Dumbbells vs. Barbells, one of those lifter's dilemmas that won't ever go away. Let's make one thing clear - if you don't have to choose, awesome! It is always best to use both. Dumbbells and barbells have their advantages, but if you need to pick only one, we would go with dumbbells, and in this article, we will give you some reasons why.

 

Barbells, if used properly, are perfectly safe. However, sometimes that is hard to do. Take the favorite exercise of all - barbell bench press. Without an expensive Smith machine or a massive power racks cage, it is impossible to safely perform the barbell bench press if you go all-in. At least not without a spotter to help you up if you get stuck. In fact, maxing out barbell bench press when you are alone can be life-threatening. Due to this fact, if you have a home gym, or you prefer working out alone, you won't be able to chase your PR, which can jeopardize your gains.

Dumbells, on the other hand, are a much safer option. If you can't do any more reps, you just drop them on the floor, that's it. That makes them a super-safe solution for performing complex exercises like the squat or bench press without a spotter.

 

 

To do a complete full-body workout, you only need a pair of dumbbells, that's it. In fact, you can do it with just one dumbbell, by switching hands.  Yes, additional gym equipment such as a bench will improve things, but if you don't have it, that's ok too, the floor will do just fine.

On the other hand, a barbell requires a bit more equipment. Sure, you can perform deadlifts straight off the floor, rows too. However, to do squats, chest and shoulder press, you will need a power cage or something similar that will hold the barbell in the desired position, and catch it if you get in trouble.

Additionally, a barbell takes up much more space, not only for storage but for working out too. You have to maneuver it around, and you need to have enough space on the sides, so you can comfortably load and unload it.

Dumbbells are much more convenient, and overall a better solution for a home-gym that has constricted space. You do your workout, and then you roll them under your bed or put them in your closet. And minimum space is required to perform exercises with dumbbells.

 

Because dumbbells allow working out with one or two hands, they give you much more freedom than a barbell. Doing unilateral movements will hit those core and stabilizer muscles even more. Also, any hidden imbalances will be tackled, since your stronger side won't compensate and take over the load.

Dumbbells allow you to perform literally hundreds of different exercises, which means it will never get boring working out with them. Don't know where to begin? Check out this link, it will give you tons of ideas for your dumbbell workout.

 

Since working out with dumbbells is much safer, it is also very beginner-friendly. Because beginners need time getting used to lifting and picking up the proper exercise form, it is a good idea to start with dumbbells as they promote stability and are far less punishing. And the fact that dumbbells correct strength imbalances makes them perfect for people who are just starting out their lifting journey.

 

Also, if you want to buy a dumbbell weight set, here you can find the best dumbbells  for sale in Ireland. dumbbells are the most essential purchase for anyone looking to get in shape, and they should be your first buy if you are just starting your home gym.

We have also done an article about other home gym essentials that you should consider, and we recommend you to read it. You don't need to rush - after you get a set of dumbbells, you are good to go. With them, you can hit every muscle group, and for that reason alone, they are a must-have home gym item.