If you’re a beginner looking to start a fitness routine, incorporating dumbbell exercises can be a great way to build strength, tone your muscles, and improve your overall health without all the big and fancy equipment. But with so many different exercises and dumbbell sets available, it can be challenging to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of dumbbell exercises, exploring the best exercises to target all major muscle groups, from the chest and arms to the legs and core.
We’ll also review the top 5 dumbbell sets available, highlighting the pros and cons of each, to help you choose the set that’s right for you.
So, if you’re ready to discover the best dumbbell exercise routine for beginners, read on to learn more!
The Best Dumbbell Exercise Routine for Beginners
Lateral Raise
The dumbbell lateral raise is an isolation exercise that targets the deltoids or the rounded muscles on the upper arms.
Begin by standing up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms down by your sides, holding a dumbbell in each hand.
With a slight bend in your elbows, raise your arms out to the sides until they are parallel to the floor, while keeping your palms facing down. This is your starting position.
Slowly lift your arms out to your sides until they are parallel to the floor, exhaling as you do so.
Hold the position for a second or two, then slowly lower the weights back to the starting position while inhaling.
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions
Dumbbell Bent Over Row
This is a great exercise for targeting the back muscles, particularly the latissimus dorsi, trapezius and rhomboids.
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart and a slight bend in your knees.
Hold a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing your body, and hinge forward at your hips so that your torso is parallel to the ground.
Keep your core tight and your back flat throughout the exercise.
With a slight bend in your elbows, lift the weights towards your chest, keeping them close to your body, exhaling as you do so.
Hold the position for a second or two, then slowly lower the weights back down to the starting position while inhaling.
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.
Romanian Deadlift
The Romanian Deadlift is a great deadlift variation that helps develop the posterior chain muscles, including the hamstrings, lumbar spine, glutes and adductors. It is also perfect for strengthening the core and lower back.
Take two dumbbells according to your lifting strength and place them close to your feet.
Stand upright with feet shoulder-width apart, bend knees and hips slightly, and grab the dumbbells with an overhand grip, ensuring palms face your body.
Keep chest up and core tight, then lift the dumbbells, using your heels and shoulder blades to straighten up. Lower your torso slowly to engage your hamstrings.
Hold for a few seconds, engage your hamstrings, push through your heels and hips to return to starting position. Keep dumbbells close to your body throughout the movement.
Goblet Squat
The goblet squat is a compound exercise that primarily targets the lower body. It uses the glutes and muscles in the legs including the hamstrings, quads and calves.
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding the weight at chest height with both hands, and keep your elbows close to your body.
While keeping your chest up, push your hips back and bend your knees to lower your body into a squat position. Make sure your knees are tracking over your toes and your weight is distributed through your heels.
Lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the ground, or as low as you can comfortably go. Breathe in as you lower your body.
Push through your heels to stand back up to the starting position, exhaling as you rise.
Biceps Curl
For those who want to get toned and strong biceps, biceps curl is one of the best exercises you can perform at home and with just a pair of dumbbells.
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing forward.
Keeping your elbows close to your body, exhale and curl the weights up towards your shoulders while contracting your biceps.
Hold the top position for a second, squeezing your biceps, then slowly lower the weights back down to the starting position while inhaling.
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.
Dumbbell Squat to Press
Another excellent compound exercise, Squat to Press targets the upper body, core and lower body muscles.
Begin by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height with palms facing forward.
Lower yourself into a squat position, keeping your weight on your heels and your knees tracking over your toes. As you stand back up, press the weights overhead by fully extending your arms.
Hold the top position for a second, then lower the weights back down to your shoulders as you lower yourself back into the squat position.
Repeat the exercise for the desired number of repetitions.
What are the Best Dumbbells to buy for Beginners?
OUR TOP PICK
BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
BowFlex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell is not like your typical dumbbell with its weight selection dial.
This unique dial system for adjusting the weight makes it easy and fast to change from 5 up to 52.5 lbs of resistance. This design not only makes switching between exercises quick, but also helps save space in your home gym.
