3 Dumbbell Exercises To Get STRONG!
I’m a fan of all strength training tools.
Machines. Great for stability and working higher rep sets.
Barbells. Awesome for loading and getting heavy sets in.
Kettlebells. So unique and amazing for complexes. (Plus they’re quiet if you workout while your family sleeps!)
Dumbbells. Well, these might be the most versatile piece of equipment yet. You can get heavy, you can get stable enough, and you can also challenge your body in unique ways.
This is why I chose to use dumbbells for my first-ever workout program, Dumbbell Decathlon! Inside this program is over 100 total movements, many of which include that versatile tool, the dumbbell.
But what moves stand out? Well, keep scrolling and find out.
**Make sure to click on the title of each movement to see a full coaching video**
This bench press variation hammers both the chest AND triceps. Think if it like doing a diamond (close grip) push up variation, but the bench press version. I like using it because not everyone can do push ups, not everyone likes doing push ups, and this variation is very accessible and easy to perform. In fact, I think it’s easier and sometimes a safer alternative to a traditional dumbbell bench press.
2) Front Plank + Weighted Forward Reach
I love plank variations that can be counted by ‘reps’ instead of ‘time’. This variation brings an intense anti-rotation feel in to it with the forward reach as well as a sneaky 'pulling’ motion for your lats and shoulders as well.
This is a neat twist on 4 different lunge variations. Starting with a forward lunge- pretty traditional- you then move to a lateral lunge, step back lunge, and finish with a curtsy lunge. 4 different lunges, 4 different ways to have fun. This is a great secondary option after you’ve done squats, RDLs, or leg presses as your primary strength exercise for the workout.
If you thought these movements were useful, and you’d like to see them well incorporated in to a full on strength program. I think you should check out Dumbbell Decathlon, my 10-week dumbbell based program. Make sure to click the button below and check it out and scoop the launch special of $79!