The Best Free Weights
No home gym is complete without a set of free weights, but with all the available options it can be hard to figure out what kind is best for you. There are dumbbells, kettlebells, barbells, and even medicine balls to consider. If you’re looking to narrow down your options and find the best fit for your home gym, we’re here to help. We’ve put together a list of the best free weights available today so you can spend less time shopping and more time lifting.
What to Look For
When narrowing down the best free weights on the market, we considered the type of weight, product design, price, and functionality. For example, if you wanted a simple weight with tons of grip and no frills, the Balelinko neoprene-coated dumbbell may be right for you. If you want something a bit more challenging on different muscle groups, the Amazon Basics cast iron kettlebell could be perfect for switching up your lifting routine. Keep reading to see all our great picks and find the free weights that are right for you.
Vivitory Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Lift it your way
If you’re new to the world of weightlifting, adjustable dumbbell sets are some of the most versatile weights you can buy. You can mix and match the plates to achieve the ideal weight, and some even come with different bar options to lift the weights. This set from Vivitory comes with eight weight plates to add on weight up to 22 pounds. It also features a foam-covered connecting rod to provide soft comfort and grip on the handle. From versatility to practical performance, this dumbbell set is one of the best for new lifters and experts alike.
Pros:
- They have a hex shape to prevent rolling away when on the ground.
- The bars have a deep thread to prevent the collars from loosening and make lifting safer.
- This set comes with an additional bar that can quickly transform from dumbbell to barbell for additional exercises.
Cons:
- Some of the components are plastic, though they get the job done just as well as all-metal options.
Balelinko Neoprene Coated Dumbbell
When it comes to free weights, neoprene-coated dumbbells are a fan favorite. Their simple design and accessible weight limits make them perfect for beginners, while their hex shape and nonslip coating are beneficial to lifters of all skill levels. The cast iron weights are built tough to last, while the neoprene exterior is designed to provide grip and reduce impact damage to the dumbbell and the floor. If you’re not sure where to start with working out, these dumbbells are a great place to start.
Pros:
- These are available in lots of vibrant colors and different weight sizes, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
- All weight options are 15 pounds and below, so they’re great for beginners who want to work their way up.
Cons:
- The price for a single dumbbell is higher than average, but the quality of the weights makes it worth it.
HolaHatha Neoprene Dumbbell Free Weight Set
Collect them all
Storage can be a major inconvenience with free weights since it’s not safe to leave loose weights all over the floor. If you’re looking to build a home gym, this dumbbell set with an included storage rack can be a lifesaver. This versatile set comes with three pairs of dumbbells at various weights for different exercises. The included storage rack is simple and straightforward with cut-outs on both sides to hold the weights. Whether you’re looking to keep things organized or just want a beginner dumbbell set for your home, you can’t go wrong with this purchase.
Pros:
- The neoprene coating on the cast iron weights keeps them protected and reduces impact when setting weights down.
- The hexagon design on the weights keeps them from rolling away if you set them on the floor.
Cons:
- The weights don’t get very heavy, but they’re perfect for beginners or anyone looking to do high reps of low weight.
The Step Store Club Quality Barbell Set
From deadlifts to chest presses
Deadlifts are some of the most popular exercises of all time, and if you’re going to do them at home you’ll need a decent barbell set. While you can do makeshift deadlifts with dumbbells, they’re designed to be done with barbells. In fact, using barbells will open up a whole new world of workout possibilities. This barbell set from The Step Store is the perfect beginner set because it only has a total weight of 60 pounds. The bar is made of heavy-gauge steel and is built to prevent bowing. If you’re looking to upgrade your home gym, this barbell set is a great next step for any beginner.
Pros:
- These weight plates have multiple cut-outs to grip, so they’re easier to pick up than traditional weight plates.
- The nylon quick-release collars make it simple and easy to take weights on and off the bar.
Cons:
- Due to the premium hardware and overall weight, the price is fairly high.
Amazon Basics Cast Iron Kettlebell Weight
Dynamic growth
If you’re looking to give yourself a little bit of an extra challenge, kettlebells can be a great way to get a harder workout. Since their center of gravity is offset, kettlebells are more difficult to control than dumbbells. This creates a need to counterbalance when lifting, simultaneously working your core in addition to your arms. This kettlebell is just about as simple as it gets. It may just be one heavy piece of cast iron, but it can totally transform your workout.
Pros:
- This kettlebell has a black enamel finish to help fight corrosion over time.
- It has a wide handle that’s textured for a better grip during tricky exercises.
Cons:
- Kettlebells have a bit of a learning curve and can be difficult for beginners, but they’re also great for breaking through a plateau.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are free weights?
Free weights are essentially any weights that aren’t attached to a machine for a specific exercise. Some examples of free weights are dumbbells, barbells, and kettlebells. Since they’re not attached to any mechanism, you can use them freely for any exercise you want.
Are free weights different at the gym?
Many home free weights and gym free weights are essentially the same. The free weights at the gym may be more durable and they may have heavier weights. For example, the dumbbell set at a gym may go up to 140 pounds. This is common for gyms but not many home gyms.
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