How to Use Dumbbells for an Exercise Program

In any fitness regimen, lack of convenience is one of the key hurdles to overcome in keeping with a workout program. Some of the most convenient and widely used pieces of workout equipment are dumbbells. Dumbbells take up very little room, yet can give your whole body a workout. When used properly, a good set of dumbbells may be the only piece of exercise equipment you will ever need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dumbbells come in a variety of styles and types. One of the most versatile types is the traditional all in one dumbbell which features a bar and interchangeable weight plates. This gives the user an almost infinite variety of weights to work out different parts of the body. These dumbbells also take up the least amount of room. For more convenience, many people prefer the solid chrome or rubber encased dumbbells which each have fixed weights. This gives the same workout, but the user doesn't have to stop and change weights between sets. These can be put in a rack for storage and to minimize floor space.

2. For people that don't have access to or can't afford all the fancy workout machines found in many modern gyms, dumbbells not only provide an inexpensive alternative, but can actually give you a better workout. With dumbbells you can isolate and work on specific parts of the body, plus the added benefit associated with using free weights. These benefits include the extra balance and stamina which is improved by using free weights, as well as improving grip and lower arm strength regardless of the exercise being performed.

3. Using dumbbells alone, you can workout your back, biceps, triceps, shoulders, and legs. Any exercise that can be done with barbells or with a machine can be done using only one or a pair of dumbbells. And if you add in a bench, the dumbbells become even more versatile. Don't have the room or budget for a bench? No problem. Many exercises can be done using a hard chair, or the edge of a bed frame.

4. The workout from dumbbells is better than using a machine, because you control the weight and motion rather than letting a machine do it. This forces the use of smaller stabilizer muscles with each of the repetitions. You can also get and control a larger range of motion than you can on most machines. And of course, best of all, they don't take up much room. Rather than have a whole room of your house taken up by bulky equipment, you can store dumbbells under your bed for a convenient and ready workout at any time.
   
   Don't waste your money on expensive gym memberships that you won't use, or fill your house with overpriced exercise machines that will just gather dust. Buy a nice set of inexpensive dumbbells and be on your way to a healthier, fitter, and slimmer you in no time.