Home workouts have developed a reputation as a cost-effective technique to increase strength, power, and confidence in recent years. The expense of a few sets of free weights may theoretically be equivalent to just two months’ worth of in-studio strength training. However, the cost of setting up a home gym quickly rises if you try to duplicate the in-gym experience with all the bells and whistles, like dumbbells, kettlebells, cable machines, squat racks, and so on.
However, investing in YBell Fitness’ four-in-one free weights won’t put too much strain on your finances. Each weight has a distinctive triangle shape, with three grip handles on the outside generating an unequal weight distribution that makes them behave like kettlebells and one in the middle equating the weight distribution so it behaves like a dumbbell. The weights can also be used as a dual-grip medicine ball because you can grasp onto two handles at once (albeit you can’t slam this one to the ground). Additionally, you may set the weights flat on the floor, grab hold of the handles at the top, and execute bodyweight exercises like push-ups and triceps dips with a wider range of motion. The weights are a combination of a kettlebell, dumbbell, medicine ball, and push-up stand.
Purchase: YBell Fitness’ Neo Series, 18.5 lbs , $70, ybellfitness.com .
I used the 18.5-pound YBells during my own home exercises over the past month to see if the weights were authentic. I used the YBells’ outside grips during lower-body workouts to perform front squats, deadlifts, kettlebell swings, hip thrusts, and goblet squats much like I would with regular kettlebells. On upper-body days, I used the weights’ center grips to complete exercises like rows, biceps curls, and chest and shoulder presses precisely like I would with a set of dumbbells. The neoprene coating prevented the weights from slipping out of my sweaty hands, and the exercises seemed just as effective (based on my muscles’ trembling) as if I had used my regular equipment.
The YBell weights go above and beyond what is required of them. I was able to complete heel-elevated squats with the help of them because they sit flat on the ground (a move that helps isolate the quads, BTW). The only drawbacks? Due to the chunky nature of each YBell weight, you will need to slightly expand your stance in order to complete a set of “kettlebell” swings without the weight slamming into your legs. Additionally, the handle is a little bit smaller than the one on a kettlebell; I could hardly get both hands on it. Although it wasn’t a problem for me, others with larger hands might find it easier to perform techniques that call for both paws with a regular kettlebell.
I’m not the only one who finds the clever weights impressive. Customers describe the YBell Neo Series free weights, which come in weights ranging from 10 to 27 pounds, as being “extremely adaptable” and “the best free weight resistance training tools on the market” with more than 160 reviews . Before stocking up on the traditional kettlebells, dumbbells, and medicine balls that they “no longer have a need for,” One reviewer even wrote said that they wished YBells were accessible. (Aside: Natalie Portman’s personal trainer loves using the free weights.)
If you’re an intermediate exerciser, the Neo Series probably fulfills all your needs, but you have options if you want lighter or higher weights. The company’s Arc Series weights comes in 2.4- and 5.5-pound models, and the Pro Series weights is offered in 31-, 35-, 40-, and 44-pound sizes. YBell provides a weight that will help you reach your next goal and keep your home gym uncluttered no matter where you are in your fitness journey.
