By kbeveridge
Our Top Recommendations
Dumbbells are devices that you can use for strength training, and they offer many benefits for seniors if used correctly. They can be a bit expensive, and you need to be careful when using them, but they can be of great help if you want to improve your strength and joint health.
In this complete buying guide, we review five of the best dumbbell weights for seniors. You’ll learn what features you should look for in dumbbells for seniors and their benefits.
Benefits Of Seniors Using Dumbbells
Among anything else, dumbbells are a strength exercise, and as such, they will increase your strength. However, it offers a lot more benefits for seniors than just strengthening muscles.
Here are the best benefits of dumbbells for seniors:
Safety Tips For Seniors Using Dumbbells
Learn The Proper Form
The main thing you should learn before using dumbbells is the correct form to use them. Not using the proper form can lead to injuries, joint pain, and you won’t be getting the fitness benefits you are looking for.
You can check out this video to see the correct form.
Start Small
Start small and slow. That’s the best tip for using dumbbells, and it applies to everyone. For seniors, however, it is a lot more critical. Don’t go straight for the heavier dumbbells. Instead, start with something light and increase the weight gradually.
Be In Control
If you are training in a gym, go when there are more people. The more people, the better, because they can help you if something happens. You should do the same when training at home. Always tell someone what you are doing so that they can look after you if something happens.
At a Glance: The Best Dumbbells For Seniors
Image | Name | Length | Width | Height | Weight | Best For | Header |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epic Fitness Hex Dumbbell | 23.6" | 19.7" | 32.3" | 150 lbs | Safe & Durable | |
| Amazon Basics Rubber | - | - | - | 35 lbs | great for arms, chest, back, core, & legs | |
| Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells | 16.9" | 8.3" | 9" | 55.6 lbs | 15 different sets of weights | |
| FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell | 14.6" | 7.9" | 6.7" | 25 lbs | Suitable for Most Fitness Enthusiasts |
Best Dumbbells For Seniors
Best Dumbbell For Seniors (Overall): Epic Fitness Hex Dumbbells
Epic Fitness Hex Dumbbell | |
|---|---|
Length | 23.6" |
Width | 19.7" |
Height | 32.3" |
Weight | 150 lbs |
Pros
Cons
Epic Fitness’ Hex Dumbbells is a perfect dumbbell set for seniors that offer some excellent features. This set comes with dumbbells from 5 lbs (2.2 kg) to 25 lbs (11.3 kg), giving you the possibility of alternating your training using different weights.
Additionally, all of the dumbbells from the set are fixed and hexagonal. Fixed dumbbells are the safest because of their design. They offer the best stability, and the hexagonal shape prevents them from rolling away.
This set also provides an ergonomic grip for more comfortable training, and it is made of high-quality materials.
However, as it is a set, you won’t be able to choose between the dumbbell weights you want or need. That also increases the price, and there’s the possibility of you paying for dumbbells you’ll never use.
We recommend these dumbbells for: anyone looking for one of the best safe and durable dumbbell sets on the market.
Best Dumbbell For Seniors (Runner-Up): Amazon Basics Rubber Dumbbells
Amazon Basics Rubber Dumbbell | |
|---|---|
Length | - |
Width | - |
Height | - |
Weight | 35 lbs |
Pros
Cons
These Amazon Basic dumbbells provide you with the right weight for seniors. You can choose between many different weights, but we recommend starting with the 10 pounds (4.5 kg). Another incredible feature of this dumbbell is its design. It is a fixed model with a hexagonal shape, offering better safety and stability.
The dumbbell is made of high-quality materials that make it a durable device. Not only is it a resistant option, but it also offers the best anti-rust technology. So you’ll be able to use this dumbbell for a long time. Additionally, the design also provides a comfortable grip for a more enjoyable experience.
However, this model does present some drawbacks. For instance, this is not a set, so if you want more than one dumbbell, you’ll have to buy them separately. Buying each dumbbell can increase the cost of an already expensive option.
We recommend these dumbbells for: anyone looking for a highly resistant dumbbell for seniors with a safe design.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells For Elderly: Bowflex SelectTech D-Bell
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Dumbbells | |
|---|---|
Length | 16.9" |
Width | 8.3" |
Height | 9" |
Weight | 55.6 lbs |
Pros
Cons
Bowflex’s SelectTech D-Bell provides a pair of adjustable dumbbells that you can adjust from 5 lbs (2.2 kg) to 52.5 lbs (23.8 kg). It is also easy to change each weight thanks to the dumbbell’s design.
Additionally, this model offers a comfortable anti-slip grip, making it a safe option during the lift. The dumbbells are durable and made of high-quality materials that can repel rust for a long time.
However, this product does present some drawbacks. For instance, adjustable dumbbells are not the safest option in general. Additionally, you can only buy the entire adjustable set, so it can end up costing more than buying three fixed dumbbells.
We recommend these dumbbells for: anyone looking for the best adjustable dumbbells for seniors.
Best Dumbbells For Senior Women: FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell
FLYBIRD Adjustable Dumbbell | |
|---|---|
Length | 14.6" |
Width | 7.9" |
Height | 6.7" |
Weight | 25 lbs |
Pros
Cons
FLYBIRD’s adjustable dumbbell is one of the best options for senior women. The design of this device offers the best possible grip, making it a lot more comfortable to use. You can also choose between a 25 lbs (11.3 kg) model and a 55 (24.9 kg) one.
Additionally, it is made of high-quality materials that prevent rust or strong odors. The adjusting mechanism is easy to use, meaning you can switch between weights in less time. However, the release knob is not as resistant as the rest of the item, and it can fall off and cause an accident.
We recommend these dumbbells for: anyone looking for a high-quality dumbbell for senior women.
FAQs
What Dumbbell Weight Should A Senior Woman Use?
For senior women, an 8 pounds (3.6 kg) dumbbell should be enough for regular training. You can also add a set of 5 pounds (2.2 kg) for warming up or a set of 10 pounds (4.5 kg) if you have more experience with the training.
When it comes to dumbbells, you should always try to have three different weights to balance your exercise routine. Having more than two sets of different dumbbell weights can help you warm up, perform strength training, and do some high-intensity exercises.
What Dumbbell Weight Should A Senior Man Use?
Senior men are generally stronger than senior women. Although it is always preferable to start small and slow, if you are looking for the best dumbbells weight for senior men, you should consider starting with 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
Additionally, you should try getting two more sets with different weights for warming up or increasing your training intensity. For instance, an 8 pounds (3.6 kg) dumbbell and a 15 pounds (6.8 kg) one should do the trick.
Buying Guide: What To Look For In Dumbbells For Seniors
There are certain features you should consider when getting a set of dumbbells for seniors. Always consider your safety first, and the best way is to choose the right size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best dumbbell for seniors is the Epic Fitness Hex Dumbbells. It provides the right shape and type for seniors because it also offers the best safety. It is a durable option made of high-quality materials.
Overall, when looking for dumbbells for seniors, consider the weight and type of the device. Fixed models are safer to use and provide more stability. However, they can be a bit more expensive.
Sources:
Dumbbell Strength Training Exercises for Seniors
Functional vs. Strength Training in Disabled Elderly Outpatients
3 Different types of strength training in older women
