The Ultimate Guide to Buying Dumbbells

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Dumbbells

Weight lifting and strength training come with a plethora of health benefits, such as improved bone density, muscle tone, and an overall increase in fitness levels. To reap the full benefits of weightlifting, it’s important to be smart about buying weights.

This guide provides advice on how to choose the right set of weights for your own personal needs. We will cover different types of weights, how to read sizing cues from packaging, and safety tips for working out with new equipment.

Read ahead to make sure you’re fully prepared before making your purchase!

Basic Types of Weights That You Should Be Using

There are many different types available and they all have their own unique uses. Let’s explore the basic types of dumbbells that you should consider adding to your workout routine and make it your regular fitness equipment.

Fixed Dumbbells

Gym Equipment dumbbells - Fitness ExpoFixed dumbbells are a great way to add strength training to your regular workout routine. They can be used for exercises like curls, tricep extensions, and shoulder presses. They come in at different weights depending on the level of difficulty that you’re looking for.

Fixed dumbbells have handles of varying sizes, which offer better grip and balance when lifting heavier loads.

They are also typically less expensive than adjustable dumbbells, making them perfect for beginners or those on a budget. With proper technique and use, fixed dumbbells can be a great addition to any strength-training program.

Pros of Fixed Dumbbells

  • Typically more affordable than adjustable dumbbells and they can be less intimidating for novice lifters.
  • They are safer to use as they require less setup time than weight plates and barbells.

Cons of Fixed Dumbbells

  • Since they come in predetermined weight increments, you may find yourself limited if you have specific goals in mind.
  • They tend to take up much more space and can be difficult to store due to their shape and size.

Adjustable Dumbbells

heavy dumbbells | Fitness Expo StoresAn adjustable dumbbell set is perfect for those who don’t have a lot of space and prefer to switch from heavier sets to lighter ones relatively quickly. This type of dumbbell has a handle with plates embedded onto one side and you simply adjust how much weight you require using an adjusting knob and then tightening it back down when finished.

When buying adjustable dumbbells, consider sets that allow for maximum flexibility such as 25-50lb increments or even 30-90lb increments if needed – this will give you more options when working out at home or in the gym.

Pros of Adjustable Dumbbells

  • Save space.
  • Cost-effective.
  • They can be adapted to a range of exercises and training levels.
  • They reduce the need for multiple dumbbell sets, resulting in a more organized weight room.

Cons of Adjustable Dumbbells

  • Costlier than fixed-weight dumbbells.
  • Difficult to adjust weight in comparison to fixed-weight discs.
  • Limited range of free weights to choose from.
  • Does not allow movements like bicep curl and shoulder press, compared to traditional dumbbells.

Rubber-Coated Dumbbells

Rubber dumbbells-FitnessExpo StoresRubber-coated dumbbells are ideal for those who want to avoid losing any time loading up with heavy plates. They come with a set load that can easily transition between exercises and sets including bicep curls, tricep extensions, shoulder presses, or chest presses.

Not only are they great for limiting potential injury due to static loads going too high versus changing weights quickly in between exercises, but these also provide some protection against slips so fewer accidents take place in the home gym or commercial gym setting.

Pros of Rubber-Coated Dumbbells

  • The rubber material absorbs shock, reducing the likelihood of equipment damages, such as floors and walls.
  • Rubber-coated dumbbells are designed to reduce noise during workouts and prevent damage to the floor.
  • The cast iron core increases durability and makes them non-porous, which helps prevent odors.
  • These dumbbells offer a great grip without any slipping; making it easier for users to lift heavier weights without fear of injury or stress on their joints.

Cons of Rubber-Coated Dumbbells

  • Rubber-coated dumbbells require more frequent replacement due to wear and tear into the rubber coating.
  • They are more expensive than traditional weights, often with a premium of 20%-50%.
  • May cause more concentrated tension in your muscles when compared to nonrubberized weights resulting in a higher risk of injury.
  • Rubber-coated dumbbells often have a limited weight range due to poor shape retention from being bent or warped.

Key Accessories of Dumbbells

If you plan on lifting weights in the gym, then it’s important to know what type of weightlifting accessories you need. If you are looking to lift dumbbells, there are certain key pieces of equipment that will help make your workout more efficient and effective.

The key components to consider when buying dumbbells or using one that makes them so helpful for weight training include:

  • Dumbbell Handles
  • Weight Plates
  • Collars and Clips
  • Storage Racks
  • Resistance Bands

Tips on Knowing What Dumbbells to Buy

Are you looking to start a new workout routine but don’t know what dumbbells to buy? Choosing the right dumbbells is a personal choice and should depend on your particular fitness goals.

Here are some tips on what to look for when shopping for the perfect pair of dumbbells:

  • Identify Your Fitness Goals Before Shopping: Since it’s likely that you’ll have multiple pairs of dumbbells, it’s important to consider how much space you need and how diverse they need to be in order to complete all your workouts.  
  • Look at Space and Storage Needs:  Since it’s likely that you’ll have multiple pairs of dumbbells, it’s important to consider how much space you need and how diverse they need to be in order to complete all your workouts.  
  • Evaluate Different Types Of Dumbbells: There are different types of dumbbells available on the market today with varying costs and features so it’s important to do your research before making any decisions.  
  • Consider Comfort In Mind:  Comfort is a key factor to consider when selecting dumbbells that best meet your needs. There are now many ergonomically designed weighted products that have rubberized handles or smooth surfaces so sweating won’t interfere with grip strength during long workout sessions.  
  • Choose Models With Quality Design/Components: Choose products with quality materials so they can withstand wear and tear through years’ worth of intense use without breaking or cracking over time.  Always read product reviews before making the final decision too; this will give insight into criteria like reliability vs price points which are key considerations when shopping around online or offline stores. 

 The Best Weight Dumbbells

Weight training is a great way to get into shape and build muscular strength. Adding dumbbell weights to your routine is an excellent way to target specific muscle groups, especially with movements that need additional resistance.

Weight dumbells come in all forms and sizes so it’s important to choose the right weight for your exercise goals. Whether that’s bodybuilding or simply toning, properly selecting the best-weight dumbbells will bring you closer to achieving successful workout results.