Hand Weights for a Beginner?

[Shifterred]

Hi, all!

I'd like to implement some lifting into my exercise routine. I'm saving some hand weights as an incentive (at 145lbs, so soon, I hope!) and figured I should start shopping asap.

I'm just wondering, what kind/brand should I buy? I'm a broke college student, so something thrifty would be nice. I mostly plan to use them to sculpt my arms and for use with workout videos.

I really have no idea what I'm talkin' about, here. Haha.

Thanks for the advice, chicks!

[ferretgirl]

I think you mean the little handweights. They range from 1-5 lbs and range from $3-5 per handweight (so, may cost up to $10 for two). They come neoprene-coated (a soft rubber/plastic) or solid metal. You can get them at any "discount department store" (walmart or target) or a sporting goods store. Not sure what size I'd recommend, it would depend on the exercise you'll do with them. If slow-lifting, 5lb is OK for women (start lighter if needed). To use with cardio dvds, 1-3lb might be easier to move quickly (I got 2 or 3 lb handweights for my cardio boxing dvd and they work great; paid under $7 for the pair at Hibbett Sports). The heavier you go, the more expensive they get (could go up to $10 each on the 5lb weights) and depending on brand/store, they may cost more. I think quality would be about the same no matter the brand, as long as they're solid metal. Pretty sure they're solid metal under the neoprene coating, so those should be fine, but "brand name" (Valeo, Sears) may cost twice as much.

Hope this helps. Sorry if replying too late, just figured a late reply is better than none, right?