Dumbbells...

ReluctantKiller

On average, are the "adjustable" dumbbells durable enough for day to day use, or are they more of a take it with you when travelling type deal?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Adjustable_Dumbbells_50_lbs.jpg

this type of thing i mean.

addisondisease2

Since you haven't told us your goal, i am guessing you have none. So yes these dumbbells will do fine.

ReluctantKiller

Ermm... for a doorstop?... Seriously though... I want to start incorporating more strength training in my efforts (I'm tired of being one of the "elliptical jockies" at my gym), but I would like to at least figure out what I'm doing with some sort of weight training before I show up and wander around the weight room aimlessly....

In other words, maybe my question should have been "how do I start adding strength training in my routine without looking like a jack@$$?"

addisondisease2

Pick a routine, learn the proper form of the 6 major lifts, get strong.

Routines:
Starting Strength - Mark Rippetoe
5x5 - just google it
5/3/1 - Wendler

6 major lifts ALL weight lifters should know and do:
Squat
Dead-lift
Bench Press
Over Head Press
Snatch
Clean & Jerk

Eat Right:
Wanna get really strong don't care how you look: Eat 4,000+ calories daily lift 5 - 6 times a week
Wanna get kind of strong and look decent: Eat at maintenance get enough protein, lift 4-5 times a week
Don't care how strong you are just want to look respectable for summer: Eat 500 calories less than maintenance daily lift 3 times a week, cardio 1-2 times a week.

dport7

On average, are the "adjustable" dumbbells durable enough for day to day use, or are they more of a take it with you when travelling type deal?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Adjustable_Dumbbells_50_lbs.jpg

this type of thing i mean.

Iv'e been using the Reboch sport pac for 2 years on and off. they have held up fine, no problems what so ever. I', not a heavy lifter, so the 25 pound max is ok for me too.

Hope this helps.