Don't Be Afraid of Dumbbells: Hand Weights Are a Smart Way to Exercise by Dawn Taylor

Often, I see a look of dread with my female clients when I steer them away from machines at the gym and bring them to dumbbell racks. "Not sure I want to do weights." "I don't want to bulk up." These are two things they say as they eye the area with discomfort. Weights, mirrors, oh my.

I explain machines are fine to isolate one muscle group at a time, but dumbbells put YOU in control of the weight and you can work multiple muscle groups with compound exercises. That means less time at the gym. That usually peaks their interest. And unless you are training to be the next Mrs. Olympia and plan to train constantly and eat with that goal in mind, you are not going to bulk up.

Dumbbells are going to help strengthen and tone your muscles. An added bonus is the extra calorie burn that occurs for up to 72 hours AFTER you strength train. Most new clients are simply intimidated by dumbbells. The appeal of shorter, effective workouts, however, draws them in and once I teach clients how to use dumbbells , the fear dissipates. Dumbbells, they realize, aren't dumb at all.

Soon they are looking in the mirror as they eye their form and those awesome results (and maybe the cute guy pumping iron next to them).

Note: 30Seconds is a participant in the Amazon affiliate advertising program and this post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission or fees if you make a purchase via those links. The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.