How to choose a POWERBLOCK
POWERBLOCK is the pioneer of adjustable dumbbells. Boasting exceptional operability and unparalleled durability, it is the pinnacle and origin of high-performance dumbbells.
More than 30 years have passed since the release of POWERBLOCK, and there are now a wide variety of models available.
In this article, we will organize the features of each POWERBLOCK model and explain how to choose one.
1. What is POWERBLOCK?
POWERBLOCK is an adjustable dumbbell that allows you to instantly change the weight by inserting or removing a pin.
Nowadays, adjustable dumbbells are everywhere around the world, but Power Block is the creator of adjustable dumbbells and is a world-famous brand known as a pioneer, enjoying immense popularity.
The greatest feature of the Power Block is that you can instantly change the weight by inserting or removing a pin, and you can complete the equivalent of dozens of dumbbells with just one unit.
2. Comparison table
(Click to enlarge)
(Click to enlarge)
3. Recommended models by model case and needs
We will introduce how to choose, such as "This model is recommended for this type of person."
①Intermediate to advanced level: People who want to handle heavy weights!
→ Commercial PRO 125
For advanced trainees who want to pursue heavy dumbbell training, we recommend the Power Block Commercial PRO125, a professional-grade, top-of-the-line model with a maximum weight of 57 kg.
It boasts an astonishing maximum weight of 57kg for an adjustable dumbbell, allowing you to train with heavy weights in exercises where the weight of a typical adjustable dumbbell is not enough, such as the dumbbell press, one-handed row, and deadlift.
It can easily accommodate competitive bodybuilders, powerlifters, and top athletes from various sports.
②Beginners to advanced users: Those who want a certain amount of weight while also prioritizing cost.
→ PRO 100 EXP・Elite EXP 90
This is the most popular and best-selling power block model. With a maximum weight of 40.8kg or 46kg, it is heavy enough and has a wide range of weight adjustment, making it a very versatile model at a reasonable price.
This versatile model is suitable for beginners as they can accommodate future weight gain and growth, and has a maximum weight capacity that is sufficient for advanced users, making it suitable for all training levels.
If you're unsure which model is best for you, you can't go wrong by choosing from these two models.
How to choose between these two models:
・If maximum weight is important to you, we recommend the PRO100 EXP.
・If cost is a concern...Elite EXP 90 is recommended.
③Beginner to intermediate level: People who have just started training
→ PRO50・Elite EXP 50 (expanded to 90 in the future)
For those just starting out or beginners, we recommend the PRO50 and Elite EXP50 models. They are just the right weight and cost-effective, making them an easy first-time user experience.
We recommend choosing a bike based on your current training level and future training goals, taking the following points into consideration:
- People who have just started training and don't plan on lifting heavy weights in the future
→PRO 50 is recommended.
- People who have just started training but want to improve and increase the weight they lift!
→We recommend starting with Elite 50 and expanding to 90 depending on growth and weight gain.
4. For rehabilitation purposes and to overcome lack of daily exercise! A model that is easy to use for women and the elderly
→ SP24・PRO50
These two models are recommended for use as a home gym, not as a full-fledged gym, but as a way to get more exercise and to rehabilitate from injuries. They are also easy to use for women and the elderly.
The SP24 in particular is extremely compact and easy to handle, and the grip is 32mm, which is a size thinner than other models, making it easy to use even for people with small hands.
It's also a good idea to have a pair as an alternative to a set of smaller dumbbells weighing 1 to 10 kg.
This model is surprisingly useful not only for home gyms, but also for personal gyms, hospitals, schools, and other facilities.
⑤ Highly durable models for sports teams, clubs, and facility use
→ Commercial PRO 125・Commercial PRO 100
For those who are considering using the equipment in situations such as sports teams, club activities, or school training facilities, we recommend the two commercial models.
Power Blocks are extremely durable due to their simple structure, and can withstand harsh environments with a large number of users. They have been adopted by many large facilities, including professional sports teams, commercial gyms, and universities.
If you were to purchase fixed commercial dumbbells ranging from 1 to 50 kg, it would require a lot of money and space, but commercial power blocks can significantly reduce costs and space.
PowerBlock is not just for home gyms. It is used by many professional sports teams, universities, and large gyms around the world, and we can confidently recommend it to managers and operators of training facilities.
4. Check the maximum weight
What training exercises and usage methods do you prioritize?
First, decide what type of training you want to do and how you want to use them. There are many different types of dumbbell training. The weight you use will vary greatly depending on the type of training.
For example, while the typical dumbbell press has a limit of 30 kg, it is not uncommon to be able to easily handle over 40 kg in the dumbbell one-hand rowing exercise.
When choosing a model, consider the training you want to focus on and the maximum weight required for that training.
● Organize how much weight you want to handle in the future
The basic principle of training is "progressive overload," meaning that the load (i.e. weight) must be increased little by little.
With that in mind, instead of just thinking about your current training level and the weight you can currently handle, try to organize your future weight goals and your own potential for growth.
For example, even if your current dumbbell press weight limit is 20kg, rather than thinking based on the current 20kg, it is extremely important to think about how much weight you would like to be able to train with in the future.
●Don't forget to check the weight increase
While the maximum weight is important, what is surprisingly often forgotten is the weight increase. It is also very important to check the weight increase (adjustment range) of each model.
For example, if you choose the Commercial PRO 125 in pursuit of maximum weight, you will end up with a weight adjustment range of 3.4-4.5kg, which doesn't allow for precise adjustment. While this isn't a problem for compound exercises like dumbbell presses and deadlifts, it can be inconvenient for exercises that target smaller muscles, such as dumbbell curls, as you won't be able to adjust the weight precisely.
Don't forget to check the balance between maximum weight and weight increase.
5. Check the surface finish
There are currently two types of surface finishes (coatings) available for power blocks.
There are two types: a urethane model that is durable and quiet, and a painted (iron) model that offers excellent cost performance.
Urethane
Urethane coating offers the following benefits:
・Durability
The urethane coating makes it resistant to rust and to wear and chipping of the metal due to impact, making it more durable than models made of bare iron.
・Quiet
The coating eliminates the sound of metal coming into contact with other metals, making it extremely quiet. Recommended for home gyms where noise is a concern.
- Reduced damage to walls and floors
This reduces damage caused by contact with walls or floors during training.
●Paint (iron)
Uncoated steel models do not have the benefits of urethane coating as mentioned above, but they do have the major advantage of being less expensive.
If cost is a priority or you don't need to worry too much about quietness or impact resistance, the painted (iron) model is a very attractive option.
