Purchase Special Barbell for Strength Training – Weightlifting

A specialty barbell is a type of barbell designed for specific exercises or training needs, differing from standard Olympic or powerlifting bars. These barbells often have unique shapes, weights, and grip configurations that cater to various lifting styles and goals. Common examples of specialty barbells include trap bars, safety squat bars, cambered bars, and curl bars.

Specialty barbells are particularly beneficial for targeting specific muscle groups, enhancing stability, and accommodating individual lifting mechanics. For instance, the trap bar allows lifters to adopt a more upright posture during deadlifts, reducing strain on the lower back. Similarly, safety squat bars are designed with padded shoulders and handles, making squats more accessible for those with shoulder or wrist mobility issues.

Using specialty barbells can help improve lifting technique, reduce the risk of injury, and provide a new stimulus for muscle growth. They are essential tools for strength training enthusiasts and athletes seeking to diversify their workouts and enhance performance in specific lifts.

The Wiggly barbell, often referred to as a “wiggle bar” or “bouncy bar,” is a type of specialty bar designed to improve coordination, stability, and strength. Its unique design allows for a flexible shaft that adds a degree of instability during lifts, requiring users to engage their core and stabilizing muscles more actively.

Wiggly barbells are commonly used in functional training and rehabilitation programs. They are particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals looking to enhance their balance and proprioception. As the bar flexes and moves during exercises, users must stabilize their movements, which can improve overall functional strength and athletic performance.

Exercises performed with a Wiggly barbell include squats, deadlifts, presses, and various functional movements. The added instability challenges the muscles in new ways, promoting greater muscle activation and engagement. This type of barbell can also be helpful for those recovering from injuries, as it encourages controlled movements and can be adapted to individual fitness levels.

Yes, there are various types of barbells designed for different purposes and exercises. Each type has unique features that cater to specific training needs. Here are some of the most common types:

Olympic Barbell: The standard barbell used in Olympic weightlifting, typically weighing 20 kg (44 lbs) for men and 15 kg (33 lbs) for women. Olympic barbells are designed to handle heavy loads and often feature rotating sleeves for smoother lifts.

Powerlifting Barbell: Similar to Olympic barbells but designed specifically for powerlifting competitions. These bars are typically stiffer and have a different knurling pattern to accommodate squats, bench presses, and deadlifts.

Trap Bar: Also known as a hex bar, this barbell allows lifters to stand inside the frame, promoting a more upright lifting posture and reducing strain on the back.

Safety Squat Bar: This bar features padded shoulders and handles, allowing for a more comfortable squat position, particularly for those with shoulder or wrist issues.

Cambered Bar: A barbell with a curved design that allows for deeper squats and different muscle engagement compared to traditional bars.

Curl Bar: Designed specifically for bicep curls, this bar allows for a comfortable grip and reduces strain on the wrists during lifting.

Ghost riding a barbell refers to the practice of allowing the barbell to roll off the lifter’s back or body during a lift, particularly in exercises like squats or bench presses. This action can occur when a lifter loses control of the barbell, often due to poor form, insufficient grip, or fatigue.

While the term may sound humorous, ghost riding can be dangerous and lead to injury if not done carefully. It typically happens when a lifter attempts to drop or transition the weight without maintaining control, potentially resulting in the barbell falling or rolling unexpectedly.

To prevent ghost riding, it is crucial to maintain proper form throughout the lift and engage the core and stabilizing muscles effectively. Lifters should also ensure they are using the appropriate weight for their fitness level to minimize the risk of losing control. Proper use of safety equipment, such as spotters or safety bars, is also recommended, especially when lifting heavy weights. Practicing good lifting techniques and being mindful of your body mechanics can help you avoid ghost riding and keep your workouts safe and effective.

Not all Olympic bars weigh 55 pounds, but many do. A standard men’s Olympic barbell is typically 7 feet long and weighs 20 kilograms (44 pounds). However, certain specialized bars, such as powerlifting bars or bars used for Olympic weightlifting competitions, may weigh 25 kilograms (55 pounds). Women’s Olympic bars are generally shorter, lighter (15 kg or 33 pounds), and have a smaller diameter for easier grip. When determining the weight of an Olympic bar, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure accuracy. Gym bars labeled “Olympic” might not adhere strictly to competition standards and could vary in weight.

Yes, you can bench press with a 7ft bar. A 7ft Olympic bar is the standard for bench pressing in most gyms and competitions due to its length, balance, and weight distribution. The longer bar provides more stability, especially when adding heavier weights. It typically fits standard bench press racks and ensures that your grip is wide enough for an effective press. The 7ft length is ideal for a variety of exercises beyond bench pressing, such as squats, deadlifts, and rows, making it a versatile option. However, it may feel cumbersome for smaller individuals or those with limited space.

