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Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Kettlebell. Offering a new level of versatility and utility, the Bowflex 840 is an adjustable kettlebell that allows you to go from 8lbs to 40lbs pounds seamlessly with a turn of a dial. Designed for those who value simplicity, this space saving kettlebell replaces up to 6 full-size kettlebells!
Does the Bowflex SelectTech 840 live up to the hype? In this in-depth review, I’ll share my experience with the SelectTech 840, tell you what I like, what I don’t like, and how it’s held up over the past 6 months.
The Bowflex SelectTech 840 Up Close
Bowflex has developed a reputation as being the go-to brand for quality at home workout equipment and the Bowflex 840 is no exception. Though its body style deviates slightly from the traditional kettlebell mold, I now consider it a must-have piece of workout equipment with caveats.
What I love about it:
- In use, it feels very solid and handles much the same way as a regular kettlebell
- Switching between weights is very quick and seamless with the adjustable dial
- Replaces multiple kettlebells and has a small footprint
- Using it never feels like a compromise to using the real thing
- The build quality inspires confidence in that there are no creaks or wobbles when swinging it around
Potential cons:
- The SelectTech 840 is made from a plastic ABS composite material and is thus more prone to cracking if not properly cared for
- The max weight is only 40lbs
- The handle design may seem a bit too narrow for two-handed use
Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Specs
| Weight: | 8-40 Pounds (3.5-18kg) |
| Dimensions: | 8.8″ L x 7″ W x 12.5″ H |
| Warranty: | 2 years |
| Extras: | Access to 24 trainer-led exercise videos |
Are Adjustable Kettlebells Worth It?
Let me tell you something, my home gym has everything I need and nothing more. It’s the perfect size, but because space is limited, every piece of equipment I own was carefully chosen. So was owning an entire rack of kettlebells a feasible option? Absolutely not. That’s why, for me, the Bowflex 840 was the perfect choice. The space savings alone makes it more than worth it.
Also, consider this: given the overall dimensions of the 840 are only 8.8″ L x 7″ W x 12.5″ H, in a 10×10 (100 ft2) room, that’s less than 1 ft2 of floor space! When having the maximum amount of space to move around is a priority, this adjustable kettlebell can be neatly tucked away in an instant.
For those new to kettlebell training, an adjustable kettlebell might be the best way to start out. Instead of the steep initial investment of buying numerous kettlebells, why not make a small investment into something that will yield the same results for a lot less money?
For comparative purposes, the SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell will set you back $150 dollars. If you were to buy six new kettlebells of comparable weight, that would cost you about $280!
Is 40lbs enough weight to be effective?
I tend to adhere to the “lower weight/higher rep” style of working out, so the 40 pound weight limitation is a non-issue. I’m a firm believer that better control and form will not only build muscle faster, but also prevent a lot of unwelcome injuries. For swings, lunges, squats, and carries, with the correct form, you will eventually fatigue yourself.
The Bowflex 840, as mentioned, has 6 weight adjustment settings that can be set at 8 pounds (3.5kg), 12 pounds (5.5kg), 20 pounds (9kg), 25 pounds (11kg), 35 pounds (16kg), or 40 pounds (18kg). For any sort of bodyweight or conditioning exercises, I don’t imagine you’ll need much more than that to get lasting benefits.
For you heavy gainers out there, you’ll either want to stay away from this one all together or at least make a plan to buy a couple heavier kettlebells to fill in the weight gaps. Consider yourself forewarned.
Quality and Construction
As a whole, I find the 840 to be extremely well put together. The seams are tight, the welds are precise, the outer shell is light yet durable, and the weights are held in the bottom without the slightest amount of vibration. I feel confident that with every swing I take, a weight isn’t going to fly off and bust a mirror.
Adjusting the weight by turning the dial on the upper portion of the bell housing is about as good as it gets. With each incremental turn, you’re rewarded with the most satisfying “click” you’ve ever experienced. It’s sure and undeniable. To date, the dial has held up nicely and hasn’t lost any of its initial bravado.
Now, I said there were caveats to buying the Bowflex 840 and in the construction is where you’ll find them.
However, because the casing is made of a hard plastic, you simply cannot throw it on the ground after an exhausting super set. In reality, that shouldn’t be an issue since recklessly tossing or dropping weight is frowned upon in most settings anyways.
From my own personal experience of ownership, after 6 months of moderate usage, my Bowflex 840 still looks new. I don’t necessarily baby it, but I’m always mindful of how I use it and I think that has made all the difference. Because no, if you’re worried it’s going to fall apart on you, it will not with extra precautions taken. Believe me, in the middle of an intense kettlebell session, the last thing I worry about is breaking this thing.
Warranty and Customer Service
The Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell is available for purchase from several online retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Amazon, for instance, but I recommend you buy it directly from Bowflex’s website.
The #1 reason being they have a 6-week money back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied for any reason. That’s more than enough time to run it through its paces and discover if you’ve made the right decision.
Second, buying directly from Bowflex makes it a lot easier for you to file any warranty claim that may arise within the 2-year warranty period. Sure it’s still possible to register your kettlebell if purchased elsewhere, but buying direct will streamline that process.
Third, Bowflex sells it for the same price as Amazon and offers free shipping too.
In my few encounters with their online customer service, I always found them to be helpful and friendly. Should you ever need anything, you can reach them through their online chat of by calling 1-800-618-8853.
Don’t just take my word for it
Yes, if you’re in the market for an adjustable kettlebell and you’re thinking about getting the Bowflex 840, you should get it.
But that’s not just me saying that. Currently, there are over 1300 reviews on the Bowflex website giving the 840 a 4.8/5 star rating. On Amazon there are nearly 5000 with the same 4.8/5 star rating. Impressive.
“I really love this adjustable kettlebell. It’s great for workouts when I cannot make it to the gym. I would recommend buying two so you can do more body weight exercises where you aren’t limited. Also great if your partner likes to do home workouts there no need the share now!”
-Jojo
Final Verdict of the Bowflex 840 Adjustable Kettlebell
There’s no question, your adjustable kettlebell options are many. From REP Fitness to Titan Fitness, it seems that every manufacturer of fitness equipment has gotten on the bandwagon. And that’s ok! I love options.
In my experience, the Bowflex 840 is the best adjustable kettlebell because it offers me everything I would want at a very reasonable price. Hypothetical build quality “cons” have been nonexistent to this point and not foreseeable in the near future. This kettlebell just works for every exercise I need it for and leaves me exhausted. It’s not perfect, but it’s the best for me at this point in time. At $150, it has been worth every last penny.
FAQ about the Bowflex 840
How different is an adjustable kettlebell versus a standard kettlebell?
Overall, I think the experience is very similar. Similar enough that I don't think it will throw you for a loop while you're working out. With the Bowflex 840, the handle is slightly thinner than most standard kettlebells which some people, depending on their hand size, might not approve of. However, the mechanics and technique both remain the same.
What Are Adjustable Kettlebells?
As the name implies, an adjustable kettlebell is designed to allow the addition or removal of specially designed plates to match your desired weight. Or in other words, it's an all-in-one solution to owning multiple standalone kettlebells. It's pretty darn convenient and easy to switch weights and it ultimately saves you a ton of floor space in your home gym or workout space.
Is the Bowflex 840 worth it?
I think based on the features and quality, the Bowflex 840 is priced right at $149. Worth is subjective however and you have to evaluate your own needs. If space isn't an issue and you're ok spending the extra money, buying individual kettlebells might be a better option for you.
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