I just made a business at my school just doing what u say on the video I made 6k at my high school am planning to do this when I go to my college in 2 years thank you so much for changing my life by make videos like this
Keep the mix on the dry side, and tap the forms with a hammer to remove air by vibrating the concrete. The surface will be smoother and let off less dust, and be less brittle. Wet concrete is weak and dusty when cured.
I made these when the gym became a pain the ass during the plandemic. I used various (cheap) paint mixing tubs and buckets and embedded chicken wire, then coated with epoxy resin for a glossy, clean surface. Cut a hole in the lid to center the pipe. I still use them. They're indestructible and look sharp.
Nice work. I think I'd use the heaviest pipe possible for handles to reduce the volume of concrete required, at least this would be my strategy for heavier dumbbells. Solid steel bar would really be optimal for the heaviest in order to keep them as small as possible.
I know this video is a couple months old but for those like me just getting started to making your own weights, if you have a concern about durability of concrete weights you can spray them with flex seal and even heard people using truck bedliner as well to improve durability.
Valid concern, I used these weights for 3 + years and they survived two moves before I finally bought real gym equipment. Never had a failure but I also never dropped them on bare concrete - either grass or gym mats. I would imagine the handles would bend before the concrete broke especially if you use the high strength stuff with fiberglass in it. I do mention painting them with rustoleum in the video, any kind of paint or covering would help them hold up better outdoors. Maybe I should build another set and do a durability test video..
I just bought the materials. I’m thinking of adding scrap metals i can gather from work. We scrap penny size, quarter size and some larger ones by thousands a day or the nuts and bolts that are dropped or rejected by machines. We don’t reuse dropped parts as they can collect debris that would cause problems on welding quality. I’ve also gathered screws snd and nails when i was doing home renovations. I could also use those. Nails and screws would make it stronger like using rebar! It would cut the size of the weights.
Good idea, just make sure to bury them deep enough in the concrete that they done rust from the inside out. You'd want at least a couple inches imbedded I would guess.
ANYONE STILL haVE THEIR dumbbells, ? i made 20-60 lbers in the last 14 months, sold them all . ( bought a 50 LB HEX MOLD 1 YEAr ago ) NOW winter is here in CT time to make more .
I saw a similar video and they suggested using truck bed liner spray on the outside of the weights to add durability. You could also get a cheap exercise mat and cut a piece of that to go around the rim and gorilla glue it in place. It would make it somewhat like a bumper. You could also use chicken wire (or something like it) as a lattice work on the inside and pour the concrete over it to strengthen it. Just my 2 cents.
I like the rubber and bed liner idea. If you use high strength concrete you don't need any mesh or wire in the forms. The high strength concrete has fiberglass in it that makes it more crack resistant. I might make a video on pushing these to their breaking point since there seems to be a lot of skepticism over their strength.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 I would be interested to see how much that "high strength" concrete with mesh or wire would add to the durability. I've watched a couple of other videos about making concrete plates and they had "drop tests" from deadlift, clean and overhead heights.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 about 20 minutes per. Set it up on a vice (made the vice smaller than the pipe so it would spin on top and ran the file down like a corkscrew), ran one direction at 45 and then flipped to the other side. Similar to how they add texture to old-school wooden stocks. Worked great. Gave it just the right amount of grip but not too rough on your hands.
I am going to the hardware store to get the stuff. Thank you for a great video. I am not going to pay 300 for a pair of 50 lb barbells and even more for 60 lb. Dam price gauging.
I found this video because other DIY ones are suggesting to buy a $100+ plastic mold. Just use a bucket or the cylinders in this video. The whole point of DIY projects is to save money.
It certainly won't hurt to add a cross member but I don't think it's 100% necessary. It's very important that you use concrete mix with an aggregate (in short, concrete is cement plus gravel) or the high crack resistant concrete that actually has fiberglass in it. You're not the first one to ask and I guess I can see how this might be concerning to people. I think I'll make a "push it to the breaking point" video, should be fun. I grew up in the construction industry and if you have ever tried to get concrete off of steel you'd know its nearly impossible without shattering the concrete into pieces. It's something that I never even thought about, it's intuitive to me but certainly not to everyone.
Thanks! Hex weights would be real tough, might have to custom build a form, then the math on calculating the volume of a hex cylinder... Yikes. would probably be cheaper to buy them at that point.
I've had this question before. I've used these for several years before I sold them and upgraded to a full iron set. I never had a problem but I have seen other creators drill holes and use through bolts for added security. Nothing wrong with that if it gives you peace of mind. I have tried to get concrete off of a steel post and its not easy, Pretty much impossible without breaking the concrete into pieces.
Great video! Thank you. I’m looking to make some 5lb & 10lb dumbbells for my wife and son. Can you possibly provide me any suggestions using your instructions and calculations for the approximate amount of cement or concrete I’ll need for 5lb & 10lb Dumbbells on each end. Thank you again.
