Looking to finally get into an exercise routine, but don’t happen to own any dumbbells to do your curls? Maybe you simply can’t afford to do so at this moment. Before you rush out to the nearest department store, you actually don’t need to purchase weights to get the workout you’re looking for! In fact, you may be able to find the perfect weights right inside your very own home!
Yes, that’s correct – the idea may seem a little trite, but there are plenty of household items that can be repurposed to do the same trick without you have to pay any additional money. With that in mind, let’s run down some of the substitutes you can use in place of dumbbells whether you’re at home, in the office, or even out on a trip!
Plastic Water Bottles
The first option you have is plastic water bottles – a typical 16 ounce water bottle weighs approximately one pound, making them perfect for arm exercises! In this and other use-case scenarios where you’re using two water bottles, you’ll want to make sure that they’re evenly filled.
That way, you get the optimal output from each rep. From there, you can use them just like you would your normal dumbbell!
A Milk Jug
Much like plastic water bottles, you can fill a plastic milk jug with water, sand, or other filler material. Since the jug has a handle, this makes it great to lift and lower much like a dumbbell or even a kettlebell. Just be careful when handling it as the space around the handle could potentially pinch your hands.
Canned Goods
Canned goods can basically be used as your traditional hand weights, making them perfect when you’re early on in your exercise routine and are attempting to gradually get into the swing of things.
When you’re looking to take the next step, simply use larger cans (which also make great medicine balls) to provide that steady progress you need.
Books
Books are yet another fantastic substitute for dumbbells when you’re at home or in the office! Just like with water bottles, if you plan on using two of them, make sure they’re of relatively the same weight. If you’re unable to do so, you’re better off working one arm at a time. In this scenario, opt for a large book such a dictionary for the best results!
Exercise Bands
Okay, we are saving this one for last since this is clearly a piece of exercise equipment, but it’s also one that serves many different functions, making them the perfect companion! Flexible exercise bands are excellent for giving both your upper and lower body quite the exercise while providing means of protection.
They’re also lightweight, making them ideal for travel when you have little room for other items. Plus, since they come in a range of resistance strengths, they make for the ideal replacement for dumbbells while offering a low impact solution if your joints struggle with heavy plates.
These are just some of the tools you have at your disposal when you don’t own or can’t currently afford a set of dumbbells. We recommend speaking to your fitness specialist to ensure the safe and proper method of handling weights of any form. The last thing you want to do when you’re attempting to lose weight or gain muscle mass is to hurt yourself, therefore defeating the entire purpose of what you’re trying to accomplish. By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll make the most of every workout!
