Dumbbells sold out? Try these creative replacements

May 05, 2020 by CNN Underscored

It’s not easy staying motivated these days. As Mondays blend into Wednesdays, the weeks feel both surprisingly fast and excruciatingly long. For those who enjoyed an active fitness routine pre-pandemic, finding the same energy at home can sometimes feel impossible.

This is especially true when you don’t have access to the same gear that’s at your gym or workout studio. So, you decide to buy some. But then — wait a minute — the online wait is six weeks?! And shipping is how much?

Finding dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells and boxing bags is tricky right now but there is good news. Rather than putting your name on a waiting list or skipping another sweat sesh, you can order these not-so-high-in-demand products instead.

Here, fitness professionals recommend the best MacGyver-like swaps for common workout essentials. Though it may feel a little strange, these hacks will provide the resistance, weight and durability you need to meet your goals — or at the very least stay moving indoors.