DUMBBELL DECISIONS

Can't decide between fixed or adjustable dumbbells? Here’s all you need to know

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Fixed and adjustable dumbbells work your muscles in exactly the same way – the question is more about how each variety facilitates your chosen workouts. So, before deciding whether you want to go fixed or adjustable, consider your training routine, and what it might look like in the future. Primarily, which exercises do you want to use your dumbbells for, how do you see your programme developing and, crucially, how often are you likely to change weights between exercises?

Of course, it also comes down to money and space. Can you justify the additional expense of adjustable dumbbells? The likes of the BowFlex SelectTech 552i dumbbells come in at around £600, and there are more expensive models out there. Or do you have the floor space for a stacking system for multiple pairs of fixed dumbbells?

FIXED DUMBBELL BENEFITS

Fixed dumbbells are the simpler option. It’s easier to find and use the weight you need and, at first at least, it will be a cheaper outlay, because you can just buy a few pairs of specific weights. Even adding three or four sets to your collections will most likely cost less than a good pair of adjustable dumbbells.