Dumbbells
The most versatile piece of home gym equipment — usable for nearly every muscle group.
Free WeightsMid-Range
Features
- Fixed or adjustable designs
- Rubber, urethane, or iron finishes
- Wide weight range available
Pros
- Extremely versatile
- Allow unilateral training
- Compact compared to a full barbell setup
Cons
- A full fixed set is expensive and needs storage
- Adjustable pairs can be slow to change between sets
Buying guide
- Adjustable dumbbells save space and money if you train at home.
- Check the adjustment mechanism — dial systems are faster but more fragile than pin systems.
- Hex-shaped dumbbells will not roll away and can be used for push-up positions.
Maintenance
- Wipe down after use to prevent corrosion
- Periodically check adjustment mechanisms for wear
Best for
- Home gyms
- Unilateral strength work
- Beginners through advanced lifters