I thought it was about time I made a start on reviewing my home gym equipment. Fortunately, that isn't going to take too long as my collection starts and ends with a single hand-held weight from Reebok. Never let it be said that I don't take exercising seriously!

It might seem more logical to buy hand weights in pairs but these are actually sold singly (probably for half-hearted exercisers such as myself.) These are readily available and can be picked up from Argos in a range of sizes from 1kg up to 4kg, with prices ranging from £3.99 right up to £12.99 for the largest size. Although not badly priced for individual weights, it is still worth shopping around as I bought my 2kg weight from Sports Direct for slightly less than the Argos price.

Basic hand weights such as these can be used to tone and/or strengthen arm muscles. These smaller sized weights can be used in conjunction with other exercises to maximise their benefits or even used when walking, for instance. Personally, I would feel a little too conspicuous carting these weights around in public but they are very portable. I stick to a few basic lifts in the comfort and privacy of my own home!

The weight itself is a fairly traditional 'dumbell' design, featuring a reassuringly chunky bar across the centre which makes the weight very easy and comfortable to pick up and hold. The Reebok brand is a trusted name and is emblazoned across one of the sides. I particularly like the neoprene coating which covers the entire weight, as this helps to make the weight easy to grip and ensures that the bar is never slippy (in the unlikely event that I were to build up a sweat using it!) As the weight itself is made out of steel, the neoprene covering ensures that the weight doesn't feel uncomfortably cold to the touch either. Each of the differently sized weights appear to be colour coded with my 2kg version sporting a fairly unisex shade of blue, so should appeal to either gender.

The weight seems to have been fairly sensibly designed to aid storage between uses. Although the sides appear to be rounded, to a casual glance, they are actually a six sided shape. In practical terms, this means that the weights can be safely placed on a flat surface, without rolling off on to somebody's foot!

Like most fitness aids, the benefits are only going to be felt with regular and sustained use. In all honesty, I rarely use mine but it does make a fairly inoffensive if unusual ornament! My husband does use this from time to time and my oldest son (who is fitness mad!) likes to use the weight to try and build up his muscles! Despite its small size, however, the weight is intended for use by adults, so I am mindful of my son when using this to make sure he doesn't do himself any injuries.

Although this is a pretty basic piece of fitness equipment, it is readily accessible, easy to use and an affordable start to a more elaborate set of kit. The weights seem to have been well designed to make using them very comfortable and convenient. I would recommend these as an inexpensive and practical option to anybody looking for a basic hand weight on a budget.