Top 10 Best Dumbbell Forearm Exercises - See December 2023's Top Rated Pick

The size of dumbbells is important in two ways. How much space in your gym can you dedicate to dumbbells first? It could be the reason you choose one style over another. Second, what is its footprint? Loadable handles, for example, are longer than rubber dumbbells and urethane dumbbells. The actual dumbbells' measurement could make a significant difference in the range of motion for some lifts.

Consider the weight of the dumbbells you need at both the low and high end. Some dumbbells can be adjusted, but the most durable ones tend to have a fixed weight. Plan ahead to only buy them once.

You'll want dumbbells with a weight range of 75-100 pounds if your gym is geared towards stronger lifters. Some gym chains do not offer dumbbells above 75 pounds. Stronger users quickly exhaust the dumbbell selection.

You may need dumbbells that are no more than 50 pounds if you're purchasing dumbbells to use in a small office gym.

Consider the lighter end, too. If you are a beginner, you may want to start with dumbbells that weigh 2.5, 3, or 5 pounds.

The way you train is a major factor in choosing the right dumbbells. If you do a lot bodybuilding exercises with supersets and drop sets, then fixed dumbbells will be best. If you perform heavy lifts, drop your dumbbells, etc. The best option for you will be fixed dumbbells, or adjustables that are very heavy duty (e.g. Ironmasters). Loadable handles are a good option if you do not do explosive movements, but just want to use them to lift heavy weights.

Our experts say that dumbbells can come with either a fixed weight or a variable weight. Each of these options is beneficial for certain types of exercises and individual preferences.

Rowe explained that fixed weights can be purchased individually or in pairs, and they offer a set weight. "A 15-pound dumbbell will always remain a dumbbell of 15 pounds," he said. These are the best weights for those who are new to lifting weights, or just want to concentrate on one part of their body. You'll also need to think about storage space if you plan to buy multiple dumbbells.

The weights can be changed by rotating a dial or using a removable pin. According to Levergood, they can offer more variety than a rack of fixed dumbbells. They can be useful for those who want to lift heavier weights or weight train, since the increments are usually higher.

Rowe said that investing in adjustable dumbbells is aer option than buying a set of weights. Rowe told us previously in our guide on adjustable dumbbells that "not only will [sets of dumbbells] take up a lot more space, but they'll cost you a great deal of money." She added that fixed dumbbells are better in terms of durability, convenience and functionality, but their price can be a big factor for some.

As opposed to fixed dumbbells or handles, loadable handles and adjustable dumbbells will have only one diameter. The standard barbell thickness for loadable handles is 28mm or 28.5mm. The range of adjustable dumbbells can vary from 30mm to 38mm depending on the model and manufacturer. Fixed dumbbells scale from 28mm-30mm for low weight increments up to 34mm with heavier increments. Some dumbbells will be thicker.

Handles on dumbbells are either straight or curved. A straight handle is similar to barbells, while a contoured grip will be unique. Some lifters like straight handles while I prefer curved ones. Most handles have a medium knurling, or some other texture that enhances grip. The majority of handles are steel. However, you may find rubber grips on some sets, such as the Powerblocks.

What is your budget? A single set of dumbbells weighing 5-20 pounds (2.3-9.1 kg) will cost you less than $50. However, as the weight increases, so does the price. When ordering dumbbells you will also have to pay for shipping. Shipping is usually calculated based on weight, so the more weight that you send, the higher your overall investment will be.

You can use the price per pound range of $1.50 to $3.00 (or $3.33 to $6.66 per kg) to set your budget and to assess cost-effectiveness.

A set of quality adjustable dumbbells that offer a wide range of weights costs at least $300. However, some may cost more depending on how many weight increments are available.

Fixed dumbbells are available in two different shapes: hexagonal and round. Rowe pointed out that dumbbells with hexagonal end (which are what our experts prefer) will not roll off the floor as easily when placed on it, compared to dumbbells round. They also tend to be a biter. Both shapes can be made from any material.

Experts agreed that the shape and size of dumbbells does not affect the workout you do. Levergood said that the shape of your dumbbells is dependent on how and what you use them for. You can sometimes benefit by using a particular shape. For example, if your dumbbells are used as platforms for something like a "renegade row", you will likely prefer a hexagonal shape.

Rubber, metal, and neoprene are all materials that can be used to make dumbbells. You will typically find dumbbells that have cast iron or steel heads, which are then rubberized or covered in neoprene. However, some dumbbells are entirely made of cast iron and other metals. Thompson stated that the material does not make a difference when it comes to exercise. It is purely based on personal preference. She did note that metal was more durable while rubber and neoprene were softer and less likely to damage floors.