How To Adjust Bowflex Adjustable Dumbbells

If you own a set of Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, knowing how to adjust Bowflex adjustable dumbbells is the first step to a great workout. This simple step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can change weights quickly, safely, and correctly every single time.

These dumbbells are fantastic for saving space and money, but the dial mechanism can be confusing at first. Don’t worry. By the end of this guide, you’ll be adjusting them like a pro, ready to focus on your lifts instead of fumbling with the equipment.

This is the core process for all Bowflex SelectTech-style dumbbells. The models (like the 552, 1090, or the newer Blaze) all operate on the same fundamental principle. Always perform these steps on a flat, stable surface.

Step-by-Step Adjustment Instructions

Place the Dumbbell on a Flat Surface. Always adjust your dumbbells while they are sitting securely on the floor, a bench, or their included stand. Never try to change the weight while holding them in the air.
Identify the Weight Dial. Locate the rotary dial on each end of the dumbbell. These dials are usally marked with weight numbers or indicators.
Turn the Dial to Your Desired Weight. Rotate the dial clockwise or counterclockwise until your chosen weight number lines up with the selector indicator (often a triangle or arrow) on the dumbbell’s handle. Ensure both ends are set to the same weight.
Lift the Dumbbell Vertically. This is the most crucial step. Firmly grasp the handle and lift the dumbbell straight up. You will hear and feel a solid “click” or “clunk” as the internal locking pins engage with the weight plates.
Confirm the Lock. Before starting your exercise, give the dumbbell a slight, careful shake. You should not hear any rattling or loose plates. The weight should feel completely secure and as one solid unit.

To change the weight, simply reverse the process. Place the dumbbell back down on the flat surface, turn the dials to the new weight, and lift vertically again to re-lock. It’s that straightforward.

Essential Safety Tips & Best Practices

Following these rules will protect your equipment and, more importantly, keep you safe from injury.

Always Adjust on a Flat Surface: This prevents the dumbbell from tipping and ensures the internal mechanism aligns correctly. An uneven surface can cause misalignment.
Lift Straight Up and Down: The locking pins must engage vertically. If you lift at an angle, you risk damaging the pins or having plates not fully secure, which is a major safety hazard.
Check Both Dials: Before every lift, visually confirm that both ends are set to the identical weight setting. A mismatch can case the dumbbell to be unbalanced.
Listen for the Click: That audible confirmation is your signal that the dumbbell is locked. If you don’t hear it, set it down and try lifting vertically again.
Use the Stand (If You Have One): The official Bowflex stand makes the adjustment process easier and protects your floors. It’s a worthwhile investment for regular users.
Never Drop Them: While durable, these are precision instruments with plastic components. Dropping them can crack the casing or misalign the internal mechanism.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper care, you might encounter a small problem. Here’s how to fix the most frequent ones.

Dumbbell Won’t Lock or Feels Loose

Cause: Most often, this happens if you didn’t lift perfectly vertically or if the dumbbell was on a slightly uneven surface during adjustment.
Fix: Set the dumbbell down firmly on a confirmed flat, hard surface. Reseat the dials by turning them slightly past your weight and then back to the correct number. Then, lift straight up with a firm grip.

Weight Plates Are Stuck or Won’t Release

Cause: This can occur if the dumbbell was set down too hard while locked, or if a small piece of debris is obstructing the mechanism.
Fix: First, try turning the dial to a higher weight setting and lifting it. Then set it down and return to your desired weight. If that fails, inspect the weight plates and the area around the dial for any obvious obstructions like sand or pebbles.

Dial is Hard to Turn or Feels Grindy

Cause: Dirt, dust, or lack of lubrication can get into the dial mechanism over time.
Fix: Use a can of compressed air to blow out any debris from around the dial. For persistent stiffness, a very small amount of silicone-based lubricant (not oil or WD-40) applied sparingly around the dial base can help. Always consult your manual first.

Maintenance for Longevity

Taking just a few minutes every couple of months for maintenance can extend the life of your dumbbells for years. A little care goes a long way.

Keep Them Clean: Wipe down the handles and casing with a dry or slightly damp cloth after use to remove sweat and dust. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Store Properly: Use the stand or place them on a clean, dry floor. Avoid damp areas like basements with high humidity, which can promote corrosion on internal metal parts.
Regular Visual Inspection: Periodically check for any cracks in the plastic housing, especially near the dials or handle connections. Listen for any unusual sounds when locking or unlocking.
Avoid Overloading: While tempting, never try to modify or add extra weight to these dumbbells. They are engineered for specific weight increments and exceeding them can lead to catastrophic failure.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Q: Can I adjust the dumbbell in the air between sets?
A: No. You must always place the dumbbell on a stable, flat surface to change the weight. Adjusting it in your hand is unsafe and can damage the mechanism.

Q: Why do my Bowflex weights rattle sometimes?
A: A slight sound is normal due to the internal plates. However, a loud rattle or shake usually means the dumbbell isn’t fully locked. Set it down and repeat the vertical lift to ensure a proper lock.

Q: Are all Bowflex dumbbell adjustment the same?
A: The core dial-and-lift system is consistent across the classic SelectTech models. The newer Bowflex Blaze model might have slightly different dial aesthetics, but the operation steps are fundamentally identical.

Q: What do I do if a pin seems broken?
A: If a locking pin is visibly damaged or the dumbbell consistently fails to lock on one side, stop using it immediately. Contact Bowflex customer support for troubleshooting and potential parts replacement. Using a damaged dumbbell is very risky.

Q: How heavy can I go with adjustible dumbbells?
A: It depends on your specific model. Common tops ends are 52.5lbs, 90lbs, or even 109lbs per dumbbell. Always check your model’s manual for its maximum weight capacity and never exceed it.

Making the Most of Your Equipment

Now that you know exactly how to adjust Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, you can streamline your home workouts. The ability to quickly change from a heavy chest press to a light lateral raise is the superpower of this equipment.

Remember, consistency in your technique—both in adjusting and lifting—is key. Taking those extra seconds to ensure a proper lock is non-negotiable for safety. With this guide, you have the knowledge to use your Bowflex dumbbells effectively, safely, and for many productive years to come. Proper care and operation means you can focus solely on hitting your fitness goals.