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Which dumbbell set is best for beginners?

If you’re working toward a new fitness goal, owning equipment to use at home is oftentimes easier than commuting back and forth to the gym and waiting your turn to use complicated machines. However, choosing the right equipment for your home gym can be challenging. Regardless of your fitness routine, dumbbells are versatile and ideal for a variety of workouts. If you’re a beginner, here are the best dumbbell sets to get you started. 

In this article: Amazon Basics Neoprene Set, CAP Barbell Neoprene Set and Yes4All Adjustable Dumbell Set.

What to consider when choosing a dumbbell set

Budget

Setting a budget is the first step when choosing a dumbbell set. Reaching your goals is attainable, whether you splurge or opt for an affordable set. If you want the dumbbells to last for years and accommodate any workout, opt for a higher-quality set with a wide range of weight options. However, having three pairs of light, medium and heavy dumbbells is enough to get anyone started.

Space

Fitness equipment is known to take up a lot of space. If you have an entire workout room, you may not need to consider space when choosing a dumbbell set. If you don’t have ample space, adjustable dumbbells are a great option because they offer multiple weights without the added equipment.

Dumbbell set features

Weight

All dumbbells come with fixed weights. For example, a set may come in 3-, 5- and 8-pound dumbbells. Even adjustable dumbbells still have set weights. If your goal is to add a little weight to your cardiovascular exercises, you may not need high weight. However, those looking to bulk up or add considerable strength will need higher increments, such as 15-, 20- and 25-pound weights.

Shape and grip

Dumbbells come in several shapes: hex, round, square and triangle. Hex dumbbells are the most popular since they are ideal for a variety of workouts and don’t roll away. For grip, neoprene dumbbell sets are great for beginners because they’re convenient to handle.

Best dumbbell set for beginners

Under $75

Amazon Basics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell

For beginners looking for light weights, this set comes with six dumbbells in three sizes, including 3, 5 and 8 pounds. Also, they’re made of cast iron and covered in neoprene for durability, safety and a nonslip grip.

Sold by Amazon

BalanceFrom Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbell in Pairs

Those who want to keep it simple with a single set of dumbbells in one weight will appreciate this option, which starts at 10 pounds. The hexagonal shape prevents rolling and makes for more accessible storage. The solid metal chrome finish is also contoured to provide a comfortable grip.

Sold by Amazon

CAP Barbell Neoprene Dumbbell Set with Rack

While this set comes with several dumbbells, it also includes a rack, making it ideal for those with limited space. They have a durable neoprene coating suitable for indoor or outdoor use, and the hex shape prevents rolling.

Sold by Amazon

BalanceFrom Colored Neoprene Coated Dumbbell Set with Stand

This colorful set comes with six dumbbells, a pair of 3-pound, 5-pound and 8-pound weights. Plus, the convenient stand is ideal for limited space and staying organized.

Sold by Amazon

Under $100

Yes4All Adjustable Dumbbell Set

With a variety of plates totaling 50 pounds, this set is extremely versatile, allowing users to customize their weight for any workout. This set comes with two textured chrome plates for a nonslip grip, eight cast iron plates covered in a black paint finish to prevent rust and four collars with rubber trims to guarantee a safe workout.

Sold by Amazon

NordicTrack Adjustable Dumbbells

These adjustable dumbbells are ideal for those without extra space, allowing users to quickly choose between 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5 pounds and even switch weights between exercises. Plus, each weight value is marked clearly.

Sold by Amazon

Under $200

Northdeer Steel Ultracompact and Adjustable Chrome Dumbbell

Those searching for high-quality dumbbells that are convenient to use will appreciate this set. They’re small and made of pure steel with a foam coating on the handle for comfortable gripping. To change the weight, simply unscrew the dumbbell plate.

Sold by Amazon

Fitness Republic Neoprene Weights Dumbbells Set

This neoprene-covered dumbbell set comes with higher weights for muscle growth and strengthening, including pairs of 8-, 10- and 12-pound weights. Plus, the hexagonal shape keeps them from rolling around.

Sold by Amazon

Splurge

Ativafit Adjustable Dumbbell Weights

For weights above 50 pounds, opt for this adjustable dumbbell set, which is equivalent to 12 dumbbells. The weight options start at 11 pounds and go up to 71.5 pounds in under three seconds with just the turn of a dial.

Sold by Amazon

Cap Barbell 150-Pound Dumbbell Set with Rack

This set includes a pair of 5-pound, 10-pound, 15-pound, 20-pound and 25-pound dumbbells as well as a vertical storage rack to save space. The dumbbells have a hex design to keep them sturdy and are covered with rubber for safety.

Sold by Amazon

 

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Bre Richey writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

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