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Top 17 Best Dumbbells: A Comprehensive Guide to Whichever Weight You're Looking For

Hina Maris
  Apr 20, 2024 12:02 PM

Do you have a home gym? If not, do you have the luxury of going to a gym regularly? Dumbbells are one of the most effective and convenient ways to get your cardio and strength-training routine in. They’re small, easy to store, and extremely versatile. You can do almost any exercise with dumbbells. They’re an excellent way to build lean muscle mass in your arms, shoulders, back and other targeted areas. While there are numerous different options available when it comes to buying dumbbells - from sets with multiple weights all the way down to individual pieces - there are some features that every pair should have. Given that they're such a small piece of equipment, ergonomics are important. Look for handles that fit well in your hands so you don't injure yourself while using them. Also look for durable construction that will last you through years of workouts without breaking or coming apart on you suddenly. We've compiled this list of the best dumbbells on the market right now based on our own research as well as reader reviews posted online.


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Buying guide

How to choose the right weight for your dumbbells

First and foremost, you need to figure out which weight you’d like your dumbbells to be. This will depend on a number of factors, including the specific exercises you’re hoping to use them for and your own fitness level. Here are a few things you can take into account when choosing a weight for your dumbbells.

 

Dumbbell construction and materials

As with most fitness equipment, you can expect the build quality of your dumbbells to be one of the biggest deciding factors in how long they last. The materials they’re made of will determine how much they cost, how easy they are to use, and how safe they are, so it’s important to know what to look for. Most dumbbells will be made of either steel or cast iron. Steel is the more common choice, and it tends to be less expensive. However, cast iron dumbbells are usually higher quality, and as such, they tend to last longer. They’re also better for anyone with joint problems as they’re significantly easier to grip than steel. Finally, you should also take note of the coating used to protect your dumbbells from rust and wear and tear.

 

Handle and grip considerations

As we mentioned above, the handles of your dumbbells will likely be made of either steel or cast iron. The grip of these should be comfortable and secure, and not too slippery. We’d also recommend looking for a pair of dumbbells with textured handles. This will help you maintain a firmer grip as you move through your exercises. It’s also worth noting that some dumbbells are designed with a rotating handle. This can be useful, particularly for certain exercises, but keep in mind that they may be a little harder to use.

 

Important Factors to Be Aware of When Shopping for Dumbbells

  1. Cost - As you might imagine, the cost of your dumbbells will vary greatly depending on the weight you buy. The fancier and more durable your dumbbells are, the more you’re likely to have to pay for them.
  2. Weight - This will likely be one of the first things you take into account when choosing your dumbbells. However, keep in mind that heavier dumbbells tend to be more durable and are usually better for people with joint issues as they’re easier to grip. Additionally, heavier dumbbells are usually easier to use for certain exercises.
  3. Material - We’ve already talked a bit about the most common materials used to make dumbbells. Beyond cost, however, another important thing to take into account with regard to the material is how it impacts the environment. Steel and cast iron are both widely recycled materials, whereas some other materials may not be as eco-friendly.

 

Conclusion

Overall, when shopping for dumbbells, you want to make sure you prioritize your own personal needs and goals above all else. Don’t forget to think about your grip, how you plan on using them, and how often you’ll be using them. With that in mind, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect pair for you.


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