Dumbbell Weight Calculator

The calculator takes your dumbbell bar weight and the weight and quantity of each plate type you own. It then calculates all possible weight combinations you can make by adding different plates to both sides of the bar. You can also enable two-dumbbell mode for exercises where you use both dumbbells simultaneously, which will show combined weight and divide plates between both dumbbells.

Two-dumbbell mode is for exercises where you use both dumbbells at the same time, like dumbbell bench press, shoulder press, or rows. When enabled, the calculator shows the total weight you're lifting with both dumbbells combined and automatically divides your plates between the two dumbbells. This helps you plan bilateral exercises and track your total training volume.

Weight gaps are missing weight increments in your dumbbell set. For example, if you can make 10kg and 15kg dumbbells but nothing in between, you have a 5kg gap. These gaps matter for progressive overload training, where you need small, incremental weight increases to safely build strength.

Yes! While the calculator works with any weight unit, make sure you use the same unit consistently for all inputs. You can enter weights in kilograms (kg), pounds (lbs), or any other unit - just be consistent throughout your entries.

No, enter the quantity of each plate type as individual plates. The calculator automatically applies them to both sides of the bar. For example, if you have 4 plates of 5kg, enter "4" - the calculator will know to put up to 2 on each side.

Progressive overload is gradually increasing weight, frequency, or repetitions in your training. This calculator helps you identify what weight increments are possible with your equipment and where you might need additional plates to maintain steady progression.

This calculator is designed for adjustable dumbbells with removable plates. For Olympic barbells, you would need to account for the barbell weight (typically 20kg/45lbs) and use plate pairs. Fixed dumbbells don't need calculation as their weight is predetermined.

The calculator automatically analyzes your gaps and provides smart recommendations in the "Recommended Plates to Buy" section. It suggests specific plate weights and quantities that will most effectively fill your gaps. The recommendations account for whether you're using one or two dumbbells and are sorted by effectiveness.

When gaps are detected, the calculator analyzes them to find optimal plate weights. It considers: 1) Plates that directly fill gaps (gap ÷ 2 in single mode, gap ÷ 4 in dual mode), 2) Plates that create intermediate weights, 3) Whether you already own that weight (suggesting more plates vs. new weights), and 4) Plates that address multiple gaps efficiently. Recommendations are ranked by how many gaps they help fill.

You can add any size plates to the calculator, including microplates (0.25kg, 0.5kg, etc.). These small plates are excellent for creating smaller weight increments, which is especially useful for upper body exercises where smaller progressions are needed.

No, the calculator assumes only the bar and plates. If you use heavy collars or clips, you can add their combined weight to your bar weight input. Most spring collars are very light (under 0.1kg) and can typically be ignored.

The calculator doesn't save configurations automatically, but you can bookmark your results or take a screenshot. Consider keeping a note of your equipment inventory for quick reference when planning workouts or shopping for additional plates.

Ideal increments vary by exercise and training level. Generally, 2.5-5kg (5-10lbs) jumps work for lower body exercises, while 1-2.5kg (2-5lbs) increments are better for upper body. Beginners may benefit from smaller jumps, while advanced lifters can handle larger increases.

A versatile home gym typically includes 2-3 different plate weights (e.g., 10kg, 5kg, 2.5kg or 25lbs, 10lbs, 5lbs). This gives you flexibility to create many weight combinations. Adding microplates (1kg or less) further increases your options for precise progression.