No weights? No problem! With gyms still closed and everyone working out at home, weights are almost impossible to find — or marked up on eBay at black market prices. But don’t let that get in the way of your workout! Everyday objects will do just fine.
I’ve been using gallon jugs of Poland Spring myself for dumbbells, which weigh 8.34 lbs. 2 cups of water weighs about 1 lb., so whether you’re curling a liter bottle (2.2 lbs) or bench pressing a 5 gallon water cooler refill jug (41.7 lbs), you really can substitute any water container for a weight (Water/Weight Calculator). Wine or champagne bottles are another option, slightly heavier because they are glass and not plastic, which on average weigh between 2-3 lbs.
Wood is another idea. A 2 x 4″ can be cut to measure at Home Depot or Lowe’s, and weighs about 1.2 lbs. per foot. Stack two pieces together to easily double that weight. Or use a brick for a 5 lb. weight. Other ideas at the hardware store are paint cans — gallon size or smaller sample cans which are more easily hand held. Paint weighs more than water, and varies depending on type between 10-15 lbs. per gallon, but you can also purchase empty paint cans at places like Walmart and simply fill with water.
Sandbags are another idea which can be found at a variety of different types of stores. Saddle bag styles from a camera or lighting supply shop can be purchased in different weights from 5-50 lbs. and have convenient handles too! Other options are food — from a can of soup which weighs about .75 lbs, to potatoes which come pre-measured in 5 lb. bags.
All these ideas are in stock and available online or in stores now. So no weights? No excuses!
