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One of the simplest — but most effective — workout tools you can have is a free weight. They provide resistance in any direction and can be used to gain muscle mass or perform higher repetitions to challenge endurance. Free weights — often dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells — are a great choice for any at-home gym set-up. However, there are slight differences between many of the leading options available, and these slight differences can have a big impact on the efficacy and enjoyment of a workout regimen.
Jake tests some top free weights
If you’re on the hunt for the best free weights on the market to kickstart your training, the main problem (or benefit if you’re a glass-half-full kind of person) is that you’re spoiled for choice. We have tried and tested countless popular brands in the strength equipment realm, and in order to save you some time, we’ve broken down a list of the key categories of the best free weights on the market and our selections to get you off the keyboard and into the workout room.
Best Free Weights
Best Free Weight Set
There aren’t many options that are more effective and versatile than a barbell, a power or squat rack, and a set of weight plates. From squats and deadlifts to rows and presses, you can work your whole body and never run out of progressions with a package like this one from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This set includes a bar, a power rack, and your choice of Iron or Sport plates. Depending on the package you choose, you will either get REP’s PR-1000 or PR-1100 power rack. As for the weight plates, no matter if you choose Iron or Sport plates, you’ll receive a set of pairs of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This package comes with a power rack, weight plates, and a bar. No matter which package you choose, you'll get a set of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP has put together a great deal here, and while it may not be enough weight for the advanced lifter, there’s more than enough here to effectively challenge most recreational athletes. And if you are advanced and looking to build your home gym, there’s always additional weight you can buy on top of a starter pack like this.
Jake tests the REP Fitness PR-1100 rack
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Lifters who want a highly effective and very versatile set of equipment. This option allows you to pick up multiple high-use pieces at once.
Consumers building their home gym from scratch who are looking for more than just weights will appreciate that this set comes with a rack, bar, and weight plates.
Buyers on a budget will like the amount of equipment you get here for the price.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Athletes who have limited space to work out in may want to consider a folding rack package instead. This set comes with a regular rack, which can take up quite a bit of room.
Advanced athletes who may want a more extensive set of weights or a more elite power rack.
Plug in and play — we love how this set has everything you need to get started with training. Not only that, but it has enough weight to keep most athletes progressing for years.
Read our full reviews of the REP PR-1100 Power Rack.
Best Dumbbells
In terms of hard-wearing equipment that will serve you to the very end, the dumbbell is about as tried and true as it gets. Add to this the fact that you can train so many varieties of movements, patterns, and qualities, and you’ve got yourself an incredibly valuable piece of equipment. As for which specific model to get, we think you can’t go wrong with these hex dumbbells from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
For what you pay, it’s hard to find a better option. With weights ranging from five pounds to 50 pounds, REP has got a good amount of your training goals covered. Coated with heavy-duty, low-odor rubber for durability and to protect flooring, the hex shape also prevents your bells from rolling away during rest periods while you catch your breath.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
These weights range from five pounds to 50 pounds. Plus, they're coated with heavy duty, low odor rubber for durability and to protect the flooring in your home gym.
These bells have textured handles that are similar to what you would find with knurled steel handles. You can even buy these dumbbells in sets if you want to build out a rack of dumbbells in one go. However, with weights only going up to 50 pounds, more advanced lifters may be limited in options.
Jake tests the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Athletes who want rubber-coated dumbbells that may help protect their floors and provide a solid grip.
Lifters who need something with minimal space requirements will appreciate that these dumbbells take up much less space than a barbell, weight plates, and a rack.
Anyone who has a tighter budget and still wants a product from a reliable brand.
Who Shouldn’t Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Customers who prefer adjustable equipment may want to opt for an adjustable dumbbell.
Trainees who would prefer a knurled steel handle on their dumbbells.
Advanced lifters who may want dumbbells that are heavier than 50 pounds can find more extensive sets out there.
Well-priced, incredibly versatile, and easy to store, we love these dumbbells from REP Fitness. For a full body-conditioning workout, they’re an ideal choice.
Read our full review of the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
In the battle for the title of most versatile equipment, dumbbells really stand out as one of the leading contenders — and even more so when they’re adjustable dumbbells. With this one set, you have more than a lifetime’s worth of training options open to you.
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
When it comes to free weights, adjustable dumbbells are one of the most versatile options. While many other brands of adjustable dumbbells use slide or quick-lock systems to switch between weights, the NÜOBELL uses a “smart” twisting handle system. With this system, you can simply twist the handle to the number you want, pick up the weight, and curl your heart out.
SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym.
The weight range here goes all the way from five pounds up to 80 pounds, making these versatile enough for athletes of almost any level. While you can drop many free weights, be careful with these — with their “smart” features, they’re a little more fragile than most.
Jake tests the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Who Should Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Gymgoers who need a highly adjustable piece of equipment. These are adjustable and can go up to 80 pounds if you opt for the heavier set.
Anyone looking for a very space-efficient free weight option will appreciate that these can replace an entire rack of dumbbells.
Lifters who want a set of adjustable dumbbells with a wide weight range.
Who Shouldn’t Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Those looking for a cost-effective pair of adjustable dumbbells may want to check out other options — this pair has a hefty price tag.
Customers who are looking for a more durable free weight option. These can break if dropped or mistreated.
For a modern, “smart” adjustable dumbbell with a wide weight range and twisting handlebar for fast adjustments, the NÜOBELL is one of the best space-saving weight options on the market.
Read our full review of the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Kettlebell
If you had to single out one piece of equipment to use for whole-body conditioning that’s also incredibly space-saving, it’s tough to find a better contender than the kettlebell. Using swings, get ups, and pistols, you can get very strong and mobile with just this single piece of metal. These kettlebells are our favorites.
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
These powder-coated kettlebells are single-piece cast and have a void-free surface covering for durability. The powder coat allows you to have a solid grip regardless of whether you’re using chalk or not, which can help in preventing extra clean-up. After a while of cleaning a kettlebell, you likely won’t want to clean your workout area too.
Rogue Fitness Powder Coat Kettlebell
These are perfect for those looking for room to grow into your kettlebell practice. They come in 11 weight increments, from 13 pounds all the way up to 88 — so you can learn basic swings with comfort and solid construction.
We also love the color coding for easy identification when you just want to get to lifting. Another plus is that these kettlebells are available in 18 different weight increments from nine pounds all the way up to 203 pounds.
Jake tests the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebell
Who Should Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Trainees looking for an all-in-one training option. Kettlebells are extremely versatile for working strength, conditioning, and power.
Buyers with a tighter budget who want a quality kettlebell. These are well-priced for their quality.
Anyone who wants to keep their workouts simple and to the point will enjoy how straightforward kettlebell flows can be.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Gymgoers looking for adjustable equipment for saving space.
Athletes looking to eventually compete with kettlebells who should get a competition bell.
Customers who prefer a rubber-coated kettlebell to help avoid damage to flooring.
With high-quality manufacturing at an excellent price, these kettlebells should be on the list for anyone wanting a simple and durable piece of equipment.
Read our full review of the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells.
Best Barbell
It isn’t hyperbole to suggest that barbells are one of the best free weights you could use for training goals ranging from fat loss to muscle gain to building strength. If you aren’t training with a barbell, you could be missing out on huge potential improvements that will help you hit your fitness goals. This barbell is one of the most versatile, and it happens to be our personal go-to.
Rogue Ohio Bar
This bar is an ideal option for gymgoers who just want to get training and need a reliable, battle-tested barbell. This is perhaps the most popular barbell in the home gym community with countless hours of lifts of all types performed on this bar and an average 4.9 rating across over 5,000 reviews on its product page. We think it’s safe to say that people are satisfied with this bar and its quality.
Rogue Ohio Bar Barbell
The Rogue Ohio Bar is 28mm in diameter, has a sleeve length of 16.4 inches, and features two knurling marks for optimal hand placement. It's made of stainless steel, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Rogue Ohio Bar comes with a lifetime guarantee against bending as long as you take care of your barbell, so it can handle any lifting discipline you choose. Decent but not overly aggressive knurling means the bar has a good grip, but won’t shred your skin — making it perfect for repeated, daily use. We love the different color combinations and finishes with 18 Cerakote color combos, a Stainless Steel finish, E-coat, Black Oxide, and Black Zinc to choose from — the different options do vary in price though.
Jake tests the Rogue Ohio Bar
Who Should Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
Athletes looking for a solid bar that is designed for daily training. This bar is an exceptional multi-purpose piece of equipment.
Lifters who want a bar with a lifetime warranty. Rogue stands behind their equipment and is known for great customer service.
Buyers who want different color options for their bar can choose from over 20 options here.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
Anyone with more limited space to train in.
Lifters who are training for a barbell sport and want a bar that is designed specifically for that discipline.
Buyers who want a bar with more intense knurling for better grip.
Strong, durable, and well-priced, it’s hard to ask for anything more from a bar that can take you from beginner lifter all the way to the upper echelons of strength sports. We’d say this is a buy once, cry once scenario, but the price is actually very reasonable.
Read our full review of the Rogue Ohio Bar.
Best Bumper Plates
If you plan on doing some snatches or just enjoy dropping your bar when you hit a PR, you’re going to need a set of bumper plates — these are our favorites. They are specifically designed to be able to absorb impacts with a metal core surrounded by a rubber exterior. The drawback is, they tend to be thicker than solid metal plates, which can be an issue if you’re loading the bar with 400+ pounds.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards, which can make switching weights out mid-workout seamless. The 10-pound weight is also extra thick, which can help prevent “tacoing” (or warping with use). Some recycled rubber bumper plates can have a high bounce, but REP Fitness’ have a very low bounce.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards. They have a low bounce, and have been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, making them extra durable.