Thanks for the compliment. The reason I left off anything smaller than 20lb is because anything less and the concrete portion would be so thin (maybe 1-2" inches) that it would be brittle and probably wouldn't be enough to grip the metal handle. You could try to find a smaller diameter tube or use something, like 3 or 4" PVC drain pipe. You would need to calculate the thickness based on the inside diameter of the cylinder. For example: The formula for Volume of a Cylinder is V=πr2h. If you were using a tube that was 4" in diameter then you would use the radius of 2" and solve.V=πr2h=π·22·2≈25.13274, then you would multiply that by .087 (weight of concrete per cubic inch) so 25.13 x .087 = 2.18 lbs per side, so a 2" deep 4" tube would make a 4-5lbs dumbbell. Honestly though, you may spend as much as just buying retail steel weights for anything under 10 or 15lbs I would think. Once you get up to 30+ lbs and retail is $1-1.50 per pound it makes more sense to build them. Anyway, hope that helps. Let me know how it turns out. Thanks for watching!
@@jphuynh714 If using 8" form tubes, a 15 lb dumbbell would need to be about 1.75 inches per side. V=πr2h=π·42·1.75≈87.96459 x .087 = 7.65252 lb per side or about 15.3 lbs for the whole dumbbell. I think that a 1.75 inch thick x 8" tube will be too fragile to be practical though. Maybe try using a smaller diameter but thicker tube. For example, a 6" PVC pipe at 3" tall would be V=πr2h=π·32·3≈84.823 x .087 = 7.37934 per side or approx 14.75 lbs for the whole dumbbell. Hope that helps!
Hey bro how should we perfectly place the handle in the centre? If it's a lil deviated will it lead to injuries? What about weights? Its true measuring it together may give a closer weight but what if each side has a difference in weights? My one side of the dumbell is half a pound more than the other. Is it ok to use it?
Ok, I'll try and answer your questions in order. In the video I actually use a scrap piece of wood cut in an 8" square and a hole drilled in the center to help center the handle. You can also just eyeball it. Lifting any kind of weight can lead to injury. Build and lift at your own risk. You should measure each side when you cut the tubes and pour the concrete vs trying to weight them out. It's fine if the weights are a little off on each side. Chances are they are still better than store-bought weights anyway. Thanks for watching and good luck!
Most people put nails through near the ends of the tube so it can embed into the concrete and not easily be pulled out. Are these fine or would you recommend doing that?
I'm sure it wouldn't hurt anything but I haven't had any trouble with the handles pulling out. The first set I made I used for about two years before I got rid of them. I also never drop my weights all that hard.
I get this question a lot. It never occurred to me to do this. My experience comes from the construction industry and if you've ever tried to get concrete off of a steel fence post you'll know its nearly impossible without shattering the concrete into pieces. I've used these for several years and they survived multiple moves before I sold them and upgraded to a full iron set. I never had a problem but I also never drop them really hard on a bare concrete. I believe if you can't set the weight down in a controlled manner you shouldn't be picking it up. That said, I also wouldn't used anything other than the concrete mixes I specify in the video. Either way, there's nothing wrong with putting a through bolt or nail in it if it gives you peace of mind. Hope that helps, good luck with your build!
The is definitely the best one I've seen. The description of everyting is great. One question, what would the measurements be for 5lb dumbbells? Would I just divide the measurements for the 10lbs by half?
The reason I didn't go below a 20lb dumbbell is because it just gets too thin to have any structural strength. If you look at the chart I made, an 8" tube at 20bls (10 lbs per side) is less than 3" thick. Below that I would try and source a different mould material and make a form that is maybe 4" in diameter instead of 8". Each side would be smaller in diameter but thicker and have more rigidity. I hope that makes sense.
I'll echo the other comments here, this is one of the better DIY concrete weights videos I've seen. How there's links to home depot, a blog post, and how you aren't selling a $100 plastic mold. Thanks!
Wow the difference in weight on the "pro" dumbells was pretty shocking! Or we could go spend $800 on those Bowflex select tech weights, FFS... or do it the manly way at home!! With concrete! Hell yea!
@@trajectoryunown i made 12 - 45 lb concrete plates ( 45.2-45.9 ) 1 set of 28.6 lb avg dumbs finished a 18.8 lb set . today im making #1 of 4 for a 50 lb set for a buddy. and 1- 45 lb plate to complete 2 for him
There's nothing "pro" about those. They are common cast iron weights are are known to be up to 10% off, easily. If you want accurate weights, those are called "calibrated" weights, and are significantly more expensive then the shit tier cast iron.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 I poured the first weight today. I'll see if I can get some pics tomorrow. I understand that, thankfully had some time off for new years and I wasn't hung over this year.
FixItWithJerry hey man sorry for the late reply! I made some plates first and there all done now so I’ll try this protein bucket plan now! The second bucket to hold up the dumbell wont work I don’t think(too flimsy) so im gonna stack cut 2x4s! Basically the same thing like your plywood cut out! I’ll get it on insta maybe I’ll let you know thanks again bro
Yepp totally wanna use the buckets again! 60lbs will sit at 3-2x4s so when i drop the weight down to 50s all I have to do is compensate by taking out a 2x4 then to 40s take out another.... Lmao the video will all make sense!
