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Dumbbell sets come in many shapes and sizes ranging from rubber dumbbells through to an adjustable dumbbell set, and they all come with different price tags.
Whether you’re buying for a commercial gym or garage gym, in this article we’ll consider the different types of dumbbells that you can choose from and the typical price point so you can make the best option for your workout space.
How Much Do Dumbbells Cost?
The cost of dumbbells will vary depending on several factors, including the brand, dumbbell weight, material, and where you purchase them.
Below are some approximate price ranges:
Adjustable Dumbbells
These are purchased as a pair of dumbbells where you can change the weight plates in order to adjust the weight to your personal preference.
Some of the best adjustable dumbbells typically range from $200 to $500 or more.
The cost difference depends on the quality and maximum weight capacity.
Fixed Weight Dumbbells
These more traditional dumbbells come with a fixed weight are available to purchase in either pairs or as a set. The price can vary based on the weight and material.
In general, you can expect to pay around $1 to $3 per pound for fixed weight dumbbells.
For example, a pair of 10-pound dumbbells may cost around $20 to $30.
Hex Dumbbells
Rubber hex dumbbells have a hexagonal shape and are popular in commercial gyms as they don’t roll around the floor.
The price for a pair of hex dumbbells can range from $1.50 to $3 per pound.
So, a pair of 20-pound hex dumbbells might cost approximately $60
Rubber Or Neoprene Dumbbells
These dumbbells have a rubber or neoprene coating that offers a better grip and may help to protect the floor in the event they are dropped.
They are typically priced between $1.50 to $4 per pound.
It’s worth noting that these price ranges are approximate and can vary depending on your location, the retailer, and any ongoing sales or promotions.
It’s always worth comparing prices from different sources, such as local sports stores, online sellers, or even second-hand marketplaces, to find a good deal.
Other Factors Affecting The Cost Of Dumbbells:
- If the dumbbell features a knurled handle. You can expect to pay more for good knurling which will help to improve your grip.
- A single dumbbell would of course cost much less when compared to purchasing a full set. With heavier dumbbells being more expensive than lighter ones.
- Certain materials cost much more than others. For example, stainless steel dumbbells carry a much higher price than mild steel.
- The price of dumbbells that can personalized with a gym logo are typically more expensive than off the shelf standard dumbbells.
Different Types of Dumbbells
Cast Iron
Cast-iron dumbbells tend to be a good option in certain strength training facilities where heavy lifters train to increase strength and muscle mass.
Not only do they come in a range of weights, but they are also incredibly durable and can handle even the most intense workouts. Plus, they are some of the cheapest dumbbells available, making them accessible to all.
They’re available in a range of weights, from as light as five pounds to as heavy as 150 pounds. You can also purchase them as kg or lb dumbbells.
Cast iron dumbbell costs can range from as low as $20 for a pair of 5 pounds to $200 for a couple of 50-pound dumbbells.
Hex Rubber-Coated Dumbbells
The hexagonal shape reduces the risk of rolling when placed on the ground, making them a great option for home gyms.
The rubber coating also prevents damage to floors and is easy to grip.
The cost of hex rubber-coated dumbbells varies depending on size and weight options.
You can expect to pay around $1.20 to $2.60 per pound. But you can get a set of 10-pounders for approximately $20.
Urethane-Coated Dumbbells
The best thing about urethane-coated dumbbells is that they’re more durable when compared to rubber coated alternatives.
Urethane is a harder and a more resistant material making them less prone to wear and tear.
The urethane coating offers a nice, smooth grip and you can use them without the need for gloves.
As it’s a more superior material, urethane-coated dumbbells are generally more expensive than traditional cast iron or mild steel dumbbells.
However, they do tend to last much longer than their counterparts, which makes them an excellent investment. The weight and size of the dumbbells affect the price. In general, you can anticipate paying somewhere between $4 and $8 per pound.
Adjustable Dumbbells
As the name suggests, you can adjust these dumbbells to different weights, increasing or decreasing the weight range as needed.
This is great for when you want to challenge yourself and increase the intensity of your workouts as your strength improves.
They are also space-saving as you only have to buy one pair of dumbbells instead of multiple fixed-weight sets.
As with regular dumbbells, a pair of adjustable dumbbells can be used for a variety of different exercises, including chest presses and bicep curls.
Depending on the type of adjustable dumbbells you buy, the cost can range anywhere from $200 to $500. A stand is included with some of the more expensive brands.