They’ve been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, which equates to years of durability. It’s worth noting though that this rubber can have a strong smell, so it’s best to let them air out for a few days before bringing them into your home.
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Athletes who want a set of plates that can be dropped over 12,000 times without any problems.
Buyers looking for colored weights that follow international color standards, so they can easily see how much weight they’re loading.
If you’re looking for thicker light weights, you’ll like that the 10-pound weight here is extra thick to help prevent tacoing.
Who Shouldn’t Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Gymgoers who want plates with handles for easier loading and unloading.
Lifters who are looking for black bumper plates or plates that are all one color for a more cohesive look in their home gym.
Anyone who doesn’t want to have to air out a strong rubber smell will want to look elsewhere.
These bumper plates are durable, have a very low bounce, and come in colors that follow international color standards, making them great for beginning and advanced athletes alike.
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Barbells are great, but you’ll probably need weight plates if you want to progress and make the most of your training. For lifters who aren’t planning on dropping a bar, normal weight plates (coated or uncoated) make a lot of sense. But bumper plates can help cushion the blow for those who often find themselves dropping after their sets — and these are some of the least expensive ones on the market.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
These Hi-Temp Bumper Plates are made from recycled rubber, which is the cherry on top of the cake. Environmentally conscious, yet very well-priced, they are a great destination for old rubber that otherwise would go to waste. Used daily in many gyms and a staple in CrossFit gyms thanks to their low price and durability, you can be sure they’re well-made and can withstand a beating.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
A staple in box gyms across the globe, these Rogue bumper plates by Hi-Temp are really affordable and can take a beating. They're known for having a good amount of bounce, which can be a pro or con depending on your personal training preferences.
You can purchase these plates individually or in sets, and they come in pairs of 10, 15, 25, 35, and 45 pounds. They’re all black, which some may like, while others may prefer color coding. It’s worth noting that they are softer than many weight plates though, which means they do have a decent amount of bounce.
Who Should Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Athletes who are looking for rubber-coated bumper plates that may help cushion their drops.
Buyers looking for an environmentally conscious choice with their gym equipment will like this recycled rubber.
Lifters who want great value for their money. While the sets may seem expensive, as far as weight plates go, these are fairly cheap.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Consumers who need thinner plates to load the bar heavier.
Lifters who need weight plates, but don’t want too much bounce. These bounce more than some harder plates do.
Anyone who wants colored plates to easily distinguish between weights.
These bumper plates are eminently affordable and can be a great fit for a home gym — especially if you’re trying to protect your floors. Don’t think that the price means lower quality either — they are very durable.
Best Medicine Ball
A slightly less traveled route, medicine balls are nonetheless an incredibly effective piece of equipment and well worth your consideration — especially if you are looking to do some rotational training, power work, or core sessions. We love this medicine ball from REP.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Sporting a soft, but grippy outer covering, this ball from REP shouldn’t slip through your hands mid-workout. Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. Plus, they’re color-coded for easy weight identification. And the weight is stitched on, so it won’t wear off with each use.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds, and the weights are stitched onto the surface, so they won't wear over time.
You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds. Just make sure you don’t slam this ball — there are other slam balls available if that’s a priority for you.
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Trainees who want a variety of medicine balls they can use with conditioning workouts.
Anyone looking for a durable medicine ball that has double-stitched, reinforced seams.
Lifters who want an easy-to-grip surface will like the leather covering on these medicine balls.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
If you don’t do a lot of conditioning work, you may not need to make this investment — medicine balls aren’t particularly cheap pieces of equipment.
For those who are looking for a piece of equipment for wall slams, these balls are not for you. There are separate slam balls for that.
If you’re keen on conditioning workouts, medicine balls are versatile and provide a great option for those who want to branch out from more typical weight lifting — they aren’t super inexpensive though, so you’ll want to ensure you’ll make use of them before purchasing.
Free Weight Benefits
Free weights are the preferred method of lifting for many individuals, and for good reason. They can potentially involve more muscles, improve your stabilizing muscles, and open up a new world of options compared to machines. That’s not to say machines aren’t also useful tools for working out, but they simply have a different intended purpose. Essentially, free weights and machines are two sides of the same coin — we call heads.
Practice for competition
As far as we can think of, there are no strength sports that involve machines in the contest — it’s all free weights. If you intend on competing someday in anything from powerlifting to CrossFit, or even the Highland Games (Heavy Athletics) then you’ll need to practice with free weights.
Better Stability and More Muscles Worked
Free weights must be stabilized in order to perform exercises properly. In the case of a back squat, that means your core — muscles like the abdominals, obliques, serratus, erector spinae, and others are involved. On machines, the stabilization is done for you by the machine, so you miss the opportunity to train these muscles and reap the stability rewards unless you train them directly on top of your other exercises. For movements like the shoulder press, the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder girdle like the rotator cuff muscles, as well as the abdominals and rear delts, which are trained indirectly. In short, you get more bang for your buck with free weight exercises.
Image via Shutterstock / Ground Picture
Free weight exercises tend to skew toward compound exercises — movements that involve motion at more than one joint — which leads to working more muscles. Machines typically target only one muscle or muscle group at a time, and you can certainly do that with free weights, but the exercise selection for free weights offers notably more multi-joint exercises than machines do.
More Options
It’s important to keep things fresh in your workouts, not only to challenge yourself and your body in different ways but to stay mentally stimulated as well. Free weights aren’t bound to a set range of motion or way of moving like machines are. This opens up a ton more options for you to switch up your workouts and modify exercises any way you see fit. The possibilities are essentially only limited by your creativity.
How We Chose the Best Free Weights
Free weights can be used in countless ways that can fit most exercise routines. Helpful for physical therapy, gaining muscle mass, aerobics, barre, and muscle toning, free weights are the perfect tool for home exercise set-ups. For those hoping to skip the gym or supplement their workout routine with some home exercises, free weights can be a great help — but only if the products satisfy the exerciser. There are variations in material, design and variety that could mean the difference between satisfaction and disappointment. Here are the categories we used to help us evaluate these products.
Weight Options Offered
The wide range of sets, weights, and styles available online shows just how much variety there is in different people’s exercise routines. Some brands have individual weights available all the way up to 20+ pounds, while some only make weight choices up to 12 pounds. People looking for a complete collection of weights may opt to buy each set, or at least every individual weight within a certain range. Weights that come in a variety of options, whether that be colors, sets, or poundage offered, are given priority to ensure that everyone has an option that suits them on our list.
Ease of Use and Storage
These products will need to have a home within any exercise room, garage, or basement they will be used in. Free weights that come with a rack provide an easy place to store this equipment — however, not all racks are easily assembled or particularly sturdy. Free weights that are purchased individually may need to live on their own on the floor or otherwise stable surfaces.
Image via Shutterstock / Kleber Cordeiro
Oftentimes neoprene can damage finished wood when in contact with the surface after getting moist from use or in extreme heat. Adjustable free weights take up much less space but can often be harder to use. Some of these free weights have somewhat complicated or clumsy mechanisms to change weights. Depending on each exerciser’s needs, individual free weights or an adjustable set might be preferable. We kept storage and ease of use in mind when making our picks and options that are clumsy to move around or difficult to store won’t rank as highly on our list.
Value
There are many ways for a person interested in a home gym set-up to fill out the list of equipment they plan to use. A lot of this will depend on the budget of the shopper. Those hoping to get one pair of dozens of different weights should expect to spend a pretty penny. Additionally, those looking for a complete set of weights might opt for an adjustable weight. These may cost more in aggregate than pairs of individual weights, but offer many more options for different types of exercise programs. Regardless of budget, there are plenty of options for free weights that can fit into most spending plans. Only pieces of equipment that are cost-effective or provide a high value made their way onto this list.
How Much Do Free Weights Cost?
Free weights are such a wide category that their price is nearly impossible to nail down. You can purchase a small pair of dumbbells for under $20, or you can splurge and buy an entire home gym setup with a power rack, weights, bar, and more for thousands of dollars.
Best Free Weight Set
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Starting at $1,000 before add-ons, upgrades, and accessories
Best Dumbbells
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Pairs from $39.99 through $214.99
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell
Starting at $595
Best Kettlebell
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Starting from $30 through $145
Best Barbell
Rogue Ohio Bar
Starting at $305.00
Best Bumper Plates
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Pairs from $79.99 through $309.99
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Pairs from $65 to $175 and sets from $425 to $2,450
Best Medicine Ball
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Starting from $42.99
What’s important when purchasing free weights is that you keep your goals in mind when making your decision about what to buy. If you want to improve at the sport of weightlifting, then buying a bunch of medicine balls and dumbbells likely isn’t the most prudent first score. They have their place and can be useful, but you’ll want to pick up the important pieces first, like a solid weightlifting bar, squat rack, some weightlifting shoes if you don’t already have them, bumper plates, and a platform — then you can branch out.
What to Consider Before Buying Free Weights
If you haven’t just won the lottery or reside in a mega-mansion, you’re likely to be facing some limitations when buying equipment. From price to training space, here are some factors you should think about before swiping your card.
Your Budget
There is a big price range for the products we’ve listed. Obviously, a barbell and plates are going to cost more than a solitary kettlebell. Thankfully, when compared to machines that can cost thousands of dollars, everything here is eminently affordable, and many companies now have optional payment plans to make things even more accessible.
Which to Prioritize
We’d caution you to keep in mind Warren Buffet’s immortal words: “Price is what you pay, value is what you get.” A medicine ball is a great tool and very affordable, but it simply isn’t going to have the same utility as a set of adjustable dumbbells. Budgeting decisions definitely have a large impact, but try to be patient and keep your eye on the bigger picture before buying.
