How to Build a Set of Dumbells

A dumbbell is a short bar, usually metal, that has weight on either end of the bar. The space between the weight on either end of the bar is typically large enough for one hand to comfortably grip the bar. There are many exercises you can do with dumbbells, and dumbbells can also often be substituted for barbells. The bench press, for instance, which is typically done with a barbell, can also easily be done with two dumbbells.

Things You'll Need

  • 14 to 16-inch galvanized tube per dumbbell
  • Tape measure
  • Marker
  • Weight plates
  • 4 hose clamps per dumbbell
  • Screw driver
  • Industrial strength epoxy
  • Athletic tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the tubing, and divide the number of inches by two. From one end, measure the divided length along the tubing, which will be the center of the tubing. From the center, measure out 3 inches to either side, and make a mark at these two spots.

    • 2

      Attach one hose clamp to either marked spot on the tubing by sliding it in to place and tightening the screw portion with the screwdriver. Brush epoxy on to the clamps and allow the epoxy to dry. These hose clamps will be your inner dumbbell collars.

    • 3

      Wrap a layer of athletic tape around the length of the tubing in between the two hose clamps, which is where you will be holding the dumbbell. This will help to prevent blisters and other hand damage.

    • 4

      Slide the tubing through the holes of the desired amount of weight plates. The total amount of weight should be equal for either side of the dumbbell.

    • 5

      Slide hose clamps on to the tubing, and hold them tight against the side of the weight plates, which should, in turn, be tight against the inner hose clamps. Secure the hose clamps in place by using the screwdriver to turn the screw on the hose clamps. Do not epoxy these outer hose clamps, as that will make them much more difficult to remove in the event that you want to change the weight on the dumbbell.

    • 6

      Repeat the Steps 1 through 5 for as many dumbbells as you want your dumbbell set to be comprised of, using the desired amount of weight for each dumbbell.