How heavy dumbbells do you need?

[ImFiddY]

I'm starting STS and just bought a used set of dumbbels and the 30# 35# 40# seem so darn huge. Will I really be using these?? I'm wondering if I should sell these off.

 

[marnold]

It really depends on your personal 1RMs. Several STS'ers, including myself had some trouble holding the heavy dumbbells and have invested in lifting straps (search the STS and you will see what I mean). I bought the increments you stated and have not used them for STS yet but did use them for the 1RMs... HTH

 

[lorrayne]

I have up to 30 pound dumbbells. I would purchase heavier ones if I had the rack space in my workout area. I had to put several plate mates on my 30 pound dumbbell to make it 35 pounds for plie squats in meso cycle 2 week 1.

I am guessing you will need these heavier weights for legs and possibly for back.

 

[dragonf1y]

I have been using 35#s for deadlifts in STS, and would prefer 40#s, but cannot hold it and have not yet bought lifting straps.
I would keep them, and look forward to growing into those larger weights.

 

[netsnotes16]

My heaviest are 30lb Reeboks which I don't like because you can't really grip them when doing pullovers in Pyramid Upper Body as well. I would like to get 35lbs as well as trade in my 30's for hexagons.

 

[L Sass]

Well, today I needed a 50 for those plie squats. All I had was a 40#. Now I opted not to buy plate mates or pace weights, but instead went to Home Depot and bought a bunch of heavy duty magnets for a few bucks. I attached 2 of my 5# barbell plates to the ends of my 40 to make a 50, BUT it got awkward. I think the 50# DB would be much better.

I would say YES -- if you truly going to do STS in the manner intended, you WILL gain significant strength and will likely use these larger bells. Good luck.

 

[petramom]

I remember years ago when I bought my 15# DBs - I thought they were enormous and when I picked them up I felt like I was going to tip over or my arm was going to pull completely out of its socket. Now they seem pretty light. My new 30# DBs, however, scare me. I just keep reminding myself that, with time and work, they won't seem so intimidating.