It’s Settled! Verdict In: Bowflex vs Ativafit Dumbbell Review

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Bowflex vs Ativafit Dumbbell Review

Whether you’re on the brink of buying the Ativafit dumbbells or just heard about them and are keen to learn more, you’ve come to the right place.

In this Ativafit dumbbell review, you & I are going to delve into the nitty-gritty details of what these dumbbells bring to your workout routine, and how they stack up against a very popular alternative – those classic Bowflex adjustable dumbbells.

So let’s get right into it, shall we?

Welcome to the world of adjustable dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells are the new normal in home workouts, offering an incredible mix of flexibility and space-saving design. They’ve truly revolutionized fitness, making it easy to switch between weights and exercises without cluttering your home.

 

A quick look at Ativafit adjustable dumbbells

Ativafit’s adjustable dumbbells are quite the sight. They have a modern efficient look, are compact, and they give off that ‘serious workout gear’ vibe. But it’s not just about looks, is it? No, these dumbbells come with a pretty handy weight range from 11 – 66 lb. that can be adjusted quickly and easily.

Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned weightlifter, they’ve got you covered.

 

The beauty of interlocking adjustable dumbbells

One standout feature of adjustable dumbbells is their interlocking design. Say goodbye to fumbling around with weight plates and say hello to a faster, smoother transition between weights.

This means less downtime between sets and more focus on your workout. Plus, they’re a real space saver.

No need for a rack full of weights when one pair of dumbbells does the trick to provide you with a boatload of goodies for your life.

Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell

The benefits of adjustable dumbbells

One of the most appealing aspects of adjustable dumbbells like those offered by Ativafit and Bowflex is the freedom they provide.

With these versatile tools, you can perform a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups, effectively facilitating a full-body workout right at home. This convenience encourages consistency, which is key to reaping the benefits of strength training.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine (& millions of other people), regular strength training improves cardiovascular health, boosts metabolism, and enhances mental health.

Another study from Harvard Medical School has shown that weightlifting plays a crucial role in preventing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis.

Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned pro, having a set of adjustable dumbbells at your disposal makes it easier to prioritize your health and wellness.

 

The purpose of this Ativafit dumbbell review

My goal with this article is to give you the lowdown on what they’re all about, so I’ll go over their features, discuss their pros and cons, and see how they stack up against another popular choice – the Bowflex 552 adjustable dumbbells.

That way, you’ll have all the information you need to decide if they’re the right fit for your home gym.

A detailed inspection of Ativafit adjustable dumbbells

Right, let’s dive deeper. I’m about to share my notes from when I scrutinized a pair of Ativafit’s DT1166 dumbbells from all angles at a used fitness equipment store recently. I’ll go over their build quality, weight range, and a bunch of smaller details too.

Here’s what I discovered.

 

The anatomy of an Ativafit dumbbell

The Ativafit adjustable dumbbells have a unique design that’s a far cry from traditional dumbbells. They have a clean, contemporary look with a black and red finish. The weight plates lock together and fit into a compact cradle. This design allows you to adjust the weight to suit your needs without needing multiple sets of dumbbells.

 

How much can they lift?

When it comes to weight range, this Ativafit dumbbell offers a nice variety, switching from a light 11 pounds all the way up to a pretty hefty (for most people) 66 pounds.

This broad range can accommodate a multitude of workouts, from light toning exercises to heavier strength training routines.

 

A closer look at the design

The Ativafit adjustable dumbbells have a clean ergonomic design overall.

It’s important to note that while the design may be visually appealing, it may not necessarily translate to a comfortable grip, at least in my opinion. The grip cushioning on the handles is thinner than other adjustable dumbbells, and the handles themselves seem on the small side too, which could make them uncomfortable for users with larger hands.

 

Comfort and grip matters

The grip on the Ativafit dumbbells is textured, aimed to prevent slipping during workouts.

However, as I said I think the grip’s small diameter could be a problem. People with bigger hands may find it hard to hold onto comfortably, which might affect their workout.

 

How does the plate addition system work?

Ativafit’s adjustable dumbbells use a simple dial system for weight adjustment. The dial is located on the end of the dumbbell, and turning it adjusts the weight by adding or removing plates.

It’s a convenient feature that saves you from manually changing plates, but it’s not without its issues.

Some users have reported that the dial can be hard to turn, especially when the dumbbells are on the cradle. The pair I tried out weren’t close to new by any means, so I don’t know if the little bit of clunkiness I dealt with was from prior use or from a manufacturing or design flaw.

Either way it was just a small minor annoyance, but one worth mentioning to you.

 

The weight-changing mechanism

One of the biggest selling points of the Ativafit adjustable dumbbells is the ease of changing weights. The quick-change mechanism lets you adjust the weight in seconds, making it a breeze to switch between exercises.