Yes, you can bench press with a 6ft bar, but it depends on the bar’s diameter, sleeve length, and weight capacity. A 6ft bar can be suitable for bench pressing if it fits securely on your bench rack and can hold the required weight for your workout. However, a 6ft bar often has shorter sleeves than a 7ft bar, which limits how many weight plates you can add. This may be a drawback for advanced lifters. Additionally, some 6ft bars are designed for lighter exercises and might not support heavy weights. Check the specifications before use.

A 5ft barbell can be used for bench pressing, but it has limitations. These shorter bars are usually lighter, with a reduced weight capacity and shorter sleeves for plates. They are best suited for beginners, those working in small spaces, or people lifting light weights. A 5ft bar may not provide enough width for a comfortable grip or stability during heavy bench presses, particularly for taller individuals or advanced lifters. Most bench press racks are designed for 6ft or 7ft bars, so a 5ft bar might not fit securely on the rack.

A 5ft Olympic bar typically weighs between 25 and 35 pounds (11-16 kg). However, its exact weight depends on the brand and design. Unlike standard bars, Olympic bars are built to hold Olympic-sized plates and have rotating sleeves to reduce wrist strain during lifts. These bars are shorter and lighter than standard 7ft Olympic bars, making them more convenient for smaller spaces or lighter workouts. Always confirm the weight and load capacity with the manufacturer before use.

A 6ft Olympic bar generally weighs between 30 and 40 pounds (13-18 kg), depending on its design and manufacturer. Like a 7ft Olympic bar, it has rotating sleeves for smooth plate movement but is shorter, making it easier to handle in small spaces. The load capacity is usually less than that of a 7ft bar, so it’s more suitable for beginner to intermediate lifters. Before use, ensure the bar fits your equipment and is appropriate for your lifting goals.

A CAP 7ft barbell typically weighs 45 pounds (20 kilograms). CAP produces a range of barbells, including standard and Olympic versions, so double-check the product specifications. A 7ft bar is the standard length for many exercises, including bench presses, deadlifts, and squats. CAP barbells are popular for their affordability and durability, but their weight capacity and whip (flexibility) may vary, making them more suitable for general fitness than competitive lifting.

An EZ curl bar is worth it if you want to target your biceps and triceps while reducing strain on your wrists and elbows. The bar’s curved design provides a more natural grip, which can alleviate joint discomfort during curls, skull crushers, or triceps extensions. It’s a great addition for lifters focusing on arm development. While it’s less versatile than a straight bar, it can complement your routine by offering variety. However, if your budget or space is limited, consider whether its specific benefits align with your goals.

An Olympic barbell is worth it for most lifters due to its durability, versatility, and compatibility with Olympic-sized plates. Built to withstand heavy loads, Olympic bars are essential for serious strength training, powerlifting, or weightlifting. They feature rotating sleeves that reduce strain on your wrists, making them ideal for dynamic lifts like snatches or clean and jerks. While more expensive than standard barbells, their quality and longevity make them a solid investment. If you’re committed to weight training, an Olympic bar is a worthwhile addition to your gym setup.

In most gyms, the standard barbell used for exercises like bench presses, squats, and deadlifts weighs 45 pounds (20 kilograms). This applies to 7ft Olympic bars, which are the most common in commercial gyms. However, some specialty bars, such as women’s Olympic bars (33 pounds) or training bars (lighter than 45 pounds), may also be available. Always confirm the bar’s weight before lifting, especially in unfamiliar gyms, to ensure accurate load calculation.

The skinny barbell, often referred to as a “technique bar” or “training bar,” is primarily designed for beginners or those practicing form and technique. These bars are usually lighter than standard Olympic or powerlifting barbells, making them easier to handle while focusing on proper lifting mechanics. Skinny barbells are also useful for mobility work or warm-ups, as their reduced diameter makes them easier to grip. They are commonly used for exercises like curls, presses, or light squats. In some cases, the skinny barbell may be part of a specialty set, such as smaller-diameter bars for children or rehabilitation purposes.

The squiggly weight bar is called an EZ curl bar. Its signature curved design is tailored to reduce strain on the wrists and elbows during curling or triceps exercises. By offering multiple grip angles, the EZ curl bar allows lifters to choose the most comfortable hand position, making it a popular choice for bicep curls, reverse curls, and skull crushers. The ergonomic design also minimizes the risk of injury and improves joint comfort, especially for lifters with wrist issues. While it’s not as versatile as a straight barbell, the EZ curl bar is a great addition for arm-focused workouts.