At Lowe’s they sell 8” and 12” diameter form tubes. All you do is divide the diameter by 2 and this is the radius. Look up cylinder volume calculator. Type in the number that is half of the diameter in where it says “radius “ and type in the height of what u want it to be. It will give u a number in cubic inches and that is how much space there is
I’ve seen people actually put some wiring or rebar to the handle so would yours fall cause I don’t want do triceps pushed and then expect half the dumbbell slipping to my face
You could drill a hole through the handle and put a nail in it like a "T" if it makes you feel better. I don't think it's necessary at least with the type of concrete I used. There 's little to no chance of it slipping out. I had these for years before I finally sold them and bought real metal ones. I tested one that I first made and the handle didn't even loosen until I broke the concrete and it still didn't come all the way off.
Hi FixItWithJerry I am trying to make exact weights in kg and cant really get a hold of how you calculated the spreadsheet. Would it be possible to update one for EU Fans? Also, wouldn't it also work to just weigh the concrete instead of calculating height?
What are the increments you would normally use in the EU? I can build another spreadsheet in kg and cm. I'm not sure I understand the second part of your question, do you mean weighing it wet (as you mix) and pouring in a mould?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 Thanks for the quick response. Thats exactly what I meant, I've seen other UA-camrs do that but I am unsure about the accuracy of this method as I‘ve heared some of the water evaporates (which lessens the weight in the end). I'd really appreciate a chart with kg for 20cm (diameter of the mold, close to your 8 inch). Yesterday I tried to make one for myself, but somehow I didnt get it to work for metric.
@@kjell2991 That would probably work but then how would you know how tall to cut the tubes? I also don't know the wet vs dry weight of concrete. Maybe I'm missing part of the process. I should be able to adjust the spreadsheet I have fairly easily. So, 20cm diameter and what kind of weight increments? In the US, for example, we usually jump 5 or 10 pounds for each set which is why I have 20, 25, 30, 35 lb .. etc measurements. Would you 2kg or 2.5 kg increments maybe? What is common for a commercial gym in the EU?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 it differs, but 2kg in between is the standard. With weighing, you cut the molds after you poured the cement. Makes it more complicated in that matter for sure. Only thing that will be a bit problematic in my case is that I got some heavy duty metal handles that probably weigh 2kg+. Hard to calculate that in but I could use a sanding machine to get rid of additional weight.
@@kjell2991 I see, well with the handles you would still probably be pretty close. As I show in the video, the ones I made were actually closer to true weight than the metal hex weights I bought. I'll try and put together a spreadsheet for ya. I'm sure you're not the only one that would appreciate a metric conversion.
I'm not sure why they are this way. I'm guessing maybe it makes it easier for the manufacturer to ship them and for construction purposes a 1/4 inch isn't going to make much of a difference. I really don't know why this is though.
it would be better use pvc pipes as mold, you can reuse it longer, even you can left it on the concrete as protection and make the dumbbell harder to brake
You could, but 8" PVC is real expensive and you have to buy a 10ft stick. Then you have to figure out how to get the concrete out of the pvc mold if you're going to reuse it. You'd have to split it down the middle somehow? This did cross my mind when I starting building these but I abandoned the idea when I couldn't find 8" PVC at big box stores and needed a contractor account with local suppliers. I figured the "average joe" doesn't want to bother with that either. But hey, if you have easy access to cheap 8" PVC then by all means, do whatever works for you! Thanks for watching!
good vid. Id recommend fast set concrete by Rapid Set instead though so you dont have to wait so long for cure time. Costs 3 times as much per bag but it sets very quick and is very strong
Yes you could. I didn't mention the fast setting concrete because, if you've never done this before and you want to take your time, that stuff will set up in the bucket before you get to use it. lol.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 They are both galvanized but the difference is regular emt is thinwall. Rigid has a thicker inner wall and several times stronger.
You'll want to use something that has gravel in it, the gravel gives it strength. Not mortar or stucco mix or anything like that. Also I would stay away from the fast-setting mix because it may harden before you can smooth it out in the mould. Hope that helps.
You must put "anchors" into the metal bar. See this example ua-cam.com/video/4ZES0ZKmes0/v-deo.html. Without the "anchors" with repeated use, your concrete weights can come loose and fall off the barbell handle! This could cause damage and even worse potentially hurt someone, especially with larger weights. Great video, but please remind your viewers to anchor the handles. Also, remember to wear a mask and goggles when working with these materials.
I've received enough feedback with the same general message to make another "mythbusters" style video to showcase what exactly does it take to break concrete away from a metal insert such as this. Stay tuned!
@@fixitwithjerry6161 people say it densifies it. Maybe less volume, same mass? It's cheap and it looks easy to make. I suppose you can just buy 100% lye from any store in US or Home Hardware for Canadians.
If you look at about the 1:20 mark I explain that not all 8" tubes are actually 8". I was compensating for tubes that measure about 7.5 to the inside. The screengrab is just one example. I have a couple charts and a like to a calculator on my website. Links in the description.
