The Best Free Weights Exercises

Top Exercises

Dumbbell Fly

Beginner / Dumbbells / Chest / isolation

A classic isolation exercise for the pectorals. It builds chest width and provides a deep stretch that pressing movements cannot achieve.

Dumbbell Fly on Exercise Ball

Beginner / Dumbbells / Chest / isolation

Challenges chest isolation and core stability simultaneously. The exercise ball forces the stabilizers to work to maintain a bridge position.

Dumbbell Decline Hammer Press

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Chest / push

A decline press using a neutral grip. It is shoulder-friendly and increases the involvement of the triceps while targeting the lower chest.

Dumbbell Decline One Arm Fly

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Chest / isolation

A unilateral isolation movement for the lower chest. It challenges core stability and allows for an increased focus on the mind-muscle connection.

Dumbbell Decline Triceps Extension

Beginner / Dumbbells / Triceps / isolation

A variation of the skull crusher that increases the range of motion and tension on the long head of the triceps due to the decline angle.

Dumbbell Decline Bench Press

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Chest / push

Targets the lower pectorals while reducing shoulder strain. The decline angle allows for significant loading of the sternal head of the chest.

Dumbbell Decline Fly

Beginner / Dumbbells / Chest / isolation

An isolation exercise for the lower chest. It provides a deep stretch and targets the lower fibers of the pectorals through a wide arc.

Dumbbell Close Grip Curl

Beginner / Dumbbells / Biceps / pull

A bicep curl variation that emphasizes the outer (long) head of the biceps. Keeping the dumbbells close together shifts the load for better peak development.

Dumbbell Concentration Curl

Beginner / Dumbbells / Biceps / pull

An elite isolation exercise that eliminates momentum. It targets the bicep peak by providing a stable environment for maximal contraction.

Dumbbell Cross Body Hammer Curl

Beginner / Dumbbells / Biceps / pull

Targets the brachialis and brachioradialis. Curling across the body increases tension on the outer arm and provides a unique muscle recruitment pattern.

Dumbbell Cuban Press

Intermediate / Dumbbells / Shoulders / push

A complex shoulder exercise targeting the rotator cuffs and deltoids. It is excellent for shoulder health, posture, and upper back stability.

Dumbbell Bench Press

Beginner / Dumbbells / Chest / push

A foundational compound movement for the pectorals, deltoids, and triceps. Dumbbells allow for a greater range of motion and unilateral stability compared to a barbell.