The premium yet comfortable grip is also a notable feature of the bowflex dumbbell. It ensures a secure hold and reduces the risk of injury in every session.
Pros
Quick and easy to change resistance
Compact and easy to store as it does not require multiple plates
Cons
Can be expensive at first
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Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells
Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbells are a great option for their ease of use, versatility and affordability. They offer a wide range of weight which makes it beneficial for beginners who are not yet sure of their strength level.
The Knurled Chrome Handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, making it easier to perform exercises without worrying about the dumbbell slipping out of your hand. The plates are made of durable cast iron to ensure that the dumbbells will last a long time, even with frequent use.
The Yes4All Dumbbells are also relatively affordable making them an accessible option for those who are just starting out and are simple testing the waters.
Pros
Relatively Affordable
Simple and easy to use
Cons
Some users find the handle small
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CAP Coated Hex Dumbbell
The CAP Coated Hex Dumbbell is an excellent option for beginners who want to train at home. One of its key features is its hexagonal design, which provides a stable base as you do exercises like push ups. The design also prevents it from rolling, making it safer and more convenient to use for home workouts.
The dumbbell offers weight ranging from 3 to 70 pounds, allowing beginners to start with lighter weights and gradually increase as their strength improves.
Additionally, the durable build of the CAP dumbbell ensures that it can withstand usage for a long time, making it a worthwhile investment for any home gym setup.
Pros
Affordable yet good quality
Accurate weight
Cons
Has a strong smell at first
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SPRI Deluxe Rubber Dumbbells
These dumbbells come in a range of weights from 3 to 50 pounds, providing versatility for a full body workout. The rubber coating not only protects the dumbbells from damage but also protects your flooring.
The SPRI Deluxe Rubber Dumbbells are constructed with high-quality materials, featuring a solid cast iron core for durability and a chrome-plated handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip. The hexagonal design also prevents the dumbbells from rolling away during exercises, making them safe and convenient to use.
Additionally, the compact size of the dumbbells makes them easy to store and organize, allowing you to fit your routine into any space or schedule.
Pros
Made of durable materials
Easy to use
Cons
Emits a strong smell
RUNNER UP
JFIT Dumbbell Set With Stand
Another great investment for beginners looking to build their exercise routine at home, the JFIT Dumbbell Set with Stand comes with pairs of dumbbells ranging from 2 to 74 pounds to help target all muscle groups. The weights are color-coded to help you easily identify the appropriate weight for each exercise.
The set also includes a stand which is a great addition as it is makes storing the weights easy and keeps your workout space organized.
The JFIT Dumbbells neoprene coated that provide a non-slip surface even when your hands get sweaty. Additionally, its ergonomic design ensures a secure and comfortable grip to reduce risk of injuries.
Pros
Already includes a stand for easy storage
Color coded for easy weight identification
Cons
Does not come with assembly instructions for the stand
What is the best dumbbell weight for beginners?
The best dumbbell weight for beginners is a common question for those starting out with weightlifting. The appropriate weight depends on several factors, such as fitness goals, strength level, and specific exercises.
It is recommended for beginners to start with lighter weights, typically between 5 to 10 pounds for upper body exercises like bicep curls, shoulder presses, and tricep extensions. Lower body exercises such as lunges and squats may require slightly heavier weights ranging from 10 to 20 pounds.
It is crucial for beginners to focus on proper form and technique, rather than lifting heavy weights. Gradually increasing the weight over time can help build strength and prevent injury.
Consulting with a personal trainer or fitness professional can help determine the appropriate weight for your current fitness level and goals. Overall, starting with lighter weights and gradually increasing weight over time can lead to better results in the long run.
Conclusion
Incorporating dumbbell exercises into your workout routine can help build strength, increase muscle tone, and improve overall fitness. This article has provided a comprehensive guide to the best dumbbell exercise routine for beginners and reviewed the top 5 dumbbells available in the market.
By following the recommendations outlined in this article, beginners can kick-start their weightlifting journey and achieve their fitness goals in a safe and effective manner. So, get ready to grab those dumbbells and start working towards a stronger, healthier you!
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