Your Goals
If you want hypertrophy, then a single pair of 20-pound dumbbells just isn’t going to cut it. Eventually, you’ll need to go heavier, and probably sooner than you might think if you’re training consistently. Make sure that you choose the right tool for the job, so you can grow. Yes, you will struggle and hit barriers when pushing your limits, but you’ll be glad you bought the tools to challenge yourself.
Also, consider what results you want. If you’re training for power, a barbell and weight plates might be your route. If you’re training for aesthetics, you may be better suited with dumbbells.
Tips
Still not sure which free weight is right for you? Here are some further things to consider before making your purchase.
What Type of Exercises Do You Enjoy?
One of the biggest considerations to make before purchasing free weights is to identify the actual workouts you plan on doing. If you are hoping to use the free weights for physical therapy, rehabilitation from an injury or movement-based aerobic or barre exercises, smaller weights like dumbbells might be the route to take. If interested in gaining muscle mass or training for a sport, look out for weight types like barbells and weight plates that have heavier options available to purchase.
How Often Do You Plan on Using Them?
Unfortunately, exercise equipment can end up collecting dust more than many other things in your home. If you aren’t a strenuous exerciser or you prefer going to the gym, perhaps only getting one or two pairs of weights would be the prudent move.
Image via Shutterstock / oleksboiko
Alternatively, people who are looking to create a home gym that allows them the widest range of exercise choices may splurge on several weight pairings, weight sets, or adjustable dumbbells. Having a set around for emergencies or boredom is not a bad idea, but figuring out which weight set you are most likely to use is a decision you will have to make.
How Many Different Exercises Will You Do?
People who will only be using the weights for a specific purpose, like physical therapy, barre, or while running, may only need one or two weights. Those hoping to use different weights based on the different strength-training exercises may find it beneficial to have a wide range of implements at their disposal. Consider your overall training picture and make a decision based on your realistic expectations.
Durability
Durability isn’t going to be a huge issue with most of these products, adjustable dumbbells being a notable exception. For everything else, the only thing we can state is that free weights are naturally pretty durable, and you have to be rather negligent and/or neglectful in order to break them. This doesn’t give you a license to abuse them, but this should reassure you that your purchase will have good longevity if you take basic care of it.
Size Requirements
Barbells are pretty unwieldy and require a decent amount of space to use safely. Dumbbells on the other hand don’t. Most other free weights operate somewhere in the middle, but you definitely need to think about where you are going to be training and how much space is available to you.
Shipping
Something you may not have thought about is that shipping is potentially very expensive for free weights. In order to minimize costs, it’s worth thinking about whether you can delay an individual purchase in order to buy more and get free shipping, or order through somewhere like Amazon Prime which enables you to avoid the pain of seeing that extra cost added on right before you check out.
Final Word
At this point in time, if it isn’t abundantly clear to you that free weights are awesome, we don’t know what else to say. Yes, they have their downsides, and yes you should still use machines, bodyweight exercises, isometrics, stretches, and more in your training. But when you consider affordability and effectiveness, free weights simply cannot be ignored. The other lifting modalities have their uses, but the “meat and potatoes” of your lifting should be free weights for the best potential results.
There are important questions as to which free weights you should prioritize. Should you pick up a barbell, some dumbbells, or a medicine ball first? Answering these questions will be based on personal preference and your training regimen, so make sure you spend some time, do some research, and purchase the equipment that is going to give you the biggest bang for your buck. The pieces of equipment that we highlighted on this list are great options to maximize your dollar for the value you’ll receive.
FAQs
Why use free weights instead of machines?First, the price of free weights is typically much lower than the price of a machine. A second reason is versatility. Most machines have only one (at most, a few) function, but free weights have many functions. There are more reasons why you might use free weights vs. machines, but these two are pretty compelling in their own right.
How much do free weights cost?Since there are so many options for free weights, their cost can range quite dramatically. You can potentially spend under $30 for a pair of light dumbbells or thousands on a full power rack and home gym package or all-in-one trainer. Essentially, free weights cost as much or as little as you’re willing to spend with some options being more expensive than others.
What are the best free weights?It may sound cliché, but the best free weights are the ones that you’ll use consistently. If you don’t like kettlebell workouts and prefer to use dumbbells or barbells instead, then buying a bunch of kettlebells isn’t right for you. Take into consideration what you enjoy doing, what your budget it, and your space available and the best free weight options will likely reveal themselves naturally.
Are free weights dangerous to use?Potentially yes. Machines are also potentially dangerous. So are cars, the bleach you use to clean your toilet and the stove you use to cook. Be sure to train within reason, with good technique, and don’t overload yourself. If you stick to a safe and sound training regimen, your free weights should do you much more good than harm.
How do I get the most benefits out of free weights?There are a few keys here. Progressive overload, long term variation in training, and periodic deloading are probably the three biggest keys we can think of. Make sure you’re constantly increasing the difficulty of your training so that you’re not always performing the same exercises at the same level for years on end.
One of the simplest — but most effective — workout tools you can have is a free weight. They provide resistance in any direction and can be used to gain muscle mass or perform higher repetitions to challenge endurance. Free weights — often dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells — are a great choice for any at-home gym set-up. However, there are slight differences between many of the leading options available, and these slight differences can have a big impact on the efficacy and enjoyment of a workout regimen.
Jake tests some top free weights
If you’re on the hunt for the best free weights on the market to kickstart your training, the main problem (or benefit if you’re a glass-half-full kind of person) is that you’re spoiled for choice. We have tried and tested countless popular brands in the strength equipment realm, and in order to save you some time, we’ve broken down a list of the key categories of the best free weights on the market and our selections to get you off the keyboard and into the workout room.
Best Free Weights
Best Free Weight Set
There aren’t many options that are more effective and versatile than a barbell, a power or squat rack, and a set of weight plates. From squats and deadlifts to rows and presses, you can work your whole body and never run out of progressions with a package like this one from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This set includes a bar, a power rack, and your choice of Iron or Sport plates. Depending on the package you choose, you will either get REP’s PR-1000 or PR-1100 power rack. As for the weight plates, no matter if you choose Iron or Sport plates, you’ll receive a set of pairs of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This package comes with a power rack, weight plates, and a bar. No matter which package you choose, you'll get a set of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP has put together a great deal here, and while it may not be enough weight for the advanced lifter, there’s more than enough here to effectively challenge most recreational athletes. And if you are advanced and looking to build your home gym, there’s always additional weight you can buy on top of a starter pack like this.
Jake tests the REP Fitness PR-1100 rack
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Read our full reviews of the REP PR-1100 Power Rack.
Best Dumbbells
In terms of hard-wearing equipment that will serve you to the very end, the dumbbell is about as tried and true as it gets. Add to this the fact that you can train so many varieties of movements, patterns, and qualities, and you’ve got yourself an incredibly valuable piece of equipment. As for which specific model to get, we think you can’t go wrong with these hex dumbbells from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
For what you pay, it’s hard to find a better option. With weights ranging from five pounds to 50 pounds, REP has got a good amount of your training goals covered. Coated with heavy-duty, low-odor rubber for durability and to protect flooring, the hex shape also prevents your bells from rolling away during rest periods while you catch your breath.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
These weights range from five pounds to 50 pounds. Plus, they're coated with heavy duty, low odor rubber for durability and to protect the flooring in your home gym.
These bells have textured handles that are similar to what you would find with knurled steel handles. You can even buy these dumbbells in sets if you want to build out a rack of dumbbells in one go. However, with weights only going up to 50 pounds, more advanced lifters may be limited in options.
Jake tests the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Read our full review of the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
In the battle for the title of most versatile equipment, dumbbells really stand out as one of the leading contenders — and even more so when they’re adjustable dumbbells. With this one set, you have more than a lifetime’s worth of training options open to you.
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
When it comes to free weights, adjustable dumbbells are one of the most versatile options. While many other brands of adjustable dumbbells use slide or quick-lock systems to switch between weights, the NÜOBELL uses a “smart” twisting handle system. With this system, you can simply twist the handle to the number you want, pick up the weight, and curl your heart out.
SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym.
The weight range here goes all the way from five pounds up to 80 pounds, making these versatile enough for athletes of almost any level. While you can drop many free weights, be careful with these — with their “smart” features, they’re a little more fragile than most.
Jake tests the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Who Should Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Read our full review of the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Kettlebell
If you had to single out one piece of equipment to use for whole-body conditioning that’s also incredibly space-saving, it’s tough to find a better contender than the kettlebell. Using swings, get ups, and pistols, you can get very strong and mobile with just this single piece of metal. These kettlebells are our favorites.
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
These powder-coated kettlebells are single-piece cast and have a void-free surface covering for durability. The powder coat allows you to have a solid grip regardless of whether you’re using chalk or not, which can help in preventing extra clean-up. After a while of cleaning a kettlebell, you likely won’t want to clean your workout area too.
Rogue Fitness Powder Coat Kettlebell
These are perfect for those looking for room to grow into your kettlebell practice. They come in 11 weight increments, from 13 pounds all the way up to 88 — so you can learn basic swings with comfort and solid construction.
We also love the color coding for easy identification when you just want to get to lifting. Another plus is that these kettlebells are available in 18 different weight increments from nine pounds all the way up to 203 pounds.
Jake tests the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebell
Who Should Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Read our full review of the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells.
Best Barbell
It isn’t hyperbole to suggest that barbells are one of the best free weights you could use for training goals ranging from fat loss to muscle gain to building strength. If you aren’t training with a barbell, you could be missing out on huge potential improvements that will help you hit your fitness goals. This barbell is one of the most versatile, and it happens to be our personal go-to.
