10 Different Types of Dumbbells Explained

Fixed Dumbbells

Fixed dumbbells are a type of weightlifting equipment that come in a set weight. They are made of solid metal and have a fixed weight that cannot be adjusted. One of the main advantages of fixed dumbbells is their durability. They are made of solid metal and have no moving parts, so they are less likely to wear out or break. They are a common sight in gyms and fitness centers and are widely used for strength training exercises. Fixed dumbbells can come in different shapes and sizes, such as hexagonal or round, and are typically sold in pairs.

Types of Fixed Dumbbells

Hex Dumbbells

Hex dumbbells are a type of fixed-weight dumbbell that have a hexagonal shape. The hexagonal shape prevents the dumbbell from rolling away when placed on the ground, which makes them a popular choice for home workouts where space is limited. They are typically made of solid metal and come in a range of weights, usually in increments of 5-10 pounds.

One advantage of hex dumbbells is their stability. The flat sides prevent them from rolling around, making them safer and easier to use. This can be especially helpful when performing exercises that require the dumbbells to be placed on the ground between sets. The hexagonal shape also makes them more space-efficient than round dumbbells, as they can be stored in a more compact manner.

Hex dumbbells are commonly used for strength training exercises such as bicep curls, shoulder presses, and chest flys. This dumbbell set is also a popular choice for functional training and home workouts.

Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Rubber hex dumbbells are a type of hex dumbbell that have a rubber coating over the metal weight. The rubber coating serves a few purposes: it protects the dumbbell from damage if dropped, reduces noise, and provides a better grip. Rubber hex dumbbells are commonly found in gyms and fitness centers, and are also a popular choice for home workouts.

One of the main advantages of rubber hex dumbbells is their durability. The rubber coating provides protection for the metal weight, which can help prevent damage to the dumbbell if dropped or bumped against other equipment. The rubber coating also makes the dumbbell quieter when set down on the ground or when weights are clanking together during use. Additionally, the rubber provides a better grip than a bare metal surface, which can help prevent slipping during exercises.

Rubber hex dumbbells are commonly used for a variety of strength training exercises, including bench presses, squats, lunges, and shoulder presses. They come in a range of weights, typically in increments of 5 pounds, and are available in both commercial and home-use versions.

Urethane Round or 12-Sided Dumbbells

Urethane round or 12-sided dumbbells are a type of fixed dumbbell that are coated in a layer of urethane, which is a type of polymer material. Urethane dumbbells are known for their durability, longevity, and resistance to wear and tear, making them a popular choice for commercial gym settings.

One of the main advantages of urethane round or 12-sided dumbbells is their durability. The urethane coating is resistant to cracking, peeling, and chipping, which means that the dumbbells will last a long time without needing to be replaced. Additionally, the urethane coating provides a firm and comfortable grip, which can be especially helpful when lifting heavier weight.

Another advantage of urethane dumbbells is their versatility. They are available in a wide range of weights, typically from 5 pounds to 150 pounds, and are commonly used for a variety of exercises, including bicep curls, tricep extensions, shoulder presses, and chest flys. The 12-sided shape of some urethane dumbbells can also provide a more secure grip and prevent the dumbbell from rolling away during use.

Prostyle Dumbbells

Prostyle dumbbells are a type of fixed dumbbell that have a distinctive design featuring a straight handle and round weight plates on either side of the handle. The handle is typically made of chrome or stainless steel, while the weight plates can be made of various materials, including cast iron, rubber, or urethane. Prostyle dumbbells are commonly found in commercial gyms and fitness centers.

One of the main advantages of prostyle dumbbells is their design. The straight handle provides a firm and comfortable grip, which can be especially helpful during heavy lifting exercises. Additionally, the round weight plates allow for easy loading and unloading of the dumbbell, which can save time during workouts. Prostyle dumbbells also have a sleek and professional appearance, which can enhance the overall look of a gym or fitness center.

Another advantage of this dumbbell set is their versatility. They are available in a wide range of weights, typically from 5 pounds to 150 pounds, and can be used for a variety of exercises, including bicep curls, tricep extensions, shoulder presses, and chest flys.

Neoprene Dumbbells

Neoprene dumbbells are a type of lightweight dumbbell that have a neoprene coating over the weight. The neoprene coating provides a soft and comfortable grip and helps protect the dumbbell from damage if dropped. Neoprene dumbbells are commonly used for aerobic workouts, such as Zumba or cardio kickboxing, and are also a popular choice for home workouts.

One of the main advantages of neoprene dumbbells is their comfort. The neoprene coating provides a soft and non-slip grip, which can be especially helpful during sweaty workouts. Additionally, the neoprene coating is gentle on hands and skin, making it a good choice for people who are sensitive to rough metal or rubber-coated weights.

Another advantage of neoprene dumbbells is their affordability. They are typically less expensive than other types of dumbbells, such as urethane or prostyle dumbbells. They are also available in a wide range of weights, typically from 1 pound to 15 pounds, which makes them a good choice for beginners or for people who are looking to do high-repetition exercises.

Chrome Dumbbells

Chrome dumbbells are a type of fixed-weight dumbbell that feature a chrome-plated handle and weight plates. The handle is typically made of steel or another durable metal, and the weight plates are made of cast iron, coated in chrome for a sleek and polished appearance. Chrome dumbbells are commonly found in commercial gyms and fitness centers.

One of the main advantages of chrome dumbbells is their durability. The chrome plating on the weight plates helps protect them from rust and corrosion, which can extend the life of the dumbbells. Additionally, the steel or metal handles are strong and sturdy, providing a secure grip during exercises.

