If you’ve ever watched one of PewDiePie’s workout videos, you’ve probably wondered about his equipment. Specifically, what dumbbells does PewDiePie use for his home gym sessions? As a top fitness coach, I can tell you that his choice is practical, effective, and perfect for the average fitness enthusiast looking to build strength at home. Let’s look at the exact gear he uses and why it might be a great fit for your own routine.
Felix Kjellberg, known as PewDiePie, has been open about his fitness journey. He often shares snippets of his workouts, which focus on consistency and functional strength. His setup is not overly complex, which is a key takeaway for anyone starting out.
What Dumbbells Does PewDiePie Use
PewDiePie uses adjustable dumbbells from the brand Bowflex. The specific model is the Bowflex SelectTech 552. This is a popular choice for home gyms because it saves a tremendous amount of space and money. Instead of needing a whole rack of individual weights, this single pair can adjust from 5 pounds all the way up to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell.
The mechanism is simple and quick. You just turn a dial to select the weight you want, lift the dumbbell, and your ready to go. This makes switching between exercises during a circuit super efficient. For PewDiePie’s style of training, which often involves full-body workouts, this efficiency is a huge benefit.
Why the Bowflex SelectTech 552 is a Smart Choice
There are several reasons why this particular model is favored by many, including Felix. Let’s break down the advantages.
First, space savings is a massive factor. Most people don’t have room for a full home gym. A pair of SelectTech dumbbells replaces up to 15 pairs of traditional dumbbells. That frees up floor space for other activities or equipment.
Second, it’s cost-effective in the long run. Buying a full set of individual dumbbells can be very expensive. While the initial investment for the Bowflex is significant, it’s almost always cheaper than purchasing all those separate weights.
Third, the weight range is ideal for most people. The 5 to 52.5-pound range covers the needs for many exercises, from light shoulder raises to heavy chest presses. It supports progression as you get stronger, which is crucial for long-term results.
PewDiePie’s Typical Workout Structure
Knowing the tool is one thing, but understanding how it’s used is what really helps. PewDiePie’s workouts aren’t about extreme bodybuilding. They focus on general health, strength, and consistency.
He often does full-body workouts three or so times a week. These sessions likely include compound movements that work multiple muscle groups at once. Here’s a sample structure you could follow with adjustable dumbbells:
1. Warm-up (5-10 minutes): Light cardio and dynamic stretches.
2. Compound Lifts (20-30 minutes): Exercises like dumbbell squats, chest presses, and rows.
3. Accessory Work (15-20 minutes): Targeting smaller muscles with curls, shoulder presses, and tricep extensions.
4. Core & Cool-down (10 minutes): Planks, leg raises, and static stretching.
The adjustable dumbbells make this flow seamless. You can move from a heavy chest press to a lighter overhead press without fumbling with multiple sets of weights.
Key Exercises You Can Do With Adjustable Dumbbells
Here are some fundamental exercises that are perfect for a home gym setup. These are likely staples in PewDiePie’s routine and should be in yours too.
* Goblet Squats: Hold one dumbbell vertically against your chest. This builds leg and core strength.
* Dumbbell Bench Press: Lie on a bench or even the floor. Press the weights up from your chest to work your chest, shoulders, and triceps.
* Bent-Over Rows: Hinge at your hips and pull the dumbbells to your torso. This is essential for back development and posture.
* Standing Shoulder Press: Press the dumbbells from your shoulders to overhead. A great test of shoulder strength.
* Lunges: Hold a dumbbell in each hand while performing lunges. Excellent for balance and leg development.
* Floor Pullovers: Lie on your back and move a single dumbbell from your chest to over your head. This stretches and works the chest and back.
Important Considerations Before You Buy
While the Bowflex 552s are excellent, they might not be for absolutely everyone. Here are some things to think about before making a purchase.
The feel is different than traditional dumbbells. They are bulkier because of the adjustment mechanism. This can affect exercises like front squats or certain holds. Some users also note a slight rattle with the plates, though it doesn’t effect performance.
The weight limit is 52.5 pounds per dumbbell. If you progress beyond that for certain lifts, you’ll need to look at heavier models, like the SelectTech 1090s which go up to 90 pounds, or consider a separate set of heavier fixed dumbbells.
Durability is generally good, but they require more care than solid iron. You should’nt drop them from height, as this can damage the internal mechanism. Always set them down gently on a mat.
Alternative Adjustable Dumbbell Options
The Bowflex isn’t the only player in the game. Other great brands offer similar functionality with different pros and cons.
* Nuobell: Known for having a more traditional look and feel. They adjust very smoothly but often come at a higher price point.
* PowerBlock: These have a unique rectangular shape and are expanded by adding weight blocks. They are incredibly durable and expandable to very heavy weights.
* Ironmaster Quick-Lock: These are a more heavy-duty option. They adjust by adding and removing plates manually with a lock, which is slower but feels most like a pro-style dumbbell.
Your choice depends on your budget, desired weight range, and how important the “feel” is to you. Trying them in person at a store is the best option if possible.
Building a Routine Like a Fitness Enthusiast
The gear is just the start. The real magic happens with a solid plan. As a coach, I recommend focusing on progressive overload. This means gradually increasing the weight, reps, or sets over time to keep challenging your muscles.
Start with a weight that allows you to perform 8-12 reps with good form. When you can do 12 reps comfortably, increase the weight slightly next session. This is where adjustable dumbbells shine—you can make those small, precise jumps in weight.
Consistency beats intensity every time. It’s better to workout three times a week for a year than to go all-out for a month and burn out. PewDiePie’s approach shows this; he sticks with it regularly, not obsessively.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best equipment, you can hinder your progress. Watch out for these common errors.
* Skipping the warm-up: This leads to poor performance and a higher risk of injury.
* Using momentum: Swinging the weights to lift them takes the work off the target muscles. Move with control.
* Neglecting form for weight: Always prioritize perfect form. It’s better to lift lighter correctly than heavier incorrectly.
* Not eating for recovery: Your muscles repair and grow with proper protein and nutrition. Don’t forget this part.
* Ignoring rest days: Your body needs time to recover. Overtraining can stall progress and lead to fatigue.
FAQ Section
What kind of dumbbells does PewDiePie have?
He uses Bowflex SelectTech 552 adjustable dumbbells. They are the centerpiece of his home gym setup.
How heavy are PewDiePie’s dumbbells?
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 model adjusts from 5 pounds to 52.5 pounds per dumbbell. This covers a wide range of exercises for most people.
Are adjustable dumbbells worth it for a home gym?
Absolutely. For most fitness enthusiasts, they are the most space-efficient and cost-effective way to have a complete set of weights. The convenience encourages more consistent workouts.
What other equipment does PewDiePie use?
He often shows a simple workout bench, resistance bands, and sometimes a pull-up bar. His philosophy leans towards minimal, effective equipment.
Can you build muscle with just adjustable dumbbells?
Yes, you definately can. By following a well-structured program and applying progressive overload, you can build significant strength and muscle mass with just a pair of adjustable dumbbells and a bench.
Is the Bowflex 552 the best choice for beginners?
It’s an excellent choice. The wide weight range allows you to start very light and progress for a long time. The ease of use helps you focus on your workout, not on changing weights clumsily.
In the end, the question of “what dumbbells does PewDiePie use” leads us to a very sensible answer. The Bowflex SelectTech 552s are a tool that supports consistency, which is the true secret to any fitness success. Whether you choose this model or another, the principle is the same: find versatile equipment that you enjoy using regularly. Combine that with a solid plan and patience, and you’ll see real results over time. Remember, the best workout gear is the one you actually use.