If you’re looking to build a home gym on a tight budget, you might be wondering: does 5 Below have dumbbells? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no, but understanding what they offer can help you find affordable fitness equipment. This guide will break down exactly what you can expect from 5 Below and other great places to find budget-friendly gear.
Building strength doesn’t require a fancy gym membership or expensive equipment. With a few key pieces, you can create an effective workout space in your living room, garage, or even a bedroom corner. The key is knowing where to shop smart.
Does 5 Below Have Dumbbells
Let’s get straight to the main question. Typically, 5 Below does not stock traditional cast iron or rubber hex dumbbells. Their product selection is highly seasonal and focuses on trendy, low-cost items. While you won’t find a rack of standard weights, they do sometimes carry fitness-related products that can add to your home workouts.
Here’s what you might actually find in the fitness aisle at 5 Below:
* Light Resistance Bands: These are excellent for warming up, physical therapy, or very light strength training.
* Small Hand Weights: Occasionally, they sell colorful, vinyl-coated mini dumbbells, usually in very light weights like 1, 2, or 3 pounds. These are good for accessory work or beginners.
* Yoga Accessories: Basic yoga mats, blocks, and sometimes even stretchy workout bands.
* Fitness Accessories: Items like jump ropes, exercise dice, or small ab wheels.
It’s important to manage your expectations. The inventory changes rapidly, so calling your local store is the best way to check what they have in stock that week. For serious strength training, you’ll likely need to look elsewhere for your main dumbbell set.
Top Alternatives for Affordable Dumbbells
Since 5 Below’s selection is limited, here are some fantastic alternative stores where you can find real dumbbells without breaking the bank.
1. Big-Box Retailers (Walmart, Target, Kmart)
These stores are usually the most reliable for finding a range of affordable fitness equipment. They offer everything from beginner sets to individual heavier weights.
* Walmart: Often has the best prices on standard vinyl or rubber hex dumbbells. Check both in-store and online, as their website sometimes has exclusive sets.
* Target: Carries brands like BalanceForm and often has stylish, space-saving options like adjustable dumbbells in the $30-$100 range.
* What to look for: Start with a pair of medium-weight dumbbells (e.g., 10-15 lbs) and a pair of heavier ones (e.g., 20-25 lbs) to cover most exercises.
2. Sporting Goods Stores (Dick’s, Academy Sports)
While they carry high-end gear, these stores also have great sales on basic equipment. Their house brands, like Fitness Gear at Dick’s, provide good quality for a lower price.
* Check their clearance sections regularly.
* Sign up for their newsletters to get alerts on promotions, especially around holidays.
3. Online Marketplaces (Amazon, eBay)
Amazon is a powerhouse for home fitness gear. You can read hundreds of reviews, compare prices instantly, and find everything from fixed sets to highly adjustable dumbbells.
* Tip: Look for “Amazon’s Choice” or highly-rated items with plenty of verified reviews.
* eBay and Facebook Marketplace are perfect for finding used equipment locally, which is often the most affordable route.
4. Thrift Stores & Garage Sales
Don’t overlook secondhand options! Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army, along with garage sales, can be treasure troves for cheap dumbbells.
* You might need to clean them up a bit, but the savings are significant.
* Be consistent in checking, as inventory turns over quickly.
How to Choose Your First Set of Dumbbells
With so many options, choosing can feel overwhelming. Follow these steps to pick the right set for your goals and space.
1. Assess Your Fitness Level. Are you brand new to lifting? Start with lighter weights (5-10 lbs) to focus on form. If you have some experience, choose a weight that challenges you for 8-12 repetitions.
2. Consider Adjustable Dumbbells. If you have limited space and budget, an adjustable set is a smart investment. They let you change the weight on a single pair of handles, replacing an entire rack of dumbbells.
3. Think About Material. Vinyl-coated are cheap and quiet. Rubber hex dumbbells are more durable and won’t roll away. Cast iron is classic but can damage floors.
4. Plan for Growth. It’s better to buy a set with a range of weights or a system that allows you to add more plates later. You will get stronger faster than you think!
A 4-Week Beginner Dumbbell Workout Plan
Now that you have your dumbbells, here’s a simple plan to get you started. Perform this full-body workout 3 times per week, with at least one day of rest between sessions.
* Warm-up (5 minutes): March in place, arm circles, torso twists.
* Workout: Do each exercise for 3 sets of 10-12 reps. Rest for 60 seconds between sets.
* Cool-down (5 minutes): Stretch your muscles, focusing on your arms, chest, back, and legs.
Workout A:
* Goblet Squats
* Dumbbell Bench Press (or Floor Press)
* Bent-Over Rows
* Overhead Press
* Glute Bridges
* Plank (hold for 30-60 seconds)
Workout B:
* Dumbbell Lunges
* Single-Arm Rows
* Dumbbell Push-Ups (from knees if needed)
* Dumbbell Side Bends
* Tricep Extensions
* Bicep Curls
Alternate between Workout A and B each time you train. Remember, consistency is far more important than perfection. If you miss a rep or use a lighter weight, that’s totally fine.
Maximizing Your Budget Fitness Space
Creating a motivating workout area doesn’t cost much. Here are some tips:
* Use a non-slip mat to protect your floor and define your workout zone.
* A sturdy chair or bench can be used for step-ups, tricep dips, and seated exercises.
* Resistance bands are a cheap way to add variety and target muscles differently.
* Use apps or free YouTube videos for guided workouts instead of paying for a trainer.
The most important piece of equipment is your own commitment. A simple pair of dumbbells and a solid plan can deliver incredible results over time. Many people make the mistake of buying to much gear at first, start simple and build from there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does Five Below sell weights?
A: They rarely sell traditional weights. You are more likely to find light resistance bands, small hand weights (under 3 lbs), and yoga accessories. Their stock varies by season and location.
Q: Where can I find cheap dumbbells?
A: The best places for affordable dumbbells are Walmart, Target, Amazon, and secondhand sources like thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace. Sales at sporting goods stores can also offer good deals.
Q: Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
A: For most people with limited space, yes. They are cost-effective in the long run because one pair replaces many individual dumbbells. Just ensure you choose a reputable brand with good reviews.
Q: What weight dumbbells should a beginner start with?
A: It depends on the exercise. A good starting point for general lifting is two pairs: a lighter set (5-10 lbs) for smaller muscles like shoulders, and a medium set (10-20 lbs) for larger muscles like legs and back. Always prioritize proper form over heavy weight.
Q: Can I get a good workout with just dumbbells?
A: Absolutely. Dumbbells allow for a huge range of exercises that work your entire body. They help improve balance and strength on each side of your body independently, which is a major benefit compared to machines.
Starting your fitness journey with affordable equipment is a brilliant and achievable goal. By knowing where to shop—whether the answer to ‘does 5 Below have dumbbells’ is yes or no for your local store—you can invest in the tools you need without overspending. Focus on learning the basic movements, stick to your plan, and the results will follow. Remember, the best workout is the one you actually do consistently.