Black Friday is almost here, and if you’ve been thinking about finally getting serious with your fitness or just want to upgrade your home gym, this might be the best time ever. I mean, when else do you get such crazy discounts on weights—dumbbells, barbells, plates, kettlebells, you name it? The “weights Black Friday” sales are always something to look forward to, especially if you’re like me and want to save a good chunk of cash while still getting quality gear.
So why exactly is Black Friday the best time to buy weights? Well, for starters, the discounts are huge. We’re talking sometimes up to 50% off on top-of-the-line stuff. Plus, a lot of stores throw in bundle deals, which means you can get a barbell, some plates, and dumbbells all in one go, often for way less than buying them separately. And don’t forget about free shipping—weights are heavy, so not having to pay for that is a lifesaver. Honestly, if you’ve been putting off building your home gym, this is the perfect excuse to jump in.
Now, if you’re new to this, weights come in all shapes and sizes, and it can get confusing. Here’s a quick rundown of the main types you’ll see on sale:
- Dumbbells: These are the classic handheld weights. You can get fixed ones or adjustable sets that let you change the weight. Super versatile for all kinds of workouts.
- Barbells: The long bars you load plates onto. If you’re into heavy lifting or powerlifting, these are essential.
- Weight Plates: These go on barbells or can be used on their own. Great for customizing how heavy your barbell is.
- Kettlebells: Those round weights with a handle. They’re awesome for dynamic moves that mix strength and cardio.
- Adjustable Weight Sets: These are like a Swiss Army knife for weights—compact and flexible, perfect if you don’t have a lot of space.
- Weighted Vests: Wear these during workouts to add resistance without holding anything. Great for bodyweight exercises and cardio.
Here’s a little table to give you an idea of what kind of discounts you might expect on these:
| Weight Type | Best For | Typical Black Friday Discount |
|---|---|---|
| Dumbbells | Strength training, versatile workouts | 25%-50% off |
| Barbells | Heavy lifting, compound exercises | 20%-40% off |
| Weight Plates | Customizable weight increments | 20%-50% off |
| Kettlebells | Functional fitness, cardio | 25%-40% off |
| Adjustable Weight Sets | Space-saving, varied workouts | 20%-45% off |
| Weighted Vests | Endurance, calisthenics, HIIT | 20%-35% off |
So, what are some of the hottest deals to keep an eye on this year? From what I’ve seen and heard, a few brands always steal the show.
PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbells are a favorite for many because they don’t take up much room but give you a ton of weight options. The Pro bundle is expected to be a big hit, with savings that can reach over $150. If you live in a small place or hate clutter, these are a godsend.
CAP Barbell Adjustable Sets are another solid choice, especially if you’re just starting out. Their 25-pound sets usually get slashed during Black Friday, making them a great bang for your buck.
For those who like to add a bit of extra challenge to bodyweight workouts, Bulldog Gear Weighted Vests are worth checking out. They’re adjustable, so you can add or remove weight bricks as you get stronger. Expect around 30% off on some models.
And if you’re serious about heavy lifting, Cerberus Strength has some top-notch barbells and bumper plates. Their discounts might not be as steep as others, but the quality is worth it.
Don’t forget about brands like NordicTrack and Peloton too. While they’re mostly known for cardio gear, they also offer weight training accessories and bundles that come with app subscriptions. Sometimes these bundles offer great overall value.
Choosing the right weights really depends on what you want to achieve. If you’re a beginner, adjustable dumbbells in the 5- pound range are perfect. They let you try out different exercises without needing a whole rack of weights. For those focused on building serious strength, investing in a solid barbell and plates is the way to go. And if you’re into more dynamic, functional workouts, kettlebells and weighted vests add a fun twist.
Space can be a big factor too. Adjustable sets are fantastic for small apartments or if you just don’t want your weights taking over the living room. And if money is tight, bundles are usually the best way to get more for less.
Here are some quick tips to make sure you get the best out of Black Friday shopping:
- Start looking early. Prices can fluctuate, so keep an eye on deals weeks before the big day.
- Set a budget and stick to it. It’s easy to get carried away with all the offers.
- Read reviews. Quality matters, especially with weights that will take a beating.
- Look for bundles. They often offer way better value.
- Watch out for shipping costs. Weights are heavy, and shipping can get expensive unless it’s free.
- Check return policies. You want to be able to send stuff back if it’s not right for you.
- Use promo codes if you can. Sometimes you can stack discounts.
Here’s a quick comparison table of some popular deals you might find:
| Brand/Set | Type | Discount Range | Price Range | Best Feature | Shipping |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerBlock Pro Bundle | Adjustable Dumbbells | Up to 40% off | $ - $450 | Space-saving, versatile | Often free |
| CAP Barbell lbs Set | Adjustable Dumbbells | 25%-40% off | $ - $200 | Affordable, beginner-friendly | Usually free |
| Bulldog Gear Weighted Vest | Weighted Vest | 25%-30% off | $ - $150 | Customizable weight | Standard shipping |
| Cerberus Strength Bumper Plates | Weight Plates | 15%-25% off | $1. - $ per lb | Durable, Olympic standard | Varies |
| NordicTrack Dumbbells | Fixed/Adjustable | 20%-35% off | $ - $300 | Integrated with fitness apps | Free over $100 |
Now, I bet you have some questions. Here are a few common ones I’ve come across:
Q: Is Black Friday really the best time to buy weights?
A: Honestly, yes. You won’t find better prices anywhere else in the year. If you want to save a lot, this is the time.
Q: Are adjustable dumbbells worth it?
A: For sure. They’re super convenient and save space. Plus, you get a lot of weight options in one set.
Q: How do I know what weight to start with?
A: Start light to get your form right—think 5- lbs for dumbbells. Then slowly work your way up as you get stronger.
Q: Can I build a full gym with just weights?
A: Weights are a great foundation, but adding a bench, resistance bands, or some cardio equipment makes your setup more balanced.
Q: Which brands are the best?
A: PowerBlock, CAP Barbell, Bulldog Gear, Cerberus Strength, and NordicTrack are all solid picks with good reputations.
To wrap it up, if you’ve been on the fence about buying weights, Black Friday is your moment. The deals are real, the selection is huge, and the savings can be massive. Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading your gear, this is the time to act. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you’re crushing your fitness goals with the right equipment at a fraction of the cost.
So get ready, do your homework, and be ready to pounce on those deals. Here’s to a stronger, healthier 2025!
