Reviewed exercise · beginner

Bear-Hug Dumbbell Carry

A secondary carry movement for core.

Equipment

dumbbells

Typical range

15–45 reps

Also trains

chest, biceps, back

Set up

Hold one dumbbell vertically against the torso with both hands and clear the path.

Execute

Walk with normal breathing and the load held securely against the body.

Stop and place the dumbbell down before the hands or posture shift.

Coaching cues

• Hug the load securely.
• Keep normal breathing.

Common mistakes

• Obscuring the walking path with the load.
• Leaning backward to support excess weight.

Modify or stop when relevant discomfort is reported. Educational content does not diagnose injury.