A Woman’s Guide: 11 Best Weights for Women In 2023

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Ladies, if you want to build up your muscles and improve your strength, you will need the best weights for women. 

As a female personal trainer myself, I recommend using weight for your training.

Weights is a broad term in the fitness community — it can refer to any kind of weight lifting equipment. 

In this review, I will focus on different types of dumbbells including ankle weights and their uses so you can learn which ones suit your fitness routine. Plus, I will share my top picks per category, as well as give you tips on how to get started. 

The most common types of weights are:

1. Fixed Weights

• These are usually made of metal.
• These are the best choice for beginners and cardio training.
• You have to buy different pairs for different weights.

2. Adjustable Weights

• These weights allow you to adjust the weight by removing or adding plates as needed.
• Adjustable weights usually have the heaviest weight ranges, so they are great for strength training.
• They are a little more expensive than fixed weights, but they’re worth it in the long run.

3. Smart Weights

• These are dumbbells with smart features.
• They can be adjustable or fixed.
• You can change your resistance or track progress by connecting it to your device or the internet.

4. Ankle Weights

• These are weights wrapped around your ankles and help increase the resistance by providing extra weight.
•  You can use these for lower body exercises.

5. Aquatic Weights

• These are often used in swimming pools.
• You can use these for low-impact exercises and help you work out some muscles usually missed in traditional workouts.
• These are the lightest weights, but the water adds some resistance because the materials used are buoyant.

Our recommendations for each type of weight:

Image	Recommended Product	Type of weight
	AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbells	Fixed weights
	Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell	Adjustable weights
	NordicTrack iSelect Voice-Controlled Dumbbells	Smart weights
	Day 1 Fitness D1F Ankle/Wrist Weight Pair	Ankle weights
	Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set	Aquatic weights

For each type of weight, there are also other options that might work for you. Keep reading below. 

Table of Contents

• 11 Best Weights for Women
  • Fixed Weights
    • AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell
    • Bala Bars
  • Adjustable Weights
    • Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell
    • ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set
  • Smart Weights
    • NordicTrack iSelect Voice-Controlled Dumbbells
    • PIEPEIEGG Smart Dumbbell Set
  • Ankle Weights
    • Pinc Active Ankle Weights Set
    • Day 1 Fitness D1F Ankle/Wrist Weight Pair
  • Aquatic Weights
    • Trademark Innovations Lightweight Aquatic Exercise Dumbells
    • Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set
• What to look for when buying weights for women?
  • Weights
  • Type of Workout
  • Material
  • Storage
  • Price
• Which weights for women are the best overall? 
  • Fixed Weights
  • Adjustable weights
  • Smart Weights
  • Ankle Weights
  • Aquatic Weights
• FAQ about the Best Weights for Women
• What to do next?

11 Best Weights for Women

Fixed Weights

If you are a beginner, fixed weights are the best way to get started with your strength or cardio  training. They’re easy to use and don’t require much maintenance. Fixed weights are a dumbbell type with a ‘fixed weight.’ So if you want to change the weight of your dumbbell, you must buy a new pair.

Fixed weights are the most affordable option on this list if you only need a few pairs. You won’t need much money upfront to invest in fixed weights—the cost per pound is low compared to other types of dumbbells.

AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell

If you’re new to lifting weights or want something affordable and easy to use, the AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbell is a great choice. It’s the perfect beginner weight set—cheap, colorful, and straightforward.

The neoprene coating will help you focus on your form because they are easy to grip. They won’t slip out of your hand during use—even if you get sweaty. You’ll never have to worry about your dumbbells rolling away, either. That’s because the hexagonal shape makes them easy to stack/store.

And these dumbbells come in eight different colors: gray, green, navy blue, light green, pink, purple, and yellow. You can choose the perfect set to complement your workout space. Each one has labels at the end caps so that you can see which weight is which—no more guessing.

AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbells do not have unique features, but their simplicity attracts a lot of users. With its beginner-friendly design, weight sets, color variations, and affordable price, these dumbbells earned 4.8 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

Bala Bars

Bala Bars are the most portable weights on this list and they’re only available in one weight— 3lbs. But what sets Bala Bars apart is that they don’t look like dumbbells.

