Adjustable dumbbells - do plates need to be balanced?

summer8it
summer8it Posts: 433 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I have a set of "old fashioned" adjustable dumbbells that use Olympic plates and screw-on clips. I wanted this style so I'd have the flexibility to buy more plates as I build strength and go up in weight, but right now I only have the plates that came with the set.

If I make sure the dumbbells have the same plates on each end, I'm fairly limited in the weight I can make each dumbbell. Is it OK to put different amounts of weight on each end of the dumbbell? Or would it be OK for certain moves but not for others?

Replies

  • jeffsweightloss
    jeffsweightloss Posts: 314 Member
    well, if the clips are on the dumbbells..it should be ok. i have the same type...i use plates on mine. if i'm doing curls, shoulder presses, etc...i will sometimes have one side heavier on the dumbbell. sometimes it will help you build stronger stabalizer muscles. when i do dumbell bench press...i will sometimes add just a tad bit more weight on one dumbbell to work my weaker arm. as long as you can balance the dumbbell...it shouldn't be a problem.

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