Whether you’re newly resolved to move your body more in 2023 or are a veteran fitness aficionado, there are a few key gym staples that everyone should have in their workout arsenal, beginning with the best dumbbells for your home. A foundation of many fitness routines, including your online cardio classes that blast Beyoncé, these handy accessories are suitable for both beginners and elite-level athletes alike, feel intuitive to use, and, unlike intimidating weight racks and large machines, they're small enough to work seamlessly into any home gym setup.
As a certified personal trainer from the American Council of Exercise, I incorporate dumbbells into my clients’ routines as a gentle-yet-effective way of boosting both muscular strength and cardiorespiratory endurance. (Try a weighted jump squat and thank and/or curse me later.) But not all dumbbells are created equally. From neoprene-coated options to cast-iron and hexagonal choices, dumbbells take on many shapes, materials and weights.
Using the knowledge I've gained on them over the years, I’ve scoured the internet for the best dumbbells on the market that are durable, easy to use and at a good value for their quality. For the best burn you’ve had in years, check out my list below.