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Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the popularity of home gyms has skyrocketed. In fact, many Americans won’t be returning to the traditional gym anytime soon. So how do you bring the gym to you? Whether you’re a dedicated living room lifter or simply want a quick pump between Zoom meetings, adjustable dumbbells are a home gym essential.
Are Adjustable Dumbbells Worth It?
If you’re trying to build up a solid home gym for yourself, then you should absolutely have adjustable dumbbells. They allow you to get a wide range of weights without taking up much space in your home.
At the same time, they still deliver the same workout benefits as traditional dumbbells—and those go beyond just building muscle. According to the American Heart Association, the strength and resistance training that dumbbells provide can deliver a surprising range of health benefits. With dumbbells in your home gym, you can do all kinds of workouts that’ll build up the strength of your arms and upper body and help you elevate your overall fitness.
How to Choose an Adjustable Dumbbell
There are a vast range of adjustable dumbbell options on the market today. To choose the right one, first consider the weight range you need. Different models will offer different minimum and maximum weights, as well as different weight increments. Beginners should start with lower weights, while expert lifters will likely want a heavier set.
You’ll also want to keep in mind the amount of storage space you have. While most sets are pretty compact, they do vary a bit in size, and since they’re heavy, you’ll probably want to store them on the floor close to where you’ll be working out. Finally, consider your budget—depending on their features and weight ranges, adjustable dumbbells can cost anywhere from less than $100 to several hundred dollars.
Below, we’ve rounded up top adjustable dumbbell sets from brands like Bowflex, NordicTrack, Flybird and more.