Rogue Ohio Bar
This bar is an ideal option for gymgoers who just want to get training and need a reliable, battle-tested barbell. This is perhaps the most popular barbell in the home gym community with countless hours of lifts of all types performed on this bar and an average 4.9 rating across over 5,000 reviews on its product page. We think it’s safe to say that people are satisfied with this bar and its quality.
Rogue Ohio Bar Barbell
The Rogue Ohio Bar is 28mm in diameter, has a sleeve length of 16.4 inches, and features two knurling marks for optimal hand placement. It's made of stainless steel, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Rogue Ohio Bar comes with a lifetime guarantee against bending as long as you take care of your barbell, so it can handle any lifting discipline you choose. Decent but not overly aggressive knurling means the bar has a good grip, but won’t shred your skin — making it perfect for repeated, daily use. We love the different color combinations and finishes with 18 Cerakote color combos, a Stainless Steel finish, E-coat, Black Oxide, and Black Zinc to choose from — the different options do vary in price though.
Jake tests the Rogue Ohio Bar
Who Should Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
Read our full review of the Rogue Ohio Bar.
Best Bumper Plates
If you plan on doing some snatches or just enjoy dropping your bar when you hit a PR, you’re going to need a set of bumper plates — these are our favorites. They are specifically designed to be able to absorb impacts with a metal core surrounded by a rubber exterior. The drawback is, they tend to be thicker than solid metal plates, which can be an issue if you’re loading the bar with 400+ pounds.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards, which can make switching weights out mid-workout seamless. The 10-pound weight is also extra thick, which can help prevent “tacoing” (or warping with use). Some recycled rubber bumper plates can have a high bounce, but REP Fitness’ have a very low bounce.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards. They have a low bounce, and have been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, making them extra durable.
They’ve been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, which equates to years of durability. It’s worth noting though that this rubber can have a strong smell, so it’s best to let them air out for a few days before bringing them into your home.
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Barbells are great, but you’ll probably need weight plates if you want to progress and make the most of your training. For lifters who aren’t planning on dropping a bar, normal weight plates (coated or uncoated) make a lot of sense. But bumper plates can help cushion the blow for those who often find themselves dropping after their sets — and these are some of the least expensive ones on the market.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
These Hi-Temp Bumper Plates are made from recycled rubber, which is the cherry on top of the cake. Environmentally conscious, yet very well-priced, they are a great destination for old rubber that otherwise would go to waste. Used daily in many gyms and a staple in CrossFit gyms thanks to their low price and durability, you can be sure they’re well-made and can withstand a beating.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
A staple in box gyms across the globe, these Rogue bumper plates by Hi-Temp are really affordable and can take a beating. They're known for having a good amount of bounce, which can be a pro or con depending on your personal training preferences.
You can purchase these plates individually or in sets, and they come in pairs of 10, 15, 25, 35, and 45 pounds. They’re all black, which some may like, while others may prefer color coding. It’s worth noting that they are softer than many weight plates though, which means they do have a decent amount of bounce.
Who Should Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Best Medicine Ball
A slightly less traveled route, medicine balls are nonetheless an incredibly effective piece of equipment and well worth your consideration — especially if you are looking to do some rotational training, power work, or core sessions. We love this medicine ball from REP.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Sporting a soft, but grippy outer covering, this ball from REP shouldn’t slip through your hands mid-workout. Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. Plus, they’re color-coded for easy weight identification. And the weight is stitched on, so it won’t wear off with each use.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds, and the weights are stitched onto the surface, so they won't wear over time.
You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds. Just make sure you don’t slam this ball — there are other slam balls available if that’s a priority for you.
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Free Weight Benefits
Free weights are the preferred method of lifting for many individuals, and for good reason. They can potentially involve more muscles, improve your stabilizing muscles, and open up a new world of options compared to machines. That’s not to say machines aren’t also useful tools for working out, but they simply have a different intended purpose. Essentially, free weights and machines are two sides of the same coin — we call heads.
Practice for competition
As far as we can think of, there are no strength sports that involve machines in the contest — it’s all free weights. If you intend on competing someday in anything from powerlifting to CrossFit, or even the Highland Games (Heavy Athletics) then you’ll need to practice with free weights.
Better Stability and More Muscles Worked
Free weights must be stabilized in order to perform exercises properly. In the case of a back squat, that means your core — muscles like the abdominals, obliques, serratus, erector spinae, and others are involved. On machines, the stabilization is done for you by the machine, so you miss the opportunity to train these muscles and reap the stability rewards unless you train them directly on top of your other exercises. For movements like the shoulder press, the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder girdle like the rotator cuff muscles, as well as the abdominals and rear delts, which are trained indirectly. In short, you get more bang for your buck with free weight exercises.
Image via Shutterstock / Ground Picture
Free weight exercises tend to skew toward compound exercises — movements that involve motion at more than one joint — which leads to working more muscles. Machines typically target only one muscle or muscle group at a time, and you can certainly do that with free weights, but the exercise selection for free weights offers notably more multi-joint exercises than machines do.
More Options
It’s important to keep things fresh in your workouts, not only to challenge yourself and your body in different ways but to stay mentally stimulated as well. Free weights aren’t bound to a set range of motion or way of moving like machines are. This opens up a ton more options for you to switch up your workouts and modify exercises any way you see fit. The possibilities are essentially only limited by your creativity.
How We Chose the Best Free Weights
Free weights can be used in countless ways that can fit most exercise routines. Helpful for physical therapy, gaining muscle mass, aerobics, barre, and muscle toning, free weights are the perfect tool for home exercise set-ups. For those hoping to skip the gym or supplement their workout routine with some home exercises, free weights can be a great help — but only if the products satisfy the exerciser. There are variations in material, design and variety that could mean the difference between satisfaction and disappointment. Here are the categories we used to help us evaluate these products.
Weight Options Offered
The wide range of sets, weights, and styles available online shows just how much variety there is in different people’s exercise routines. Some brands have individual weights available all the way up to 20+ pounds, while some only make weight choices up to 12 pounds. People looking for a complete collection of weights may opt to buy each set, or at least every individual weight within a certain range. Weights that come in a variety of options, whether that be colors, sets, or poundage offered, are given priority to ensure that everyone has an option that suits them on our list.
Ease of Use and Storage
These products will need to have a home within any exercise room, garage, or basement they will be used in. Free weights that come with a rack provide an easy place to store this equipment — however, not all racks are easily assembled or particularly sturdy. Free weights that are purchased individually may need to live on their own on the floor or otherwise stable surfaces.
Image via Shutterstock / Kleber Cordeiro
Oftentimes neoprene can damage finished wood when in contact with the surface after getting moist from use or in extreme heat. Adjustable free weights take up much less space but can often be harder to use. Some of these free weights have somewhat complicated or clumsy mechanisms to change weights. Depending on each exerciser’s needs, individual free weights or an adjustable set might be preferable. We kept storage and ease of use in mind when making our picks and options that are clumsy to move around or difficult to store won’t rank as highly on our list.
Value
There are many ways for a person interested in a home gym set-up to fill out the list of equipment they plan to use. A lot of this will depend on the budget of the shopper. Those hoping to get one pair of dozens of different weights should expect to spend a pretty penny. Additionally, those looking for a complete set of weights might opt for an adjustable weight. These...
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Jake tests some top free weights
If you’re on the hunt for the best free weights on the market to kickstart your training, the main problem (or benefit if you’re a glass-half-full kind of person) is that you’re spoiled for choice. We have tried and tested countless popular brands in the strength equipment realm, and in order to save you some time, we’ve broken down a list of the key categories of the best free weights on the market and our selections to get you off the keyboard and into the workout room.
Best Free Weights
Best Free Weight Set
There aren’t many options that are more effective and versatile than a barbell, a power or squat rack, and a set of weight plates. From squats and deadlifts to rows and presses, you can work your whole body and never run out of progressions with a package like this one from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This set includes a bar, a power rack, and your choice of Iron or Sport plates. Depending on the package you choose, you will either get REP’s PR-1000 or PR-1100 power rack. As for the weight plates, no matter if you choose Iron or Sport plates, you’ll receive a set of pairs of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This package comes with a power rack, weight plates, and a bar. No matter which package you choose, you'll get a set of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP has put together a great deal here, and while it may not be enough weight for the advanced lifter, there’s more than enough here to effectively challenge most recreational athletes. And if you are advanced and looking to build your home gym, there’s always additional weight you can buy on top of a starter pack like this.
Jake tests the REP Fitness PR-1100 rack
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Lifters who want a highly effective and very versatile set of equipment. This option allows you to pick up multiple high-use pieces at once.
Consumers building their home gym from scratch who are looking for more than just weights will appreciate that this set comes with a rack, bar, and weight plates.
Buyers on a budget will like the amount of equipment you get here for the price.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Athletes who have limited space to work out in may want to consider a folding rack package instead. This set comes with a regular rack, which can take up quite a bit of room.
Advanced athletes who may want a more extensive set of weights or a more elite power rack.
Plug in and play — we love how this set has everything you need to get started with training. Not only that, but it has enough weight to keep most athletes progressing for years.
Read our full reviews of the REP PR-1100 Power Rack.
Best Dumbbells
In terms of hard-wearing equipment that will serve you to the very end, the dumbbell is about as tried and true as it gets. Add to this the fact that you can train so many varieties of movements, patterns, and qualities, and you’ve got yourself an incredibly valuable piece of equipment. As for which specific model to get, we think you can’t go wrong with these hex dumbbells from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
For what you pay, it’s hard to find a better option. With weights ranging from five pounds to 50 pounds, REP has got a good amount of your training goals covered. Coated with heavy-duty, low-odor rubber for durability and to protect flooring, the hex shape also prevents your bells from rolling away during rest periods while you catch your breath.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
These weights range from five pounds to 50 pounds. Plus, they're coated with heavy duty, low odor rubber for durability and to protect the flooring in your home gym.