La razón por la que no hice mancuernas más grandes es porque su tamaño físico es demasiado grande para ser práctico. Puede utilizar el cuadro vinculado en mi sitio para aumentar el peso. Ganará aproximadamente 5 libras por cada 0,75 pulgadas de aumento de altura del tubo. Espero que ayude.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 en realidad si me ayudará porque nesecitabamos aumentar el peso y con este es suficiente para hacerlas, gracias por contestar inmediatamente ya no todos lo hacen, y ser tan específico la mayoría de los tutoriales no dan medidas, ni enseñan pesos que permitan seguir creciendo y tener un buen físico quede salud gracias 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
Quickrete says, quote, " ...it is important to know that the more water that is added to the mix the weaker it becomes. Adding 1 extra quart of water per 80lb bag can reduce the strength of the concrete by 40%..." I am glad that you pointed it out because I'm sure you're not the only one that has asked the question. I'll gladly address it. It is well documented in the construction industry that an overly wet mixture throws off the chemistry of the concrete curing process. In fact, there are several tests that must be accomplished on-site when it comes to the structural curing of concrete. The manufacturers of these concrete mixtures specify a minimum and maximin amount of water to be added to the mixture. For something like a crude concrete dumbbell it probably isn't enough difference to even mention however, if you're pouring a slab or building a 40 story high rise this is actually a very important variable.
I used mine for 3 years, never chipped or broke a single one. I had sets from 30 up to 65 lbs. I never dropped them on concrete or any hard surface without gym mats, most people don't drop steel weights on concrete without at least 1/2" rubber mat protection. I would like to know more details and specifics on how exactly you built yours. Let's identify the deficiencies in your build that caused them to fail. It will help everyone make a better finished product.
Lol, I used these before I got the full gym. I finished the video and then sold them since I have a full set of real dumbells now. It took me years to find a good deal on used iron weights and we've seen shortages with the virus and gyms shutting down.
this is the best one ive seen. a lot of people just roughly measure the measurements. good stuff using the volume for a cylinder
Thanks! I have moments of OCD that kick in randomly.
This is by far the best DIY video for concrete dumbbells. Nobody else was filling the handles with concrete. It was driving me nuts lol. Great video
Thanks, let us know how yours turn out!
Great video, thanks man! I made a pair of 50lb dumbbells following your procedure precisely and they came out at 50.2 lbs and work great.
Awesome!
I just made a business at my school just doing what u say on the video I made 6k at my high school am planning to do this when I go to my college in 2 years thank you so much for changing my life by make videos like this
Get it Bro!
Keep the mix on the dry side, and tap the forms with a hammer to remove air by vibrating the concrete. The surface will be smoother and let off less dust, and be less brittle. Wet concrete is weak and dusty when cured.
I made a full stack of 10, 12.5, 15, 20, 25, 30 KG dumbells.I also built a rack for it.
Outstanding!
I made these when the gym became a pain the ass during the plandemic. I used various (cheap) paint mixing tubs and buckets and embedded chicken wire, then coated with epoxy resin for a glossy, clean surface. Cut a hole in the lid to center the pipe. I still use them. They're indestructible and look sharp.
Nice!
Nice work. I think I'd use the heaviest pipe possible for handles to reduce the volume of concrete required, at least this would be my strategy for heavier dumbbells. Solid steel bar would really be optimal for the heaviest in order to keep them as small as possible.
True, but that solid steel is going to be real pricey!
Thank you. I like how detailed the spreadsheet is in regards to the diameter and height of each molding.
Thanks, I tried to make it as clear as possible.
Empty 4L paint tins work good also and you don't need to take them off. Also fairly weather proof.
Nice, good idea. I've also thought about using Large PVC pipe which would be better than metal outside.
I know this video is a couple months old but for those like me just getting started to making your own weights, if you have a concern about durability of concrete weights you can spray them with flex seal and even heard people using truck bedliner as well to improve durability.
Valid concern, I used these weights for 3 + years and they survived two moves before I finally bought real gym equipment. Never had a failure but I also never dropped them on bare concrete - either grass or gym mats. I would imagine the handles would bend before the concrete broke especially if you use the high strength stuff with fiberglass in it. I do mention painting them with rustoleum in the video, any kind of paint or covering would help them hold up better outdoors. Maybe I should build another set and do a durability test video..
I just bought the materials. I’m thinking of adding scrap metals i can gather from work. We scrap penny size, quarter size and some larger ones by thousands a day or the nuts and bolts that are dropped or rejected by machines. We don’t reuse dropped parts as they can collect debris that would cause problems on welding quality. I’ve also gathered screws snd and nails when i was doing home renovations. I could also use those. Nails and screws would make it stronger like using rebar! It would cut the size of the weights.
Good idea, just make sure to bury them deep enough in the concrete that they done rust from the inside out. You'd want at least a couple inches imbedded I would guess.
ANYONE STILL haVE THEIR dumbbells, ? i made 20-60 lbers in the last 14 months, sold them all . ( bought a 50 LB HEX MOLD 1 YEAr ago ) NOW winter is here in CT time to make more .
I saw a similar video and they suggested using truck bed liner spray on the outside of the weights to add durability. You could also get a cheap exercise mat and cut a piece of that to go around the rim and gorilla glue it in place. It would make it somewhat like a bumper. You could also use chicken wire (or something like it) as a lattice work on the inside and pour the concrete over it to strengthen it. Just my 2 cents.