That said, it’s not flawless in my experience, and I’ve read the same from others as well. Users have reported difficulties in re-racking the weights in the cradle after adjusting, which I’d bet is a bit frustrating, especially during fast-paced workouts.

I had a store clerk hanging around me so I couldn’t go buck-wild with the dumbbells. A slow, controlled re-rack on my part was smooth with no problems, mainly because I spent the extra time to make sure my plates were all perfectly aligned, and I took the time to carefully put the dumbbells back into their cradles.

The second time I re-racked them they didn’t lock in right away, and I had to tinker with it for a few seconds.

This time I was faster in my process: gave them a look-over —plates look good — then set them down gently, but not as slowly or meticulously as the first time. Bowflex’s patented SelectTech design has no re-racking trouble like this by the way.

I think this Ativafit design issue could be a drawback that makes someone hesitate to buy , especially considering that Ativafit is pricing their dumbbells in the same range as higher-quality adjustable dumbbells from PowerBlock, Bowflex, & Hammer Strength.

 

Pros & Cons of Ativafit dumbbells

Pros:

Versatility: The Ativafit DT1166 is highly adjustable and comes with a weight range of 11 to 66 lb. per dumbbell. This makes them adaptable to various exercises, whether you’re working on toning, strength, or muscle building.

Durability: The Ativafit DT1166 comes at a price point comparable to higher-end models, and it offers a decent level of construction and build. The plastic molding around the weights protects them from damage and reduces noise during typical at-home workouts. But don’t ever drop them like some people at a gym do with traditional dumbbells or they’ll break.

Price: Given its flexible uses and decent sturdiness the price point is reasonable. Thanks mainly to Ativafit recently cutting the price of their dumbbells by a lot, the Ativafit DT1166 is currently a pretty good value for the money.

Cons:

Design and Size: The size of the Ativafit DT1166 is similar to other “Bowflex copycat” adjustable dumbbells and is fine for the most part. They may feel a bit awkward for people used to the size of a regular 10 or 15 lb. weight the first time they use them. On certain exercises like skull crushers for instance, the bulkiness may require tiny adjustments to your usual form.

Weight Adjustment: While it’s a feature of all adjustable dumbbells, the process of changing weights on the Ativafit DT1166 isn’t as smooth as I get from the Bowflex SelectTech weight-changing mechanism. And if you’re going quickly between sets, this might be frustrating if you’re trying to maintain a rapid pace during your workout.

Aesthetic: While this is a minor point, some may find the look of the Ativafit less appealing than other brands. It’s less sleek and polished-looking than rival Bowflex for sure, in my eyes anyway.

Ativafit versus the competition

When you’re shopping for adjustable dumbbells, it’s essential to see the whole picture. How does Ativafit fare against other brands?

In terms of essential functionality, Ativafit holds its own. However certain competitors like Bowflex offer a more streamlined weight-changing system and a more ergonomic design. These features can make a significant difference in your workout experience, depending on your preferences.

As for the price, Ativafit has recently adjusted their pricing strategy, bringing them more in line with competitors like Bowflex. Smart move. For years I thought they were way overcharging people considering the quality of their dumbbell.

While Bowflex might be seen as a more premium brand, they’re actually priced in the same neighborhood these days. So if you’re deciding between the two, it may be worth considering the enhanced features, better warranty, & customer support level Bowflex offers.

 

Is Ativafit worth your hard-earned cash?

Choosing the right adjustable dumbbells is a thoughtful process. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

  1. Weight Range: The Ativafit DT1166 offers a broad range from 11 to 66 lb. Make sure this matches your workout needs. If your exercises require heavier weights, take a look at the excellent Bowflex 1090s. They go up to 90 lb. per dumbbell.
  2. Ease of Use: Think about the ease of changing weights and the comfort of the grip. If these are high on your priority list, you might want to consider other options.
  3. Budget: Finally, consider your budget. The Ativafit DT1166 is a decent value, especially with the recent price drop. However, you might want to look at brands like Bowflex that offer additional weight

In conclusion, Ativafit DT1166 Adjustable Dumbbells are a solid choice if you’re after a decently-built adjustable dumbbell system. They’re pretty durable, adaptable to all dumbbell exercises, and can get the job done.

But if you’re looking for a bit more quality & desire a smoother, more premium experience for around the same price, there are other adjustable dumbbells out there.

 

Is Ativafit right for you?

Ativafit adjustable dumbbells could be a perfect match for you if:

  • You’re new to strength training and looking for a versatile, easy-to-use set of weights to get started.
  • You have limited space for your home gym and need a compact, all-in-one weight solution.
  • You appreciate a straightforward design and don’t mind taking a bit of time to adjust weight increments.
  • You don’t mind that it might have a few minor design quirks & doesn’t look as impressive as its competitors like Bowflex.

