Adjustable Kettlebells are becoming increasingly popular in Home Gyms, due to the benefits of saving space and costing a lot less than a complete set of cast iron kettlebells. If you’re considering whether you should stick with standard ones or invest in a set of adjustable kettlebells, this post will help you come to an informed decision.
Adjustable Kettlebells do cost more than standard ones, but they are also Multiple Kettlebells enclosed into one. In addition to saving you much needed space, they often work out to be a very similar price.
Let’s take a look at the Best Adjustable Kettlebells available in 2021.
Grabbing a pair of adjustbale kettlebells can be one of the best things that you can do, providing you work out in your home gym. If you have a gym membership, you’re better off just using their equipment as it’s what you pay for! Kettlebells aren’t that expensive, but you will need a full set of them to maximise your workout effectiveness. For this reason, we’ve found some great adjustable kettlebells which offer many benefits. Let’s get into this. As always, we will show you the items, then provide the full guide below.
Kettlebell Specification
• Space Efficient: Takes up much less room than a full set of kettlebells
• Total Body Results: Wide weight range allows you to target every muscle group
• Safe Lock Mechanism: Built with safety in mind, with a locking tab
ISOGYM Adjustable kettlebell Review
ISOGYM have developed an adjustable dumbbell which resembles a traditional dumbbell. If you take another glance at the Bowflex one above, this looks completely different. It’s great to see that ISOGYM are paying homage to the equipment that it’s expanded upon.
You could argue that this kettlebell should be the #1 option & I’ll admit that this was very close. This kettlebell is much better priced, offers an extra weight option (with the same maximum 18kg weight) and it also offers safety functions for locking the weights.
I’ve made my mind up, it’s joint first. This Isogym one is now going to be the Best Value Kettlebell.
I couldn’t ignore the fact that this was over £50 cheaper, made of durable cast iron & powder coated to ensure that you will be able to hold it with comfort. Even if you’ve got a larger hand, you shouldn’t have any trouble with the 5.25cm handle diameter.
I also did an in-depth review on this one, which you can read here.
Bowflex Selecttech 840 Kettlebell
Kettlebell Specification
• Space Efficient: Designed with your home in mind.
• Total Body Results: Perform a wide variety of total-body flow workouts.
• Kettlebell Technique Videos: Access 24 trainer-led exercises.
• Dimensions: 22.4 x 17.8 x 31.8 cm
Bowflex 840 Selecttech review
If you’re looking for an adjustable kettlebell, you can’t go far wrong with Bowflex. They’re reknown for their gym equipment, specialising in their Adjustable weight technology. They make some dumbbells, which are the best in their field, too.
It seems that they’ve followed suit with kettlebells, offering the general public a chance to save space when kitting out their home gym. I really like their gear. Not only does this kettlebell look good, but it’s also a really effective solution.
The weights sit inside the casing itself & can be adjusted using the dial on the top of the kettlebell. This then automatically adjusts, selecting the desired weight that you requested. The time that this saves is incredible, as there’s no messing around with adding and removing weights manually. The handle is pretty comfortable, with a rubber finish to ensure that even in the coldest of gyms, you can still workout without your fingers going numb.
If you consider the build quality, practicality & comfortability of the Bowflex 840, then it quite simply is the best in its class. On the surface, £200 for a kettlebell does seem quite expensive. However, you’re actually getting every single kettlebell within the 3.5kg to 18kg range which offers a good weight for any workout. If you price up the costs of individual kettlebells, you might end up shocked that these adjustable kettlebells work out just as cheap. (Remember; you only have to store one set of kettlebells with these, too!).
Bowflex have made top quality products, for years. I’m a huge fan of this & it’s the deserved winner of the Best Adjustable Kettlebell for 2020. If you’re shopping with a lower budget in mind, there’s some other great options below which we’ve hand-picked for you.