The Swiss barbell, also called a multi-grip bar, is designed to provide multiple neutral grip options for a variety of exercises. This specialty bar is excellent for pressing movements like bench presses, shoulder presses, and triceps extensions. The neutral grip reduces strain on the shoulders and wrists, making it a good choice for those with joint issues or recovering from injuries. The Swiss bar is also commonly used for rows, curls, and even hammer grip pull-ups. Its versatility allows lifters to target muscles in different ways while minimizing stress on vulnerable joints.

The twisted barbell is typically referred to as an EZ curl bar due to its wavy or curved design. It is specifically shaped to accommodate a more natural grip position, which helps reduce wrist strain during exercises like bicep curls or triceps extensions. The “twisted” or angled grip positions make it easier to isolate specific muscles and perform exercises with greater comfort. This bar is especially beneficial for people who experience discomfort with traditional straight bars during arm-focused workouts.

The zig zag bar, also known as the EZ curl bar, is designed for exercises that target the arms, such as bicep curls, triceps extensions, and upright rows. The unique zig zag design provides multiple grip angles, allowing lifters to find a comfortable and joint-friendly hand position. This reduces strain on the wrists and elbows, making it a safer option for those prone to joint pain. The zig zag design also allows for better muscle isolation during arm exercises, contributing to improved strength and development.

For landmine exercises, a 7ft Olympic barbell is typically the best choice due to its length and weight distribution. The longer bar provides greater stability when placed in the landmine attachment, allowing for a wide range of exercises, such as landmine presses, rows, and squats. However, if space is limited, a 6ft bar can also work, as long as it fits securely in the landmine holder and is compatible with Olympic-sized plates. Avoid using shorter bars, such as 5ft barbells, as they may not offer sufficient leverage or balance for landmine movements.

The best bar for deadlifts is typically a 7ft Olympic bar, weighing 45 pounds and built to withstand heavy loads. For competitive powerlifters, a “deadlift bar” is often preferred. Deadlift bars are slightly longer and thinner than standard bars, with extra whip (flexibility) to assist with the lift. This design allows for greater bar flex at the start of the pull, making it easier to lift heavy weights off the ground. For general gym-goers, a standard 7ft barbell is ideal due to its versatility and compatibility with other lifts.

Olympic barbells are typically 7 feet long (2.2 meters). This length is standard for competition and training purposes because it accommodates a wide range of exercises, including squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, while offering enough length to fit on competition-standard squat racks and bench setups. Some shorter Olympic-style bars (6 feet or less) are also available, but these are usually designed for smaller spaces or for individuals who don’t need the full length. A true 7-foot Olympic bar weighs 20 kilograms (44 pounds) and features rotating sleeves to reduce torque on the wrists during lifts. These bars are highly versatile and are built to handle heavy loads, making them the go-to choice for powerlifting, weightlifting, and CrossFit training. Shorter variants are not considered regulation Olympic bars and might lack the sleeve rotation or standardized weight and diameter.

Bendy barbells, often called whip bars, are designed to flex and bend under heavy loads. This intentional flexibility helps athletes take advantage of the “whip” effect during dynamic movements, such as cleans, snatches, or squats. The bar’s bending allows lifters to generate momentum at the bottom of a lift, making transitions smoother and reducing strain on joints. These bars are most common in Olympic weightlifting and high-rep strength training.

Additionally, bendy bars can provide shock absorption, which makes them beneficial for athletes recovering from injuries. Some bendy barbells, like the Tsunami Bar, are specifically engineered with flexible materials to create more instability, forcing lifters to engage stabilizing muscles. This feature can improve balance, core strength, and overall stability during lifting. Overall, bendy barbells serve a mix of performance enhancement and injury prevention in strength and conditioning programs.

A cambered barbell has a curved design, which shifts the weight distribution lower than a standard bar. This design is primarily used for squats, good mornings, and other lower-body exercises. The curved shape allows lifters to maintain a more upright torso position, reducing strain on the shoulders and elbows while improving comfort during squats. It is particularly useful for individuals with limited shoulder mobility or those recovering from injuries.

The cambered barbell also challenges stability because the weight hangs slightly lower than a straight bar. This added instability forces lifters to engage more stabilizing muscles in the core and upper body, making it an excellent tool for building strength and balance. In powerlifting and strength training, cambered bars help lifters break through plateaus by varying the movement pattern and activating muscles in a slightly different way than traditional barbells.

A “fancy bar” is often referred to as a specialty barbell. These bars deviate from the traditional straight design of standard barbells to accommodate specific exercises or target unique muscle groups. Examples of fancy bars include the Swiss bar (multi-grip bar), which has multiple neutral hand positions to reduce stress on the shoulders during pressing exercises, and the safety squat bar, which has padded handles for added comfort during squats.

