Lunges Dumbbell v. Barbell

[ddbass145]

Which of these should the average person be able to handle more weight with?

I know with the dumbbells grip is a major factor, but having the barbell further away from the ground makes the exercise more difficult.

Any clues?

[maverick]

The bar being further away from the ground doesn't matter if its traveling the same distance. I do more with the bar on my shoulders.

[ddbass145]

I know that the weight is travelling the same distance, but don't you have to work harder to stabilize the weight with the barbell than you do with the dumbbells which just hang there?

[trainerty]

I doubt it,

Weight training is usually close to everyday life. Think of other civilizations who need to transport loads over a distance. How do they carry the weight?

Usually on their heads (allowing the burden to be handled by stronger muscles and bones)
On their shoulders (same as above)

[CF-OC_gal]

Your grip strength is going to be a factor if you use heavier dumbells.

You've got to consider what you are doing lunges for, what type of development. Overhead lunges with a light to moderate barbell , kettle bell or dumbbell are very challenging and involve a lot of the body musculature to stay in good form.

[standAPART]

I'll take the DBs here.
Here's why:
1.) DBs can be held to side and they actually work the anti-rotators of the body (obliques, erectors)
2.) DBs are safer than holding a BB on the traps
3.) DBS can be held by the sides or in a "shoulder carry" position.
4.) BB rests on the spine-compressing it as you add weight and as you descend in a lunge position. No problem when its light, but after 135lb, becomes risky.
5.) DBs work grip strength, back muscles, and obliques as mentioned.

[westside24]

Originally Posted by standAPART

I'll take the DBs here.
Here's why:
1.) DBs can be held to side and they actually work the anti-rotators of the body (obliques, erectors)
2.) DBs are safer than holding a BB on the traps
3.) DBS can be held by the sides or in a "shoulder carry" position.
4.) BB rests on the spine-compressing it as you add weight and as you descend in a lunge position. No problem when its light, but after 135lb, becomes risky.
5.) DBs work grip strength, back muscles, and obliques as mentioned.

Im sold! DB's it is! What do you suggest for squats since the bar squashes your traps and back?!?!? (please dont say Unilateral DB Squats)

[Firehawk]

Yeah and don't take a walk on the sidewalk ever either, you might trip on a 1/4" offset slab...

In my opinion, if the BB feels heavier to you because it's on your back, it probably has alot to do with where the bar is in relation to your center of gravity.

For Example, different squat bars put different emphasis on your body. There are curved squat bars called buffalo bars and cambered bars that feel very different than a straight bar. There is a piece that snaps on a squat bar called the Manta Ray which I've seen people use in the gym for comfort reasons. That little device changes the dynamic of the squat, people just don't realize it.

Same thing with lunges.

Now, don't quit doing BB squats because you think the bar is going to break your spine in half. The squat by nature is arguably the most technically important and complicated exercise there is, but it is also one with the highest payout in terms of strength, size, and conditioning.

[westside24]

Originally Posted by Firehawk

Yeah and don't take a walk on the sidewalk ever either, you might trip on a 1/4" offset slab...

Now, don't quit doing BB squats because you think the bar is going to break your spine in half.

the warned us of that when we were kids... "step on a crack youll fall and break your back" or was it "your mamas back?" either way thats a good point to take into consideration... be careful where you walk.


oh yea I wont quit squating in the squat rack or smith machine (for when the squat racks are full) I love feeling like im holding the world on my shoulders. its very stress relieving, its just not the same with DBs, although they are pretty tuff too if you do them one leg at a time.