Adjustable dumbbell bars/plates

lorrpb
lorrpb Posts: 11,463 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Any tips for working out with adjustable dumbbell bars/plates (generic, not the fancy sets)? I thought these would be a good solution to not having a full DB/KB set available (my fitness studio is closing). They feel kind of awkward. I'm used to doing upright rows with a KB at my gym studio. Today I tried it with the adjustable dumbbells. First I couldn't use just one in the center like a KB because there wasn't enough room on the bar for both hands. So I used one in each hand and it felt like I had to keep my hands too far apart because of the excess length of the rods sticking out. Now I'm concerned about the ends getting in the way for an OHP and chest press too. Also, how do you use them on end, like with a goblet squat or KB type swing? Seems like the rod will get in the way. Weird questions, I'm sure, but it's a new piece of equipment for me and, as I said, it feels much more awkward than I expected. Thanks if you can help.

Replies

  • EquineSunshine
    EquineSunshine Posts: 21 Member
    Yeah, I agree I don't like adjustable DB's. My husband bought a set but for the reasons you stated about the rods sticking out and because it's a pain to change the weight trying to do ascending or descending sets, I don't use them. Not weird questions at all. I completely understand what you're talking about.
  • jemhh
    jemhh Posts: 14,261 Member
    They do take some getting used to. For pressing, you can use a neutral grip or partway between neutral and pronated.

    http://www.bodybuilding.com/exercises/detail/view/name/dumbbell-bench-press-with-neutral-grip

    I have never had a problem with goblet squats. Maybe because they are what I've always used so I am used to avoiding poking myself.

    I do find it easier to use an EZ bar for skullcrushers. The handles pointed at my brain are too much for me :smiley:
  • sgt1372
    sgt1372 Posts: 3,997 Member
    edited October 2016
    I got a pair of Gold's Gym adjustable dumbbells (50# each) w/stand for cheap off of Craigslist. Seldom use them because I mainly do barbell lifting.

    Easy to adjust and the plates are securely held in place, but they are a little awkward due to the size of the plates and carrier but nothing that you can't get use to over time.

    Much better (and cheaper) than having 10 or more pairs of dumbbells taking up precious space lying on the floor or on a rack along the wall.
  • lemmie177
    lemmie177 Posts: 479 Member
    I use mine pretty sparingly compared to the barbell. I actually like doing lighter OHP and chest presses with them because you can vary the grip and get wider ROM. For instance, I like holding them parallel grip for the bottom of the OHP and pronate to the top. This also keeps the rods out of the way.

    If you don't mind adding more equipment, you could also consider an adjustable KB. I got one awhile ago and love it! Takes the same 1" plates as the DBs; but also a pain to change weights.
    Looks like this: Fitness-Gear-Adjustable-Kettlebell-.jpg

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