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Shopping for the best dumbbells can seem like an arduous task when there are so many on offer, but we're here to help. From lighter dumbbells for the Barre and low-impact lovers, as well as heavier weights for strength training aficionados, there's something to suit everyone. Dumbbells Adjustable
Read on for everything you need to know about choosing a pair of dumbbells, as well as our edit of the best dumbbells to buy for 2024.
It depends on your goals. If you're looking to build strength, do fewer reps (around 6) with heavier dumbbells. But, if you want to build muscle (gym nerds will refer to this as hypertrophy) for increased tone and calorie burn then you want a weight you handle for 8–10 reps.
Now, you've probably sussed that this won't be the same weight for everyone, and you're right. Depending on your strength abilities and weight training experience, it's probably better to plump for something slightly lighter – up to 5kg range. But if you want to try something slightly heavier, you can always hold both in one hand and perform single arm movements.
For those who are regular gym lifters and are looking for a weight that can 'do it all', around 6kg should see you through. Anything above that and you could struggle with certain dumbbell exercises.
Not to point out the obvious, but one you can adjust the weight on and one you cannot. Jokes aside, adjustable dumbbells are a great way to kit out your fitness routine without having to buy lots of different bits. They differ in mechanisms but stay the same in premise – one dumbbell, many, many different weights. Genius, if you ask us.
These can be the best dumbbells for women who are short on space (and we've got a whole round up of the best ones for you to choose from, here).
Our favourite thing about our at-home dumbbells is how versatile they are. You're into a heavy weights session? There's dumbbells for that. You're looking to add a bit of intensity to your pilates? There's dumbbells for that too.
You can use dumbbells for upper body workouts (think bicep curls, bent over rows, chest press), lower body (think squats, deadlifts, and lunges) and even abs (think woodchop, reverse crunch, side bend).
Dumbbells are great for keeping at home for squeezing in a workout whenever you have the time, and will save you the time and money it takes to get to and from the gym.
We've got you sorted on that front, with a selection of the 18 best dumbbells for all fitness levels and budgets for you to peruse through below. Happy shopping (and eventual lifting!)...
Talk about a bargain! These dumbbells are the ideal weight for all levels – not too easy or hard for beginners, while regular strength trainers will also be able to progress by adding in more reps or time under tension. What's more, they're some of the most popular on Amazon, rated 4.7 stars out of 5, from a whopping 18.6k ratings. We rest our case.
You may be familiar with these if you're a reg at the gym – they're the brand of choice for most gym chains, and there's a good reason. From the hexagonal shape that means they won't roll away when you chuck them down after a set, to the heavy duty rubber fabric and contoured handles for a tight grip, they tick every box.
Up the ante on your next at-home HIIT sessions by including the Bala Bars. Made with soft silicone, the bars are comfortable to use and are the perfect weight for adding a little more intensity than bodyweight to a high-intensity workout. We also love the bars for weighted pilates workouts and other low-impact exercises.
Decent quality? Tick. Anti-slip coating? Tick. This set of 5kg dumbbells is ideal for anyone looking to challenge themselves by increasing the load on certain strength exercises. It also has a convenient anti-roll design.
Looking for heavier weights to spice up your deadlifts and squats? This durable set has hex edges, for stability in certain moves (and no chance of run-away dumbbell related accidents), and a PVC coating to protect surfaces. Even better, it's on sale RN too.
An anti-slip vinyl coating and comfortable grip makes this 1.4kg pair of dumbbells ideal for anyone who doesn't need or want all the nuts and bolts just yet. They also have a 4.7 star rating on Amazon. Go figure.
Weight: 1kg, 2kg, and 3kg
For just over £17 per pair of dumbbells, this set is a no-brainer. Plus, if you're unsure which weight suits you, you'll be able to test all three out. Likewise, having different weights is key for different moves – maybe 3kg is good for goblet squats, but a pair of 1kgs is your max for bicep curls. Sorted.
This tough-looking pair isn’t going anywhere. Rubber ‘anti roll’ ends see to it you have a stable base from which to tackle your dumbbell plank rows, while the ridged handles provide the firm grip you need to get through your strength sessions safe and sound.
Whether you're a beginner with strength training, or just want something lighter on the days when you're looking for more of an active recovery workout, these 0.5kg babies are ideal – and affordable to boot.
Because three is the magic number... Whether you're perfecting your jabs and crosses or nailing a Barre move that causes every muscle to shake, you can rest assured that these 3kg dumbbells are up to the challenge.
Like to get a particular number of steps in each day? Then why not ramp it up a notch with these soft walking dumbbells that have been designed to keep you company on your lunch break stroll? Not only do you burn more calories when you get your arms involved but your biceps will thank you for it too. Weighing just 0.45kg, they won’t strain your joints either. Phew!
Wanting something light to ease you into the world of weights or to challenge yourself just that little bit extra during your bodyweight workouts? Snap these 1kg dumbbells up fast, before they join the ranks of all the other sold-out dumbbells.
For those who find holding weights whilst doing arm exercises a hand-sore, these soft modular dumbbells will provide you with a hands-free option that is super versatile. But, don’t let them fool you into thinking they won’t bring the heat. Strap them on during your next pilates session to see just what a muscle burner they can be.
This single dumbbell was designed to meet all your cross-training needs – think weight training or functional movements. Its rubber base is there to protect your precious floors and the hexagonal shape offers better stability on the mat. Something you'll appreciate when taking on renegade rows.
Think it's wrong to buy a pair of dumbbells just because you like the colour of them? Seeing as how lavender is a welcome change from the conventional colours dumbbells often come in, we wouldn’t blame you if you did. Weighing in at 4kg, they’re sure to come in handy regardless. Say hello to your new bulgarian split squat buddies.
Take arm day up a notch with these durable 5kg dumbbells. Include them in your regular at-home sessions to strengthen, tone and up your lifting potential all from the comfort of your living room. We like the sound of that!
Sweaty palms don’t just make an appearance on awkward first dates, they can also show up when you could use a firm grip to help get you through those final reps. Coated in neoprene, these dumbbells offer a non-slip surface for you to smash out your shoulder presses even when the sweat starts to flow. They also come in loads of fun colours.
Weight: 2 x 1.1kg, 2 x 2.3kg, 2 x 4.5kg
Want to take your home gym workouts to the next level? This set of soft vinyl dumbbells with an accompanying stand wins in both affordability and storage convenience.
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