Should I invest in a barbell weight set, or a bunch of dumbbells?

[ghostgirl97]

I'm an avid runner and my coach recommended weight training (in moderation) to help increase over all muscle gain. As a runner, my legs are well built/toned, but my arms and upper body leaves quite a bit to be desired. I'm trying to decide whether to invest in a $160 weight bench w/100lb weight set, or buy $160 worth of dumbbells. I'm a small woman, by the way. I'm 5'1, 110 lbs, but I can bench around 70 lbs, on a good day. Which would help me most in terms of my arms and core? Which is more versatile?

[oreodewylola]

The barbell set would be better if you ever wanted to do legs too, but if you're just focusing on upper body the dumbbells would be your better bet. Also, don't forget that you don't need a bunch of equipment to get a stronger body! Pushups, pullups, and planks are REALLY good body weight exercises that increase your strength tremendously. And, you don't have to purchase anything to do them!

[BertMacklinFBI]

well maybe just a yoga mat:D for the fancy folks hahaha

[oreodewylola]

haha, yeah I guess doing them on the hard floor wouldn't be all that fun.

[HandsomeRaj]

I'd say get to the gym which will be a lot of options too :)

However, given the choice between a barbell & dumbbell, I'd say dumbbell cause the variations that one can do with a dumbbell, you can't with a barbell :)

[ghostgirl97]

I totally would if there were one within a reasonable distance. The closest gym where I live is over an hour away :(

[HandsomeRaj]

Worth the drive / travel for achieving desired effects if you ask me :) the results will make you realize that :)

I signed up at a 24 hr gym & that has branches all across the country, cause my work schedules are demanding. When I travel outside the country, I ensure I stay in hotels that have a gym facility ;) :D

Gym provides you with not only guidance of an instructor but also varied equipment apart from constant motivation and keeps you in touch with variations :)

[BertMacklinFBI]

it depends how you wanna lift. both are very effective for a variety of training exercises. can you not get both?

[BertMacklinFBI]

and hot damn! 70 lbs bench press is nice for your stats. *Two Fucking Thumbs UP!!!*

[ghostgirl97]

I can't afford to purchase both right now, which would you suggest getting first?

[BertMacklinFBI]

I'd say DB sets. you can do lunges and other various leg exercises. only thing I can't really see you doing is squats with a DB set:P and squats is where its at. but if you can maintain proper technique and near perfect form then you should be able to do squats with a DB set too. its just not as easy as barbell.

[ghostgirl97]

Great, thanks for your advice!

[Codysmith95]

You can preform a wider variety of lifts with free weights of course, but it depends on what you're looking to do. My suggestion is the free weights of course, you can get better results. You can also do plenty of core workouts with dumbells.

[Opethfantoo]

You'll get more cut with free weights.