Unlike other weights, which often have two bulky ends, Bala Bars have rounded ends, making them look like a big capsule. They will fit well in an environment where there aren’t many weights around—like in a yoga studio or your home. It is an excellent dumbbell for yoga, walking, aerobics, and pilates. 

These dumbbells feature a balanced weight distribution, providing a more comfortable workout. They reduce strain on your wrists and shoulders and are easier to control when you’re lifting.

If you are an environment-conscious person, you will love the fact that Bala Bars uses recycled stainless steel. The baby soft-silicone coating comes in 7 different colors that will match your style and mood.

Adjustable Weights

If you are not sure of how much weight you can handle, I recommend adjustable weights for you. Adjustable weights allow you to switch the weights based on your strength level. They enable you to start small and gradually increase the weight as you get stronger.

Unlike fixed weights, adjustable dumbbells come in different weights in one set. They are easy to store because there are variations in weight in just one dumbbell.

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell

If you’re ready to get in shape—and stay in shape—the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells are the perfect tool for you. With 15 different weight options, from 5 to 52.5 pounds, Bowflex gives you the ability to transition easily from light to heavy weight lifting.

And with 2.5-pound increments, you can choose the resistance that’s right for you at any time—not too little, not too much. They feature selection dials on each side so you can easily change the weight during your workout without interrupting your flow.

These adjustable dumbbells use thermoplastic rubber for coating, which means they won’t slip out of your hands during use—and they come with an included storage tray to keep them organized.

And best of all? The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell comes with a 1-year JRNY membership so you can stay committed to your routine.

ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set

If the weights of Bowflex are not enough for you, ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set is another option. 

With a weight range of 11 lbs to 71.5 in 5.5 lbs increments, this dumbbell set is heavier and has bigger increments than Bowflex. And since they’re easily adjustable, they give you complete control over how much weight you lift. 

The dumbbells are easy to use—just press the button on the side and twist the dial then you’re ready to go. And with the non-slip handles and rubberized grips, they’re comfortable for long workout sessions. 

The high-strength plastic pedestal makes them easy to store and take up less space than other dumbbell sets.

I recommend this brand to you if you want a heavy-duty workout. However, if you are a beginner, I advise you to switch to lighter weights, this might be too heavy for you. 

Smart Weights

If you want to make your weight training more effective, Smart Weights might be just the thing. Smart weights are dumbbells that can connect to the internet and allow you to track your workouts, set goals, and interact with the weight.

These dumbbells know exactly how much weight you’re lifting and how many reps you’ve done. They’ll keep track of everything for you and tell you when you’re ready for more.

NordicTrack iSelect Voice-Controlled Dumbbells

If you are into innovative gym equipment, you might want to try NordicTrack iSelect Voice-Controlled Dumbbells. These dumbbells let you adjust the weight conveniently thru voice control via Amazon Alexa, and the LED screen displays weight changes as you go. 

The integrated storage tray includes a tablet or smartphone holder where you can put your Amazon Alexa-enabled device. You cannot use the voice control feature if you don’t connect your device to Alexa. You can also adjust them manually by turning the knob in the storage tray.

The rack of 20 weights ranges from 5 to 50 pounds in 5lb increments. You can also save weight presets for different workout routines. This allows you to transition into other routines rapidly and saves you from the trouble of memorizing the weights you use for each exercise.

Once your weights are set, you can start streaming interactive weight training on the iFit Family App. Your purchase gives you free access for 30 days.

For your safety, these dumbbells feature adjustment prevention and safety interlock, so the weights won’t fall off once you take them off the tray.

PIEPEIEGG Smart Dumbbell Set

Some smart weights have fixed weights too, like PIEPEIEGG Smart Dumbbell Set. 

Unlike NordickTrack, PIEPEIEGG only features one weight option— 2.5 lbs. So NordicTrack is a smart adjustable dumbbell while PIEPEIEGG is a smart fixed dumbbell. 

These smart weights have a built-in sensor that can distinguish movement and a mini-console that connects directly to your phone to record your exercise data. The dumbbells send the data directly to your app, where you can review it whenever you want. 

