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The Ultimate Guide to Barbells: Everything You Need to Know Before Buying

When building your home gym or refining your weightlifting setup, barbells are the cornerstone of strength training. Understanding the different types, sizes, textures, and weights will help you make an informed choice. Let’s explore the best barbells and plates on the market, complete with purchasing links.



Types of Barbells and Their Uses

1. Standard Barbells

  • Size: Typically 5-6 feet long.

  • Weight: Around 15-20 lbs.

  • Best For: Beginners and light workouts.

  • Knurling: Minimal for a comfortable grip.


2. Olympic Barbells

  • Size: 7 feet long.

  • Weight: Standard men’s bar weighs 20 kg (44 lbs); women’s bar weighs 15 kg (33 lbs).

  • Best For: Powerlifting, Olympic lifts, and CrossFit.

  • Knurling: Deep and aggressive for a secure grip, with a center knurl on men’s bars for squats.


3. Specialty Barbells

  • Hex Trap Bars: Great for deadlifts without stressing the lower back.

  • EZ Curl Bars: Designed for bicep curls and tricep exercises.

  • Safety Squat Bars: For added shoulder and wrist support.


Women’s vs. Men’s Barbells

  • Diameter: Women’s bars are slimmer (25 mm vs. 28-29 mm) for a smaller grip.

  • Knurling: Women’s bars often lack center knurling to reduce discomfort.

  • Weight: Women’s bars are lighter (15 kg vs. 20 kg).


Barbells by Texture and Finish

  • Knurling: Aggressive knurling offers a firm grip for heavy lifts; medium knurling is better for general use.

  • Finishes: Chrome, black oxide, and stainless steel finishes impact durability and grip feel. Stainless steel offers the best rust resistance and grip.


Top-Rated Barbells

1. Rogue Ohio Bar

  • Details: Versatile bar with excellent knurling and durability.

  • Best For: Powerlifting and CrossFit.

  • Link to Buy: Rogue Ohio Bar


2. CAP OB-86B Olympic Barbell

  • Details: Budget-friendly, high-strength steel bar.

  • Best For: Home gym setups.

  • Link to Buy: CAP Barbell on Amazon


3. Bella Bar 2.0 by Rogue

  • Details: Designed specifically for women.

  • Best For: Versatility and Olympic lifts.

  • Link to Buy: Bella Bar 2.0


4. RitFit Bar


Weighted Plates vs. Bumper Plates

Weighted Plates

  • Material: Typically cast iron or steel.

  • Best For: General strength training.

  • Durability: Long-lasting but noisy when dropped.


Bumper Plates

  • Material: High-density rubber.

  • Best For: Olympic lifts, CrossFit, and workouts involving floor contact.

  • Durability: Protects floors and reduces noise.



Top-Rated Plates

1. Rogue Echo Bumper Plates

  • Details: Affordable and durable, perfect for home gyms.

  • Link to Buy: Rogue Echo Plates


2. CAP Barbell Cast Iron Plates

3. REP Fitness Black Bumper Plates

Key Considerations When Buying

  1. Intended Use: Choose a bar and plates tailored to your fitness goals.

  2. Durability: Opt for high-quality materials like stainless steel or high-density rubber.

  3. Budget: Balance cost with features. Premium options like Rogue offer long-term value, while CAP and REP cater to budget-conscious buyers.


Final Thoughts

A great barbell and plate set can transform your workouts and elevate your fitness game. Invest in quality equipment tailored to your needs and enjoy years of progress. Whether you’re a powerlifter, CrossFit enthusiast, or casual lifter, there’s a perfect barbell out there for you.


Shop Now and Build Your Dream Home Gym!

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© 2024 By Corey Tess 

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