I like the rubber and bed liner idea. If you use high strength concrete you don't need any mesh or wire in the forms. The high strength concrete has fiberglass in it that makes it more crack resistant. I might make a video on pushing these to their breaking point since there seems to be a lot of skepticism over their strength.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 I would be interested to see how much that "high strength" concrete with mesh or wire would add to the durability. I've watched a couple of other videos about making concrete plates and they had "drop tests" from deadlift, clean and overhead heights.
Awesome thanks. Might want to think about ways of further securing the bars in the concrete.
It's been mentioned a surprising amount of times but it's a non-issue. I'm making a destruction video to see the difference.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 interesting. I’d like to see that.
@@shawnregina9110 just gotta find the time between my dayjob and life ya know. It's in the works.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 no doubt. The fact that you do any videos at all is a blessing. Take your time 💪
The best tutorial I’ve seen. Thank you
Thanks!
I used a filel to hex slight groves on my emt. Gives the emt tubing a little better grip.
Nice, how much time did that take?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 about 20 minutes per. Set it up on a vice (made the vice smaller than the pipe so it would spin on top and ran the file down like a corkscrew), ran one direction at 45 and then flipped to the other side. Similar to how they add texture to old-school wooden stocks. Worked great. Gave it just the right amount of grip but not too rough on your hands.
@@elslick That's not to bad. Worth it I'm sure. Very cool idea.
I am going to the hardware store to get the stuff. Thank you for a great video. I am not going to pay 300 for a pair of 50 lb barbells and even more for 60 lb. Dam price gauging.
Yea it's pretty crazy how expensive free weights have gotten.
I found this video because other DIY ones are suggesting to buy a $100+ plastic mold. Just use a bucket or the cylinders in this video. The whole point of DIY projects is to save money.
@@zachm9705 Amen to that!
Great detailed video for once! Most others are unclear, but this one goes in a fair bit of detail.
Thanks, My OCD kicks in randomly
Question: Won't the concrete slip from the handle without a hook (like a bolt or something) that is fixed to the bar?
Drill a hole in pipe and put large strong nails inside and form an X. Obv do it on both sides. Once you finish drilling it, just put it in da concrete
It certainly won't hurt to add a cross member but I don't think it's 100% necessary. It's very important that you use concrete mix with an aggregate (in short, concrete is cement plus gravel) or the high crack resistant concrete that actually has fiberglass in it. You're not the first one to ask and I guess I can see how this might be concerning to people. I think I'll make a "push it to the breaking point" video, should be fun. I grew up in the construction industry and if you have ever tried to get concrete off of steel you'd know its nearly impossible without shattering the concrete into pieces. It's something that I never even thought about, it's intuitive to me but certainly not to everyone.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 just to be sure I added 2.5inch bolts and nuts on each side of the handles for dumbbells 45lbs and up and they work fine
Make a video like this for barbell plates. This was super helpful. Thanks
Plates would be more difficult but I may give it a shot. Thanks!
thank you
These dumbbells look so fine. It looks better than iron hex dumbbells.
Thanks, I appreciate that. I think they pair nicely with an outdoor gym style setup. I'd definitely paint them though so they hold up longer.
The best tutorial ever
Thanks!
Very nice!
Thank you!
Also, receipt tape might help you make a straighter line than a rubber band.
Great tip!
Do a tutorial for some hexagonal or octagonal dumbbells please, i loved your video keep it up!! :)
Thanks! Hex weights would be real tough, might have to custom build a form, then the math on calculating the volume of a hex cylinder... Yikes. would probably be cheaper to buy them at that point.
Would the handles not slide out of the concrete eventually if you dont have some kind of anchor inside?
I've had this question before. I've used these for several years before I sold them and upgraded to a full iron set. I never had a problem but I have seen other creators drill holes and use through bolts for added security. Nothing wrong with that if it gives you peace of mind. I have tried to get concrete off of a steel post and its not easy, Pretty much impossible without breaking the concrete into pieces.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 Well thats good lol. Thanks for the info
Can you put steel ball bearings in there to make them heavier
Sure, if you happen to have some steel ball bearings lying around, and weigh them out.
Great video! Thank you. I’m looking to make some 5lb & 10lb dumbbells for my wife and son. Can you possibly provide me any suggestions using your instructions and calculations for the approximate amount of cement or concrete I’ll need for 5lb & 10lb Dumbbells on each end. Thank you again.
I’d like to know the height for the tube cut out for a 15lbs too please!
Thanks for the compliment. The reason I left off anything smaller than 20lb is because anything less and the concrete portion would be so thin (maybe 1-2" inches) that it would be brittle and probably wouldn't be enough to grip the metal handle.
You could try to find a smaller diameter tube or use something, like 3 or 4" PVC drain pipe. You would need to calculate the thickness based on the inside diameter of the cylinder.
For example: The formula for Volume of a Cylinder is V=πr2h.
If you were using a tube that was 4" in diameter then you would use the radius of 2" and solve.V=πr2h=π·22·2≈25.13274, then you would multiply that by .087 (weight of concrete per cubic inch)
so 25.13 x .087 = 2.18 lbs per side, so a 2" deep 4" tube would make a 4-5lbs dumbbell. Honestly though, you may spend as much as just buying retail steel weights for anything
under 10 or 15lbs I would think. Once you get up to 30+ lbs and retail is $1-1.50 per pound it makes more sense to build them.
