Dumbbells or kettlebell: what to choose for training at home
Two tools, two ways of training: what each one allows, and how to pick your first weight.
Updated October 13, 20261 min read
Dumbbells: versatile
A pair of dumbbells covers nearly the whole body: presses, rows, lunges, curls. Each arm works on its own, which evens out imbalances between the two sides.
Adjustable dumbbells, where you change the plates, save space and follow your progress; fixed dumbbells are quicker to use but you need several pairs.
The kettlebell: dynamic
With its weight offset under the handle, the kettlebell is made for swinging movements like the swing. It works the hips, the back and your cardio at the same time, with a single object.
These movements need precise technique: learn them with a light weight first, ideally filming yourself or with a coach, before going heavier.
Picking your first weight
The right weight is the one you finish your set with cleanly, the last reps feeling hard without the movement breaking down. Too heavy and your technique slips; too light and you do not progress.
To start, two different weights — one for the upper body, a heavier one for the legs — beat a single weight that suits neither.