Other specialty bars like the trap bar (or hex bar) are used for deadlifts and shrugs while minimizing stress on the lower back. Specialty bars are called “fancy” because they add versatility to training routines and are often crafted with specific ergonomic or biomechanical benefits. They’re favored by athletes, powerlifters, and bodybuilders looking to address limitations, recover from injuries, or target muscles more precisely.

A log barbell, also called a log press bar, is specifically designed for strongman training and competitions. It has a thick, cylindrical shape and neutral grip handles embedded inside the log, making it ideal for overhead pressing and other pressing variations. The neutral grip reduces stress on the wrists and shoulders, making it safer for heavy lifting.

Log barbells are typically much larger and heavier than standard barbells, with hollow or solid log designs that simulate the traditional strongman task of lifting and pressing large, cumbersome objects. Training with a log barbell builds raw strength, coordination, and functional power. It also emphasizes the triceps, deltoids, and upper chest during pressing movements. This bar is a staple in strongman events like the log clean and press, where competitors lift the log from the floor to their shoulders and then press it overhead.

A tsunami barbell is a flexible bar made of composite materials designed to create oscillating forces during lifts. Unlike traditional barbells, it bends significantly when loaded with weights, creating instability that forces lifters to engage their stabilizing muscles more intensely. This instability targets core strength, balance, and joint stability while also challenging coordination.

Tsunami bars are often used in rehabilitation settings or to prevent injuries because the instability encourages safer, more controlled movements. They’re particularly effective for dynamic exercises like bench presses, squats, and overhead presses, as they require precise technique to maintain balance. Athletes also use tsunami bars to improve explosive power, as the oscillations can mimic the demands of real-world sports movements. The bar’s unique properties make it an innovative tool for building functional strength and improving overall athletic performance.

Special bar quality (SBQ) refers to the high-grade steel used in manufacturing specialty and Olympic barbells. This steel is engineered to withstand heavy loads, repeated impact, and bending without compromising durability or performance. Bars with special bar quality have high tensile strength, typically ranging from 150,000 to 230,000 PSI (pounds per square inch), which allows them to resist permanent deformation under extreme weights.

SBQ also includes features like precision knurling for grip, corrosion-resistant coatings (e.g., chrome or cerakote), and smooth, rotating sleeves with needle bearings or bushings. These qualities ensure that the bar performs consistently, whether used for powerlifting, Olympic lifting, or general strength training. Special bar quality is crucial for safety and reliability, particularly in competitive settings where bars are subject to intense usage and heavy weights.

Olympic barbells are designed for competition and are typically longer (7 feet), heavier (20 kg/44 lbs for men, 15 kg/33 lbs for women), and have rotating sleeves to reduce stress on the wrists during dynamic lifts. They also feature higher tensile strength to withstand heavy loads without bending permanently. Olympic bars are ideal for lifts like snatches, clean and jerks, and squats.

Regular barbells, often used in casual settings, are shorter (5-6 feet), lighter, and lack rotating sleeves. They are not designed to handle the same extreme weights and are better suited for basic lifts like bench presses or bicep curls. Additionally, regular bars often have less aggressive knurling and lower-quality steel, making them less durable. Olympic bars prioritize performance, durability, and precision, while regular bars focus on affordability and general fitness use.

An EZ bar is a shorter barbell with a zigzag shape designed for curling and tricep extension exercises. The ergonomic design provides a more natural wrist position compared to straight bars, reducing strain on the wrists and elbows during exercises like bicep curls, skull crushers, and upright rows.

The EZ bar’s angled grips make it particularly effective for isolating the biceps and triceps while minimizing discomfort or joint stress. It is also commonly used for lighter accessory lifts in strength training or bodybuilding routines. The bar typically weighs around 15-25 pounds, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of exercises. The EZ bar is an excellent option for lifters looking to build arm strength and muscle definition while maintaining joint health.

The first specialty barbell is often considered the cambered bar, developed to assist lifters with limited shoulder mobility. Its curved design made it easier for lifters to hold the bar during squats without straining their shoulders. Over time, specialty barbells have evolved into a wide variety of designs, each tailored to specific training goals or biomechanical needs.

The cambered bar likely originated from the early 20th century as strength training and powerlifting began to grow in popularity. It was followed by other specialty bars like the trap bar and the safety squat bar, which addressed additional challenges such as back and knee strain. These early specialty bars laid the foundation for today’s diverse range of innovative equipment, helping athletes and lifters train more effectively while reducing the risk of injury.