Anyway, hope that helps. Let me know how it turns out.
Thanks for watching!
@@jphuynh714 If using 8" form tubes, a 15 lb dumbbell would need to be about 1.75 inches per side. V=πr2h=π·42·1.75≈87.96459 x .087 = 7.65252 lb per side or about 15.3 lbs for the whole dumbbell. I think that a 1.75 inch thick x 8" tube will be too fragile to be practical though. Maybe try using a smaller diameter but thicker tube. For example, a 6" PVC pipe at 3" tall would be V=πr2h=π·32·3≈84.823 x .087 = 7.37934 per side or approx 14.75 lbs for the whole dumbbell. Hope that helps!
Hey bro how should we perfectly place the handle in the centre? If it's a lil deviated will it lead to injuries? What about weights? Its true measuring it together may give a closer weight but what if each side has a difference in weights? My one side of the dumbell is half a pound more than the other. Is it ok to use it?
Ok, I'll try and answer your questions in order. In the video I actually use a scrap piece of wood cut in an 8" square and a hole drilled in the center to help center the handle. You can also just eyeball it. Lifting any kind of weight can lead to injury. Build and lift at your own risk. You should measure each side when you cut the tubes and pour the concrete vs trying to weight them out. It's fine if the weights are a little off on each side. Chances are they are still better than store-bought weights anyway. Thanks for watching and good luck!
Thanks brother
Most people put nails through near the ends of the tube so it can embed into the concrete and not easily be pulled out. Are these fine or would you recommend doing that?
I'm sure it wouldn't hurt anything but I haven't had any trouble with the handles pulling out. The first set I made I used for about two years before I got rid of them. I also never drop my weights all that hard.
Very helpful. Thanks Jerry!
In other video I saw that they put a big nail to prevent the concrete not falling from the bar. But with your way, do you think we need it or not?
I get this question a lot. It never occurred to me to do this. My experience comes from the construction industry and if you've ever tried to get concrete off of a steel fence post you'll know its nearly impossible without shattering the concrete into pieces. I've used these for several years and they survived multiple moves before I sold them and upgraded to a full iron set. I never had a problem but I also never drop them really hard on a bare concrete. I believe if you can't set the weight down in a controlled manner you shouldn't be picking it up. That said, I also wouldn't used anything other than the concrete mixes I specify in the video. Either way, there's nothing wrong with putting a through bolt or nail in it if it gives you peace of mind. Hope that helps, good luck with your build!
@@fixitwithjerry6161 thank you for the good reply, it will help a lot 👍
The is definitely the best one I've seen. The description of everyting is great. One question, what would the measurements be for 5lb dumbbells? Would I just divide the measurements for the 10lbs by half?
The reason I didn't go below a 20lb dumbbell is because it just gets too thin to have any structural strength. If you look at the chart I made, an 8" tube at 20bls (10 lbs per side) is less than 3" thick. Below that I would try and source a different mould material and make a form that is maybe 4" in diameter instead of 8". Each side would be smaller in diameter but thicker and have more rigidity. I hope that makes sense.
Shoot for my second side of the dumbbell After a few hours I accidentally lifted it from the concrete. Will this stop it from working
If the handle came out then yes. It's probably no good.
Can I use stones e.g I want to make 40kg dumbells,can I use 15kg cement,15kg sand and 10kg stones?
If you can get the stones to set in the concrete I don't see why not.
I'll echo the other comments here, this is one of the better DIY concrete weights videos I've seen. How there's links to home depot, a blog post, and how you aren't selling a $100 plastic mold. Thanks!
Lol, thanks Zach. I am actually about to buy one of those $100 moulds and see if I can break them.
For me at Home Depot Today
Concrete - $6
10'x1' steel conduit - $19
8"×48" mold - $13
Total - $38
Walmart 2x 20lb dumbell 24.99x2
Very true, things have changed. This was during the pandemic when you couldn't even find dumbbells.
@fixitwithjerry6161 Thanks for the vid and your work man it is great. If I make a set of 20s, 30, and 40s, it'll just be $0.38/lb. Dats gooood
Amazing tutorial! Thanks
Everything i need in one video thanks for the well makinggness of this video man
Great, thanks!
This video is so well produced & edited. Do you think you could make these in Puerto Rico? Or would the images never appear??
You're funny!
Wow the difference in weight on the "pro" dumbells was pretty shocking!
Or we could go spend $800 on those Bowflex select tech weights, FFS... or do it the manly way at home!! With concrete! Hell yea!
Dummbells in CT run $1.50-$2.00 a lb used and $2.00-$2.50 avg... august till now Late Dec
For real, that's the only reason I'd even consider store-bought weights. You'd think there'd be some kind of quality control. smh
@@trajectoryunown i made 12 - 45 lb concrete plates ( 45.2-45.9 ) 1 set of 28.6 lb avg dumbs finished a 18.8 lb set . today im making #1 of 4 for a 50 lb set for a buddy. and 1- 45 lb plate to complete 2 for him
There's nothing "pro" about those. They are common cast iron weights are are known to be up to 10% off, easily. If you want accurate weights, those are called "calibrated" weights, and are significantly more expensive then the shit tier cast iron.