At the end cap of the dumbbell, you can find a digital screen where you can view your data or set it into three exercise modes— Free Mode, Time Countdown, and Numbers Counted. 

Each dumbbell has a portable design and a silicone coating, so you can bring it anywhere. It has a long-lasting battery that can hold up to 300 minutes of continuous movement so that you can use it for long workout sessions. You can charge it using a Type-C cable, which takes up to 30 minutes to charge fully. 

Ankle Weights

You must try ankle weights if you want to focus on your leg muscles or hips. Ankle weights are small weights wrapped around your ankles. The weight will help to strengthen your muscles because you have to move harder due to the increase in weight.

You should only use these weights for exercises that target leg and hip muscles. Avoid using ankle weights while brisk walking or while doing aerobic exercise [1].

Pinc Active Ankle Weights Set

If you want to focus on lower body exercises, you might want to try Pinc Active Ankle Weights Set.

With these Pinc Active Ankle Weights Set, you’ll be able to increase the intensity of your workouts and tone up those calves, thighs, and glutes like never before.

You can choose from a weight range from 0.5-8lbs, so you can start small and increase the weight as you get stronger. The velcro straps are very secure, so you can adjust them as needed without worrying about them coming loose. 

These ankle weights are double stitched for extra strength and use extra padding to make it easier for you to carry the extra weight around. It is easy to use—just slip them on and go. 

These ankle weights are standard equipment for Victoria’s Secret Angels — now you can get that same leg workout they do.

Day 1 Fitness D1F Ankle/Wrist Weight Pair

If Pinc Active is too expensive for you, Day 1 Fitness D1F Ankle/Wrist Weight Pair is a more affordable option. It has the same weight range as Pinc Active, so you can save more money with this brand.

These ankle/wrist weights use a breathable cloth to reduce sweat and prevent slipping. The extra fabric around each strap prevents chafing and discomfort while working out. Plus, they’re color-coded for quick selection—so you can easily find what you need without having to dig through a bunch of different weights.

And if you want to use them as wrist weights instead of ankles? You definitely can. The hook and loop closure helps to fit the weights as loose or tight as you want.

Just like Bala Bars, these weights are great for yoga, pilates, and gymnastics.

Aquatic Weights

If you have a pool or a body of water near you, I recommend taking advantage of it and try aquatic weights. Water Dumbbells provide low-impact movements, which can help you work out some muscles usually missed in traditional exercises [2]. 

The water’s buoyancy makes it easier for your joints and muscles to work out longer and harder than you usually would. They are perfect for you if you are a senior, pregnant, or undergoing therapy because the water gives support and adds to the resistance. 

Trademark Innovations Lightweight Aquatic Exercise Dumbells

If you’re into water aerobics or have a pool at home, try these Trademark Innovations Lightweight Aquatic Exercise Dumbells. Each dumbbell weighs 0.66 lbs, so they are perfect if you want a low-impact exercise.

The foam used is Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA), a buoyant material that absorbs very little water—so they’ll float right in the water with you. However, always remember that these are not floatation devices, so if you don’t know how to swim, use a floater instead.

You have eight colors to choose from, so you can match them to your favorite bathing suit or exercise gear. The best part? They are suitable for ages 14 and above, so everyone in your family can join in on the fun.

Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set

If you’re not satisfied with just a water dumbbell, you can try the Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set. 

The set includes:

• Two resistance dumbbells.
• An adjustable foam exercise belt.
• A swim training pull buoy.
• A waterproof exercise card.

They use the same material as Trademark Innovations but weigh 0.55 lbs, so it is lighter. 

To add resistance to your workout, you can wrap the foam exercise belt around your waist. The belt can fit from a waist length of 27 inches up to 53 inches. 

You can use the swim training pull buoy for more resistance by squeezing them between your legs while standing upright doing your routine, or you can use it as a floater.

If you need guidance for your routines or want to explore new ones, check out the waterproof exercise card. The manual contains 14 different exercises. You can watch the video tutorial by scanning the QR code on the card using your own device. A former Olympic swimmer designed and recorded these workouts to help you master your routines.

