The dumbbell is the probably the only type of fitness equipment that cannot be missing in any home gym. You might think that you can only use dumbbells to perform isolation movements, likes biceps curls or triceps extensions, but the truth is dumbbells are much more versatile than that. You can replace a barbell with dumbbells in most compound movements, like squats, deadlifts and even bench presses.
The Internet is full of training guides like this. Go search “dumbbell workout” on Youtube and you’ll find countless videos teaching you how to exercise practically any muscle group using a set of dumbbells.
But fitness equipment for home gyms evolved for the better in recent decades, and that includes dumbbells. A few years ago, you really only had two options of dumbbells: the ones with cast iron discs (also known as a Hammertone dumbbell), that let you adjust the weight by adding more discs or round dumbbells with fixed weights.
Now you can find different types of dumbbells for every need. One the greatest innovations when it comes to dumbbells was the advent of adjustable dumbbells. With one single piece of equipment, you can get 17 different weights (depending on the model).
And to help you decide which dumbbell or set of dumbbells suits your needs, we’ve created a simple dumbbell buying guide with the best choices for every fitness level, type of exercise program, and budget.
How to choose the best dumbbells
The best way to find a dumbbells set that works for you is by getting familiar with the shape, the grip, the space in your gym, and how easy it is to change weights between sets. And the price of course.
How much do dumbbells cost on average?
You can buy a 5kg dumbbell from anything between €25 to €50. What makes a dumbbell more or less expensive are the materials, shape, technology.
A dumbbell that’s made with a heavy duty protective rubber coating tend to cost more than dumbbells made with neoprene coating.
Here’s a summary on what to look for when looking for dumbbells for sale:
Hex Dumbbells
Hex Dumbbells are named after their hexagonal shape. Everyone who has ever tried a dumbbell exercise knows that regular dumbbells tend to roll around the gym floor between sets. The hex dumbbell prevents that due to the anti-roll effect of hexagonal dumbbell heads. Most Hex Dumbbells come equipped with a knurled chrome handle designed to provide the athlete with a firm grip.
Neoprene Dumbbells
Neoprene dumbbells are largely used in gym and studio classes as an accessory for light resistance training, circuit training and HIIT workouts.
The main advantage of the neoprene dumbbells is that the neoprene layer makes them easy to clean, and unlikely to scratch your gym or home floor.
Like the hex dumbbells, neoprene dumbbells also feature a hexagonal shape, designed specifically to create an anti-rolling effect. This is particular useful in classes with several people to ensure that dumbbells do not interfere with each other’s exercises.
Because they are aimed at light resistance training, they are the lightest options available on the market, with weight options ranging from 0.5kg to 10kg.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Adjustable Dumbbells are essentially dumbbells of varying weights merged into one. They usually work by turning a dial to select the desired weight. These dumbbells are the perfect option for those who want a selection of dumbbells but lack the necessary storage space.
But that’s not the only advantage of adjustable dumbbells. Dumbbells that use weight plates are great in terms of durability and price, but they waste precious time when you need to adjust the load between sets. The adjustable dumbbell solves that problem.
Hammertone Dumbbells
Hammertone Dumbbells are also a type of adjustable dumbbells. Albeit a more “old-school” one. They use steel plates or cast iron discs so you can adjust the weight by adding or removing plates.
Like their rich cousins, they are also a great space saving alternative compared to having multiple individual dumbbells, but they come with an unbeatable advantage: pound-for-pound, they’re some of the least expensive options in the market.
Round Dumbbells
Round Rubber Dumbbells are probably the best known option out there. You can find these dumbbells sets in practically every commercial gym.
They feature a heavy duty outer coating that helps protect not only the dumbbell, but also the dumbbell storage rack and everything in the surroundings, such as the gym flooring and equipment. And the rubber head is great for reducing the noise in the gym and dumbbells are being dropped.
Because they are so popular in commercial gyms due to their durability, they offer probably the widest range of weights in the market. You can get a round dumbbell as heavy as 50kg.
What Dumbbell weights should I buy?
Don’t underestimate these lightweight dumbbells. They can pretty good to enhance and increase the difficulty of a cardio workout. Try running on a treadmill holding a pair of 2kg dumbbells!
Ideal for training arms if you are moving up to an intermediary level. Doing alternate dumbbells curls with a 10kg dumbbell is a great challenge.
Great for shoulder workouts. The Lateral raise, the shoulder press and the front raises can benefit from this weight range. Doing lateral raises with the 15kg dumbbell is a challenge for the more advanced athletes out there.
Compound movements like the chest press, the deadlift and squats.
