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Forget crunches — personal trainer recommends this 8-move standing dumbbell workout for stronger abs and arms

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Train your core, tone your arms

Woman against a grey backdrop in workout clothes holding two dumbbells in front of her during dumbbell workout
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Hate floor workouts? You’re not alone. This standing routine from personal trainer Kirra Mitlo focuses on building upper-body and core strength with zero time spent on a mat.

You’ll stay upright for all eight moves, using dumbbells to work your arms and shoulders while activating your core through balance-focused exercises like single-leg bicep curls, upright rows and dumbbell marches.

“These movements are great for improving balance, coordination and everyday strength,” says Mitlo.

It's suitable for all levels. “Just choose weights that challenge you without sacrificing form,” Mitlo advises. “If some of the movements feel hard to complete with weight, drop the weights and follow along with your bodyweight.”

You’ll need a pair of the best adjustable dumbbells, but lighter weights or even household items can work in a pinch. With around 30 minutes and a bit of space, you’ll get through three rounds of solid upper-body and core training. Here’s how to get started.

Kirra Mitlo
Kirra Mitlo

With a B.S. in Exercise Science and Physiology, certifications in personal training (ISSA) and functional nutrition (FMNS), Mitlo blends science-backed training with a no-BS, sustainable approach to fitness and nutrition.

Alternating Standing Crunches x 20 reps total (10 per side)

trainer Kirra Mitlo doing standing alternating crunches

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Hammer Curls x 15 reps

trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell hammer curls

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Dumbbell Around the World x 20 reps (10 reps clockwise, 10 reps counter-clockwise)

Trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell around the worlds

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Alternating Triceps Kickbacks x 16 reps total (8 per side)

Trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell tricep kickbacks

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Single-Leg Bicep Curls x 12 reps total (6 per side)

trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell bicep curls on one leg

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Dumbbell March x 20 reps total

Trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell marches

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Lateral Raise to Upright Row x 14 reps total

trainer Kirra Mitlo doing dumbbell lateral raises to upright rows

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Straight-Arm Biceps Curls x 15 reps

Trainer Kirra Mitlo doing straight arm bodyweight curls

(Image credit: Kirra Mitlo)

Trainer tips

Struggling with balance during some of the single-leg moves? Mitlo suggests a simple fix: “For any exercise that challenges your balance, such as the single-leg bicep curls, feel free to modify by placing your foot on the ground or just raising it to your tippy toe,” she says.

To help steady yourself, “Find a spot on a wall or object in front of you that is stationary and focus on that.”

And when it comes to core engagement, your breath matters. “For all the core exercises, strive to inhale through your nose deeply and exhale through your mouth,” Mitlo explains. “This will aid in your balance and ability to engage your core.”

These small adjustments can make a big difference in your form, focus and results.

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Jessica Downey
Jessica Downey
Senior Fitness Writer

Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career.

Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge.

When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.

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