is much faster than swapping multiple dumbbells, keeping your workouts efficient.
Build Quality and Warranty. They are generally built to last and come with a good warranty, which justifys the higher upfront cost compared to some cheaper adjustable models.
Potential Drawbacks. The primary drawback is the price. Also, the dumbbells have a specific shape that some users find awkward for certain exercises like goblet squats.
Making Your Final Purchase Decision
Once you’ve found a sale and are ready to buy, take these final steps.
Compare the Specific Model. Ensure you’re looking at the correct weight range (e.g., 552 vs. 1090) and version. Sometimes older models are discounted more heavily when a new version is about to be released.
Read Recent Reviews. Before purchasing, skim the most recent reviews on the retailer’s site to check for any emerging quality control issues.
Have a Spot Ready. Know where they’ll live in your home. They are heavy and bulky, so plan your space before they arrive to avoid hassle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How much can I expect to save on Bowflex dumbbells during a sale?
A: Typical savings range from 15% to 30%. During major events like Black Friday, discounts can sometimes reach up to $150 off the retail price.
Q: Is it better to buy Bowflex dumbbells directly from Bowflex or from another retailer?
A: It depends. Bowflex.com has exclusive bundles and refurbished options. Retailers like Amazon may have faster shipping or easier returns. Compare the final price, shipping costs, and bundle contents.
Q: Do the older Bowflex SelectTech models go on sale more often?
A: Yes, when a newer model is announced or released, retailers will often discount the older version to clear inventory. These are usually perfectly good and offer great value.
Q: What is the best time of year to buy adjustable dumbbells?
A: The absolute best times are Black Friday/Cyber Monday and the New Year’s resolution period in January. Amazon Prime Day in summer is also a strong contender.
Q: Are there any good alternatives to Bowflex that go on sale more frequently?
A: Brands like NordicTrack, Core Home Fitness, and even some Amazon-specific brands have competitive models that may be discounted more often, but it’s crucial to compare build quality and warranty.
In conclusion, patience and timing are your greatest allies. By marking the major sale calendars, setting price alerts, and considering refurbished options, you can confidently answer “yes” to “do Bowflex dumbbells go on sale” and secure your set at a price that fits your budget. Now you have the knowledge to invest in your fitness journey without overpaying.