Why Are Dumbbells Called Dumbbells? The Surprising Origin

Ever picked up a pair of dumbbells and thought, “Wait – why is it even called a dumbbell?” You’re not alone.

strongman dumbbell

From beginner lifters to Olympic athletes, dumbbells are everywhere in the world of fitness. But these classic hand weights didn’t always look – or sound – the way they do today. Let’s break down what dumbbells actually are, how they got their name, and why they’re still one of the smartest tools in strength training.

Arnold Presses

What Are Dumbbells?

A dumbbell is a handheld weight designed for strength and resistance training. They’re used to build muscle, correct imbalances, increase endurance, and improve functional movement.

You’ll see a wide range of dumbbell styles in gyms and home setups:

• Fixed dumbbells: usually found in sets, ranging from light to heavy

• Adjustable dumbbells: let you change weight plates to save space

• Hex dumbbells: flat-edged to prevent rolling

• Rubber-coated models: for comfort and floor protection

In general fitness circles, dumbbells are sometimes called hand weights or free weights. But whether you call them dumbbells or hand weights, they do the same thing – help you get stronger and move better.

Why Are Dumbbells Called Dumbbells?

Let’s go back a few centuries.

In 16th-century England, bell ringing was a physically demanding church tradition known as Change Ringing. To practice without disrupting the town with constant noise, ringers developed silent bells – called “dumb” bells – with no clappers inside. These quiet versions allowed for technique work and strength training without sound.

Later on, strongmen began using these silent bells to showcase feats of strength. Over time, the name stuck. By the 19th century, the word “dumbbell” officially referred to hand-held weights made specifically for exercise.

And yes, by the 1920s, “dumbbell” also became slang for someone not too bright. But in the fitness world? The term still means discipline, power, and performance.

Dumbbell or Dumbell? (Let’s Clear It Up)

The correct spelling is dumbbell – with two “b”s. The word combines “dumb” (meaning silent) and “bell” (as in the shape and origin). Searching for dumbell is common, and you’ll still get results – but if you’re writing it down, now you know.

Modern Dumbbells: Still Evolving

Today’s dumbbells are more advanced than ever. You’ve got adjustable systems that swap weight with a twist, ergonomic grips to protect your wrists, and even smart dumbbells that track your reps.

Whether you’re doing:

• Overhead presses to build shoulder strength,

• Goblet squats to fire up your legs,

• Or unilateral rows to fix muscle imbalances,

Dumbbells offer freedom and versatility that machines and barbells can’t always match. You’re working both sides of your body evenly – building real-world strength you can use outside the gym.

Smart Training with a “Dumb” Name

So next time someone asks, “Why are weights called dumbbells?” – you’ve got the story.

From silent church bells to strength tools used worldwide, dumbbells carry centuries of training history. They’re simple, effective, and endlessly versatile.

And if you're wondering whether they still belong in your training routine, here’s your answer: absolutely. Sometimes the smartest strength tools are the ones that have stood the test of time.

Now you’re on the trolley.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dumbbells

• Why are weights called dumbbells?

  The term “dumbbell” goes back to the 1500s, when bell ringers trained with silent practice bells (no clappers). These “dumb” bells evolved into the hand-held weights we now use for strength training.

• What are long dumbbells called?

  Long dumbbells are typically called barbells. They’re held with two hands and used for heavier, compound lifts like squats, bench press, and deadlifts.

• What are the dumbbells with big handles called?

  Oversized dumbbells with thick handles are often called circus dumbbells or strongman dumbbells. Regular dumbbells also have handles, but these specialty versions are used in grip-focused or show lifts.

• What are small dumbbells called?

  You might hear them referred to as hand weights or light dumbbells. These are commonly used in group classes, rehab settings, or beginner workouts.

Coach Dan Daly, CSCS, is a swim and strength training specialist with over 20 years of experience helping athletes build functional power. He’s the founder of the Train Daly coaching system.