In-home workouts using small, portable fitness equipment is a popular choice for exercisers who are watching their budget. Purchasing your own dumbbell set can save you the price of a gym membership while you also enjoy the convenience and privacy of exercising in the comfort of your own home. Dumbbells allow you to perform strength-training exercises that can help to build muscle, boost metabolism and burn calories.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells are great for beginning weight lifters as they are one of the most affordable forms of free weights; starting at 20 cents per pound. Adjustable dumbbells are typically sold in a set with two handles, 80 lbs. in weight plates and two end caps. The caps can be screwed on and off for quick adjustment of weight.
Hex Dumbbells
Hex dumbbells are more durable than adjustable dumbbells and start at about 40 cents per pound. The downside to hex dumbbells is the space requirements and the need for a dumbbell rack to store them. Also, hex dumbbells are more costly then adjustable dumbbells, but they are cheaper then pro style dumbbells.
Pro Style Dumbbells
Pro style dumbbells are often found at health clubs, gyms and personal training studios. They have a rubber coating at each end to avoid deterioration, injuries and loud noise. Also, pro dumbbells are ergonomically designed to adhere to your hand comfortably. However, these dumbbells are at the top of the price ranges, ranging anywhere $1 to $2 per pound.
Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells
The Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells are offered in two models --the 552 and the 1090. The 552 model ranges from 5 lbs. to 52 lbs. on each dumbbell while the 1090 ranges from 10 lbs. to 90 lbs. Each dumbbell comes on a block which holds the mini-plates in place and allows you to turn a dial on both sides of the dumbbell to select your weight, says AskTheTrainer.com. The Bowflex SelectTech is the most affordable set of dumbbells, retailing between $399 and $699, depending on the model, for those who require heavy weights.
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