[triumph]

Originally Posted by movni

Has anyone tried out those new fangled contraptions that promise you a 'gym' in one small thing. I saw this infomercial for one, I forgot what it's called. There's this platform and two handles and you can work out continously?

My experiences with those have been less than satisfactory. I would not recommend them. I would suggest just doing some personal resistance and get some dumbbells before I would get a contraption like that.

[Word2Action]

I've thought about getting these kinds of free weights myself but I think i'll stick to the old fashion method. If its worked for past generations, it'll work for me.

[Danielle]

That reminds me of those ab chairs out on the market for $100. My thought is, if you're not motivated enough to do a simple crunch or sit-up, then why on earth would anyone spend $100 on equipment that does the same thing?

[Grace]

I have the free weights and no other equipment.

[Predator]

Originally Posted by Danielle

I like my free weights, but can't afford to buy a ton of dumbbells. I'm using a pair right now that uses adjustable plates. It's annoying to have to unscrew the ends every time I want to change the weight. Has anyone tried those square dumbbells where you can switch weight easily? They're called powerblocks, I think.

i know what you mean!i have only one set of dumbbells myself and it is frustrating having to unscrue them all the time to adjust the weights between sets.
i was also tempted by the powerblocks but i think that they have a ridiculous high price

[Sven21]

i don't have that issue as i have 4 sets of dumbells.what i want to say is that i saw the powerblocks as well and i never managed to figure out how they work until i didn't try them myself at a friend's house.i really don't like their shape,the grip,etc.call me old school but i like my dumbells to be dumbells,not blocks!
not to mention the fact that with the money you spend on a powerblock set you can buy 2 sets of dumbells

[navitatl]

I have a great dumbell set, so I have no need for these kinds of things. I suggest finding a reliable source for equipment, then just buy a new set every time you need one. Spreading out the price makes it easier.

[hizumiruupu]

Yeah I was stuck with the adjustable plates for a while as well. It's definitely a drag - I suggest saving up for a good dumbell set, or trying to find one second-hand or for a discount.

[Danielle]

Thanks for all your advice, it's given me good ideas. What I'm going to do is buy one pair of dumbbells at a time. I have a nasty habit of going to this custard place once a month with my family. It costs us about $15. I'd rather spend that on dumbbells instead.

[Stanley]

I received some of those as a gift. I didn't really like them. I think someone else mentioned that dumbells should be nice and rounded, not all blocky like that.