Micro Plates

With regards to dumbbells, is it ok that one side of a dumbbell is slightly heavier than the other side? This is what I do because I want to make sure that the increase in weight is gradual. For example, from a 10lb dumbbell (5lb each plate) , I would add a 2.5lb plate just in one side to make it 12.5lb instead of adding two 2.5lb plates that would make it 15lb, a 50% increase (which is too much, isn't it?). (from Ner)

Yes, it will be difficult to increase your bicep curl weight by 50%. They make fractional plates (micro-plates) for this purpose (microloading)- see http://www.theplatemate.com/products.htm. These plates allow you to move up in weight by smaller increments than traditional plates allow. They can be a very effective tool not only for lighter lifts but for breaking out of plateaus with much heavier lifts.

Unfortunately, these plates, while definitely useful and a very nice addition to any gym, can be very expensive. As such, to many they are considered a luxury item.

A lot of not-so-wealthy lifters (like myself) get a little creative to solve the problem. You can start by adding extra collars to the dumbbells. From there you can use magnets or any number of things to create small and manageable increases.

Probably the most common method is using chain links. You can get chain links cheaply from your local hardware store, weigh them and then create your own micro-weights (different lengths equaling different weights).

I would stay away from overloading one side of the dumbbell. This can cause unnecessary wrist strain and lead to injury.

JP Clifford