Gravity Fitness Dumbbells

INTRODUCTION TO DUMBBELLS

With their origins dating back to ancient Greece (and maybe further!) there's no surprise that dumbbells are a staple in modern gyms. Dumbbells are versatile free weights used for strength training, conditioning and unilateral (one side at a time) training. Dumbbells are largely unchanged in their design, so why are there so many types and variations? Let's break them down for you to help you select the perfect dumbbells for your needs.

TYPES OF DUMBBELLS

Most of us know that a dumbbell is a handheld weight which usually consists of a handle designed for one hand with weights on the ends. Whilst the design is largely the same there are some distinctive differences between the different types of dumbbells. Let’s take a closer look:

Fixed Dumbbells

Fixed dumbbells are at a set weight, with no adjustments. Fixed dumbbells are most commonly seen in commercial gyms to provide a wide array of free weights for members to utilise. However fixed dumbbells do take up a lot of space if you require a wide array of dumbbells.

Fixed dumbbells are great for dumbbell workouts, such as dumbbell drop sets. As an example, let’s look at dumbbell bicep curls. Starting with 10kg dumbbells, perform as many reps as you can without rest, once you cannot lift any more reps, you drop the weight to 9kg dumbbells, then 8kg and so on. This is much easier with fixed dumbbells as you do not need to spend time changing weights as you would with adjustable dumbbells.

Fixed dumbbells require a dumbbell storage rack to keep your dumbbells organised and your gym hazard-free. A good storage rack also stops your dumbbells free from damage and wear.

Adjustable Dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells are designed to save space and keep your workout space organised. Adjustable dumbbells take two forms, plate-loading dumbbells and selectable dumbbells (also known as selectorbells or selectabells) Plate-loading adjustable dumbbells look like a handle with weight pegs to load weight plates on. They can be paired with the appropriate weight plate (Olympic and standard).

Plate-loading adjustable dumbbells are great for progressive overload. Unlike fixed dumbbells, you can use different levels of weight plates such as microplates to help overcome plateaus and level up your training. Plate-loading adjustable dumbbells do still have the issue of requiring space to store weight plates, though weight plate storage options take up much less space than dumbbell racks. Additionally, plate-loading dumbbells will usually require collars to secure weights to the dumbbell handles.

FIXED DUMBBELLS

1. Taurus Hex TPE Single Dumbbells
2. Taurus TPU Single Dumbbell Vers. 2
3. Nike Strength Grind Dumbbell

ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELLS

1. Gungnir Dumbler Dumbbells
2. Taurus Thick Grip Dumbbell Bar
3. BodyMax Olympic Dumbbell Bar

Selectable Dumbbells

Selectable dumbbells are a space-efficient, versatile dumbbell which contains a series of weight plates within a module. Users use the selector slider or dial to quickly choose the desired weight before removing the dumbbell from the cradle. Selectable dumbbells are incredibly popular for home gyms as they take up very little space and you can get a wide array of weights at a low cost, giving you amazing value for money.

Where selectable dumbbells can cause concern is that they are limited by their maximum weight level. If you have a selectable dumbbell that goes to 25kg, you are limited to a maximum 25kg dumbbell. Some of the larger weight selectable dumbbells do have a tendency to be quite bulky which can offset some exercises such as dumbbell chest press and dumbbell shoulder press.

BodyMax 25kg Selectabell Adjustable Dumbbell

BowFlex SelectTech Dumbbell 1090i

Centr Smart Stack 50 Adjustable Dumbbell

DUMBBELL MATERIALS

Whilst most dumbbells have a solid metal base the coating or covering is also an important consideration to keep in mind. TPE and TPU are versatile plastics that are both used in dumbbell construction. Some dumbbells use neoprene as a coating and others use chrome or cast-iron. Let’s look at each:

Rubber-Coated Dumbbells

Rubber dumbbells are an affordable option and great for fitness beginners who do not want to break the bank at the start of their fitness journeys. Rubber dumbbells are durable and don’t make any loud noises when training.

Example
BodyMax Deluxe Rubber Dumbbell Set

Neoprene Dumbbells

Neoprene is a type of rubber often used for studio dumbbells thanks to their rubberised grip and waterproof properties. This makes them perfect for studio classes where users are expected to sweat a lot.

Example
Taurus Neoprene Studio Dumbbells

Iron Dumbbells

Cast iron is an effective way to make weights for dumbbells. They're simple and rugged and resistant to damage and chipping. Rusting can be an issue for cast iron when not stored well and tends to be a bit noisier than other types of dumbbells.

