Dumbbells are underrated by gym users, especially those who don't know what these little powerhouses can do. Dumbbell training has several benefits you can't get from the big machines. And their practicality means you can use them at home, in your bedroom or living room. Dumbbells are excellent for building muscle, and the good thing is you don't need a whole instructor manual to use them. So if you're wondering where to start, don't fret. Here's a guide on how to build muscle with dumbbells.
Choose The Right Dumbbells
Whether you're selecting dumbbells from the gym or buying dumbbells for sale for home use, they must be the correct weight. If working out in the gym, the trainer will advise on the right weight to use. If you're buying, ensure you buy from an expert who can advise on the correct weight. Ideally, the weight shouldn't be too light or too heavy. For men, the ideal weight should be between 5 to 50 lbs, while for women, it should be between 3 to 12 lbs.
However, you should adjust the weights depending on the type of dumbbell exercise you're doing. If you're purchasing dumbbells for home use, get an adjustable pair.
Types of Dumbbell Exercises to Build Muscle
You can build muscle using various body exercises. The best way around it is to identify your workout routine so you can choose the exercises with maximum benefits. Some of them include:
Total body Split or Compound Exercises
As the name suggests, you must combine several exercises for both upper and lower body muscles in a single training session. These exercises are ideal if you only work out less than thrice a week. They allow you to work on most muscle groups within a week's sessions. Examples include dumbbell bench presses, rows, shoulder presses, squats, and lunges.
Best Dumbbell Muscle Group Exercises
The best way to work around dumbbell exercises is to concentrate on specific muscle groups in each training session. But ensure you invest at least five days of training every week. The exercises include:
- Dumbbell bench press: this exercise works the chest and shoulder muscles. It requires lying on a bench with a dumbbell in each hand. Keep elbows close to the body as you push up.
- Dumbbell Curls: they help work the biceps and forearms. Standing with feet slightly apart, hold dumbbells in each hand. Keep them at arm's length, elbows close to the body as you curl them towards the shoulders. You can also work out while seated.
- Dumbbell rows: they're good for the back, shoulders, and biceps. They require standing with feet slightly apart, seated or kneeling. Pull the dumbbells towards the chest as you squeeze the shoulder blades together.
Dumbbells are effective muscle builders when done right. You can work with a trainer or by yourself at home. You can combine different exercises, known as compound exercises, if you only work out less than three days a week. However, if you exercise more than five days a week, you can focus on specific muscle groups for the best results.
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