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The best dumbbells for home workouts that’ll actually make you want to get fit

They're a smart choice.
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Home workouts with dumbbells are a really underrated way to sneak in fitness. Not only do they save time (feel free to hit snooze a few more times), but they are also extremely cost effective. And who isn’t pinching pennies these days?

For a fraction of the cost of a monthly gym membership or a five-class pack of Pilates, working out at home can give you the same, if not better, results. Plus, with dumbbells coming in a variety of styles and colours, they’ll motivate you to stay active.

No more excuses – it’s time to get fit, have fun and save money with these cute and effective dumbbells.

Dumbbells are effective for building muscle and gaining strength. (Image: Getty)

THE BEST DUMBBELLS FOR HOME WORKOUTS

bright green, blue, yellow and red dumbbells for home workouts

01

Celsius Neoprene Dipped Dumbbell

from $2.99 at Rebel Sport

Best for: A dopamine boost while working out

The Neoprene Dipped Dumbbells by Celsius make working out at home fun. Coming in bright colours and a variety of weight options, these dumbbells will boost your mood as well as your muscles.

Bonus: Their comfortable, hexagonal grip makes holding onto them a breeze for most hand sizes.

Sizes: 0.5kg to 8kg

Colours: Yellow, pink, red, blue, green, orange and purple

Key features:

  • Hexagonal design provides stability
  • Neoprene dipped for comfort and grip
  • Sold individually

Also available in a bundled 3-pair set:

red white and blue captain america style dumbbells

02

Captain America Dumbbells

from $42.99 at Catch

Best for: Channeling your inner superhero

Nobody ever said that home workouts had to be boring. With these Captain America-themed dumbbells, it’ll be anything but. Have fun while bringing your ‘A game’ to building muscles that even Chris Evans would be jealous of.

Sizes: 2.5kg to 25kg

Colours: Red or blue

Materials: PU covered rubber

Key features:

  • Comfortable grip and durable
  • Compact size
  • Unique design

Also available at:

blue gaiam weight bars

03

Performance Silicone Weighted Toning Bars

from $79.95 at The Iconic

Best for: Adding weight to workouts without sacrificing style

The Performance Silicone Weighted Toning Bars from Gaiam in pretty teal are the perfect workout accessory to any home workout. From pilates to barre and cardio dance, these weights will have you moving in style.

If your workout area is on the small side then these hand weights are a perfect choice. Streamlined, small in size and big on style, they’re easily stored between workouts.

Sizes: 2kg

Colours: Teal

Materials: Silicon-covered weighted bars

Key features:

  • Silicone design is comfortable yet smooth & stylish
  • Ergonomic & even weight distribution

Also available at:

04

Adjustable Dumbbell Set

from $63.99 at Amazon AU

Best for: Lovers of all-in-ones

A hardworking piece of fitness equipment, this all-in-one dumbbell lets you adjust the weight to suit your preference. It’s basically four weights in one.

A quick and simple adjustment is all it takes to give you the resistance your after. Compact, convenient, easy to use and cute as can be, what more could you want?

Sizes: 2kg to 5kg

Colours: Pink, white and black

Materials: ABS + Galvanized iron block

Key features:

  • Adjustable design for quick and easy weight options
  • Comfortable grip
  • Stylish

Also available at:

pink bala hands-free weights

05

Bala Bangles

from $79 at Bala AU

Best for: A convenient, hands-free option

While technically not a dumbbell, these Bala wrist weights are just as effective while keeping your hands from getting sweaty. At just one pound each (0.45 kg), Bala Bangles add a constant but comfortable resistance to your workout.

Bala Bangles are also a great option because, unlike traditional dumbbells, they don’t limit your range of motion and travel well. From yoga to boxing and high-fiving your co-workers, these weights are a must-have. Fun fact: Celebs like Reese Witherspoon and Kim Kardashian are also major fans!

Sizes: 1lb each (0.45kg)

Colours: Blush, charcoal, sea, sage, shine and more

Materials: Recycled stainless steel bars coated in a silky smooth silicone skin

Key features:

  • Made to move
  • One size fits all
  • Fully adjustable
  • Simple by design
  • Fashion and function

Also available at:

ARE HOME WORKOUTS WITH DUMBBELLS EFFECTIVE?

Yes, home workouts with dumbbells are an effective, efficient way to train. Using heavier weight options as you increase strength will help you create beautiful muscle definition.

Dumbbells are also incredibly versatile and allow you to work different muscle groups. Use them to amp up the burn on any at-home workout, and you’re sure to notice a difference in your overall fitness.

IS IT OK TO WORK OUT WITH DUMBBELLS EVERY DAY?

Unless you are targeting the same muscles every single day, working out with dumbbells on the daily shouldn’t pose a problem. However, it’s important to listen to your body. And, if you have any concerns, consult your healthcare provider.

It’s important to note that working out every day isn’t necessary. For most people, it’s sufficient to have two-to-three weightlifting sessions per week.

CAN YOU BUILD MUSCLE WITH DUMBBELLS ONLY?

Absolutely, yes! Dumbbells rank among the top resistance training tools for both beginners and professional athletes. Their ability to build strength and muscles makes them essential for any fitness routine. And their easy-to-store convenience makes them perfect for at-home gyms.

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