Example
BodyMax Deluxe 30kg Hammertone Dumbbell Set

TPE Dumbbells

TPE (Thermoplastic Elastomer) is a flexible plastic used for making versatile and flexible dumbbells. Whilst being a high-grade material TPE dumbbells tend to be more cost-effective and whilst they are flexible they are less durable than materials such as TPU.

Example
Taurus Hex TPE Single Dumbbells

TPU Dumbbells

TPU (Thermoplastic Urethane) is a robust plastic often used in commercial gyms due to its resistance to wear and tear. Unlike TPE dumbbells, TPU dumbbells are less flexible against impact such as dropping.

Example
Taurus TPU Single Dumbbell Vers. 2

Other Dumbbell Materials

Dumbbells are not limited to the rubber and plastic types. Norhd, for example, uses nickel-coated steel with wooden features. Whilst the majority of dumbbells sold at Fitshop will use TPE or TPU, there are always outliers that aim to surprise and delight you with their construction.

Example
NOHRD Dumbbell Rack

Dumbbell Shape

Dumbbells come in all shapes and sizes, however, the most common shapes you will find are round or hexagonal. Occasionally some outliers will buck the trend and use square or rectangular or triangular, but these are few and far between. So why do dumbbells tend to fall into these shapes? What are the benefits?

Cylindrical Dumbbells

Commonly found in commercial gyms and the most recognisable silhouette for identifying dumbbells. The cylindrical shape is great for end cap weight identification and many storage racks are built to accommodate cylindrical dumbbells. Round dumbbells ensure an even weight distribution and arguably better control during lifts.

Hexagonal Dumbbells

The major difference between hexagonal dumbbells and cylindrical dumbbells is the flat edge of the hexagonal shape. The hexagonal shape avoids roll, creating a stable base for exercises like dumbbell renegade row or dumbbell press-ups. This is also a boon for dumbbells bent over row to avoid the weight from accidentally rolling off the bench and causing damage or injury.

DUMBBELL STORAGE

Once you’ve decided on which dumbbells are right for you, you’re going to need a place to store them. Dumbbell storage is essential for keeping your weights organised and keeping your gym area tidy and safe. Dumbbells make up a significant portion of insurance claims in gyms for slips, trips and falls. If you’re a gym regular, members not replacing their dumbbells correctly is one of the most frequent complaints in the gym. Injuries aside, dumbbell storage racks keep your dumbbells clean and less likely to get damaged, keeping your weights in great condition for longer.

Dumbbell Tower

Taurus Pro Upright Dumbbell Rack

Tiered Dumbbell Rack

Taurus 3-Tier Dumbbell Rack

Your gym space will determine which dumbbell storage option you choose. Dumbbell racks are great for gyms with plenty of space available as they can hold a large array of weights in an organised line. Dumbbell towers are better for smaller workout spaces, providing a vertical storage option. Alternative storage options can include integrated dumbbell storage into other equipment such as the Taurus Studio HIIT Bench.

DUMBELL BUNDLES

The nature of the majority of dumbbells is that gym setups require a lot of them and a place to store them. To save you time and effort, Fitshop has bundled selections of dumbbells and storage options together for your convenience.

Dumbbells for Home Gyms

When considering home gyms we are describing an indoor area of your home dedicated to fitness. This is a distinction between a garage or garden gym in terms of space which is essential when considering dumbbells. Home gyms benefit from utilising as little space as possible, which leans into the selectable adjustable dumbbells. As described earlier, selectable dumbbells fit an array of weights in a small space, they usually include optional stands to mount the weights on and keep your weights off the floor.

FITSHOP FAVOURITES
BodyMax 34kg Selectabell Dumbbells
BodyMax 34kg Selectabell Dumbbells Stand

Dumbbells for Garage Gyms

As mentioned above in the home gyms section, the distinction this buying guide presents is that of available space. With space in mind, garage gyms can allow for an array of dumbbells stored in a space-saving option. Dumbbell towers are a great option here as they have a small footprint while allowing a wide range of dumbbells. Whereas selectable dumbbells are absolutely a viable option for garage gyms, TPE dumbbells are an affordable option for customers looking for an array of dumbbell pairs. As mentioned above, Fitshop offers a selection of bundles to save you money and time in selecting the right weights for you. The Taurus 5 Pair Hex Dumbbell Set with Rack is a superb choice, giving you four options for weights and a sturdy tower rack at an affordable price point.

FITSHOP FAVOURITES
Taurus 5 Pair Hex Dumbbell Set with Rack

Dumbbells for Studio Gyms

Studio gyms are small gyms often owned by independent parties and include personal trainer studios, yoga studios and aerobic studios. Studio gyms often serve a niche such as yoga and wellness or need to serve a diverse client base, as is the case with personal trainer studios. Studio gyms take a variety of shapes and sizes, from single room studios to multi-room facilities. The context we will be using for the term “studio gym” will be a small, independently owned fitness or wellness venue with moderate member traffic. The needs of these establishments change with the clientele.

