Barbell vs. Dumbbell

[zippman]

I have always opted to employ dumbbells in my chest workout (flat/decline/incline) in place of the barbell. Am I missing out on any significant gains by not utilizing the barbell bench press? My gains; both in strength and size, for the most part, have been rather steady while using dumbbells. I cannot, however, wonder if I'm selling my self short by not opting for the bar?
Zipp

[big gp]

IMO, barbell is best for almost all exercises. That way you can load on the most weight and have a go at it. ive always been able to lift more using a barbell hence my muscles will have to adapt to the increase in lbs. think about it, can you db press the same amount of lbs as you can bb press? the body will grow from the heavier poundages much better. i believe that you can'ttruly grow with out barbell movements(deads,bench,squats).

-RIP STK-

"Only plants grow naturally"- vitor rage

BIG GP

Personally I like rotating dumbell.vs.barbell.

confusious says :Man who snatches kisses when young, kisses snatches when old

[ucscwwe]

i alternate, dumbells one week, barbells next or go by months

It's time to play the game - Triple H

[treny]

DB for sure... gives you allot better of a workout... you use more of your muscles when useing them.... But I also lift alone too, so if I had a parter I might use BB more....

Bloodline Forever In My Heart ~~Rest in peace my friend~~

im with Treny on this one... im all for dumbells over barbell.... it just works me out better, and uses muscles that barbells just dont hit when having to stabalize the dumbells.

now im not into beastiality... but that was one FINE looking animal

[Maximum]

For size I would always go with barbell. You can go heavier therefore more mooscle!! I do like dumbells, but if I were looking to gain size, I would go with the straight bar.

i kinda swop between the barbell and dumbbell... but i personally feel the dumbbell is a more intense workout... i think u get a better range of motion with the dumbbell too.. just my .02

[sawastea]

Agree with both parties THOUGH I tend to use more dumbells...Barbells are best for gaining mass, dumbells are best for using all your stabalizer muscles. Both have their perks...You should incorporate both exercises in your weekly routine