Free Weight Fitness Equipment – Three Main Free Weight Training Implements
Probably the most basic and essential gym equipment is a free weight set. Their name derives from the fact that they can be used on their own without relying on complex pully systems, chains, or other devices of manipulation commonly found in weight machines.
Weights are used in basic weight training programs, for building strength and muscle. They can be used in conjunction with popular weight benches and other exercise equipment and are fully adjustable making them versitile for use in a wide range of different exercises. There are two general types of weight sets. Olympic free weights and standard weights. Olympic weights are used in Olympic weight lifting sports and are widely considered to be of higher quality than convention weights, but great results can be achieved using both kinds of sets.
There are a few essential components that comprise free weights: The barbell, dumbbells, kettleball, weight plates and colllars.
The Barbell
The barbell is a long metal bar with a knurled cross-hatch pattern that accommodates a better grip. The barbell can accommodate variable weight plates that are attached with collars. Barbells range in length from a 4-7 feet (1.2-2.1m). The diameter of the barbell differs depending on what type of weight set it is. Olympic weights are generally wider in diameter than standard weights. The diameter is typically close to one inch. Olympic barbells also feature rotating sleeves that allow the discs to spin on an axis and so eliminate rotationall-inertia subjected to the lifter during an explosive lift.
Dumbbells
The word “dumbbells” originates from a time in Tudor England when church bells were held by athletes as a way of developing their arms and upper bodies. The bells ranged from a few ounces in weight all the way up to multiple pounds. Today dumbbells come in three types: adjustable dumbbells that, like a barbell allow you to mount weight plates (secured by collars or clips) on either end. Unlike dumbbells, the barbell is about the width of a hand. Fixed-weight dumbbells are shaped like adjustable dumbbells, but feature a solid weight that cannot be changed. These are typically cheaper, but price varies depending on the material used. Cast iron fixed-weight dumbbells (sometimes coated with rubber) being pricier, whereas models with a rigid plastic shell or concrete being cheaper.
Selectorized dumbbells are the third type of dumbbell, which are also adjustable and work by adjusting their weight mechanically via the moving a selector pin or a dial turn. This makes it much easier to change the weight configuration than with the standard adjustable dumbbells.
The Kettlebell
A kettle ball is a weight typically made of cast-iron that – in its purest form looks like a cannon-ball and handle. In practice the modern kettleball comes in many different designs with adjustable options available, though the concept is the same. The center of mass of a kettlebell extends beyond that hand and so accommodates exercises that involve swinging and moving the kettlebell. While the original Russian kettlebell weighed 35lbs, kettlebells today can range in size from 5lb right up to 70lb. It is said that more muscle groups are worked in the swinging motion of a kettlebell, yielding better results in less time than other weight implements.
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