These attributes are not easy to spot unless you know what to look for, but they are crucial and determine a barbell’s application. You should keep in mind that, despite these differences, the sleeves remain consistent across barbells. They are all 2” and support a variety of different weight plates (iron, rubber coated, etc.). Weights are similar to barbells in that they vary in construction and materials, which has to do with the application. A 7ft barbell, also known as an Olympic barbell, is the standard size for barbells used in weightlifting competitions. It is typically made from steel or another durable metal and is 2.2 meters long and weighs 20kg. The sleeves on each end are 16.5 inches in length, which provides enough space to hold several weight plates. What is a 6ft Barbell?

Olympic bars are designed specifically for Olympic lifting, like the clean & jerk or snatch. They are designed to provide greater-than-average whip and fast-moving sleeves. Olympic weights are larger than standard weights and have a 2" diameter hole in the centre of the weight plate. Olympic weight plates come in the following sizes: 1.25kg, 2.5kg, 5kg, 10kg, 15kg, 20kg, 25kg 50kg. Olympic weights are better suited for intermediate/advanced strength trainers who are lifting heavier weights than the novice/beginner lifter. Olympic barbells are also stronger than standard barbells with a maximum weight load up to 750kg! Cast Iron Weights WPC Europe exclusively uses this barbell in their meets and it was recently used in WPC Worlds in Portugal 2021. Whip: Deadlift bars flex under a high load, so they are designed to generate high whip. This also creates a higher starting point, which reduces the range of motion. If you have limited space in your workout area, dumbbells are an efficient way to achieve the maximum outcomes from your home workout.Women’s bars measure 6.5 feet long and weigh 15kg (33 pounds) and have a 25mm diameter shaft. These are not as common as men’s bars even at your local gym, so inquire with staff if you require a smaller bar. Olympic Bars are longer and stronger than Standard Bars and are able to withstand a maximum weight load of up to 750kg. Olympic Weight Plates therefore come in heavier sizes with a 2” diameter hole in the centre of the plate. They are available from 1.25kg up to 50kg. Olympic Weights are better suited for intermediate/advanced strength trainer who are lifting heavier than the novice/beginner lifter. There are a number of different Weight Plates available, including Cast Iron, Bumper Grip and Rubber plates.

Ring markings: On the shaft are two smooth markings that indicate official positions for certain lifts. These will be 810mm apart. This is not important for basic lifting Weight: The weight of a barbell is a function of the materials from which it’s composed. The weight will impact how easily it can move as well as durability and strength. Most bars weigh 20kg (44lbs). We'll take a closer look at the differences between these two types of barbells to help you make an informed decision. What is a Barbell?Power: Designed for power lifting movements but suitable for general weightlifting. These have very aggressive knurling to ensure maximum grip. They have whip that varies from low (squat bar) to moderate (deadlift). On squat barbells, the biggest enhancements are the knurling and shaft diameter. In combination, these create a stiffer, more stable bar. Since some of these are specialized, you’re not likely to find them all at your local big-box gym. Most gyms will have multipurpose, Olympic and power bars (or just multipurpose barbells exclusively). That said, most will have safety bars and hex bars. Very few, and typically only private or specialty gyms, will have women's, deadlifting and squat bars - the latter are specialized bars that are expensive and require a certain skill to use. Knurling: The knurling on standard bars is similar to true weightlifting bars and is mildly aggressive. The ISF squat barbell features a 32MM shaft with aggressive knurling across the length of the bar shaft and very stiff steel. This bar was in the design process for many months. We tested many alloys looking for a steel that would not flex under heavy load, and we have brought to market one of the stiffest bars around, all while keeping everything at a budget friendly price.