KLAR FIT Adjustable Kettlebell
Key Information
- Max Weight 16kg: 8, 10, 12, 14, 16 kg settings
- Total Body ResQuick adjust is fastest and most convenient on the market.
- Push down and twist to add or remove weight
- Matte powdercoated surface provides a secure grip.
- Rubber bottom to protect your floors.
- Competition style shape
- Each Kettlebell includes 5 different weight settings
Klar Fit Adjustable Kettlebell Review
Klar Fit have produced a great looking kettlebell, which has been recommended by many for it’s fantastic build quality. It looks very similar to the RepFitness Adjustable Kettlebell, which prides itself on looking like a traditional kettlebell but with the added technology of being adjustable.
It replaces 5 kettlebells, between the weight bracked of 8kg to 16kg, so it’s not quite as extensive as the choice between the above ones we reviewed. However, you might have no requirements for anything below 8kg, which means this could be your best option.
The handle of this kettlebell is on the larger side, but that’s not a problem, as it means you’ll be able to get a good grip and retain full control of motion. The locking mechanism features at the top of thew kettlebell, which will physically lock the weight inside, offering maximum safety for a secure workout.
It’s a great option, and rightly deserves it’s place on this list. However, there are some concerns which means that it’s not the outright best option. The price is very similar to the above ISOGYM kettlebell, yet there’s no 18kg option.
I think at this price point, I’d definitely choose the Isogym alternative.
Comparing the Above Adjustable Kettlebells
Adjustable Kettlebell | My Rating | Min. Weight | Max. Weight | Cost | No. of Weight Options |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bowflex Selecttech 840 – Best Overall Kettlebell | 5 | 3.5kg | 18kg | £209.99 | 6 |
ISOGYM Adjustable Kettlebell – Best Value Kettlebell | 5 | 3kg | 18kg | £149.99 | 7 |
KLAR FIT Kettlebell – A Decent Alternative | 4 | 8kg | 16kg | £139.99 | 5 |
How do they work?
Your adjustable kettlebell will work in a very similar way to your standard ones. Some brands may look a little bit different, accomodating a longer bar (due to the weight being adjustable). An Adjustable kettlebell will be able to adapt for various weights, offering you the perfect workout companion.
There is a dial, usually found on the top of the kettlebell, which allows you to set the desired weight. Once set, the kettlebell will lock, to ensure your safety when swinging it. You’ll need to stop for a few seconds to change the weight, unlocking the clasp before starting your next set.
Although this will take a bit of time, once you master it, it’s faster than swapping your pair of kettlebells for another pair that’s waiting on a weight rack.
Benefits of Adjustable Kettlebells
Any adjustable equipment will carry the same benefits, being that the amount of space that you save is astronomical. For you to get kettlebells that weigh between 3-18kg, you’ll need to dedicate a weight rack which is around 5 foot wide. That’s quite a bit of space, if you’ve got a compact gym. An adjustable kettlbell will take up 1 foot. That’s quite a difference.
I’ve set a warning up at the top of the page, regarding the price of kettlebells. It’s to warn potential buyers that although they look expensive on the surface, they’re actually much more cost efficient than buying individuals. Look at the below example, using the Isogym adjustable as an example.
Type of Kettlebell | 3kg Weight | 5kg Weight | 8kg Weight | 10kg Weight | 12kg Weight | 15kg weight | 18kg weight | Total Cost |
Traditional Kettlebells | £12.99 | £18.99 | £26.99 | £38.99 | £54.99 | £62.99 | £69.99 | £285.93 |
Adjustable | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £0.00 | £159.99 | £159.99 |
It’s surprising to see that adjustables are cheaper than individual ones, I didn’t expect there to be that much difference in price. I researched the above intensely, finding the best priced ones on Amazon.
Should I swap Dumbbells for Kettlebells?
Quite simply, no! If you really need some kettlebells to perform some kettlebell swings, or you want them for another workout… there’s another product which is going to be perfect for your requirements. Instead of spending all of your budget on some weights, take a look at the below.
