After my dumbbells broke, I switched to using water-filled containers

I've been working out at home for a while now, and I realized I didn't need to buy fancy weights. Instead, I use empty gallon jugs filled with water for bicep curls and shoulder presses. It's surprisingly effective, and I can adjust the weight by adding or removing water. I also use stacks of hardcover books for deadlifts, which really engages my grip strength. This approach has saved me money and given old items a new purpose, which feels more sustainable. I mean, it's just a small thing, but it feels good to be resourceful. Plus, it forces me to get creative with my routines, like using a backpack loaded with books for weighted squats. Idk, maybe it's just me, but finding uses for everyday items has made my workouts more engaging and environmentally friendly.

3 comments

3 Comments

lane.michael4h ago

From broken dumbbells to water jugs, you've basically created portable puddles for your workouts.

caseyr784h ago

5-gallon jugs in my garage have been way more reliable than those fancy adjustable dumbbells. Tbh, they don't leak if you seal them right, and the weight distribution is perfect for farmer's walks. It's a solid DIY solution for anyone needing versatile weights.

wren6523h ago

Swapped my weights for water bottles last year and never looked back. I use old detergent containers filled with sand for extra weight, and they're perfect for lunges. The grip on those handles is surprisingly sturdy, and I can adjust the sand level for different exercises. My favorite trick is using a duffel bag packed with cans for goblet squats, which really challenges my stability. It's so much more engaging than staring at a rack of identical dumbbells, and I feel like I'm actually using my brain along with my muscles. Plus, the cost savings let me splurge on other stuff, like better workout shoes.