Magnetic dumbbells use electromagnetic force to achieve a resistance of up to 22kgs

A new fitness innovation from a team of Korean graduate students could change weight training and eliminate the need for traditional weights.

By substituting bulky weight racks with electromagnetic force, the O2 Magnetic Dumbbell allows users to achieve up to 22 kilograms of resistance without actually lifting anything.

Developed by Suhyun Yoo, Hongseok Kim, and Juhyeon Lee of Kookmin Univeristy in Seoul, South Korea, the O2 Magnetic Dumbbell bracelet-like units, weighing 500 grammes each and worn on each arm, can be adjusted to exert eight different levels of force, which all correspond to weight increments ranging from 3 to 22 kilograms.

Users can increase and lower resistance by simply adjusting a small dial. By switching the polarity of the magnets embedded within the units, exercisers can toggle between concentric and eccentric muscle movements, allowing them to access a wide range of exercises.

UK newspaper The Daily Mail reports that the bracelets can even keep track of exercisers' progress throughout the workout, with a small display showing repetitions and training sets.

For more information contact Suhyun Yoo on kumdosinse@gmail.com