Can I build muscle with just 2 dumbbells?

[Arkitech]

I'm looking to get a pair of 25 or 30 pound dumbbells to work out at home. Lately I haven't had the time to make it out to the gym, so with the dumbbells I can at least get strength training done.

What kind of intense workouts can I do with just 2 dumbbells? I want some workouts with crazy intensity to make up for not being able to get to heavier weights?


If it matters I haven't lifted in 6 months or more. But I've recently gotten my diet together and have been steadily losing weight. I want to keep that going and get strength training back in my schedule.


Thx for any suggestions

 

[purbeast0]

probably nothing serious. if you're gonna bother working out and dedicating time to it, why not just do it properly? i even see a lot of people at the gym who are there basically wasting their time because they are there for hours doing things wrong.

when i broke my ankle i used dumbells at home for 3 months while i couldn't go to the gym. when i went back to the gym i had lost a ton of strength. i think the heaviest i had was like 35lbs when i was doing it. i used it for shoulder presses, flies, curls, and some tricep stuff. they weren't really useful for anything chest, leg, trap, or back related.

if i were ever to work out at home, the first thing i would get is probably a power rack with a bench and some free weights. granted, that sounds like it's not in the budget if you are looking to buy 2 dumbells.

 

[SP33Demon]

Try this, Jeff just released it this week on the road with the Mets at spring training:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bGOE2LOU8n4

Probably won't build a ton of strength, but will work for building muscle.

 

[OILFIELDTRASH]

probably nothing serious. if you're gonna bother working out and dedicating time to it, why not just do it properly? i even see a lot of people at the gym who are there basically wasting their time because they are there for hours doing things wrong.

when i broke my ankle i used dumbells at home for 3 months while i couldn't go to the gym. when i went back to the gym i had lost a ton of strength. i think the heaviest i had was like 35lbs when i was doing it. i used it for shoulder presses, flies, curls, and some tricep stuff. they weren't really useful for anything chest, leg, trap, or back related.

if i were ever to work out at home, the first thing i would get is probably a power rack with a bench and some free weights. granted, that sounds like it's not in the budget if you are looking to buy 2 dumbells.

I work out at home and have a power rack, ironmaster bench, etc. While I agree it's best to have that equipment I don't think it's necessary. Sure if building strength and muscle is top priority its the way to go. Some people just want to stay lean with some muscle mass just for general health and that can be achieved using bodyweight exercises and even better if he has some dumbells to help.

To the op I'd suggest at least getting a 300lb Olympic weight set for $150 at academy. At least then you can increase the weight if needed. There are many exercises you could do with that minimal equipment. Lunges, military press, power clean, curls, bent over rows, deadlift, etc..

 

[norseamd]

of course you can

 

[brad310]

of course you can

to expand on that...you can without them as well, look at bodyweight fitness.

So ya you can add some dumbell work to what you do as pushups etc. Something to curl or overhead press.

I would also suggest you get a kettlebell or two as well so you dont neglect your back and legs.