Does the Dualbell Sway Add Something to the Squat?

Stabilizer Muscles Get Into The Action

One of the most common questions people ask when they first see Dualbell used for squats is a fair one: Does the movement of the dumbbells take away from the lift—or does it add something?

That question came up naturally during a recent squat session with veteran personal trainer Michael Marguilies, owner of CORE Fitness Training Gym, where he has coached clients for more than three decades. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Michael has seen countless training tools come and go, so his perspective is grounded in real-world coaching and movement quality—not hype.

After a few squat sets using Dualbell, Michael shared an insight that surprised even him:

“It may even add something, because I’m more aware of keeping the barbell stable on my shoulders.”

That one sentence perfectly captures what experienced lifters often notice first.

Awareness vs. Distraction

At first glance, it’s easy to assume that any additional movement during a squat might be distracting. After all, the squat is a lift that demands focus, balance, and concentration. Too many external variables can pull attention away from proper mechanics.

But what Michael experienced was the opposite.

The subtle movement of the dumbbells didn’t create instability—it increased awareness. Rather than distracting him, it encouraged him to stay locked in, reinforcing proper posture and bar control throughout the entire movement.

For seasoned lifters and trainers, this type of feedback loop is valuable. When the body receives immediate input about balance and control, it often sharpens technique rather than compromising it.

Why This Matters for Squats

The squat isn’t just about leg strength. It’s a full-body movement that requires coordination between the lower body, core, and upper back. Any tool that enhances awareness of bar position—without compromising safety—can help reinforce good habits.

In Michael’s case, the slight movement made him more conscious of keeping the bar centered and stable on his shoulders. That heightened focus didn’t change the lift itself; it improved his engagement with it.

This is especially relevant for home and small-space gym setups, where lifters often want equipment that does more than just add weight. Dualbell allows dumbbells to function as barbell load while introducing a level of feedback that encourages control and intention.

A Trainer’s Perspective

For a trainer with decades of experience, the takeaway wasn’t about novelty—it was about function. Michael didn’t feel distracted. He felt more present in the lift.

That distinction matters.

When equipment fades into the background and allows the lifter to focus on movement quality, it’s doing its job. And in this case, the added awareness became a feature, not a flaw.

The Bigger Picture

This squat clip is part of a broader Dualbell trial exploring how the system performs across multiple compound lifts. But this moment stands out because it addresses a common concern head-on.

Does the movement add something?

For Michael, the answer was yes—and it showed up where it matters most: focus, control, and execution.