New Delhi, March 7 -- The gym is not just a physical test; it is also a test of creativity in how well one can get the best out of the equipment available. It can feel like a puzzle to solve when there is limited equipment: just one bench, light dumbbells, no Smith machine. the list of challenges is endless, especially when you're on the move and unable to settle into a routine. This is where many newbies seem to falter-not knowing what to do when there isn't enough to work with.

I wrote a piece for Lounge in May 2022 titled The best strength workouts using just a weight plate. But the one piece of equipment that is almost always present in a gym-and can easily be bought for personal use-is the dumbbell. The grip of a dumbbell is complet...