Moving beyond bodyweight workouts opens up so many possibilities—targeted muscle work, progressive overload (i.e. gradually increasing resistance), and more ways to challenge your body. Experts note that free weights help correct muscle imbalances, activate stabilizer muscles, and allow full range of motion for functional strength.
But at home, space, adjustability, and ease of use become key. You want weights that feel safe, comfortable, and that you’ll actually use (not ones that end up collecting dust). Below are five picks that balance form, function, and flexibility. Hopefully there’s an option or two for you.
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#1: Adjustable Heavy Weights: PowerBlock Elite EXP
These weight are adjustable 5-50 lbs dumbbells that adjust in 2.5lb increments. As in their name, they’re in a block format (this is nice when you have to place on the ground).
Pros: adjustable, take up less space, convienent, come in a pair
Cons: bulkier (especially at lower weights), can’t drop them, a little awkward with reaching for the handle inside
Coming in at $399.99, these are the most expensive on the list
#2: Adjustable Heavy Weights: CAP Barbell ADJUSTABELL
These weight are also adjustable 5-50 lbs dumbbells but they adjust in 5lb increments. Unlike the poweblock, these are round dumbbells. All you need to do, is to twist to adjsut the weight
Pros: adjustable, take up less space, convienent, come in a pair, a *little* more afforable
Cons: bulkier, can’t drop them,
While still not cheap, these come in at $299.99, which is a great price considering the range.
#3: Neoprene Dumbbell sets: CAP Barbell Neoprene Dumbbell pairs
For those that want light weights, these are CAP Barbell dumbbells weights are a great option while still offering some flexibility. They come in 3 pairs (2lb, 3lb, & 5lb) of weights along with a convienent stand.
Pros: light weight options, good for at-home mat workouts (think mat pilates fusions or barre fusion), ready to use
Cons: not too much range, will have to buy more weights if you want to go heavier
At $27.32, it’s a good deal to have those 3 sets of weights. (ps – the link has several different options and combinations of weight sets)
#4: Hex Dumbbell sets: CAP Barbell Dumbbell pairs
Hex dumbbells are a must for some exercises like pushups with rows. They’re great for those looking to start out with some equipment for working out at home but don’t want to commit to the more expensive adjustable weights.
Pros: won’t roll away, durable, rubber coated, ready to use
Cons: bulky (if you have several), costly (again, if you have several)
This 8lb pair costs about $28.58, but you can always chose from their list of options for some lighter or heavier pairs!
#5: Hex Dumbbells: Amazon Basics Rubber Hex Dumbbell
Unlike option #4, these dumbbells do not come in pairs – they are individual weights. They have all the same benefits are regular hex dumbbells. Some exercises you only need one dumbbell for are: goblet squats, and anything single sided
Pros: won’t roll away, durable, rubber coated
Cons: bulky (if you have several), costly (again, if you have several), only comes as an individual dumbbell.
This 15lb dumbbell costs about $17.07, but you can always chose from their list for some lighter or heavier options.
#6: Wrist/Ankle Weights: Pilates Wrist Ankle Weights
Want an option to add some light weights with out holding them? Wrist and ankle weights are great! They let you add small weights for the whole workout (while it might feel like a lot at first, it adds up).
Pros: Great for mat workouts, can wear on walks, comfortable, lightweight, cute
Cons: not adjustable, not heavy enough for some
This option comes in a pair of 1lb wrist/ankle weights (each is 1lb) for $16.98. You can always look for options are that are a little heavier, that’s up to you and your needs.
#7: Weighted Bars: Fitvids Total Body Workout Bar
This set of 3 workout bars is great to add to your home gym (but also not necessary)! Great for adding some variaty to your at home workouts. From Good Mornings, to Back Squats, to Chest presses, you’ll be able to do so much.
Pros: Padded, comfortable
Cons: not adjustable, not heavy enough for some
The linked option comes in a set of 3 bars (10/15/20 lbs) for a total of $89.99. The link also has several different options for single bars or different sets of 3.
Although this list is not exhaustive and there are so many options, please be aware that you don’t need anything fancy to get started at home! Depending on where you are on your journey, you might already have some or all of these items. I tried to include items that I personally have used and am satitisfied with, whether I own them or have used from friends or at the gym.
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