A shorty barbell is a compact and versatile alternative to a standard Olympic barbell, making it an excellent choice for gyms. As more fitness enthusiasts look for space-saving solutions, the shorty barbell has gained popularity due to its ability to provide the same fundamental benefits as a full-length bar while requiring less room. Designed for effective strength training, it supports a variety of exercises, including squats, deadlifts, presses, and curls. This article explores the key aspects of the shorty barbell, including its specifications, benefits, and best exercises. Whether you’re setting up a small gym or seeking a practical training tool, understanding the advantages of a shorty barbell can help you maximize your workouts without compromising performance.
What is a Shorty Barbell?
A shorty barbell is a compact, space-efficient version of a standard Olympic barbell, typically measuring between 5 to 6 feet in length. Designed for gyms and training spaces with limited room, the shorty barbell offers the same essential weightlifting benefits as a full-length bar while providing enhanced maneuverability. Unlike traditional 7-foot Olympic bars, a shorty barbell is easier to store and handle, making it an excellent choice for lifters who prioritize efficiency.
There are two main types of shorty barbell: rackable and non-rackable. A rackable shorty barbell has a shaft length that allows it to fit into a standard squat rack, making it suitable for exercises like bench presses and squats. In contrast, a non-rackable shorty barbell has a shorter shaft and is more suited for exercises like curls and rows. While both types provide great versatility, the rackable shorty barbell is ideal for those who want the benefits of a full Olympic barbell without requiring as much space.
Short Barbell Weight Set: What You Need to Know
A short barbell weight set typically includes a shorty barbell along with compatible weight plates. These sets are designed and garage gyms where space is limited but strength training remains a priority. The total weight capacity of a shorty barbell depends on its construction, with some models capable of holding over 400 lbs of iron plates or 275 lbs of bumper plates. When purchasing a short barbell weight set, it’s essential to check the bar’s sleeve diameter to ensure compatibility with your existing plates. Standard Olympic shorty barbell sets use 2-inch sleeves, while some specialty short barbells may have 1-inch sleeves for standard plates.
Best Short Barbell: How to Choose the Right One
Finding the best short barbell depends on several factors, including weight capacity, knurling, and sleeve rotation. A high-quality shorty barbell should be made from durable steel, preferably with a tensile strength of at least 190K PSI, ensuring longevity and reliability. A Chrome finish can enhance durability, protecting against rust and wear. The best short barbell will also feature high-quality bushings or bearings in the sleeves, ensuring smooth rotation for Olympic-style lifts. For those looking for an all-around option, a rackable shorty barbell with moderate knurling provides the perfect balance of grip and comfort for compound movements.
Short Standard Barbell: Is It Right for You?
A short standard barbell differs from a shorty barbell in that it is often lighter, designed with a 1-inch sleeve diameter, and primarily used for general fitness rather than powerlifting or Olympic lifting. While a shorty barbell is built for compatibility with Olympic plates and offers greater durability, a short standard barbell is better suited for beginner lifters or those focusing on lighter, controlled movements. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to a shorty barbell, a short standard barbell can be an effective solution for casual workouts and small gym setups.
A shorty barbell is a versatile, space-saving tool that provides the benefits of a full-length Olympic bar without requiring excessive room. Whether you’re considering a short barbell weight set, searching for the best short barbell, or comparing it to a short standard barbell, choosing the right option depends on your training goals and available space. Investing in a high-quality short barbell weight can enhance your gym experience while maintaining the effectiveness of your workouts.
Shorty Barbell Weight and Specifications
When choosing a shorty barbell, understanding its weight and specifications is essential for determining how it fits into your training routine. While full-length Olympic barbells typically weigh 44–45 lbs (20 kg), a shorty barbell is designed to be lighter and more compact, making it ideal for gyms and limited spaces.
Shorty Barbell Weight
A shorty barbell usually weighs around 33 lbs (15 kg), though some models may be slightly lighter or heavier depending on the construction material and overall design. This weight makes it more manageable for a wider range of lifters, including beginners and those with limited training space. Despite its reduced length, a shorty barbell retains many of the functional benefits of a standard Olympic bar, including durability, knurling for grip, and compatibility with Olympic weight plates.
Short Olympic Bar Weight and Standard Olympic Bar
Compared to a traditional 45 lb Olympic bar, a shorty barbell is significantly lighter but still maintains a sturdy build. The key difference lies in the shaft length and weight distribution. While a standard Olympic barbell is around 86 inches (220 cm) long, a shorty barbell is generally 5 to 6 feet (60–74 inches or 152–188 cm) in length. This reduction in size makes it more maneuverable while still offering sufficient load capacity for various exercises.
Shorty Barbell Weight Capacity
Despite its smaller size, a shorty barbell is designed to handle substantial weight loads. Many models can support:
Up to 275 lbs (125 kg) when loaded with bumper plates
Over 400 lbs (180 kg) when using iron plates
The actual weight capacity of a shorty barbell depends on factors such as shaft diameter, steel tensile strength, and sleeve construction. High-quality shorty barbell models feature a 190K PSI steel rating, ensuring they can withstand heavy lifting without bending or warping.