Great video. Think I'm gonna go for your idea to make a bar bell version!
I'd like to see it!. I want to do some more but it's hard to find the time.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 I poured the first weight today. I'll see if I can get some pics tomorrow. I understand that, thankfully had some time off for new years and I wasn't hung over this year.
Just a quick question is the chart in the video more accurate than the one in your blog thingy?
probably not. The blog gets updated, the video is a time capsule. lol
use rapidset mortar mixCTS, psi is incredible and its structual grade
Awesome video bro! Im trying out my finished protein buckets, one for the form and one to hold it up we’ll see how it goes 👍
Definitely curious to see how that works. Are you planning on leaving the buckets on? The plastic probably makes a nice looking finish right?
FixItWithJerry hey man sorry for the late reply! I made some plates first and there all done now so I’ll try this protein bucket plan now! The second bucket to hold up the dumbell wont work I don’t think(too flimsy) so im gonna stack cut 2x4s! Basically the same thing like your plywood cut out! I’ll get it on insta maybe I’ll let you know thanks again bro
Yepp totally wanna use the buckets again! 60lbs will sit at 3-2x4s so when i drop the weight down to 50s all I have to do is compensate by taking out a 2x4 then to 40s take out another.... Lmao the video will all make sense!
@@alexanderizzard1254 are you doing a video on this one, I'd like to see it!
Hi Jerry,
I want to know how can I get the link for the weight conversion?
What kind of conversion? I made a pdf and excel file. The link is in the description.
If we waren't using an 8" form tube how do we "solve for the volume of a cylinder"
At Lowe’s they sell 8” and 12” diameter form tubes. All you do is divide the diameter by 2 and this is the radius. Look up cylinder volume calculator. Type in the number that is half of the diameter in where it says “radius “ and type in the height of what u want it to be. It will give u a number in cubic inches and that is how much space there is
There's also a size calculation chart (Standard and metric) on my website.
Just what I've been lookin for!!!! Thank you very much.
I’ve seen people actually put some wiring or rebar to the handle so would yours fall cause I don’t want do triceps pushed and then expect half the dumbbell slipping to my face
You could drill a hole through the handle and put a nail in it like a "T" if it makes you feel better. I don't think it's necessary at least with the type of concrete I used. There 's little to no chance of it slipping out. I had these for years before I finally sold them and bought real metal ones. I tested one that I first made and the handle didn't even loosen until I broke the concrete and it still didn't come all the way off.
@Robb CoochiesIayer so are you telling me you have personally made a set using this method and had the steel "slip out" of the concrete?
Would like to see a barbell tutorial too!
Buff dudes has a good one video that
Hi FixItWithJerry
I am trying to make exact weights in kg and cant really get a hold of how you calculated the spreadsheet. Would it be possible to update one for EU Fans?
Also, wouldn't it also work to just weigh the concrete instead of calculating height?
What are the increments you would normally use in the EU? I can build another spreadsheet in kg and cm. I'm not sure I understand the second part of your question, do you mean weighing it wet (as you mix) and pouring in a mould?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 Thanks for the quick response. Thats exactly what I meant, I've seen other UA-camrs do that but I am unsure about the accuracy of this method as I‘ve heared some of the water evaporates (which lessens the weight in the end).
I'd really appreciate a chart with kg for 20cm (diameter of the mold, close to your 8 inch). Yesterday I tried to make one for myself, but somehow I didnt get it to work for metric.
@@kjell2991 That would probably work but then how would you know how tall to cut the tubes? I also don't know the wet vs dry weight of concrete. Maybe I'm missing part of the process. I should be able to adjust the spreadsheet I have fairly easily. So, 20cm diameter and what kind of weight increments? In the US, for example, we usually jump 5 or 10 pounds for each set which is why I have 20, 25, 30, 35 lb .. etc measurements. Would you 2kg or 2.5 kg increments maybe? What is common for a commercial gym in the EU?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 it differs, but 2kg in between is the standard. With weighing, you cut the molds after you poured the cement. Makes it more complicated in that matter for sure.
Only thing that will be a bit problematic in my case is that I got some heavy duty metal handles that probably weigh 2kg+. Hard to calculate that in but I could use a sanding machine to get rid of additional weight.
@@kjell2991 I see, well with the handles you would still probably be pretty close. As I show in the video, the ones I made were actually closer to true weight than the metal hex weights I bought. I'll try and put together a spreadsheet for ya. I'm sure you're not the only one that would appreciate a metric conversion.
grany gettin big strong
Nice work
Thanks
Amazing thank you for sharing!
Thanks man
Is the discrepancy in the form tube diameter because one measures with the width of the material and one without? That seems dumb as hell
I'm not sure why they are this way. I'm guessing maybe it makes it easier for the manufacturer to ship them and for construction purposes a 1/4 inch isn't going to make much of a difference. I really don't know why this is though.
how many kilograms are
If you head to my website you will find a metric conversion chart for these. Link in the description.
epic video. Thanks for this!
great video thanks a lot!
The best and accurate one :) thanks man
Thanks!
Quick question to can i use meters instead of cm.?
