This Home Workout Equipment Is Actually Worth Your Money

At the gym, you’re probably used to seeing an entire weight rack filled with dumbbells. But most people benefit from having three weight choices, says certified running coach and fitness trainer Kourtney Thomas, C.S.C.S. Purchase weights you consider to be light, medium, and heavy.

“That’s unique to each individual, of course, but most folks will be able to at least gauge a starting point and buy those three,” she says.

When choosing a light weight, pick an amount that you could easily do 20 or even 30 reps with. For a medium weight, you should be able to do 10 to r2 reps, and heavy weight would be seven to 10 reps.

“Even better is a great set of adjustable dumbbells, which can potentially last a bit longer on your strength and progress journey before having to upgrade or buy a separate set of dumbbells at a higher weight,” she adds. The downside to this type, Thomas says, is that they can sometimes feel bulky or too large for some people to easily work with.

Whether you’re going traditional or adjustable, another advantage is that they're usually inexpensive, she says. Light neoprene hand weights tend to be about $5 to $10 each new, and go up from there. But you can often find gently used options at secondhand fitness stores.

Buy a set of 10-pound dumbbells here Buy a set of adjustable dumbbells here