Dumbbells for Yoga and Pilates Studios

Though primarily based around bodyweight exercise, stretching and balance, yoga and pilates studios also utilise dumbbells for class variety and challenges. Dumbbells can also serve as a counterbalance for developing balance and isometric strength. Dumbbells used in this context tend to be light and need to be able to handle sweat, especially in studios offering hot yoga or pilates. With this in mind, the Taurus Neoprene Dumbbells are an excellent choice due to their sweat-resistant properties and variety of light weights ranging from 0.5kg to 10kg.

FITSHOP'S CHOICE
Taurus Neoprene Studio Dumbbells

Dumbbells for Fitness Studios

Fitness studios and personal trainer studios require a wide variety of dumbbells to cater for a wide range of clients. At the same time, many independent trainers may want to stand out from their competition and make some aesthetic choices to match the look and theme of their gym. Equally, personal trainer studios may look to maximise the space-efficiency of their space which makes bundles such as the Taurus Elite Ultimate HIIT Bench Package which contains a bench with internal storage for five sets of dumbbells as well as compartments for other equipment such as resistance bands and skipping ropes.

FITSHOP FAVOURITE
Taurus Elite HIIT Bench

Dumbbells for Clinics

When it comes to clinics and physiotherapists, dumbbells are used to help patients recover and develop strength following illness and injury. Dumbbells for clinics need to serve a variety of needs and must be easily accessible for clinicians. A good choice for clinics would be the Taurus 10 Pair Hex Dumbbell Set with Storage to fulfil the brief of wide range of weights and accessible storage.

FITSHOP'S CHOICE
Taurus 10 Pair Hex Dumbbell Set with Storage

Dumbbells for Commercial Gyms

Commercial gyms see heavy footfall every day, sometimes 24 hours per day. Commercial gyms cater to people at the very beginning of their fitness journey all the way to professional athletes with decades of experience. To match the expectations of all these gym members, commercial gyms require robust and hard-wearing dumbbells to withstand the heavy workload and handling by the public. With this in mind TPU dumbbells such as the Taurus TPU Single Dumbbell are a perfect choice for commercial gyms. The Taurus TPU Dumbbells come in sizes 2.5kg all the way up to 50kg which gives a massive choice of dumbbells. The Taurus TPU Dumbbell with 2-Tier Storage Rack comes with the full array of Taurus TPU Dumbbells and two storage racks to store and display them.

FITSHOP'S FINEST
Taurus TPU Dumbbell with 2-Tier Storage Rack

Dumbbells for Luxury Gyms

Luxury gyms describe a wide array of gyms. From luxury hotels to spas to home gyms looking for a touch of class or a unique look and aesthetic. For this kind of gym two standout products make sense. The NOHRD Dumbbell Rack comes in a variety of wood options. Each dumbbell is expertly crafted from nickel-plated steel and beautiful wood. The Gungnir of Norway Dumbler Dumbbells can load Olympic plates onto their weight pegs. The Dumblers are collar-free dumbbells and have been tested to the extreme by lifting cars and countless drop tests. The Dumblers are a fitness connoisseur’s dream.

FITSHOP'S CHOICE
NOHRD Dumbbell Rack

Dumbbell Extras

As we’ve discussed throughout this text, dumbbells are a versatile and accessible fitness tool, they also make great companions for other types of exercise equipment. Let's cover some options to boost your dumbbell workouts:

Adjustable weight bench - Taurus Elite Adjustable Flat/Incline Weight Bench
EMS devices - Compex SP 8.0 Muscle Stimulator
Studio mat - Taurus Studio Mat
Gym flooring - Taurus Floor Tiles

Why Buy Your Dumbbells From Fitshop?

Fitshop is the longest-established fitness equipment retailer in the UK and Europe’s #1 for home fitness. When you choose to buy from us, you’ll enjoy a range of great benefits, including:

Expert sales staff offering impartial advice in-store, online, over the phone, via email, live chat, and social media.
Try before you buy: Most of our Dumbbells and equipment can be tested in-store, and we offer demos of compatible workout apps. Find your nearest store here.
Interest-free finance: Available both online and in-store to help you invest in your purchase. Find out more here.
Delivery: We offer various delivery options across the UK through our trusted courier partners. Learn more here.
Aftercare: Our dedicated team provides world-class support and is available 7 days a week to help with any questions or queries.

SALES TEAM

If you’d like to learn more about our range of Dumbbells or have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact our in-house commercial sales team at sales@fitshop.co.uk or call us on 0141 737 2250.