These bells have textured handles that are similar to what you would find with knurled steel handles. You can even buy these dumbbells in sets if you want to build out a rack of dumbbells in one go. However, with weights only going up to 50 pounds, more advanced lifters may be limited in options.
Jake tests the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Athletes who want rubber-coated dumbbells that may help protect their floors and provide a solid grip.
Lifters who need something with minimal space requirements will appreciate that these dumbbells take up much less space than a barbell, weight plates, and a rack.
Anyone who has a tighter budget and still wants a product from a reliable brand.
Who Shouldn’t Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Customers who prefer adjustable equipment may want to opt for an adjustable dumbbell.
Trainees who would prefer a knurled steel handle on their dumbbells.
Advanced lifters who may want dumbbells that are heavier than 50 pounds can find more extensive sets out there.
Well-priced, incredibly versatile, and easy to store, we love these dumbbells from REP Fitness. For a full body-conditioning workout, they’re an ideal choice.
Read our full review of the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
In the battle for the title of most versatile equipment, dumbbells really stand out as one of the leading contenders — and even more so when they’re adjustable dumbbells. With this one set, you have more than a lifetime’s worth of training options open to you.
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
When it comes to free weights, adjustable dumbbells are one of the most versatile options. While many other brands of adjustable dumbbells use slide or quick-lock systems to switch between weights, the NÜOBELL uses a “smart” twisting handle system. With this system, you can simply twist the handle to the number you want, pick up the weight, and curl your heart out.
SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym.
The weight range here goes all the way from five pounds up to 80 pounds, making these versatile enough for athletes of almost any level. While you can drop many free weights, be careful with these — with their “smart” features, they’re a little more fragile than most.
Jake tests the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Who Should Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Gymgoers who need a highly adjustable piece of equipment. These are adjustable and can go up to 80 pounds if you opt for the heavier set.
Anyone looking for a very space-efficient free weight option will appreciate that these can replace an entire rack of dumbbells.
Lifters who want a set of adjustable dumbbells with a wide weight range.
Who Shouldn’t Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Those looking for a cost-effective pair of adjustable dumbbells may want to check out other options — this pair has a hefty price tag.
Customers who are looking for a more durable free weight option. These can break if dropped or mistreated.
For a modern, “smart” adjustable dumbbell with a wide weight range and twisting handlebar for fast adjustments, the NÜOBELL is one of the best space-saving weight options on the market.
Read our full review of the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Kettlebell
If you had to single out one piece of equipment to use for whole-body conditioning that’s also incredibly space-saving, it’s tough to find a better contender than the kettlebell. Using swings, get ups, and pistols, you can get very strong and mobile with just this single piece of metal. These kettlebells are our favorites.
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
These powder-coated kettlebells are single-piece cast and have a void-free surface covering for durability. The powder coat allows you to have a solid grip regardless of whether you’re using chalk or not, which can help in preventing extra clean-up. After a while of cleaning a kettlebell, you likely won’t want to clean your workout area too.
Rogue Fitness Powder Coat Kettlebell
These are perfect for those looking for room to grow into your kettlebell practice. They come in 11 weight increments, from 13 pounds all the way up to 88 — so you can learn basic swings with comfort and solid construction.
We also love the color coding for easy identification when you just want to get to lifting. Another plus is that these kettlebells are available in 18 different weight increments from nine pounds all the way up to 203 pounds.
Jake tests the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebell
Who Should Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Trainees looking for an all-in-one training option. Kettlebells are extremely versatile for working strength, conditioning, and power.
Buyers with a tighter budget who want a quality kettlebell. These are well-priced for their quality.
Anyone who wants to keep their workouts simple and to the point will enjoy how straightforward kettlebell flows can be.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Gymgoers looking for adjustable equipment for saving space.
Athletes looking to eventually compete with kettlebells who should get a competition bell.
Customers who prefer a rubber-coated kettlebell to help avoid damage to flooring.
With high-quality manufacturing at an excellent price, these kettlebells should be on the list for anyone wanting a simple and durable piece of equipment.
Read our full review of the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells.
Best Barbell
It isn’t hyperbole to suggest that barbells are one of the best free weights you could use for training goals ranging from fat loss to muscle gain to building strength. If you aren’t training with a barbell, you could be missing out on huge potential improvements that will help you hit your fitness goals. This barbell is one of the most versatile, and it happens to be our personal go-to.
Rogue Ohio Bar
This bar is an ideal option for gymgoers who just want to get training and need a reliable, battle-tested barbell. This is perhaps the most popular barbell in the home gym community with countless hours of lifts of all types performed on this bar and an average 4.9 rating across over 5,000 reviews on its product page. We think it’s safe to say that people are satisfied with this bar and its quality.
Rogue Ohio Bar Barbell
The Rogue Ohio Bar is 28mm in diameter, has a sleeve length of 16.4 inches, and features two knurling marks for optimal hand placement. It's made of stainless steel, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Rogue Ohio Bar comes with a lifetime guarantee against bending as long as you take care of your barbell, so it can handle any lifting discipline you choose. Decent but not overly aggressive knurling means the bar has a good grip, but won’t shred your skin — making it perfect for repeated, daily use. We love the different color combinations and finishes with 18 Cerakote color combos, a Stainless Steel finish, E-coat, Black Oxide, and Black Zinc to choose from — the different options do vary in price though.
Jake tests the Rogue Ohio Bar
Who Should Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
Athletes looking for a solid bar that is designed for daily training. This bar is an exceptional multi-purpose piece of equipment.
Lifters who want a bar with a lifetime warranty. Rogue stands behind their equipment and is known for great customer service.
Buyers who want different color options for their bar can choose from over 20 options here.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
Anyone with more limited space to train in.
Lifters who are training for a barbell sport and want a bar that is designed specifically for that discipline.
Buyers who want a bar with more intense knurling for better grip.
Strong, durable, and well-priced, it’s hard to ask for anything more from a bar that can take you from beginner lifter all the way to the upper echelons of strength sports. We’d say this is a buy once, cry once scenario, but the price is actually very reasonable.
Read our full review of the Rogue Ohio Bar.
Best Bumper Plates
If you plan on doing some snatches or just enjoy dropping your bar when you hit a PR, you’re going to need a set of bumper plates — these are our favorites. They are specifically designed to be able to absorb impacts with a metal core surrounded by a rubber exterior. The drawback is, they tend to be thicker than solid metal plates, which can be an issue if you’re loading the bar with 400+ pounds.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards, which can make switching weights out mid-workout seamless. The 10-pound weight is also extra thick, which can help prevent “tacoing” (or warping with use). Some recycled rubber bumper plates can have a high bounce, but REP Fitness’ have a very low bounce.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards. They have a low bounce, and have been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, making them extra durable.
They’ve been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, which equates to years of durability. It’s worth noting though that this rubber can have a strong smell, so it’s best to let them air out for a few days before bringing them into your home.
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Athletes who want a set of plates that can be dropped over 12,000 times without any problems.
Buyers looking for colored weights that follow international color standards, so they can easily see how much weight they’re loading.
If you’re looking for thicker light weights, you’ll like that the 10-pound weight here is extra thick to help prevent tacoing.
Who Shouldn’t Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Gymgoers who want plates with handles for easier loading and unloading.
Lifters who are looking for black bumper plates or plates that are all one color for a more cohesive look in their home gym.
Anyone who doesn’t want to have to air out a strong rubber smell will want to look elsewhere.
These bumper plates are durable, have a very low bounce, and come in colors that follow international color standards, making them great for beginning and advanced athletes alike.
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Barbells are great, but you’ll probably need weight plates if you want to progress and make the most of your training. For lifters who aren’t planning on dropping a bar, normal weight plates (coated or uncoated) make a lot of sense. But bumper plates can help cushion the blow for those who often find themselves dropping after their sets — and these are some of the least expensive ones on the market.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
These Hi-Temp Bumper Plates are made from recycled rubber, which is the cherry on top of the cake. Environmentally conscious, yet very well-priced, they are a great destination for old rubber that otherwise would go to waste. Used daily in many gyms and a staple in CrossFit gyms thanks to their low price and durability, you can be sure they’re well-made and can withstand a beating.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
A staple in box gyms across the globe, these Rogue bumper plates by Hi-Temp are really affordable and can take a beating. They're known for having a good amount of bounce, which can be a pro or con depending on your personal training preferences.
You can purchase these plates individually or in sets, and they come in pairs of 10, 15, 25, 35, and 45 pounds. They’re all black, which some may like, while others may prefer color coding. It’s worth noting that they are softer than many weight plates though, which means they do have a decent amount of bounce.
Who Should Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Athletes who are looking for rubber-coated bumper plates that may help cushion their drops.
Buyers looking for an environmentally conscious choice with their gym equipment will like this recycled rubber.
Lifters who want great value for their money. While the sets may seem expensive, as far as weight plates go, these are fairly cheap.
Who Shouldn’t Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Consumers who need thinner plates to load the bar heavier.
Lifters who need weight plates, but don’t want too much bounce. These bounce more than some harder plates do.
Anyone who wants colored plates to easily distinguish between weights.
These bumper plates are eminently affordable and can be a great fit for a home gym — especially if you’re trying to protect your floors. Don’t think that the price means lower quality either — they are very durable.