It might be better to look beyond Ativafit adjustable dumbbells if:

  • You’re a more experienced lifter looking for a heavier weight range or a better built adjustable dumbbell.
  • Premium design, functionality, & aesthetics are important to your home gym setup.
  • You desire a comprehensive customer service experience and extended warranty options.
  • You want the smoothest & easiest possible weight transitions between sets.

These points should provide a clearer idea of whether these Ativafit 1166 dumbbells align with your workout needs and preferences.

 

A comparison you’ve been waiting for: Ativafit vs. Bowflex

At this point, you might be wondering how Ativafit stands up against one of the industry’s big names, Bowflex, so let’s dive into an enhanced comparison.

By the way — and in case you didn’t know — Bowflex is the original manufacturer of the modern adjustable dumbbell; their patent is nearly 20 years old.

Ativafit and all the knockoff models you see on Amazon are basically just trying to copy the classic Bowflex SelectTech design. Here’s a look at the Bowflex 552, followed by the Ativafit adjustable dumbbell:

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells trans

The Bowflex 552

 

Ativafit adjustable dumbbell - Ativafit Dumbbell Review image

The Ativafit DT1166

 

Below are my notes & opinions based on my hands-on test drive of the lightly-used Ativafit DT1166 dumbbells & my decade+ close familiarity with the Bowflex line of adjustable dumbbells.

Design:

They’re similar, as most modern adjustable dumbbells are, though Bowflex has a slightly more streamlined design. The Bowflex dumbbells are also better-looking, and I think the Ativafit design is somewhat drab by comparison.

A bigger quibble for me is the difference between Ativafit & Bowflex dumbbells when it comes time to re-rack a dumbbell, whether you’re putting it down for the day or you’re just racking it between sets so you can change its weight.

Bowflex offers an easier & faster experience than Aitiafit does when it comes time to put your dumbbells in their cradles.

The Ativafit cradle requires you to be more precise when placing their dumbbell in its cradle, so there could easily be a second or two of extra fussing if you don’t get it spot-on the first time.

Another item to point out is that the Ativafit grips on the handles aren’t made as well, and they don’t feel as good in hand as the grips on the Bowlex 552s (or their 1090s for that matter). It looks & feels like the issue is that the Ativafit dumbbells don’t have the same thickness of padding Bowflex does.

I think if you do any floor exercises using dumbbells to grip instead of putting your palms on the floor, that might get your attention. I’m a big fan of the Push Up Plus, and good dumbbell grip padding comes in handy when you’re supporting your weight in the push up position for more than 30 seconds.

 

Ease of Use:

Both brands offer adjustable weights, but Bowflex takes the lead with its smoother, quicker weight adjustment system.

Price:

Once a clear distinction, the price gap between Ativafit and Bowflex has narrowed considerably due to Ativafit’s recent price adjustment. This change makes Ativafit a competitive choice in terms of cost, if not in quality.

Warranty and Customer Service:

Both Ativafit and Bowflex offer two-year warranties. However, Bowflex goes the extra mile with a 6-week money back guarantee & options to extend your warranty. More on that in a bit.

In terms of customer care, Bowflex comes out on top with live, knowledgeable support. Ativafit, predominantly sold on Amazon, has a less personal & more cumbersome customer service process.

Interactive App:

Only Bowflex offers the JRNY App, which provides interactive workouts, music, and more, specifically designed for use with their adjustable dumbbells. It’s a bonus feature that adds substantial value to the Bowflex brand. More on this perk in a sec.

Bowflex vs Ativafit comparison summary

In the end, the choice between Ativafit and Bowflex comes down to personal preference and priorities.

If a refined design, better build quality, quick weight change system, robust customer service, better warranty protection, & an interactive workout app are high on your list, Bowflex may be worth your consideration.

Check Out Ativafit        Check Out Bowflex

 

What you need to know about warranties & customer service

If we’re honest, we hope to never have to use a warranty but it’s good to know it’s there if needed. As mentioned earlier, both Ativafit and Bowflex offer a 2-year warranty on their adjustable dumbbells.

Ativafit sells way more dumbbells on Amazon than on their own site, and dealing with Amazon sometimes involves a non-human & somewhat clunky process. Not something you want if trouble with your dumbbells strikes & you want a solution right away.

Amazon won’t help you with any dumbbell technical issues, but they will give you several screens to work your way through on your way to submitting a support ticket.

Keep that in mind if you decide to buy your dumbbells on Amazon.

On the other hand, Bowflex offers a live, experienced support team who knows their products inside & out. They’re ready to assist you and are just a phone call to Washington state away (800-618-8853).