Dumbbell Maintenance
Clean Them Regularly
After each use, wipe down the handle and weight plates with a soft cloth and gentle cleaning solution to avoid rusting or damage to the weights themselves.
Use a soft bristle brush to clean away dirt and chalk from the dumbbell handles.
This is especially important if the handles are knurled as dirt can accumulate here which may degrade the finish over time.
Store Them in a Dry Place
To ensure they remain in top condition, you must store them in a dry place.
Doing so will protect them from any moisture or extreme temperatures that can result in corrosion. It is also wise to keep them away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading and discoloration.
Check for Damage
Every now and again take some time to inspect your dumbbells to ensure they remain undamaged and are safe to use.
Depending on how they are manufactured, sometimes the dumbbell ends can become loose, and this can prove to be a health and safety hazard if not addressed properly.
Also check for surface rust. If you find any, this can be treated in the early stages before it gets any worse.
Accumulation of rust will be more likely on iron dumbbells where the surface finish (such as zinc) has diminished over time.
Don’t Drop Them
Dropping your dumbbells can cause much more destruction than you may think.
It’s important to handle them properly.
Not only can they damage the floor, but you risk injuring yourself and damaging the dumbbell.
If you have to drop a dumbbell, then that’s usually because it’s too heavy for your ability so consider using a lighter weight.
How To Choose the Best Dumbbells
Fitness Goals
Choosing the right dumbbells for your fitness goals can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.
You should first and foremost think about the kind of fitness objectives you have in mind.
Are you trying to get fit, grow muscle, or both?
You can hunt for the appropriate dumbbells after you are certain of your goals.
As you want to prevent damage, you should pick a weight that is challenging but not too heavy. You can even select adjustable dumbbells, so you can start with a lighter weight and work your way up as you gain strength.
Material
Another critical factor is the material – some are made from solid steel with a coating whilst others are produced from rubber.
Before committing to purchase, you’ll want to research the most suitable material based on its longevity and the environment they’ll be used and stored.
The material of the dumbbell is an often overlooked but important factor.
Types of Exercise
Deciding which dumbbells to buy can be tricky, especially if you don’t have a clear exercise plan.
The type of workout you intend to perform must be considered while selecting the best dumbbells for your needs.
For example, if you’re looking for dumbbells for strength training, you’ll want to choose heavier weights that allow you to do multiple exercises.
On the other hand, lighter weights are better if you want to use them for aerobic exercises. You may even want to buy multiple sets of dumbbells to switch between exercises depending on your workout.
Your Home Gym Space
When deciding which dumbbells to buy, it’s essential to consider how much space you have available when storing them in your home gym.
You want to avoid ending up with a set that takes up too much room or won’t fit into your available space.
Before you shop, measure the space you have to work with and determine how much room your chosen dumbbells need. If you need more space, look for smaller sets or adjustable dumbbells.
Be sure to consider the dimensions of dumbbell racks, some are specifically designed for smaller spaces but will only be able to hold a specific quantity of weights.
Your Budget
A set of dumbbells can set you back quite a bit of money and you can expect to pay more for higher quality materials (such as stainless steel) and better-quality coatings (such as neoprene).
If you want dumbbells at an affordable price you could look to purchase second hand. When purchasing used gym equipment, you can find many options to choose from. Be sure to properly inspect them for signs of damage and rust before buying.
Future Trends of Dumbbells
A set of dumbbells will always be one of the most common things you see in a commercial gym.
However, technological advancements mean that you can now perform some exercises using a pair of electromagnetic rings which are placed above and below the elbow.
The magnetic force can be adjusted to change the resistance from 3kg up to 25kg.
However, these are very limited and seem to only be suited for push and pull arm exercises and, with a low weight threshold, could be outgrown by men very quickly.
Somehow, we don’t think these will be replacing traditional dumbbells anytime soon.
Conclusion
To sum up, understanding the cost of dumbbells involves considering various factors, such as the type of dumbbell, brand, materials used during production, and additional features such as adding your gym logo.
The price range for dumbbells can vary significantly, which means they can accommodate a wide range of budgets and preferences.
Whilst there are affordable options available, it’s important to strike a balance between quality and cost.
Choosing reputable brands and durable materials can ensure longevity and quality.
What’s more, keeping an eye on promotions, discounts, and comparing prices across different retailers can help maximize value for money.
In the end, the cost of dumbbells is a personal decision that depends on individual fitness goals, budget, and preferences.
By considering the factors mentioned in this article can help you make a well informed choice by investing in dumbbells that suit your needs, contribute to your fitness journey, and provide long-term value.
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