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Barbells vs Dumbells..

  • 10-11-2005 3:26pm
    #1
    g'em
    Closed Accounts Posts: 22,819 ✭✭✭✭


    ...for bench press, shoulder press, incline bench etc.

    I used to use barbells for all, but I'm starting to use DB more and more, at the beginning it was because the benches were always busy but I find I enjoy using the DB more, even though I'm not lifting as heavily (I bench 55kg with a BB ut only 15kg on each side with DB and similar drops for the others). I'm training for strength and shape, so which is better to use?


Comments

  • #2
    PJG
    Closed Accounts Posts: 259 ✭✭PJG


    With the db’s you’re calling a lot of stabilizing\connector muscles into play that you wouldn’t use on machines or even barbells. As a I always say ‘we’re only as strong as our weakest link’,

    Training with db’s should result in better returns in your other lifts. I’d be in favor of a mix of both. Only thing with the db’s it can be a harder to keep good form. Form is king.


  • #3
    hardtrainer
    Closed Accounts Posts: 217 ✭✭hardtrainer


    g'em wrote:
    I'm training for strength and shape, so which is better to use?

    Like PJG I think a mix of both is the best bet. Dumbells are good for sculpting since they hit all the supporting muscles and they also force you to concentrate on form far more than a barbell would.

    The other good reason to opt for dumbells, even if only occasionally is that they help to identify and correct imbalances in strenght. This is particularly important if you're aiming to lift heavy since the risk for injury will be greater on your weaker side when you do massive lifts etc.


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