A shorty barbell offers an excellent balance of lightweight construction and high weight capacity, making it a great choice for gyms, compact training areas, and lifters who need a versatile yet space-saving solution. Whether you’re performing Olympic-style lifts, powerlifting movements, or general strength training, a shorty barbell provides the durability and functionality needed for effective workouts.
Benefits of Using a Shorty Barbell
A shorty barbell is an excellent choice for gym enthusiasts, compact workout spaces, and lifters looking for a versatile yet space-saving bar. While it offers many of the same benefits as a full-length Olympic barbell, its smaller size makes it particularly advantageous for those with limited training areas. Below are some key benefits of using a shorty barbell in your workouts.
Space-Saving Design
One of the biggest advantages of a shorty barbell is its compact size. Traditional Olympic barbells are around 7 feet (220 cm) long, which can be difficult to maneuver in a small gym or garage. In contrast, a shorty barbell typically ranges from 5 to 6 feet (152–188 cm), making it significantly easier to store and use in tight spaces. Additionally, many shorter barbell weight models are rackable, meaning they can still fit into a standard power rack or squat rack, allowing for a full range of strength training exercises.
Versatility for Various Exercises
A shorty barbell can be used for a wide range of exercises, making it a valuable addition to any gym setup. Whether you’re performing deadlifts, squats, overhead presses, curls, or bench presses, a shorty barbell provides a stable and reliable training tool. Some models are rackable, meaning they can fit standard power racks or squat racks, further expanding their usability for strength training. Additionally, the slightly shorter length and lighter weight make a shorty barbell easier to handle, which can benefit beginners or those working on improving their form.
Cost-Effective Alternative
A shorty barbell is typically more affordable than a full-length Olympic bar. The smaller size and reduced materials used in manufacturing contribute to a lower price, making it an excellent budget-friendly option for lifters who don’t need the full 7-foot length. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced lifter looking for a secondary bar, a shorty barbell provides a high-quality yet cost-effective solution.
Ideal for Junior Athletes and Beginners
For younger athletes, beginners, or those with smaller frames, a short barbell offers a more manageable size and weight while still allowing for progressive strength training. The lighter weight (typically 33 lbs/15 kg) makes it easier to handle compared to a standard 45 lb bar, reducing the risk of injury and improving technique. Additionally, the shorter shaft length allows for better control and stability, making it a great introductory barbell for those new to strength training.
A shorty barbell is an excellent investment for anyone looking to optimize their training in a small space. Its space-saving design, versatility, affordability, and suitability for junior athletes make it an attractive option for gym owners and strength trainers alike. Whether you’re focusing on powerlifting, bodybuilding, or general fitness, incorporating a shorty barbell into your routine can enhance your workouts while keeping your training area organized and efficient.
FAQs about Shorty Barbell
A shorty barbell is a compact version of a standard Olympic or powerlifting barbell, typically measuring between 5 to 6 feet in length. Unlike full-sized barbells, which are usually 7 feet long, a shorty barbell provides a space-saving alternative while still allowing users to perform a wide range of strength-training exercises. These barbells are commonly used in gyms, small workout areas, and training environments where space is limited. Shorty barbells can be either rackable or non-rackable, with the rackable versions designed to fit on standard power racks. Despite their shorter length, these bars often maintain a similar sleeve diameter, meaning they are compatible with Olympic weight plates
The primary purpose of a short barbell is to offer the same functionality as a standard barbell while taking up less space. This makes them ideal for gyms where a full-length bar may be impractical. Shorty barbells allow users to perform essential lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and curls without requiring excessive room. They are also beneficial for beginners, junior athletes, or those working on technique, as their lighter weight makes them easier to control. Additionally, many shorty barbells are designed to support substantial weight loads, making them a practical option even for advanced lifters.
Shorter barbells go by various names depending on their design and intended use. The most common term is “shorty barbell,” which refers to compact Olympic-style bars. Other names include “short barbells,” “compact barbells,” and “training barbells.” Some specific types include:
EZ Curl Bar – A shorter, curved bar designed for arm workouts like bicep curls and triceps extensions.
Short Olympic Bar – A shortened version of a traditional Olympic bar, typically used in smaller gym setups.
Technique Bar – A lightweight short barbell designed for beginners or those focusing on lifting mechanics.
Each of these shorter barbells serves a unique purpose, catering to different training needs.
Yes, manufacturers produce a variety of shorter barbells to accommodate different training styles and space constraints. Shorty barbells are available in different lengths, such as 5-foot (60-inch) and 6-foot (72-inch) versions. Some brands also offer compact Olympic barbells with standard 2-inch sleeves for compatibility with Olympic weight plates. Additionally, there are specialty bars like the EZ curl bar, trap bar, and women’s Olympic bar, all of which are shorter than a standard 7-foot barbell. These shorter options allow users to perform a full range of exercises without the bulk of a full-sized bar, making them a popular choice for commercial gym settings.
Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.