Kettle Gryp Kettlebell Adjustable Portable Weight Grip Travel Workout Equipment Gear for...
- IMAGINE NEVER HAVING TO MISS YOUR KETTLEBELL WORKOUT WHILE TRAVELING | Kettle Gryp is the perfect workout accessory for your travel needs, or to keep in your everyday gym bag. At less than 1lb, this device can hold most standard dumbells up to 55lbs and instantly turn it into a kettlebell.
- IMAGINE NEVER HAVING TO MISS YOUR KETTLEBELL WORKOUT WHILE TRAVELING | Kettle Gryp is the perfect workout accessory for your travel needs, or to keep in your everyday gym bag. At less than 1lb, this device can hold most standard dumbells up to 55lbs and instantly turn it into a kettlebell.
- BUY NOW TO HAVE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT ACCESSORIES IN YOUR WORKOUT BAG | Workout Gloves, Check. Lifting Straps, Check. Protein Shake, Check. KETTLE GRYP Check! This workout accessory will quickly become one of the go-to pieces of gear in your gym bag.
- ADD TO YOUR CART NOW TO HAVE THE NEWEST AND MOST INNOVATIVE PRODUCT IN KETTLEBELL TRAINING | Kettle Gryp is an American Veteran-Owned company that proudly manufactures in San Diego, California.
- ACHIEVE YOUR FITNESS GOALS | For men or women who want to achieve their fitness goals working out at home, in the gym, or when traveling, Kettle Gryp is a light-weight, durable, and economical solution.
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
I like innovating, especially when it saves money! The above is a cheap way of converting your dumbbell to a kettlebell! It’s just a grip, or ‘Gryp’ as it’s known as. This will physically attach to your dumbbell handle and in 3 seconds, you’ve got the kettlebell that you wanted.
Are Adjustable Kettlebells any good?
You will need a wide range of weights regardless of your workout plan. You should be following a full body workout, which will require different weights for your muscle groups. For example, you should be able to chest press much heavier weight than you can bicep curl. Even if you’re focusing on cardio, a weight training session is perfect to mix things up.
You may be considering purchasing a range of different weights, but you’ll notice that the price of these soon adds up. If you’re focusing on lower weights, between 1-5kg, you may be better off with traditional kettlebells.
However, it’s important to also plan for future progression. Those weights may be heavy now, but going forward they’re going to get lighter as you get stronger. If you’ve got the spare budget, it’s worth getting heavier equipment that you can work up to. A little bit like buying a jumper that you can grow into, rather than replacing it after 6 months!
One of the biggest issues with speccing equipment for a home gym is the limited space. Most people will be working with a very limited space, we’ve even had some people that store their equipment underneath their dining table.
How to Choose the Best Adjustable kettlebell for your needs
I’ve provided a thorough review of all above kettlebells. I don’t just add a product for any reason, it needs to be worthy of a HGR mention! (That’s Home Gym Review).
Brands like Bowflex & ISOGYM specialise in Adjustable Home Gym Equipment & they offer great options for you. I’ve also added a cheaper alternative… plus an item that’s not a kettlebell at all….
Choosing the best kettlebell for your needs comes down to the following:
- Price
- Value for money
- Durability: We don’t want it falling apart after 3 weeks of moderate use.
- Design
- Weight Options: The more weight options, the better!
- Ease of Use: It needs to be easy enough to use. The less hassle, the better.
- Safety: As these have specific locking mechanisms, safety is paramount.
There you have a complete breakdown of the best kettlebell products available in the UK, all with adjustable mechanisms to make your workout even better. We’ve explained the benefits & drawbacks of specific models, unique features & included a kettlebell buying guide. It’s time for you to make an informed decision on which one is perfect for your needs.
Once you’ve got your kettlebell, let us know in the comments! Then, head over to the Exercise Database & start your workout!