Dumbbells are an excellent way to increase your overall heath. Not only can they increase muscle mass, but lifting weights can also assist with weight loss and improve cardiovascular fitness.

Every muscle in the body, large to small, can be strengthened with proper dumbbell use. A heavier weight can be used with simple squats to work the front of the leg, or quadriceps, and lighter dumbbells can be used for triceps extensions, utilising the back of the arm. Holding a dumbbell across the abdomen increases the effectiveness of abdominal crunches. A fitness professional can demonstrate specific dumbbell exercises for shoulders, biceps, back, hamstrings, calves, even ankles and wrists. Be careful when holding extra weight while working the lower back; start with less weight than you think you need, then slowly increase the weight depending on how your body reacts. If you are unsure about any exercise, consult a professional.

If your budget allows, buy at least two sets of dumbbells. A heavier pair for larger muscles and a lighter pair for smaller muscles. Women with little experience should start with sets around 8 and 3 pounds. Men and more advanced weight lifters can go a bit heavier. For permanent use, buy solid dumbbells that feel comfortable in your hand. The ‘fill with water’ sets you see advertised on airplanes for travel are great for light-weight packing, but are not appropriate for long-time use. Expect to pay roughly £0.63 per pound of weight in total although you might find cheaper in sales or when you buy two sets.

Using dumbbells in your exercise routine is an effective way to add muscle and remember that muscle takes up less space than fat, so increasing muscle mass will actually decrease your waist size. You will feel fitter and more energetic - something that can benefit us all in these trying times.

More home gym equipment: Weight Bench