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HOW MUCH DOES A BARBELL WEIGH?

Updated: 22 May 2024 

SIMPLE ANSWER IS 20KG BUT...

THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF BARBELLS

In the world of strength training, barbells are fundamental. They are the cornerstone strength training. This article delves into the world of barbells, exploring their types, standard sizes, and weights while answering frequently asked questions. 

 

There are so many variations of barbells including: cambered bars, curl barbells, duffalo barbell, hex barbell, log barbell, power bar, safety squat bar, standard bar, swiss, weightlifting bar and more.

WHAT IS A BARBELL?

A barbell is a long, straight metal bar used in weightlifting and powerlifting. Weight plates can be loaded on either end, secured with collars, to perform various exercises. Barbells are designed to improve strength, muscle mass, and endurance by targeting specific muscle groups through movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.

 

So why is it called a barbell? The term "barbell" comes from the combination of "bar," referring to the long metal bar, and "bell," historically used to describe the globular weights at the ends, resembling the shape of bells.

 

HOW MUCH EACH BARBELL TYPE WEIGHS

STANDARD GYM BARBELL:

The traditional barbell, often called an Olympic barbell, is about 2.1 metres (7ft) and weighs around 20 kg (45 lb). It is designed for a wide range of exercises and is a staple in Olympic weightlifting and the barbell your most likely to see in your average commercial gym.

HOW MUCH WEIGHT CAN YOU PUT ON THE BAR?

The amount of weight a barbell can safely hold varies by its type and construction. High-quality Olympic bars can typically handle loads up to 680 kilograms (1,500 pounds), while standard bars may have lower capacities.

CURL BARBELL:

Curl bars, with their distinctive W-shaped curve, are shorter and lighter than traditional barbells, typically weighing around 4.5 to 6.8 kg (10 to 15 lb). They are specifically for bicep and tricep exercises.

DUFFALO BARBELL: 

The Duffalo barbell has a slight curve to reduce shoulder strain during squats and bench presses. It weighs about 25 kg (55 lb), slightly more than a standard Olympic bar.

SWISS BARBELL:

Swiss bars feature multiple grip options and are used for pressing and rowing exercises. They generally weigh around 16 kg (35 lb).

POWER BARBELL:

Power bars, made for powerlifting, have a stiff design that minimises flex. They usually weigh 20 kg (45 lb), similar to traditional barbells.

SAFETY SQUAT BARBELL:

Safety squat bars have padded shoulder and arm supports and a unique shape that distributes weight differently. They weigh about 27 kg (60 lb).

CAMBERED BARBELL:

Cambered bars have a slight bend or arch to provide a greater range of motion. They typically weigh around 20 kg (45 lb).

WEIGHTLIFTING BARBELL:

Weightlifting bars, specifically designed for Olympic weightlifting, are more flexible. They weigh around 20 kg (45 lb) for men's bars and 15 kg (33 lb) for women's bars.

TRAP AND HEX BARBELL:

Trap bars, or hex bars, are hexagonal-shaped so that the lifter stands inside. They usually weigh between 20 and 27 kg (45 to 60 lb).

LOG BARBELL:

Log barbells are specialised for strongman training and competitions. They are heavier and bulkier, starting at around 34 kg (75 lb).

BARBELL FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are all gym bars 20kg?

No, not all gym bars weigh 20kg. The weight can vary depending on the type of barbell, with standard Olympic barbells typically weighing around 20kg, but other types like curl bars and training bars weighing less.

How much does a 6ft barbell weigh?

33lbThe stardard 6 foot bar (45-46 inch) weighs 15kg or 33lb

How much does a rogue barbell weigh?

Rogue offer a number of barbells, however the standard bars are generally 20kg. Be sure to check out their website and find the weight there.

What is the big bar called in the gym?

The 'big bar' that you are referring too is likely to be a 20kg standard barbell. Take a look at this article and check out all the different types of bars. They can vary by type and by brand.

How much does a barbell weigh in Australia?

There are so many different types of barbells. It's very likely you are talking about a standard barbell. Be sure to read through the article to see all the different types of barbells that all have different weights. 

Is the smith machine bar 20kg?

The smith machine bar can weigh anywhere between 2.5kg to 20kg. On the side of the smith machine it should say the weight of the bar. Keep in mind you can't really compare the weight is going to feel different on a barbell bench press vs. a smith machine bench press. Smith Machines are a great tool in your tool chest. 

What's better, curl bar or straight bar?

There isn't really a better barbell. The straight bar you can use either underhand or overhand grip. It's extra wide so that its easier to complete exercises that require more room such as bench press or squat. Curl bars are great for bicep curls or tricep extensions. With the curl bar, it allows you to grip the bar at different angles, allowing you to hit different heads in your muscles. Both a great tools in your toolset.

Is EZ bar easier?

The EZ bar is lighter than a standard barbell. I wouldn't decribe it as easier than any other barbell. They all have different uses are a great for different exercises. 

Are barbells better than dumbbells?

Barbells are gerat for strength development for movements like barbell bench press, squat and deadlift. Dumbells are great for open-chain freedom of movement style exercises. Realistically it comes down to the exercise and what you are trying to achieve.

Is dropping the barbell bad?

Generally, Barbells are quite durable and are made to be dropped without damage. If you are in a commerical gym, its good gym etiquette to not drop the barbell if you can help it. It's a good idea to have control over the bar, so they don't bounce and hit yourself or people around you.  If you plan to perform an exercise where you are likely to drop the weight, its recommended to drop the barbell on rubber mats or on the rubber in a weight lifting platform. There are a few types of barbell plates including standard iron plates, rubber plates and competition plates. 

How do you tell if a barbell is 15kg or 20kg?

Generally, the most common barbell is 20kg, however some training standard bars can be 15kg. There is no easy way to tell other than if the barbell is next to a standard barbell and you can compare or if its labeled by your gym. Typically tThe 15kg barbell is slightly shorter and also as shorter knurl grip pattern. 

What is the best size barbell for a woman?

There is a barbell that is called a "women's barbell" which is 15kg, however some women may choose to use the standard barbell, some may use womens bar. This will come down to preference.
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Adam B. / Director, Turtle Strength

Experience: 20+ years

Adam is passionate about powerlifting, strength training and digital. Started Turtle Strength to find the best possible product to meet the needs of training. 

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