Free weights fall into two basic categories: barbells and dumbbells. You can buy extra weight plates for barbells to customize your workouts, but dumbbells are often solid pieces. Whatever type of free weights you purchase, ensure they are the correct weight for your exercise program by asking a personal trainer or store staff for recommendations. The handles of your purchase should feel comfortable when you grip them and stay secure while you exercise.
Retail Stores
Retail stores offer large selections of free weights and often have sales staff that can help you select the right weight and handle size. Online stores sometimes offer better prices, but you might pay a significant shipping charge for the heavy items, so it may end up costing just as much in the end. If you're a beginner, it's important to have access to expert salespeople who can assist you. If possible, buy a bare-bones set of free weights that you can add to later. This allows you to test out the equipment to determine how much weight you will need for your workouts.
Community Resources
Free weights last a long time, especially solid piece models that have no moving parts. If you visit garage and yard sales, chances are you will find used strength-training equipment for rock-bottom prices. Another option is to check local classified ads. Inspect each item carefully to ensure it is in good working condition. If there are moving parts, such as clips that keep weights from sliding off, test them to make sure they function properly.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores sometimes carry used free weights. For-profit thrift stores buy items and resell them, while nonprofit stores accept donated items and sell them to benefit a specific cause. For example, Goodwill and the Salvation Army have nonprofit thrift stores in many parts of the United States. It might take several visits to find the right free weights, but the low prices will make it worth your while.
Considerations
If you're buying new free weights, test different models to see which work best for the types of exercises you will perform. For example, if you plan to use them during aerobic exercises, buy free weights that are coated in foam or plastic to minimize injuries in the event you drop them. If you are interested in serious strength training, consider buying your free weights as a set. For example, barbell sets come with weight plates that fit securely on the barbell and collars that prevent them from sliding off. If you plan to buy dumbbells of various weights, consider buying a rack to store them.
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