A great way to get started with dumbbell workouts is to get a printable dumbbell workout chart. There are several charts out there, make sure the one you get has the following:

1. Illustrations.

Nothing can describe how to perform an exercise better than an actual illustration of the exercise and movement. The illustrations will show you the starting point of the movement and the position you want to be in at the end of the movement. Some illustrations will provide a middle ground to show what the move should look like when performed.

2. Movement descriptions.

Should the palms of the hands face you or the other way? Bent elbows? Descriptions of dumbbell movements are essential to understanding exactly how the specific exercise should be performed correctly. Many times, the seemingly minor details that you won’t pick up from the illustrations are key to having effective dumbbell workouts. Try to make sure that your printable dumbbell exercise chart includes clear explanations of how to perform each exercise.

3. A dumbbell manual plus chart.

Ideally, you want to get a dumbbell training manual along with your printable dumbbell exercise chart (many manuals will include a chart). This way, you’ll have a much better understanding of how to put together a complete dumbbell routine, as well as how to perform the exercises correctly. More tips and techniques for better and more effective workouts that you won’t find in a chart will be included in a manual. With a manual and a chart, you will have the knowledge on how to put together a quick and highly effective exercise routine.