Home workouts are kind of the best: You can show up in your jammies, rock out to the soundtrack without shame, or simultaneously stream your city of choice to help get your heart rate up. But while the vibe of your home gym might be chill, your programming shouldn’t be—and research shows that any well-rounded workout routine should include weight training.
Regular weight training is important for many reasons. It helps build muscle tone, promote bone health, reduce back pain, improve heart health, and more. And you don’t need to be a professional bodybuilder to reap these benefits, either: “Building muscle at home is totally possible, with the right weights and consistent effort,” Sal Nakhlawi, founder and strength coach at StrongHER Girls, an online fitness coaching platform, tells SELF.
So, what are the “right weights”? It depends on your fitness level, preferred workouts, goals, and more, says Zack Daley, NASM CPT, head coach at fitness studio Tone House. Below, experts weigh in on how to find the right weights for your home gym.
Our top picks
• Best Dumbbells: Bells of Steel Ergo Rubber Hex Dumbbells
• Best Adjustable Dumbbells: BowFlex SelectTech 552
• Best Budget Dumbbells: Spri Dumbbells
• Best Dumbbells for Beginners: Amazon Basics Barbell Lifting Dumbbells Weight Set
• Best Splurge Dumbbells: SMRTFT Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best Dumbbell Set: [brand name], available in 15 kg or 33 pounds, cast iron, urethane
Best Ankle Weights: Bala Bangles
Pros:
• Can be worn on your wrists or ankles
• Come in cute colors
• Mesh carrying bag included
• 1- and 2-pound pairs available
Cons:
• A little pricey
• Not very heavy
Whether you should invest in a pair of ankle weights depends on your training regimen and goals, says Daley. “Though they aren’t super heavy, they can be extremely challenging and beneficial when it comes to static or isolating movements that trigger small twitch muscle groups,” he explains.
We love this Home Fitness Award-winning pair from Bala because they’re easy to throw on during a walk, your favorite workout class, or marathon Sunday resets around the house. Our tester, who’s been using them for years, also likes that they’re cute—they’re “an easy way to feel like I’m making my everyday movement ‘count’ a little more,” she says.
Other great options
While these weights didn’t make it into our top picks, we still think they’re solid options considering. If you haven’t found your perfect match yet, one of these sets could be the winner.
Powerblock Sport 24
Pros:
• Compact design
• Small, 3-pound weight increments
• Often $200 less than our best overall pick
Cons:
• Amazon reviewers say the pin system isn’t the fastest adjustment process
Certified personal trainer and strength coach Amanda Katz recommends this Powerblock set, which is great for beginners or those who prefer to stick to lighter weights for high-rep workouts. These dumbbells range from 3 to 24 pounds, and you can use the included magnetic pin to adjust them in 3-pound increments for more precise training progressions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right weights for your home workout routine can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial for a well-rounded fitness regimen. Consider your fitness level, preferred workouts, and goals when choosing the best dumbbells or ankle weights for you. With the right equipment, you can take your fitness journey to the next level.
FAQs
Q: What are the best dumbbells for beginners?
A: Our top pick is the Amazon Basics Barbell Lifting Dumbbells Weight Set, available in a range of weights and with a comfortable grip.
Q: Can I use ankle weights for weightlifting?
A: Yes, but it’s important to consider your training regimen and goals. Ankle weights can be beneficial for static or isolating movements, but may not be suitable for heavy lifting or high-intensity exercises.
Q: How often should I switch up my workout routine?
A: It’s recommended to switch up your workout routine every 4-6 weeks to avoid plateaus and keep your body challenged.
