If you are building a mini gym at home, then the Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell should be on your list. This is an adjustable kettlebell that is so versatile for many resistance training enthusiasts.
WHAT IS IN THE BOX
The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell comes in a big box, which does make sense given that the kettlebell itself is not small. In the box is one kettlebell with a pack of seven user manual in seven different languages. The kettlebell itself is well secure between two polystyrene foams that keep it in place and allows for safe shipping and transportation.
HOW IT WORKS
The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is very simple to operate. Below the ergonomic handle is a mechanical dial for weight selection. Just turn the dial to the desired weight between 8lbs (3.5kg) and 40lbs (18kg), lift the kettlebell from its support, and you are ready to use it for your workout.
THE CONS
As everything does the Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell comes with pros and cons, but let’s start with the cons.
- Rattling plates. Yes, the plates inside the kettlebell rattle slightly when it is swung. But to keep honest, it is not to the point to worry about it. it is just worth mentioning. Plus, this could be nerve-wracking especially since the bottom of the kettlebell is open when taken off the support. So, one may think the plates inside may end up flying off during the kettlebell swings for instance. Worry not. Those plates are still very secure in place.
- Bulky. The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is very well designed and the hard-plastic finish is the icing on the cake. Unfortunately, this strong build also makes the kettlebell very bulky and because of its size, it can get in the way for exercises such as the Russian Twists for instance.
THE PROS
The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell has quite a few positive points that offset the negative ones (above mentioned).
- 6 weights in one system. In case you did not catch it, the weight range hides in the name of the product. This kettlebell lets you work with a weight range of 8lbs to 40lbs (hence the 840 in the name.) That is 8, 12, 20, 25, 35, and 40lbs (respectively 3.5, 5.5, 9, 11, 16, 18kg) in one. And for the price of this kettlebell – 149.99USD on the Bowflex website – this is a gift given that kettlebells on their own are pricey, and the heavier they are, the costlier they are too.
- Space saver. Having 6 kettlebells in one also means that you do not have to have those 6 kettlebells scattered around the place. This is particularly a big plus if you live in a studio or apartment and do not have too much room around. Just pick a space to store it and it will not get in your way for anything else.
- Versatile. The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell allows you to do a tremendous amount of full-body exercises.
- Ergonomic. With its strong build the Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is very safe to use. It is worth mentioning that dealing with the plates individually must be done with care to keep your fingers away as to not have them trapped and snapped in between those plates. The plates are quite heavy, so the damages would be sizable too. Other than that, there is no other safety issue. Besides, how often are you going to mess with those plates? This note is worth mentioning and for you to keep in mind if you ever deal with the plates themselves.
- Beautiful to the eye. The design of the Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is just amazing. And because of its beauty, you could store it in your living room without it disturbing your sight.
WHERE TO BUY
Bowflex website is definitely one of the safest place where to buy this product. Yes, it is sold in a few other places, but you also have to be careful because some places are scams – especially those with a price tag lesser than 149.99USD, while others sell one Bowflex kettlebell for 3 times its original price! We have seen both cases in our search.
The Nautilus, Inc Amazon store is also a safe place to buy this kettlebell, and you can make your purchase here or from the Bowflex Amazon store for the set of two. Keep in mind that this is an affiliate link, and by purchasing through it, we will get a commission but your price will not increase.
OUR THOUGHTS
At 149.99USD one may think that the Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is too expensive. Honestly, this is a good investment given that it carries 6 kettlebells in 1, which also makes for an excellent space saver. Bowflex is also a great company and they make great, stylish, and long-lasting products. The high standards of the company is reflected in the products that the company itself makes.
Also, you may ask whether you need one or two kettlebells. The answer to this would be that it depends on how strong you are. Starting with one is great and the stronger you become, the more you may see the need for a second one to perform exercises such as the Double Kettlebell Snatches/Cleans for instance.
The Bowflex Selecttech 840 kettlebell is definitely our recommendation at Beasts Train Mean as a piece of equipment to own and add to your home gym.
UPDATE as of February 2021: This kettlebell is now sold at 179.00USD.