When it comes to strength training, there are two popular options for a home gym. Dumbbells and barbells are both common types of weights that can be used to build strength and are customizable to the user. While both are great options, choosing what’s best for you depends on the type of results you’d like to see from your workout.
Purchasing equipment for a home gym is a big investment, and each piece should be picked with careful consideration. When choosing between dumbbells and barbells, it’s important to do your research and pick what’s best for your body. You should also take into consideration the space in your home gym, and if you’ll need storage like an a-frame dumbbell rack, or if a bench pres Let’s look at the differences between dumbbells and barbells and what you should choose.
A Brief History of Dumbbells and Barbells
Strength training weights have been around for thousands of years, and date back to ancient Greece. The version of dumbbells that we see today has been around since the 17th century, and there’s a reason that this form of equipment has stood the test of time. It works!
Dumbbells have been common practice since the ancient Greeks, but barbells are a newer form of strength training. Barbells came on the scene in the 1860s and were inspired by the dumbbell design. The first barbells didn’t have interchangeable weights such as the modern ones we see today, so you would have to get a whole new one for more weight. We’ve come a long way from the beginnings of dumbbells and barbells.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells are free weights used for weight and strength training. They are typically small weights with a handle, and weight on each side to keep them balanced. Dumbbells can be used on their own, or as an addition to other workouts for added resistance. They are also great for balance and coordination training.
Types of Dumbbells
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Fixed-Weight Dumbbells
These dumbbells are as described. The weights are fixed, which means they can’t be moved or adjusted. They are typically made with rubber materials and are easy on the hands. They also are protected by the rubber and won’t scratch or dent as easily when you place them on an a-frame dumbbell rack.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells typically have a metal bar with gripping on it. The weights can be slid on and off the ends, which is what makes them adjustable. This type of dumbbell is good for the person who doesn’t want to have several dumbbells lying around taking up space. You do run the risk of the weights falling off, however, which could cause injury if they aren’t secured properly.
Hexagonal Dumbbells
Most dumbbells are created with round weights which could result in them rolling all over the floor. If you are planning to use your dumbbells during ground workouts, hexagonal dumbbells may be the better choice. The weights are hexagons, so they have flat sides to keep them in place.
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$67.99 – $89.99Select optionsRelife guarantees that we will refund you the difference if you find a lower price from us within 30 days of your purchase.
Price Difference Refund Requirements:
- Valid purchase history within 30 days.
- Email us a screenshot of the lower price.
- Promotion period only.
Benefits of Dumbbells
Dumbbells are a fabulous tool for strength training. They are small, so they are easy to store. You can purchase an a-frame dumbbell rack to organize and keep track of your equipment and save space.
These little weights are great for burning calories, strengthening bones and muscles, and boosting your metabolic rate. Just because you are lifting them with your arms doesn’t mean that’s the only area being targeted. Dumbbells can activate numerous muscles in the body including your quads when incorporated into lunges and squats.
When you use dumbbells, you can also improve balance and coordination. They can be added to most exercises done on your feet for a more intense workout.
Barbells
Barbells are the younger, yet much larger cousin of the dumbbell. They consist of a long metal bar that weights can be attached to at the end. Think of the barbell as one giant adjustable dumbbell. Barbells are commonly used in weight training and competitive sporting events.
Types of Barbells
Straight Barbell
The straight barbell is the most common one you’ll see. They consist of a straight bar that has two areas of rougher metal for grip and attachments on each end. Straight barbells are great for bench presses and deadlifts.
Curl Bar
Curl bars are exactly what they sound like, a curved bar used for barbell workouts. The curled bar is great for building muscle in your biceps. Do you know those heavy-weight champions with giant arms in weight competitions? They most likely use curl bars to get those muscles.
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Benefits of Barbells
Dumbbells Vs Barbells: Barbells are a good choice if you want to get strong very quickly. Using barbells for bench presses and squats will give you a full-body experience, so instead of doing multiple workouts, one will suffice. They are not for everyone, however. Someone who is looking for a casual workout or is in no rush to build muscle mass may choose dumbbells instead.
The barbell is not only good for building muscle but can be a great tool for cardio. Just because barbells are typically big doesn’t mean you can’t use a lighter weight on them. Keep in mind that they will take up a large amount of space in your home gym, especially if you plan to do bench pressing, as you’ll also need the bench.
Conclusion
Dumbbells Vs Barbells:
To sum it up, barbells and dumbbells are both excellent additions to a home gym. It’s all about your goals and preferences in a workout. Dumbbells are great because they are small and can be stored on an a-frame dumbbell rack. You can customize them and get them in different colors to match your workout clothes or other equipment.
Barbells are going to take up much more space, and cannot be stored on an a-frame dumbbell rack. They are great for building muscle quickly, and different types of bars can give you different results. It’s important to do your research and decide whats right for you when it comes to your home workout equipment.
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