Weight Training: Dumbbells Vs. Barbells

This is a question that comes around all the time, do you use dumbbells or barbells? There isn't any right or wrong answer when it comes to this and everyone has their favorite whether it be dumbbells or barbells and in some cases the smith machine. Let me give you my verdict and some negatives and positives of each equipment.

Smith Machine: First let me get this out the way, in my opinion unless you are doing explosive exercises or a beginner who struggles for balance stay clear of the smith machine when possible. Smith machine although allows you to lift heavier because of the stabilizing factor doesn't use as many muscle fiber's, neither does it engage the core.

Barbell: Allows the lifter to put a lot more weight on and for this reason i always try and use the barbell at the start of my workouts for strength. Personally, barbell doesn't allow me to build as much definition as the dumbbells do but is great to build strength. Negatives of the barbell; if you aren't sure about how much you can lift and you are on your own, it can sometimes be a struggle to keep asking for a spotter from your fellow gym goers.

Dumbbell: As i said with the barbell i like to use dumbbells for definition and mass purposes and usually use these after my strength barbell exercises. Dumbbells are good for beginners, they allow you to drop them when you can't lift anymore, they also allow you to work on balance as they engage much more core than other equipment. Dumbbells are also good for working out imbalances with either a beginner, intermediate or advanced lifter. Negatives are that you can't load the weight up as much, they will probably get to a point when you struggle to lift the dumbbells especially when it comes to loading up for leg exercises.

Conclusion: After my warm-up i will always use a barbell at the beginning of my general lift for strength, not doing anymore than 8 reps; 10 at max. I will then move on to dumbbells where i will work on mass and definition with 8-15 reps and then to some cables depending on muscle group. Smith machine only comes in to my workouts on circuits when i will use them for explosive exercises.

@AReecePT
Fuse Lifestyle