Best Medicine Ball
A slightly less traveled route, medicine balls are nonetheless an incredibly effective piece of equipment and well worth your consideration — especially if you are looking to do some rotational training, power work, or core sessions. We love this medicine ball from REP.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Sporting a soft, but grippy outer covering, this ball from REP shouldn’t slip through your hands mid-workout. Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. Plus, they’re color-coded for easy weight identification. And the weight is stitched on, so it won’t wear off with each use.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds, and the weights are stitched onto the surface, so they won't wear over time.
You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds. Just make sure you don’t slam this ball — there are other slam balls available if that’s a priority for you.
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Trainees who want a variety of medicine balls they can use with conditioning workouts.
Anyone looking for a durable medicine ball that has double-stitched, reinforced seams.
Lifters who want an easy-to-grip surface will like the leather covering on these medicine balls.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
If you don’t do a lot of conditioning work, you may not need to make this investment — medicine balls aren’t particularly cheap pieces of equipment.
For those who are looking for a piece of equipment for wall slams, these balls are not for you. There are separate slam balls for that.
If you’re keen on conditioning workouts, medicine balls are versatile and provide a great option for those who want to branch out from more typical weight lifting — they aren’t super inexpensive though, so you’ll want to ensure you’ll make use of them before purchasing.
Free Weight Benefits
Free weights are the preferred method of lifting for many individuals, and for good reason. They can potentially involve more muscles, improve your stabilizing muscles, and open up a new world of options compared to machines. That’s not to say machines aren’t also useful tools for working out, but they simply have a different intended purpose. Essentially, free weights and machines are two sides of the same coin — we call heads.
Practice for competition
As far as we can think of, there are no strength sports that involve machines in the contest — it’s all free weights. If you intend on competing someday in anything from powerlifting to CrossFit, or even the Highland Games (Heavy Athletics) then you’ll need to practice with free weights.
Better Stability and More Muscles Worked
Free weights must be stabilized in order to perform exercises properly. In the case of a back squat, that means your core — muscles like the abdominals, obliques, serratus, erector spinae, and others are involved. On machines, the stabilization is done for you by the machine, so you miss the opportunity to train these muscles and reap the stability rewards unless you train them directly on top of your other exercises. For movements like the shoulder press, the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder girdle like the rotator cuff muscles, as well as the abdominals and rear delts, which are trained indirectly. In short, you get more bang for your buck with free weight exercises.
Image via Shutterstock / Ground Picture
Free weight exercises tend to skew toward compound exercises — movements that involve motion at more than one joint — which leads to working more muscles. Machines typically target only one muscle or muscle group at a time, and you can certainly do that with free weights, but the exercise selection for free weights offers notably more multi-joint exercises than machines do.
More Options
It’s important to keep things fresh in your workouts, not only to challenge yourself and your body in different ways but to stay mentally stimulated as well. Free weights aren’t bound to a set range of motion or way of moving like machines are. This opens up a ton more options for you to switch up your workouts and modify exercises any way you see fit. The possibilities are essentially only limited by your creativity.
How We Chose the Best Free Weights
Free weights can be used in countless ways that can fit most exercise routines. Helpful for physical therapy, gaining muscle mass, aerobics, barre, and muscle toning, free weights are the perfect tool for home exercise set-ups. For those hoping to skip the gym or supplement their workout routine with some home exercises, free weights can be a great help — but only if the products satisfy the exerciser. There are variations in material, design and variety that could mean the difference between satisfaction and disappointment. Here are the categories we used to help us evaluate these products.
Weight Options Offered
The wide range of sets, weights, and styles available online shows just how much variety there is in different people’s exercise routines. Some brands have individual weights available all the way up to 20+ pounds, while some only make weight choices up to 12 pounds. People looking for a complete collection of weights may opt to buy each set, or at least every individual weight within a certain range. Weights that come in a variety of options, whether that be colors, sets, or poundage offered, are given priority to ensure that everyone has an option that suits them on our list.
Ease of Use and Storage
These products will need to have a home within any exercise room, garage, or basement they will be used in. Free weights that come with a rack provide an easy place to store this equipment — however, not all racks are easily assembled or particularly sturdy. Free weights that are purchased individually may need to live on their own on the floor or otherwise stable surfaces.
Image via Shutterstock / Kleber Cordeiro
Oftentimes neoprene can damage finished wood when in contact with the surface after getting moist from use or in extreme heat. Adjustable free weights take up much less space but can often be harder to use. Some of these free weights have somewhat complicated or clumsy mechanisms to change weights. Depending on each exerciser’s needs, individual free weights or an adjustable set might be preferable. We kept storage and ease of use in mind when making our picks and options that are clumsy to move around or difficult to store won’t rank as highly on our list.
Value
There are many ways for a person interested in a home gym set-up to fill out the list of equipment they plan to use. A lot of this will depend on the budget of the shopper. Those hoping to get one pair of dozens of different weights should expect to spend a pretty penny. Additionally, those looking for a complete set of weights might opt for an adjustable weight. These may cost more in aggregate than pairs of individual weights, but offer many more options for different types of exercise programs. Regardless of budget, there are plenty of options for free weights that can fit into most spending plans. Only pieces of equipment that are cost-effective or provide a high value made their way onto this list.
How Much Do Free Weights Cost?
Free weights are such a wide category that their price is nearly impossible to nail down. You can purchase a small pair of dumbbells for under $20, or you can splurge and buy an entire home gym setup with a power rack, weights, bar, and more for thousands of dollars.
Best Free Weight Set
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
Starting at $1,000 before add-ons, upgrades, and accessories
Best Dumbbells
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
Pairs from $39.99 through $214.99
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell
Starting at $595
Best Kettlebell
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
Starting from $30 through $145
Best Barbell
Rogue Ohio Bar
Starting at $305.00
Best Bumper Plates
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
Pairs from $79.99 through $309.99
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
Pairs from $65 to $175 and sets from $425 to $2,450
Best Medicine Ball
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Starting from $42.99
What’s important when purchasing free weights is that you keep your goals in mind when making your decision about what to buy. If you want to improve at the sport of weightlifting, then buying a bunch of medicine balls and dumbbells likely isn’t the most prudent first score. They have their place and can be useful, but you’ll want to pick up the important pieces first, like a solid weightlifting bar, squat rack, some weightlifting shoes if you don’t already have them, bumper plates, and a platform — then you can branch out.
What to Consider Before Buying Free Weights
If you haven’t just won the lottery or reside in a mega-mansion, you’re likely to be facing some limitations when buying equipment. From price to training space, here are some factors you should think about before swiping your card.
Your Budget
There is a big price range for the products we’ve listed. Obviously, a barbell and plates are going to cost more than a solitary kettlebell. Thankfully, when compared to machines that can cost thousands of dollars, everything here is eminently affordable, and many companies now have optional payment plans to make things even more accessible.
Which to Prioritize
We’d caution you to keep in mind Warren Buffet’s immortal words: “Price is what you pay, value is what you get.” A medicine ball is a great tool and very affordable, but it simply isn’t going to have the same utility as a set of adjustable dumbbells. Budgeting decisions definitely have a large impact, but try to be patient and keep your eye on the bigger picture before buying.
Your Goals
If you want hypertrophy, then a single pair of 20-pound dumbbells just isn’t going to cut it. Eventually, you’ll need to go heavier, and probably sooner than you might think if you’re training consistently. Make sure that you choose the right tool for the job, so you can grow. Yes, you will struggle and hit barriers when pushing your limits, but you’ll be glad you bought the tools to challenge yourself.
Also, consider what results you want. If you’re training for power, a barbell and weight plates might be your route. If you’re training for aesthetics, you may be better suited with dumbbells.
Tips
Still not sure which free weight is right for you? Here are some further things to consider before making your purchase.
What Type of Exercises Do You Enjoy?
One of the biggest considerations to make before purchasing free weights is to identify the actual workouts you plan on doing. If you are hoping to use the free weights for physical therapy, rehabilitation from an injury or movement-based aerobic or barre exercises, smaller weights like dumbbells might be the route to take. If interested in gaining muscle mass or training for a sport, look out for weight types like barbells and weight plates that have heavier options available to purchase.
How Often Do You Plan on Using Them?
Unfortunately, exercise equipment can end up collecting dust more than many other things in your home. If you aren’t a strenuous exerciser or you prefer going to the gym, perhaps only getting one or two pairs of weights would be the prudent move.
Image via Shutterstock / oleksboiko
Alternatively, people who are looking to create a home gym that allows them the widest range of exercise choices may splurge on several weight pairings, weight sets, or adjustable dumbbells. Having a set around for emergencies or boredom is not a bad idea, but figuring out which weight set you are most likely to use is a decision you will have to make.
How Many Different Exercises Will You Do?
People who will only be using the weights for a specific purpose, like physical therapy, barre, or while running, may only need one or two weights. Those hoping to use different weights based on the different strength-training exercises may find it beneficial to have a wide range of implements at their disposal. Consider your overall training picture and make a decision based on your realistic expectations.
Durability
Durability isn’t going to be a huge issue with most of these products, adjustable dumbbells being a notable exception. For everything else, the only thing we can state is that free weights are naturally pretty durable, and you have to be rather negligent and/or neglectful in order to break them. This doesn’t give you a license to abuse them, but this should reassure you that your purchase will have good longevity if you take basic care of it.
Size Requirements
Barbells are pretty unwieldy and require a decent amount of space to use safely. Dumbbells on the other hand don’t. Most other free weights operate somewhere in the middle, but you definitely need to think about where you are going to be training and how much space is available to you.