@@jecksantos2892 there's a metric version of the chart on my website.
it would be better use pvc pipes as mold, you can reuse it longer, even you can left it on the concrete as protection and make the dumbbell harder to brake
You could, but 8" PVC is real expensive and you have to buy a 10ft stick. Then you have to figure out how to get the concrete out of the pvc mold if you're going to reuse it. You'd have to split it down the middle somehow? This did cross my mind when I starting building these but I abandoned the idea when I couldn't find 8" PVC at big box stores and needed a contractor account with local suppliers. I figured the "average joe" doesn't want to bother with that either. But hey, if you have easy access to cheap 8" PVC then by all means, do whatever works for you! Thanks for watching!
good vid. Id recommend fast set concrete by Rapid Set instead though so you dont have to wait so long for cure time. Costs 3 times as much per bag but it sets very quick and is very strong
Yes you could. I didn't mention the fast setting concrete because, if you've never done this before and you want to take your time, that stuff will set up in the bucket before you get to use it. lol.
The diameters are different because they ship the tubes in one another.
Makes sense. I point it out because it will screw up your calculations for weight. As long as you know which one you're using you can compensate.
Love it! Thanks for sharing.
Rigid emt is probably better for the handles
Is that not the same as Galvanized EMT Conduit only threaded?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 They are both galvanized but the difference is regular emt is thinwall. Rigid has a thicker inner wall and several times stronger.
@@ruve_9074 good to know thanks!
It is okay if i use other cement?
You'll want to use something that has gravel in it, the gravel gives it strength. Not mortar or stucco mix or anything like that. Also I would stay away from the fast-setting mix because it may harden before you can smooth it out in the mould. Hope that helps.
Thanks just what I needed
You must put "anchors" into the metal bar. See this example ua-cam.com/video/4ZES0ZKmes0/v-deo.html. Without the "anchors" with repeated use, your concrete weights can come loose and fall off the barbell handle! This could cause damage and even worse potentially hurt someone, especially with larger weights. Great video, but please remind your viewers to anchor the handles. Also, remember to wear a mask and goggles when working with these materials.
I've received enough feedback with the same general message to make another "mythbusters" style video to showcase what exactly does it take to break concrete away from a metal insert such as this. Stay tuned!
Give sodium silicate a try.
Taking it up a notch! lol. It decreases setting time and increases hardness right?
@@fixitwithjerry6161 people say it densifies it. Maybe less volume, same mass? It's cheap and it looks easy to make. I suppose you can just buy 100% lye from any store in US or Home Hardware for Canadians.
Nice!
Why do you use 3.75 as the radius instead of 4? Are you taking off .25 to compensate for the pipe?
If you look at about the 1:20 mark I explain that not all 8" tubes are actually 8". I was compensating for tubes that measure about 7.5 to the inside. The screengrab is just one example. I have a couple charts and a like to a calculator on my website. Links in the description.
Como sacar 70,80, 90 y 100 lbs mi hermano
La razón por la que no hice mancuernas más grandes es porque su tamaño físico es demasiado grande para ser práctico. Puede utilizar el cuadro vinculado en mi sitio para aumentar el peso. Ganará aproximadamente 5 libras por cada 0,75 pulgadas de aumento de altura del tubo. Espero que ayude.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 en realidad si me ayudará porque nesecitabamos aumentar el peso y con este es suficiente para hacerlas, gracias por contestar inmediatamente ya no todos lo hacen, y ser tan específico la mayoría de los tutoriales no dan medidas, ni enseñan pesos que permitan seguir creciendo y tener un buen físico quede salud gracias 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗
The audios pretty quiet, good video though!
Thanks for the feedback. I'll try to work on that in my next video.
Surprised no one in the comments section challenged his statement that too much water will make it too weak.
Quickrete says, quote, " ...it is important to know that the more water that is added to the mix the weaker it becomes. Adding 1 extra quart of water per 80lb bag can reduce the strength of the concrete by 40%..." I am glad that you pointed it out because I'm sure you're not the only one that has asked the question. I'll gladly address it. It is well documented in the construction industry that an overly wet mixture throws off the chemistry of the concrete curing process. In fact, there are several tests that must be accomplished on-site when it comes to the structural curing of concrete. The manufacturers of these concrete mixtures specify a minimum and maximin amount of water to be added to the mixture. For something like a crude concrete dumbbell it probably isn't enough difference to even mention however, if you're pouring a slab or building a 40 story high rise this is actually a very important variable.
👏😎ty
Jesus loves you
They chip and break.!!
I used mine for 3 years, never chipped or broke a single one. I had sets from 30 up to 65 lbs. I never dropped them on concrete or any hard surface without gym mats, most people don't drop steel weights on concrete without at least 1/2" rubber mat protection. I would like to know more details and specifics on how exactly you built yours. Let's identify the deficiencies in your build that caused them to fail. It will help everyone make a better finished product.
@@fixitwithjerry6161 tyre filled with concrete
Bro you have full gym equipment and you stick with concrete
Lol, I used these before I got the full gym. I finished the video and then sold them since I have a full set of real dumbells now. It took me years to find a good deal on used iron weights and we've seen shortages with the virus and gyms shutting down.
WHAT ?