What to look for when buying weights for women?

Weights

In selecting dumbbells, your primary consideration should be the weight. 

A weight range of 5-20 pounds should give you enough resistance to do most of your workouts. 

Light weights are ideal if you’re planning to focus on upper body workouts and core exercises. You can use medium weights for full-body exercises. Heavy weights are for targeting major muscle groups and lower body workouts [3]. Ankle weights are also for your lower body.

If you are a newbie, you can start-off on lighter sets with a 1 to 2-pound increment. These are great for low-impact exercise and to prevent straining you from weights that are too heavy for you to lift at the moment.

These are great start-up weights, and you can choose to upgrade as you build up your strength. Fixed weights like AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbells have smaller weight increments than others.

If you need heavier weights, you can choose to own weight sets with about 2.5-5 lbs increment. I recommend adjustable weights such as  Bowflex SelectTech 552 or ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set for you.

Type of Workout

When looking for weights, you want to consider which type of weight compliments your workouts. Adjustable dumbbells are probably your best bet if you’re looking to focus on strength training. Adjustable dumbbells have the heaviest set of weights.

Fixed weights might be better suited to your needs if you’re interested in cardio workouts that use light weights and high reps.

You can use fixed weights like Bala Bars or ankle weights for yoga and pilates. However, ankle weights focus more on your lower body.

If you love to track your progress or want a convenient workout flow, then go for smart weights. Smart weights help you maximize your workouts and keep you motivated.

A water dumbbell is a must-try if you have a pool or a body of water near you. Water dumbbells are perfect for you if you are a senior or undergoing therapy. You can use these for low-impact exercise.

Material

Metals are usually the material used in weights. However, weights with neoprene and silicone coating are becoming popular, especially for women.

They come in various colors and shapes, which makes them appealing. Having weights in different colors can make them easy to identify.

For safety purposes, you should choose a dumbbell with an easy-grip or non-slip material to protect your floors and yourself.

Storage

Adjustable weights are for you if you have limited space but want to have your own weight set. 

You might want to consider brands like Bowflex SelectTech 552, which is adjustable and comes with a storage tray, Y-Bells, which has a grip that you can hang anywhere, and Bala Bars which has a portable design.

Price

You can buy affordable individual weights if you’re on a tight budget or just trying out strength training. However, if you plan on having your own weight set, an adjustable one might be more cost-effective in the long run.

Which weights for women are the best overall?

To help you find the best weights for women, I listed eleven products and highlighted the one I think is the best per category.

Fixed Weights

AmazonBasics Neoprene Workout Dumbbells are my top recommendation for fixed weights. They are neoprene-coated.

Adjustable weights

If you decide to buy an adjustable weight, I recommend the Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell. These adjustable dumbbells use thermoplastic rubber for coating and come with an included storage tray to keep them organized.

Although it has a lower weight range and increments, I think this is safer to use for women, especially for beginners. Plus, these are cheaper than the ATIVAFIT.

Smart Weights

The type of smart weights you choose depends on the exercise you plan to do. If you want to focus on cardio, go for the PIEPEIEGG Smart Dumbbell Set, a smart fixed weight.

But if you want to perform strength training exercises, go for NordicTrack iSelect Voice-Controlled Dumbbells, which have a higher weight range and are adjustable.

Ankle Weights

I think you should go for Day 1 Fitness D1F Ankle/Wrist Weight Pair for the ankle weights. They have the same weight range and features as Pinc Active.

So you can do the same workout and use the same weight. However, Day 1 Fitness is cheaper than Pinc Active.

Aquatic Weights

For aquatic weights, I think Sunlite Sports High-Density EVA-Foam Dumbbell Set is your best choice.

Sunlite is more affordable than Trademark Innovations Lightweight Aquatic Exercise Dumbells. Plus, it has additional devices, such as an adjustable foam exercise belt, swim training pull buoy, and a waterproof exercise card.

You will also get access to free training videos by Sunlite Sports.

FAQ about the Best Weights for Women

What to do next?

No matter which weights you choose, remember to listen to your body and find a weight that seems right for you. You can always increase the weight in time.

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