Shipping
Something you may not have thought about is that shipping is potentially very expensive for free weights. In order to minimize costs, it’s worth thinking about whether you can delay an individual purchase in order to buy more and get free shipping, or order through somewhere like Amazon Prime which enables you to avoid the pain of seeing that extra cost added on right before you check out.
Final Word
At this point in time, if it isn’t abundantly clear to you that free weights are awesome, we don’t know what else to say. Yes, they have their downsides, and yes you should still use machines, bodyweight exercises, isometrics, stretches, and more in your training. But when you consider affordability and effectiveness, free weights simply cannot be ignored. The other lifting modalities have their uses, but the “meat and potatoes” of your lifting should be free weights for the best potential results.
There are important questions as to which free weights you should prioritize. Should you pick up a barbell, some dumbbells, or a medicine ball first? Answering these questions will be based on personal preference and your training regimen, so make sure you spend some time, do some research, and purchase the equipment that is going to give you the biggest bang for your buck. The pieces of equipment that we highlighted on this list are great options to maximize your dollar for the value you’ll receive.
FAQs
Why use free weights instead of machines?First, the price of free weights is typically much lower than the price of a machine. A second reason is versatility. Most machines have only one (at most, a few) function, but free weights have many functions. There are more reasons why you might use free weights vs. machines, but these two are pretty compelling in their own right.
How much do free weights cost?Since there are so many options for free weights, their cost can range quite dramatically. You can potentially spend under $30 for a pair of light dumbbells or thousands on a full power rack and home gym package or all-in-one trainer. Essentially, free weights cost as much or as little as you’re willing to spend with some options being more expensive than others.
What are the best free weights?It may sound cliché, but the best free weights are the ones that you’ll use consistently. If you don’t like kettlebell workouts and prefer to use dumbbells or barbells instead, then buying a bunch of kettlebells isn’t right for you. Take into consideration what you enjoy doing, what your budget it, and your space available and the best free weight options will likely reveal themselves naturally.
Are free weights dangerous to use?Potentially yes. Machines are also potentially dangerous. So are cars, the bleach you use to clean your toilet and the stove you use to cook. Be sure to train within reason, with good technique, and don’t overload yourself. If you stick to a safe and sound training regimen, your free weights should do you much more good than harm.
How do I get the most benefits out of free weights?There are a few keys here. Progressive overload, long term variation in training, and periodic deloading are probably the three biggest keys we can think of. Make sure you’re constantly increasing the difficulty of your training so that you’re not always performing the same exercises at the same level for years on end.
One of the simplest — but most effective — workout tools you can have is a free weight. They provide resistance in any direction and can be used to gain muscle mass or perform higher repetitions to challenge endurance. Free weights — often dumbbells, kettlebells, or barbells — are a great choice for any at-home gym set-up. However, there are slight differences between many of the leading options available, and these slight differences can have a big impact on the efficacy and enjoyment of a workout regimen.
Jake tests some top free weights
If you’re on the hunt for the best free weights on the market to kickstart your training, the main problem (or benefit if you’re a glass-half-full kind of person) is that you’re spoiled for choice. We have tried and tested countless popular brands in the strength equipment realm, and in order to save you some time, we’ve broken down a list of the key categories of the best free weights on the market and our selections to get you off the keyboard and into the workout room.
Best Free Weights
Best Free Weight Set
There aren’t many options that are more effective and versatile than a barbell, a power or squat rack, and a set of weight plates. From squats and deadlifts to rows and presses, you can work your whole body and never run out of progressions with a package like this one from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This set includes a bar, a power rack, and your choice of Iron or Sport plates. Depending on the package you choose, you will either get REP’s PR-1000 or PR-1100 power rack. As for the weight plates, no matter if you choose Iron or Sport plates, you’ll receive a set of pairs of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP Fitness Home Gym Package
This package comes with a power rack, weight plates, and a bar. No matter which package you choose, you'll get a set of five-, 10-, 25-, and 45-pound plates, plus REP’s 20kg Black Sabre bar.
REP has put together a great deal here, and while it may not be enough weight for the advanced lifter, there’s more than enough here to effectively challenge most recreational athletes. And if you are advanced and looking to build your home gym, there’s always additional weight you can buy on top of a starter pack like this.
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness Home Gym Package
- Lifters who want a highly effective and very versatile set of equipment. This option allows you to pick up multiple high-use pieces at once.
- Consumers building their home gym from scratch who are looking for more than just weights will appreciate that this set comes with a rack, bar, and weight plates.
- Buyers on a budget will like the amount of equipment you get here for the price.
- Athletes who have limited space to work out in may want to consider a folding rack package instead. This set comes with a regular rack, which can take up quite a bit of room.
- Advanced athletes who may want a more extensive set of weights or a more elite power rack.
Read our full reviews of the REP PR-1100 Power Rack.
Best Dumbbells
In terms of hard-wearing equipment that will serve you to the very end, the dumbbell is about as tried and true as it gets. Add to this the fact that you can train so many varieties of movements, patterns, and qualities, and you’ve got yourself an incredibly valuable piece of equipment. As for which specific model to get, we think you can’t go wrong with these hex dumbbells from REP Fitness.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
For what you pay, it’s hard to find a better option. With weights ranging from five pounds to 50 pounds, REP has got a good amount of your training goals covered. Coated with heavy-duty, low-odor rubber for durability and to protect flooring, the hex shape also prevents your bells from rolling away during rest periods while you catch your breath.
REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
These weights range from five pounds to 50 pounds. Plus, they're coated with heavy duty, low odor rubber for durability and to protect the flooring in your home gym.
These bells have textured handles that are similar to what you would find with knurled steel handles. You can even buy these dumbbells in sets if you want to build out a rack of dumbbells in one go. However, with weights only going up to 50 pounds, more advanced lifters may be limited in options.
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells
- Athletes who want rubber-coated dumbbells that may help protect their floors and provide a solid grip.
- Lifters who need something with minimal space requirements will appreciate that these dumbbells take up much less space than a barbell, weight plates, and a rack.
- Anyone who has a tighter budget and still wants a product from a reliable brand.
- Customers who prefer adjustable equipment may want to opt for an adjustable dumbbell.
- Trainees who would prefer a knurled steel handle on their dumbbells.
- Advanced lifters who may want dumbbells that are heavier than 50 pounds can find more extensive sets out there.
Read our full review of the REP Fitness Rubber Grip Hex Dumbbells.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells
In the battle for the title of most versatile equipment, dumbbells really stand out as one of the leading contenders — and even more so when they’re adjustable dumbbells. With this one set, you have more than a lifetime’s worth of training options open to you.
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
When it comes to free weights, adjustable dumbbells are one of the most versatile options. While many other brands of adjustable dumbbells use slide or quick-lock systems to switch between weights, the NÜOBELL uses a “smart” twisting handle system. With this system, you can simply twist the handle to the number you want, pick up the weight, and curl your heart out.
SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
This Swedish-designed “smart” dumbbell adjusts from 5 pounds up to 80 pounds — all you have to do is twist the handlebar. Its sleek, modern design will make a great addition to any home gym.
The weight range here goes all the way from five pounds up to 80 pounds, making these versatile enough for athletes of almost any level. While you can drop many free weights, be careful with these — with their “smart” features, they’re a little more fragile than most.
Who Should Buy The NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
- Gymgoers who need a highly adjustable piece of equipment. These are adjustable and can go up to 80 pounds if you opt for the heavier set.
- Anyone looking for a very space-efficient free weight option will appreciate that these can replace an entire rack of dumbbells.
- Lifters who want a set of adjustable dumbbells with a wide weight range.
- Those looking for a cost-effective pair of adjustable dumbbells may want to check out other options — this pair has a hefty price tag.
- Customers who are looking for a more durable free weight option. These can break if dropped or mistreated.
Read our full review of the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells.
Best Kettlebell
If you had to single out one piece of equipment to use for whole-body conditioning that’s also incredibly space-saving, it’s tough to find a better contender than the kettlebell. Using swings, get ups, and pistols, you can get very strong and mobile with just this single piece of metal. These kettlebells are our favorites.
Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
These powder-coated kettlebells are single-piece cast and have a void-free surface covering for durability. The powder coat allows you to have a solid grip regardless of whether you’re using chalk or not, which can help in preventing extra clean-up. After a while of cleaning a kettlebell, you likely won’t want to clean your workout area too.
Rogue Fitness Powder Coat Kettlebell
These are perfect for those looking for room to grow into your kettlebell practice. They come in 11 weight increments, from 13 pounds all the way up to 88 — so you can learn basic swings with comfort and solid construction.
We also love the color coding for easy identification when you just want to get to lifting. Another plus is that these kettlebells are available in 18 different weight increments from nine pounds all the way up to 203 pounds.
Who Should Buy Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells
- Trainees looking for an all-in-one training option. Kettlebells are extremely versatile for working strength, conditioning, and power.
- Buyers with a tighter budget who want a quality kettlebell. These are well-priced for their quality.
- Anyone who wants to keep their workouts simple and to the point will enjoy how straightforward kettlebell flows can be.
- Gymgoers looking for adjustable equipment for saving space.
- Athletes looking to eventually compete with kettlebells who should get a competition bell.
- Customers who prefer a rubber-coated kettlebell to help avoid damage to flooring.
Read our full review of the Rogue Powder Coat Kettlebells.
Best Barbell
It isn’t hyperbole to suggest that barbells are one of the best free weights you could use for training goals ranging from fat loss to muscle gain to building strength. If you aren’t training with a barbell, you could be missing out on huge potential improvements that will help you hit your fitness goals. This barbell is one of the most versatile, and it happens to be our personal go-to.
