The Best 30-Pound Dumbbell

Buying Guide

Few things can be as motivating as signing up for a gym membership. Spending that money each month serves as a solid incentive to stay on top of your fitness goals.

But it’s never been easier to work out at home. You don’t even have to invest hours a day. One study found that lifting weights for only one hour a week can reduce your risk of heart attack or stroke by between 40 and 70 percent. More than an hour didn’t reduce those risks a significant amount more.

Of course, there are plenty of other reasons to lift weights, whether at home or in the gym. Weightlifting strengthens your muscles and bones, which can help with balance, focus and weight management. It can even reduce your risk of osteoporosis. All you need are some dumbbells for your arms and shoulders, as well as resistance exercises for your lower body and abdomen, and you’re ready to go.

Classic P.E. class exercises like sit-ups and crunches are, of course, always great to tone your stomach muscles. You can also grab a chair and do some lunges or brace yourself against the back of a chair or a wall. Resistance tubing is another option that can give you some unique exercises that will keep things interesting.

To take your strength training and toning to the next level, though, a good pair of dumbbells can make a big difference. You can find dumbbells in varying weights, going as low as a couple of pounds all the way up to hundreds of pounds.

You have some choices when it comes to strength training using barbells. You can use two weights, one in each hand, and work out both arms at once. Some choose to invest in only one barbell and work out one arm at a time. You might even choose to combine hand weights with lunges or walking to multitask your workouts.

• Always consult your doctor before beginning any new exercise plan. If you suffer any pain while working out, stop and check with your physician before continuing. You will, of course, have muscle soreness in the days following a new workout, especially if you’re straining a muscle that has been dormant for a while.
• Dumbbells feature a rod in the center with two cylindrical weights on the ends. The material used to make the weight is essential. The rod will typically be metal, but the weights themselves are often coated in rubber. This coating allows you to set your barbells down between uses or store them without having to worry about them scratching your floor or other surfaces.
• Traditional barbells featured round weights, but those proved a challenge for storing or simply setting them down. Many modern dumbbells use a hexagon shape that gives you the same functionality while still holding them in place when they’re on a flat surface.
• Your hands can build up moisture as you work out. Many dumbbells build in some type of texturing on the surface to give you leverage while you’re holding them. This prevents slipping.
• The rod holding the weights is an important part of the lifting experience. Some feature an ergonomic design that will keep your hands comfortable while you’re strengthening and toning.
• Before you buy hand weights, make sure you’re clear on what you’re getting. Some are sold separately, although most are packaged in sets of two. You won’t want to be disappointed by receiving only one when you’re expecting a pair of dumbbells.
• Storage is an important consideration when you’re purchasing workout equipment. Obviously, you’ll want barbells that won’t roll away when not in use, but you’ll also need a place to keep your weights. A shelf in a closet or a storage space under a bed can be great options.