Another advantage of chrome dumbbells is their appearance. The shiny and polished look of chrome dumbbells can enhance the overall aesthetic of a gym or fitness center. Additionally, the weight plates are typically easy to read and identify, which can save time during workouts.

Adjustable Dumbbells

There are many benefits of adjustable dumbbells making them a perfect addition to any home gym. So how do adjustable dumbbells work? These all-in-one sets contain a collection of different weight plates that are easy to add or remove from the dumbbell, allowing people to switch quickly between different weights without having to stop their workout. This eliminates the need to own multiple dumbbell sets with varying weights. This fitness equipment is highly efficient, taking up less space while allowing people to achieve the same workout they would with a set of fixed-weight dumbbells.

While there are many benefits, adjustable dumbbells can be more expensive than fixed dumbbells. So are adjustable dumbbells worth it? Keep reading to find out if these are the best dumbbells for you.

Types of Adjustable Dumbbells

Loadable Dumbbells

Loadable dumbbells, also known as adjustable dumbbells, are a type of dumbbell that allows the user to adjust the weight of the dumbbell by adding or removing weight plates from the handle. They are a versatile option for strength training and can be used for a variety of exercises, including curls, presses, and lunges.

One of the main advantages of loadable dumbbells is their versatility. They typically come with multiple weight plates, which can be added or removed to adjust the weight of the dumbbell to the user's desired weight. This makes them a good choice for people who are looking to do a variety of exercises with different weight levels, as well as those who are looking to progress in their strength training over time.

Another advantage of loadable dumbbells is their space-saving design. Because they can be adjusted to a variety of weight levels, they can replace multiple sets of fixed-weight dumbbells, which can save space in a home workout area.

Selectorized Adjustable Dumbbells

Selectorized adjustable dumbbells are a type of adjustable dumbbell that allows users to easily and quickly adjust the weight of the dumbbell with a selector pin, similar to the way weight stack machines are adjusted at the gym. These dumbbells typically have a base with a weight stack and adjustable plates on either end of the handle.

One of the main advantages of selectorized adjustable dumbbells is their ease of use. Users can simply select the desired weight by inserting the selector pin into the appropriate slot on the base, and the weight plates will adjust accordingly. This can save time and effort during workouts, as there is no need to manually add or remove weight plates.

Another advantage of selectorized adjustable dumbbells is their space-saving design. Because they have a weight stack, they can replace multiple sets of fixed-weight dumbbells, which can save space in a home gym or workout area.

Dial Adjustable Dumbbells

Dial adjustable dumbbells are a type of adjustable dumbbell that allows users to easily and quickly adjust the weight of the dumbbell with a dial or lever mechanism located on the handle of the dumbbell. These dumbbells typically have a base with a weight stack and adjustable plates on either end of the handle.

One of the main advantages of dial adjustable dumbbells is their ease of use. Users can simply turn the dial or move the lever on the handle to select the desired weight, and the weight plates will adjust accordingly. This can save time and effort during workouts, as there is no need to manually add or remove weight plates.

Another advantage of dial adjustable dumbbells is their space-saving design. Because they have a weight stack, they can replace multiple sets of fixed-weight dumbbells, which can save space in a home gym or workout area.

Additionally, dial adjustable dumbbells typically have a wider weight range compared to other types of adjustable dumbbells, allowing users to adjust the weight in smaller increments for more precise weight training.

Twist Lock Adjustable Dumbbells

Twist lock adjustable dumbbells are a type of adjustable dumbbell that allows users to easily and quickly adjust the weight of the dumbbell by twisting the handle. These dumbbells typically have a base with a weight stack and adjustable plates on either end of the handle.

One of the main advantages of twist lock adjustable dumbbells is their ease of use. Users can simply twist the handle to select the desired weight, and the weight plates will lock in place. This can save time and effort during workouts, as there is no need to manually add or remove weight plates.

Another advantage of twist lock adjustable dumbbells is their space-saving design. Because they have a weight stack, they can replace multiple sets of fixed-weight dumbbells, which can save space in a home gym or workout area.

Additionally, twist lock adjustable dumbbells typically have a wider weight range compared to other types of adjustable dumbbells, allowing users to adjust the weight in smaller increments for more precise weight training.

Lifepro Adjustable Dumbbells

After discussing the different types of dumbbells as well as the differences between adjustable dumbbells vs fixed dumbbells, which do you think are the best dumbbells for you? If you prefer adjustable weights, Lifepro can help.

Lifepro offers several options for adjustable dumbbells, all of which have included thorough thought and research to determine the best possible options for our fitness-focused customers. We have taken extra care to make options available to work best for everyone.

Author

Joel Gottehrer

Joel Gottehrer is the Co-Founder of Lifepro Fitness and has dedicated his life to helping people transform theirs. With over 12 years of experience in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and owner of two personal training studios, Joel has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to helping transform lives. After suffering from physical injuries, Joel and his business partner, Abraham Brach, came together with a common goal to alleviate the pain caused by their injuries.

They continued to find themselves disappointed with the results stemming from various products promising to relieve their pain, and with that – Lifepro Fitness was born. Joel's mission is to have a positive impact on millions of lives with the Lifepro brand. Whether it's finding new and innovative ways to help people recover from injuries or developing products to improve overall wellness, Joel is always looking for ways to push the boundaries. Thanks to his commitment to help people live their lives free of pain, Lifepro has been able to do this for thousands of people since its founding in 2017.