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GEAR REVIEW · LIFTING

DUMBBELLS & ADJUSTABLES HOME GYM GUIDE

Fixed or adjustable? If you’re building a home gym, dumbbells are usually the first purchase — and the one most people get wrong. Here’s what I’ve learned after years of training at home.

📅 March 30, 2026⏱ 8 min read🏷 Gear Review

FIXED VS ADJUSTABLE — WHICH IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

The honest answer depends on your space and budget.

  • →Fixed dumbbells — best quality, instant weight change, but expensive and space-heavy.
  • →Adjustable dumbbells — one pair replaces a full rack. Slower to adjust but perfect for limited space.
  • →Rubber coated — protect your floors and quieter for home use.
  • →Hex dumbbells — won’t roll away, flat ends are useful for push-up variations.
  • →Cast iron — cheapest option but can damage floors without matting.

FIXED DUMBBELL OPTIONS

Best Fixed Sets

Mirafit Rubber Hex Dumbbells

~£2–£4 per kg

Rubber coated hex dumbbells that won’t roll and won’t destroy your floor.

PROS

  • ✓ Floor-friendly rubber coating
  • ✓ Hex shape stays put
  • ✓ Good knurling

CONS

  • ✗ Individual pairs add up in cost
  • ✗ Set takes up space

Verdict: My go-to recommendation for home gym fixed dumbbells.

Body Power Vinyl Dumbbells

~£15–£25 per pair

Budget option for light weights. Fine for beginners or accessory work.

PROS

  • ✓ Very affordable
  • ✓ Good for beginners

CONS

  • ✗ Not suitable for heavy lifting
  • ✗ Vinyl can crack over time

Verdict: Only worth it for very light weights. Step up to rubber hex as soon as your lifts progress.

ADJUSTABLE OPTIONS

Space-Saving Solutions

Bowflex SelectTech 552

~£300–£400 per pair

The gold standard of adjustable dumbbells. Adjusts from 2kg to 24kg per dumbbell.

PROS

  • ✓ Replaces 15 pairs
  • ✓ Fast dial adjustment
  • ✓ Excellent build quality

CONS

  • ✗ Expensive upfront
  • ✗ Bulky tray unit

Verdict: Expensive but worth it if space is your main concern.

Mirafit Adjustable Dumbbell Set

~£80–£150

More affordable adjustable option using spin-lock collars.

PROS

  • ✓ Much more affordable
  • ✓ Good weight range
  • ✓ Solid build quality

CONS

  • ✗ Slower weight changes
  • ✗ Collars can loosen

Verdict: Great budget-friendly alternative.

MY RECOMMENDATION

WHAT I’D BUY TODAY

For most home gym lifters, I’d start with Mirafit Rubber Hex Dumbbells in a range of weights. If space is tight and you have the budget, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 is genuinely brilliant.

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