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Dumbbell Static Hold

Beginner
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Isometric hold with dumbbells at sides that targets forearms, grip, core, and posture muscles to build endurance, strength, and stability; commonly used to improve time under tension and joint integrity.

About Exercise

Equipment

Dumbbells

Difficulty

2/5 • Beginner

Primary Muscle Groups

Forearms, Abs

Popularity Score

5

Goals

Strength
Endurance
Stability

Training Style

Functional Training

Setup Requirements

Requires Rack

No

Requires Bench

No

Requires Spotter

No

Space Needed

Small

Noise Level

Low

Muscle Breakdown

Forearms

10/10

Flexors

Abs

8/10

Rectus Abdominis, Transverse Abdominis

Lower Back

7/10

Erector Spinae

Traps

6/10

Upper Traps

Programming

Typical Rep Range

20-60 reps

Rest Between Sets

30-90 seconds

How to Perform

Stand with feet hip-width apart. Grip a dumbbell in each hand, palms facing body, and lift to full standing position with arms extended at sides.

  1. Extend hips and knees to lift dumbbells off ground.
  2. Position arms straight down at sides.
  3. Squeeze handles firmly to activate grip.
  4. Brace core and pull shoulders back.
  5. Maintain rigid posture without shifting.
  6. Lower dumbbells slowly to floor after hold.

Coaching Tips

Form Cues

  • Crush the grips
  • Stand tall
  • Brace core tight
  • Shoulders down and back
  • Breathe steady

Breathing

Breathe deeply and consistently through the hold; inhale through nose and exhale through mouth.

Tempo

0-30-0

Range of Motion

Upright stance with neutral spine, arms fully extended at sides, knees unlocked, and no joint movement or postural deviation.

Safety

Safety Notes

  • Warm up joints and muscles first
  • Start with light controllable weight
  • Stop immediately on sharp pain
  • Keep feet flat and stable
  • Lower weights controlled to avoid drops

Spotting

Spotting not typically required; self-supported exercise with focus on controlled release.

Common Mistakes

  • Shrugging shoulders up
  • Rounding or arching back
  • Holding breath
  • Leaning side to side
  • Dropping elbows

When to Avoid

  • Wrist or hand injuries
  • Acute lower back pain
  • Grip weakness

Flexibility Needed

  • Neutral wrist position
  • Stable ankle stance
  • Basic shoulder mobility

Build Up First

  • Core bracing technique
  • Safe weight handling form

Also known as

Dumbbell Isometric Hold, Static Dumbbell Grip Hold

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