15-Minute Upper Body Workout for Brand New Beginners Using Dumbbells

So, you’re ready to work out? First, let me congratulate you!

This quick and efficient workout targets all the major upper-body muscle groups. Each exercise is designed to be simple and effective for those new to working out. You will only need dumbbells for these exercises. At this time, I would recommend going with lighter weights (a pair of 5lb dumbbells) and you will slowly be able to increase this weight over time. Perform each exercise for the specified number of reps, resting minimally between exercises to keep the workout within 15 minutes. I recommend doing only 1 set for this first week. You will do each exercise for the recommended repetitions and then move to the next exercise. Do not repeat the exercises. Do this 3 times this week with a rest day in between. Remember, this isn't a sprint. We want to slowly build up to a fitness routine and avoid injury. Slow and steady is what will 'win' this race! If you haven't already incorporated walking into your routine, this would be a perfect complement to your new fitness routine as well!

 

Workout Plan (if you click on the exercise title it will lead you to a quick 'how-to' video; I don't own the videos, I get nothing from adding their link, I just wanted you to SEE the exercise if needed without a lot of effort!)

  1. Dumbbell Bench Press
    • Muscles Targeted: Chest, Shoulders, Triceps
    • How to Perform:
      1. Lie flat on a bench or the floor with a dumbbell in each hand.
      2. Extend your arms above your chest with your palms facing forward.
      3. Lower the dumbbells to your chest, keeping your elbows at a 90-degree angle.
      4. Press the dumbbells back up to the starting position.
    • Reps: 10-12 reps

 

2. Dumbbell Shoulder Press

  • Muscles Targeted: Shoulders, Triceps
  • How to Perform:
    1. Sit or stand with a dumbbell in each hand at shoulder height, palms facing forward.
    2. Press the dumbbells overhead until your arms are fully extended.
    3. Lower the dumbbells back to shoulder height.
  • Reps: 10-12 reps

 

3. Dumbbell Bent-Over Row

  • Muscles Targeted: Upper Back, Lats, Biceps
  • How to Perform:
    1. Bend at the waist with your knees slightly bent and a dumbbell in each hand.
    2. Keep your back straight and pull the dumbbells towards your waist.
    3. Squeeze your shoulder blades together at the top of the movement.
    4. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
  • Reps: 10-12 reps

 

4. Dumbbell Bicep Curl

  • Muscles Targeted: Biceps
  • How to Perform:
    1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing forward.
    2. Curl the dumbbells up towards your shoulders, keeping your elbows close to your body.
    3. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
  • Reps: 12-15 reps

 

5. Dumbbell Triceps Kickback

  • Muscles Targeted: Triceps
  • How to Perform:
    1. Bend at the waist with your knees slightly bent and a dumbbell in each hand.
    2. Keep your upper arms close to your body and extend your forearms backward.
    3. Squeeze your triceps at the top of the movement.
    4. Return to the starting position.
  • Reps: 12-15 reps

 

6. Dumbbell Lateral Raise

  • Muscles Targeted: Shoulders
  • How to Perform:
    1. Stand with a dumbbell in each hand at your sides, palms facing inward.
    2. Raise the dumbbells to your sides until they are at shoulder height.
    3. Lower the dumbbells back to the starting position.
  • Reps: 10-12 reps

 

7. Dumbbell Chest Fly

  • Muscles Targeted: Chest, Shoulders
  • How to Perform:
    1. Lie flat on a bench or the floor with a dumbbell in each hand, arms extended above your chest with a slight bend in your elbows.
    2. Slowly lower the dumbbells out to your sides, keeping the slight bend in your elbows.
    3. Bring the dumbbells back together above your chest.
  • Reps: 10-12 reps

 

Total Time

Each exercise should take approximately 1.5 minutes, totaling around 15 minutes for the entire workout. Adjust the pace as needed to fit within the time frame while ensuring you maintain proper form.

 

Enjoy your quick and effective upper body workout!

 

This was put together for someone who is ready to start working out but does not know where to start and does not have a ton of time to figure it out! I always recommend starting with a warm-up and cool down and a gentle stretch at the end. Warming up and cooling down can be as simple as a brisk walk around the block. 

Grab your workout journal or notes app and here is the workout to jot down.

 

15-Minute Upper Body Workout for Brand New Beginners Using Dumbbells: 

  1. Dumbbell Bench Press
    • 10-12 reps
  2. Dumbbell Shoulder Press
    • 10-12 reps
  3. Dumbbell Bent-Over Row
    • 10-12 reps
  4. Dumbbell Bicep Curl
    • 12-15 reps
  5. Dumbbell Tricep Kickback
    • 12-15 reps
  6. Dumbbell Lateral Raise
    • 10-12 reps
  7. Dumbbell Chest Fly
    • 10-12 reps

Tips for Beginners

  1. Form Over Weight: Focus on maintaining proper form rather than lifting heavy weights. This reduces the risk of injury and ensures you’re working the intended muscles.
  2. Consistency: Aim to perform this workout 2-3 times a week, allowing at least one day of rest between sessions.
  3. Listen to Your Body: If you feel any sharp pain or discomfort, stop the exercise and reassess your form. It’s okay to modify exercises to fit your comfort level.
  4. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout.
  5. Progress Gradually: As you get stronger, gradually increase the weight of your dumbbells to continue challenging your muscles.

Medical Disclaimer: While walking offers numerous health benefits, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise regimen, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or concerns. The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

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