Looking for a way to attach two dumbbells together? This simple DIY connection method can create a makeshift barbell or a unique heavy handle for various exercises. It’s a clever trick for home gym enthusiasts who want to expand their equipment options without spending a lot of money.
By securely connecting two dumbbells, you can perform barbell-style rows, presses, or even squats with a different grip challenge. The process is straightforward and uses common hardware store items. Let’s get into how you can do this safely and effectively.
How to Attach Two Dumbbells Together
This method focuses on creating a solid link between two hex dumbbells. Hex dumbbells are ideal because their flat sides provide a stable surface for connection. Round dumbbells can roll and are not recommended for this project.
You’ll be essentially building a short connector bar. The goal is to have a setup where the dumbbells are held parallel to each other, with a gap in the middle for your hands.
What You Will Need
Gathering the right materials is the first step. Here’s your shopping list:
- Two identical hex dumbbells (the weight is up to you).
- One black steel pipe nipple, 3/4″ diameter and 12″ long (common in plumbing).
- Two 3/4″ floor flange fittings (cast iron or steel).
- Four 3/8″ x 1-1/2″ hex bolts.
- Four 3/8″ flat washers.
- Four 3/8″ lock nuts or nylon insert lock nuts.
- A power drill and a 3/8″ metal drill bit.
- A wrench or socket set.
- Optional: Threadlocker (blue Loctite) for extra security.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Follow these steps carefully to ensure a strong and safe connection.
Step 1: Prepare the Floor Flanges
Your floor flanges likely have pre-drilled holes. You will use these holes to bolt the flange to the side of your dumbbell. If the holes are too small for your 3/8″ bolts, you may need to drill them out slightly. Check the fit first.
Step 2: Mark the Dumbbell
Place a floor flange against the flat side of one dumbbell, centered between the handle and the outer edge. Use a marker to dot the center of each flange hole onto the dumbbell. Repeat this for the second dumbbell. Accuracy here prevents the bolts from missing the mark.
Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes
This is the most crucial step. Secure your dumbbell. Using your 3/8″ drill bit, carefully drill holes at the marks you made. Drill straight and steady. You only need to go deep enough for the bolt to pass through the dumbbell’s outer shell—usually about 1/4 inch. Don’t drill into the handle!
Step 4: Attach the Flanges to the Dumbbells
Align a floor flange with the holes you drilled. Insert a bolt through a washer, then through the flange hole, and into the dumbbell. You might need to tap it gently with a mallet. Secure it from the other side with a washer and a lock nut. Tighten firmly with your wrench. Attach all four bolts for each dumbbell. Using threadlocker on the bolts is a smart extra precaution.
Step 5: Connect the Pipe
Simply screw the 12-inch black pipe nipple into one of the floor flanges. Hand-tighten it as much as you can, then use a wrench to give it one final firm turn. Then, screw the other dumbbell (via its attached flange) onto the opposite end of the pipe. Again, hand-tighten and finish with a wrench. Ensure everything is snug and the dumbbells are facing the same direction.
Safety Checks Before Your First Workout
Never skip this inspection. Your safety depends on it.
- Lift the assembly and visually check all bolts and nuts are tight.
- Give the pipe a gentle twist in both directions to check for any play or movement.
- Start with light weights for your first few sessions to test the integrity under load.
- Listen for any creaking or shifting sounds during use—this indicates something is loose.
- Make it a habit to check all connections before every single use.
Best Exercises for Your Connected Dumbbells
Your new tool opens up several exercise possibilites. The wider, fixed grip is the key difference.
Barbell-Style Rows
This is a perfect application. Bend at the hips, keep your back straight, and row the connected dumbbells to your torso. The fixed width can help improve your mind-muscle connection in your back.
Floor Press
Lie on the floor and press the assembly from your chest. The limited range of motion of a floor press is ideal for this setup and is gentler on your shoulders.
Modified Squats
Hold the center pipe like a goblet squat or rest it on your back for a makeshift barbell squat. Start very light to get used to the balance, as the weight distribution is different.
Heavy Carries
Simply picking up the assembly and walking is a fantastic grip and core challenge. The thick center pipe improves grip strength significantly.
Important Limitations and Warnings
This is a DIY solution, not commercial equipment. Understand its limits.
- Do NOT use for heavy bench press or overhead press from a standing position, especially if failing could mean dropping the weight on your face or chest.
- Avoid dropping the assembly from any height. The impact can bend the pipe or loosen bolts.
- This is not designed for dynamic Olympic lifts like cleans or snatches.
- Regularly inspect for stress cracks in the flanges or bending in the pipe.
- The total weight capacity depends heavily on your materials; do not assume it can handle extremly heavy loads.
Alternative Connection Ideas
If the pipe method isn’t for you, here are two simpler, less permanent ideas.
Heavy-Duty Straps or Chains: Loop a strong lifting strap or a short chain through the handles of both dumbbells and connect it with a robust carabiner. This creates a flexible connection good for carries or drags, but not for precise presses.
In a Pinch: The Duct Tape Method: For very light, temporary holds, you can tightly wrap the handles together with several layers of duct tape. This is not secure for real lifting but can work for static holds or adding a bit of instability to a light exercise.
FAQ
Can I connect round dumbbells together?
It is not recommended. Round dumbbells will roll and make a stable, secure connection almost impossible. The flat sides of hex dumbbells are essential.
What’s the best way to link dumbbells for a makeshift barbell?
The pipe and flange method described above is the most reliable for creating a rigid, barbell-like connection between two hex dumbbells.
Is there a safe method to join two dumbbells?
Safety depends on using the right materials, following the steps correctly, performing regular inspections, and respecting the weight and exercise limitations. There is always some risk with DIY gear.
How do you combine dumbbells at home?
Using hardware like pipes and flanges is the most common home method. Always prioritize a solid mechanical connection over temporary fixes like tape.
Can I use PVC pipe instead of metal?
No. PVC can shatter under load and is not safe for this application. You must use schedule 40 or 80 black steel or galvanized steel pipe for strength.
This simple DIY connection method for how to attach two dumbbells together can add a new dimension to your home workouts. It encourages creativity and resourcefulness. Remember, the key is to prioritize safety and start conservatively. With this setup, you can tackle new movements and get more value from the equipment you already own.