Whether it’s home or gym fitness, you need to have some idea as to how to get the most from the equipment you have at hand. The dumbbell is universally identifiable and the most widely used exercise tool around the world. With this in mind, read on to learn five steps to get the most from your dumbbells.
Make sure the grip is comfortable and that your hand fits
The weights that you choose to use will need to be repetitively lifted, and, as such, you need to ensure the grip is comfortable and your hand actually fits. Yes, it sounds obvious, but one of the biggest complaints from those who use dumbbells in their exercise routines is the blisters or calluses that are formed from continuous lifting. Gym gloves will help, but the first step is to make sure the grip works for you and isn’t overextending your hand and fingers.
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You must be able to change the weight
Use the same bar for a range of different weights. The more modern Hex version is great and doesn’t roll, but they generally can’t be interchanged, and, as such, you will need a variety of these dumbbells. The best advice is to make sure you can use the same bar with interchangeable weights. This will also allow you to implement the next suggestion.
Increase your weight as you get stronger
Having dumbbells that can be increased in weight is essential and will go a long way to giving you the best use possible, as well as building muscle. As soon as the weight becomes easily manageable, you need to up the intensity or increase the weight, or both. Make sure that your dumbbells can be added to and that the total weight you can fit is appropriate to push your muscles to their maximum.
Check your form
Having mirrors in the gym isn’t all about the ego and the ability to fix your hair between sets. It’s all about being able to check your form. All those using dumbbells are no exception. It may seem like a simple set of tools to exercise, but if you want to get the most from them, you will need to do a range of exercises; being able to compare your own movements and lifting technique is as important as watching online advice videos and clips to see how some of the range of movements and exercises are done. The latest home gym mirrors are now smart and interactive, allowing you to create a virtual gym and check your technique at the same time.
Work to a plan
Having a set plan makes it easier to stick to and will enable you to monitor your progress. The key to increased fitness, building muscle, and losing excess body fat is consistency. A plan allows you to set aside time and ensure that you are consistently working towards the end goals and overall aims.
If you have a set of dumbbells that form part of your fitness or exercise program, be assured that you are not alone in using these fitness tools. They are, if used properly, some of the best fitness equipment you could ask for, and using these tips will help you get the most from them.