Rogue Ohio Bar
This bar is an ideal option for gymgoers who just want to get training and need a reliable, battle-tested barbell. This is perhaps the most popular barbell in the home gym community with countless hours of lifts of all types performed on this bar and an average 4.9 rating across over 5,000 reviews on its product page. We think it’s safe to say that people are satisfied with this bar and its quality.
Rogue Ohio Bar Barbell
The Rogue Ohio Bar is 28mm in diameter, has a sleeve length of 16.4 inches, and features two knurling marks for optimal hand placement. It's made of stainless steel, and comes with a lifetime warranty.
The Rogue Ohio Bar comes with a lifetime guarantee against bending as long as you take care of your barbell, so it can handle any lifting discipline you choose. Decent but not overly aggressive knurling means the bar has a good grip, but won’t shred your skin — making it perfect for repeated, daily use. We love the different color combinations and finishes with 18 Cerakote color combos, a Stainless Steel finish, E-coat, Black Oxide, and Black Zinc to choose from — the different options do vary in price though.
Who Should Buy the Rogue Ohio Bar
- Athletes looking for a solid bar that is designed for daily training. This bar is an exceptional multi-purpose piece of equipment.
- Lifters who want a bar with a lifetime warranty. Rogue stands behind their equipment and is known for great customer service.
- Buyers who want different color options for their bar can choose from over 20 options here.
- Anyone with more limited space to train in.
- Lifters who are training for a barbell sport and want a bar that is designed specifically for that discipline.
- Buyers who want a bar with more intense knurling for better grip.
Read our full review of the Rogue Ohio Bar.
Best Bumper Plates
If you plan on doing some snatches or just enjoy dropping your bar when you hit a PR, you’re going to need a set of bumper plates — these are our favorites. They are specifically designed to be able to absorb impacts with a metal core surrounded by a rubber exterior. The drawback is, they tend to be thicker than solid metal plates, which can be an issue if you’re loading the bar with 400+ pounds.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards, which can make switching weights out mid-workout seamless. The 10-pound weight is also extra thick, which can help prevent “tacoing” (or warping with use). Some recycled rubber bumper plates can have a high bounce, but REP Fitness’ have a very low bounce.
REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
These colored bumper plates come in 10-, 25-, 35-, 45-, and 55-pound pairs, all colored to international color standards. They have a low bounce, and have been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, making them extra durable.
They’ve been tested to hold up to over 12,000 drops from a height of eight feet, which equates to years of durability. It’s worth noting though that this rubber can have a strong smell, so it’s best to let them air out for a few days before bringing them into your home.
Who Should Buy REP Fitness Color Bumper Plates
- Athletes who want a set of plates that can be dropped over 12,000 times without any problems.
- Buyers looking for colored weights that follow international color standards, so they can easily see how much weight they’re loading.
- If you’re looking for thicker light weights, you’ll like that the 10-pound weight here is extra thick to help prevent tacoing.
- Gymgoers who want plates with handles for easier loading and unloading.
- Lifters who are looking for black bumper plates or plates that are all one color for a more cohesive look in their home gym.
- Anyone who doesn’t want to have to air out a strong rubber smell will want to look elsewhere.
Best Cheap Weight Plates
Barbells are great, but you’ll probably need weight plates if you want to progress and make the most of your training. For lifters who aren’t planning on dropping a bar, normal weight plates (coated or uncoated) make a lot of sense. But bumper plates can help cushion the blow for those who often find themselves dropping after their sets — and these are some of the least expensive ones on the market.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
These Hi-Temp Bumper Plates are made from recycled rubber, which is the cherry on top of the cake. Environmentally conscious, yet very well-priced, they are a great destination for old rubber that otherwise would go to waste. Used daily in many gyms and a staple in CrossFit gyms thanks to their low price and durability, you can be sure they’re well-made and can withstand a beating.
Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
A staple in box gyms across the globe, these Rogue bumper plates by Hi-Temp are really affordable and can take a beating. They're known for having a good amount of bounce, which can be a pro or con depending on your personal training preferences.
You can purchase these plates individually or in sets, and they come in pairs of 10, 15, 25, 35, and 45 pounds. They’re all black, which some may like, while others may prefer color coding. It’s worth noting that they are softer than many weight plates though, which means they do have a decent amount of bounce.
Who Should Buy Rogue Hi-Temp Bumper Plates
- Athletes who are looking for rubber-coated bumper plates that may help cushion their drops.
- Buyers looking for an environmentally conscious choice with their gym equipment will like this recycled rubber.
- Lifters who want great value for their money. While the sets may seem expensive, as far as weight plates go, these are fairly cheap.
- Consumers who need thinner plates to load the bar heavier.
- Lifters who need weight plates, but don’t want too much bounce. These bounce more than some harder plates do.
- Anyone who wants colored plates to easily distinguish between weights.
Best Medicine Ball
A slightly less traveled route, medicine balls are nonetheless an incredibly effective piece of equipment and well worth your consideration — especially if you are looking to do some rotational training, power work, or core sessions. We love this medicine ball from REP.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Sporting a soft, but grippy outer covering, this ball from REP shouldn’t slip through your hands mid-workout. Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. Plus, they’re color-coded for easy weight identification. And the weight is stitched on, so it won’t wear off with each use.
REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
Hand-made from synthetic leather, these balls have an even weight distribution, and their double-stitched, reinforced seams maximize durability. You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds, and the weights are stitched onto the surface, so they won't wear over time.
You can purchase these medicine balls in weights of four, six, eight, 10, 12, 14, 16, 20, 25, and 30 pounds. Just make sure you don’t slam this ball — there are other slam balls available if that’s a priority for you.
Who Should Buy the REP Fitness V2 Medicine Balls
- Trainees who want a variety of medicine balls they can use with conditioning workouts.
- Anyone looking for a durable medicine ball that has double-stitched, reinforced seams.
- Lifters who want an easy-to-grip surface will like the leather covering on these medicine balls.
- If you don’t do a lot of conditioning work, you may not need to make this investment — medicine balls aren’t particularly cheap pieces of equipment.
- For those who are looking for a piece of equipment for wall slams, these balls are not for you. There are separate slam balls for that.
Free Weight Benefits
Free weights are the preferred method of lifting for many individuals, and for good reason. They can potentially involve more muscles, improve your stabilizing muscles, and open up a new world of options compared to machines. That’s not to say machines aren’t also useful tools for working out, but they simply have a different intended purpose. Essentially, free weights and machines are two sides of the same coin — we call heads.
Practice for competition
As far as we can think of, there are no strength sports that involve machines in the contest — it’s all free weights. If you intend on competing someday in anything from powerlifting to CrossFit, or even the Highland Games (Heavy Athletics) then you’ll need to practice with free weights.
Better Stability and More Muscles Worked
Free weights must be stabilized in order to perform exercises properly. In the case of a back squat, that means your core — muscles like the abdominals, obliques, serratus, erector spinae, and others are involved. On machines, the stabilization is done for you by the machine, so you miss the opportunity to train these muscles and reap the stability rewards unless you train them directly on top of your other exercises. For movements like the shoulder press, the stabilizing muscles of the shoulder girdle like the rotator cuff muscles, as well as the abdominals and rear delts, which are trained indirectly. In short, you get more bang for your buck with free weight exercises.
Free weight exercises tend to skew toward compound exercises — movements that involve motion at more than one joint — which leads to working more muscles. Machines typically target only one muscle or muscle group at a time, and you can certainly do that with free weights, but the exercise selection for free weights offers notably more multi-joint exercises than machines do.
More Options
It’s important to keep things fresh in your workouts, not only to challenge yourself and your body in different ways but to stay mentally stimulated as well. Free weights aren’t bound to a set range of motion or way of moving like machines are. This opens up a ton more options for you to switch up your workouts and modify exercises any way you see fit. The possibilities are essentially only limited by your creativity.
How We Chose the Best Free Weights
Free weights can be used in countless ways that can fit most exercise routines. Helpful for physical therapy, gaining muscle mass, aerobics, barre, and muscle toning, free weights are the perfect tool for home exercise set-ups. For those hoping to skip the gym or supplement their workout routine with some home exercises, free weights can be a great help — but only if the products satisfy the exerciser. There are variations in material, design and variety that could mean the difference between satisfaction and disappointment. Here are the categories we used to help us evaluate these products.
Weight Options Offered
The wide range of sets, weights, and styles available online shows just how much variety there is in different people’s exercise routines. Some brands have individual weights available all the way up to 20+ pounds, while some only make weight choices up to 12 pounds. People looking for a complete collection of weights may opt to buy each set, or at least every individual weight within a certain range. Weights that come in a variety of options, whether that be colors, sets, or poundage offered, are given priority to ensure that everyone has an option that suits them on our list.
Ease of Use and Storage
These products will need to have a home within any exercise room, garage, or basement they will be used in. Free weights that come with a rack provide an easy place to store this equipment — however, not all racks are easily assembled or particularly sturdy. Free weights that are purchased individually may need to live on their own on the floor or otherwise stable surfaces.
Oftentimes neoprene can damage finished wood when in contact with the surface after getting moist from use or in extreme heat. Adjustable free weights take up much less space but can often be harder to use. Some of these free weights have somewhat complicated or clumsy mechanisms to change weights. Depending on each exerciser’s needs, individual free weights or an adjustable set might be preferable. We kept storage and ease of use in mind when making our picks and options that are clumsy to move around or difficult to store won’t rank as highly on our list.
Value
There are many ways for a person interested in a home gym set-up to fill out the list of equipment they plan to use. A lot of this will depend on the budget of the shopper. Those hoping to get one pair of dozens of different weights should expect to spend a pretty penny. Additionally, those looking for a complete set of weights might opt for an adjustable weight. These...
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