They’ve been in business for many years now, and are as popular as they are thanks in part to their awesome customer service crew.

With your purchase, Bowflex provides you with a 6-week “try it out” full money back guarantee, something you don’t often see in the industry. Plus they offer the chance to extend your warranty to 3 years for just $29 or even out to 5 years for $59.

 

Bowflex bonus: add a digital trainer to your workout with the JRNY App

Now let’s talk about a unique feature offered by Bowflex – the JRNY App. With the purchase of Bowflex adjustable dumbbells, you get two months free access to this interactive workout program.

The app uses your phone’s or tablet’s camera to track your reps and form in real-time, creating an immersive fitness experience. In addition, it offers an ever-growing library of whole-body workout content, including strength, Pilates, yoga, and more.

It’s like having a personal trainer and a fitness class at your fingertips. After your free two-month trial, it’s only $11.99 per month to continue.

 

 

Adjustable dumbbell FAQ

Here are answers to several of the more common questions asked about adjustable dumbbells.

What caused the increase in demand for dumbbells?

The recent surge in demand (& prices) for dumbbells is primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced gym-goers to work out at home & caused supply chain disruption of home gym equipment.

Why is working out from home more popular now?

Working out from home has gained popularity due to the convenience it offers. It saves on gym membership fees & commuting time, and allows for flexible workout schedules that can easily fit daily routines.

How do adjustable dumbbells differ from fixed ones?

Adjustable dumbbells differ from fixed ones in their ability to change weights. You can quickly adjust the weight to your desired level using the same pair of dumbbells & no need for multiple sets.

What are the advantages of adjustable dumbbells over traditional weights?

Adjustable dumbbells offer several advantages over traditional weights especially for at-home workouts. They need very little space to use & you only need to buy one pair, saving you space & money.

Are adjustable dumbbells cost-effective?

Adjustable dumbbells save you money. They offer the benefit of multiple weight options in a single set, reducing the need to invest in several fixed-weight dumbbells, a barbell, & free weight plates.

Can adjustable dumbbells save space in a home gym?

Adjustable dumbbells are a space-saving solution for a home gym. They have a very small footprint & eliminate the need for multiple dumbbell sets & other pieces of free weight equipment.

What weight options are available with AtivaFit dumbbells?

AtivaFit dumbbells come in a variety of weight options. Currently they have 5 sizes that go from a single dumbbell max weight of 27 lb. up to 71 lb. The starting single dumbbell weight goes as low as 5 lb.

How easy is it to adjust the weight of AtivaFit dumbbells?

Adjusting the weight on AtivaFit dumbbells is pretty easy, though it can get a little stuck rarely. You simply turn the dial to your preferred weight, and the dumbbell automatically locks in the selected plates.

Are AtivaFit dumbbells priced competitively?

AtivaFit dumbbells are priced in the same general range as the top brands in the adjustable dumbbell category. This is a little surprising because their dumbbells aren't built as well as those.

 

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Bowflex vs Ativafit Dumbbell Review

 

The final word: are Ativafit dumbbells the right choice for you?

Making a purchase decision isn’t always easy, especially when you’re investing in something as pivotal to your fitness journey as adjustable dumbbells.

There’s a lot to consider, from the design and versatility of the dumbbells to the price and the company’s customer service.

In the world of adjustable dumbbells, both Ativafit and Bowflex have carved out their niches. Ativafit offers a simpler design, catering to those who appreciate straightforward functionality.

However, if you value sophisticated design, seamless weight transition, superior customer support, and engaging workout app experiences, Bowflex has all of that and more.

Furthermore, with its superior build quality and durability, Bowflex dumbbells outperform Ativafit over the long haul.

And the kicker? Bowflex does all of this at a price point that surprisingly has been about the same as (or less than) Ativafit’s for years now.

This makes Bowflex adjustable dumbbells a value-for-money investment that’s hard to ignore.

But in the end it’s about finding the right fit for you and your unique fitness goals. I hope that this Ativafit Dumbbell Review article is useful for you, & I wish you well on your fitness journey.

Happy lifting!

– greg

About The Author

heydayDo author Greg Simon

Hi, I’m Gregory Simon. Fitness training & nutrition researching since 1982. ISSN (International Society of Sports Nutrition) Pro Member. MBA, B.Sc.

Author. Surfer. Organic food grower. Congenital heart disease survivor (so far).

heydayDo.com is my wellness blog that’s about encouraging a healthy lifestyle as we age. 

I share my fitness training experience as well as the sports science research I’ve done on the many benefits strength building, exercise, & good eating habits offer us. 

I also write review articles after product testing and evaluating home gym equipment & fitness supplements.

My hope is that you’ll find useful or encouraging information here on my website that will benefit your unique fitness journey.

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