If you want to get in shape, build muscle, or tone your body, dumbbells are an essential tool in your fitness arsenal. Dumbbells are versatile, easy to use, and can be incorporated into various exercises to target different muscle groups.
At The Fitness Superstore, we sell the best selection of dumbbells and free weights in El Paso. Our experts can help you find the perfect set to help you achieve your fitness goals.
We’ll go over everything you need to know about dumbbells, including differences in quality and materials, fixed versus adjustable dumbbells, and the advantages and disadvantages of buying used dumbbells.
Differences in Materials
When shopping for dumbbells, you’ll notice that many different options are available in terms of materials.
Iron
Some dumbbells are made from iron as one solid piece or as an adjustable unit. Iron dumbbells are typically the most durable and long-lasting but can also be more expensive.
Despite their durability, iron dumbbells are susceptible to oxidation and rust, making them less ideal for outdoor gyms in humid climates. That’s why many choose stainless steel or powder-coated sets.
Stainless Steel
Like iron, stainless steel dumbbells are durable and last many years. These dumbbells also come as a fixed solid piece or as adjustable units. Unlike iron, they are also rust-resistant, making them a more popular choice for home gyms and fitness centers.
Powder-Coated
Powder-coated dumbbells are usually steel dumbbells coated in vinyl or neoprene. These dumbbells offer enhanced durability against dings and scratches. Since the entire unit is coated, you’ll only find them as fixed units.
When looking for high-quality powder-coated dumbbells and free weights in El Paso, check out The Fitness Superstore. We offer a wide range of textures and colors with some of the best prices in the industry.
Plastic Sand-Filled
Plastic sand-filled dumbbells are the cheapest on the market and come as a fixed unit. They are the least durable and susceptible to breaking and cracking. While these may be a good choice for beginners and those exploring weightlifting, they won’t be good for those investing in this type of workout.
Differences in Quality
It’s best to buy iron, steel, or powder-coated sets when looking for dumbbells that will last for many years. They can easily withstand being dropped without being damaged.
These types of dumbbells also offer more accurate weight measurements, meaning that each unit’s stated weight will be exactly or more closely to what the dumbbell actually weighs.
Plastic sand-filled dumbbells are the least durable and have the best chance of becoming damaged when dropped. They can also be the least accurate regarding the label matching the actual weight of the dumbbell.
Differences Between Fixed and Adjustable Dumbbells
Another factor to consider is whether to go with fixed or adjustable dumbbells.
Fixed Dumbbells
Fixed dumbbells are a traditional option where each dumbbell has a set weight that can’t be adjusted. You can tell the difference because they come as one solid unit.
Fixed dumbbells are a great choice if you know the weight you need and don’t plan on changing it.
Adjustable Dumbbells
If you want more versatility in your workout and the ability to adjust the weight as you progress, adjustable dumbbells may be a better choice. Adjustable dumbbells can be changed to different weights, making them a more cost-effective and space-saving option.
Adjustable dumbbells usually come in 2 variations. The first consists of a steel bar where weight plates can be added to increase the weight. The second type is commonly called a turn and crank or powerblock.
These work by having the weights sit in a base. You would then turn the dial or insert a pin to your desired weight and lift the dumbbell out of the base. Your chosen weight lifts out of the base while leaving the remaining weights behind.
Differences Between New and Used Dumbbells
Finally, when shopping for dumbbells, you must decide whether to buy new or used ones. New dumbbells will typically come with a warranty and are guaranteed to be in good condition. They can also be more expensive.
Used dumbbells can be a more affordable option, but they may not be in the best condition and may not come with a warranty. It’s best to avoid buying used plastic sand-filled dumbbells due to their fragility.
When looking for used and refurbished exercise equipment, check out The Fitness Superstore. We carefully examine each piece to ensure its quality and offer limited warranties on the used and refurbished equipment we sell!
Looking for the best selection of dumbbells and free weights in El Paso?
Whether you’re a beginner or an avid weightlifter, trust that The Fitness Superstore has exactly what you need. We offer a wide selection of home gym equipment with the best low-price guarantee in the industry.
Shop online or visit our store today to find your next set of dumbbells and free weights in El Paso!