It’s really easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you’ve gotta have access to elaborate gym equipment or need to know how to use a barbell to get a great strength workout in. But, my friends, I’m here to tell you that it simply isn’t so.
In fact, this past January, I had to put that theory to the test in real time during my 7-days at Kripalu in the Berkshires. (Read about that and get my week’s worth of workouts on minimal equipment here.) And by the looks of my travel schedule this Fall, it won’t be the last time I have to get creative with my workouts.

While I wholeheartedly believe that every person should spend at least a little time under a barbell in their lifetime (it really does make you feel pretty bad ass), it’s totally possible for you to build some serious strength gains using dumbbells. I create programs all the time for people who really only have access to (or are comfortable with) these timeless pieces of equipment.
So I felt that it was time to revive them and remind everyone (myself included) that simplicity is as brilliant as it is effective.
Recently, I did a series of seven posts for Fit Bottomed Girls where I listed out and filmed demos of the five best dumbbell exercises for each part of your body. And because I love you all so much, I’m rounding all of them up right here for you in one place. Enjoy!
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Chest
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Glutes
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Shoulders
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Legs
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Arms
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Core
The Best Dumbbell Exercises for Your Back
Also, I’ve got a few spaces open for online training/coaching. Let me know if I can help you reach your goals this year and beyond.
Hey Alison
Thanks for sharing such a great article about dumbbell excerises
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