How Much Does an Olympic Bar Weigh

April 27, 2024
Posted by RitKeep Fitness
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Usually, it's simple to determine the weight of various gym equipment by just approaching them. Dumbbells and plate weights typically have clear markings, making it unnecessary to ask someone or use a scale to ascertain their weight accurately.

Regrettably, determining the precise weight of barbells, especially Olympic-sized ones, is not as straightforward. This task becomes even more challenging when considering the variety of barbells capable of accommodating Olympic-sized plates.

Today, let's delve into the most prevalent Olympic barbell weights. Armed with this knowledge, the next time you aim for a maximum effort, you'll have a clear understanding of how much your new personal record weighs!

Common Olympic Barbell Weights

When it comes to Olympic barbells, their weights share many similarities. The majority of these barbells weigh 45 pounds for men and 35 pounds for women. Alternatively, if the weights are measured in kilograms, they typically weigh 20 kilograms (approximately 44 pounds) for men and 15 kilograms (approximately 33 pounds) for women.

FYI: RitKeep PMAX-4750 Smith Machine Applies the Standard Olympic Barbell

When entering a gym and selecting a bar to load in the squat rack or smith machine, you can generally rely on visual cues. If the bar appears thicker and longer, it's likely one of the standard men's weights (45 pounds). Conversely, if it seems thinner and shorter, it's probably one of the standard women's weights (35 pounds).

General Purpose Olympic Barbell Weight

If barbells are being discussed without any specific features mentioned, it's likely referring to general-purpose Olympic barbells, commonly known as "standard Olympic bars." These bars have Olympic-sized dimensions and can handle Olympic-sized plates, but they aren't specialized for any particular fitness discipline or activity.

Typically, general-purpose barbells are more budget-friendly and versatile, suitable for various training programs and exercises. They may or may not have features like a center knurling or knurl rings. The knurling itself is usually designed to be neutral, ensuring a comfortable grip for all lifters.

If you're starting your home gym without a specific training program in mind, a general-purpose Olympic barbell is an excellent choice for your first bar. These barbells weigh the same as other standard Olympic-sized bars (RitKeep PMAX-4750 also features standard Olympic-sized bars).

Olympic Weightlifting Barbell Weight

Olympic weightlifting barbells are meticulously designed to support the requirements of competitive weightlifters and individuals keen on mastering movements like the snatch, clean and jerk, and associated exercises.

Contrary to standard Olympic barbells, Olympic weightlifting barbells typically feature bearings in each sleeve. These bearings facilitate a quicker spin, aiding lifters in managing the fast-moving barbell during lifts. Additionally, these barbells are equipped with dual knurl rings to assist lifters in positioning their hands correctly for the snatch movement.

Numerous Olympic weightlifting bars receive approval from the International Weightlifting Federation, permitting their use in sanctioned competitions. Regardless of official authorization, these bars typically adhere to standard weights of either 45 or 35 pounds.

Powerlifting Barbell Weight

Powerlifting barbells, commonly referred to as "power bars," are specifically designed for movements such as bench presses, squats, and deadlifts. They feature a center knurling along the length of the bar, enhancing grip during squats, and are equipped with bushings near the sleeves to ensure smooth and controlled barbell rotation.

Powerlifting demands lifting heavier weights than many other sports, so power bars are designed with a higher weight capacity compared to standard Olympic barbells. This is due to their superior tensile strength rating, which ensures durability and reduces the risk of breakage when handling heavy loads.

The knurling on power bars tends to be more aggressive or rougher compared to other Olympic bars. Similar to standard Olympic barbells, powerlifting bars weigh 45 pounds for men and 35 pounds for women (20 kilograms and 15 kilograms, respectively).

Safety Squat Bar Weight

A Safety Squat Bar falls under the category of "specialty" barbells, unlike standard barbells. However, similar to other bars mentioned here, it can still handle Olympic weight plates. These specialized pieces of equipment are exclusively utilized in training sessions and are not authorized for use in weightlifting or powerlifting competitions.

Unlike shorter and lighter barbells, Safety Squat bars can weigh up to 80 lbs and are longer than smaller Olympic bars.

The appearance of a Safety Squat bar differs significantly from other barbells. It features a padded groove that rests around the lifter's neck and shoulders, providing balance. The lifter holds the bar in place using two handles extending from this groove during their workout. This distinctive design enhances the lifter's overall range of motion and allows them to achieve a deeper squat position.

Frequently Asked Questions

As we've observed, barbells vary in weight. Consequently, you may have some further inquiries regarding the weight of Olympic barbells.

How much does a hex bar weigh?

Hex bars exhibit a significant range of weights, with some lighter ones weighing around 30 pounds and some of the heavier ones nearing 70 pounds. While the hex bar might not be as prevalent as other equipment, if you opt to incorporate it into your training regimen, you might need to physically weigh it to determine its precise weight.

How much does a smith bar weigh?

Understanding the weight of a Smith machine bar might seem straightforward, but it's not that simple. Actually there is no standardized weight for a Smith machine barbell, generally as it can range from 6 to 45+ lb. If you are looking to find a smith machine with standard olympic barbell, have a visit to our PMAX-4750.

How should I choose a barbell?

When choosing a barbell, your intended use and goals should be your top priorities. If you're focused on powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting and plan to dedicate considerable time and effort to these pursuits, select a barbell that aligns with these objectives. However, if you don't have specific goals or purposes in mind, a general-purpose Olympic barbell is a versatile option to consider.

Should I trust that my barbell weighs the standard 45 (or 35) pounds?

There will always be some variation among barbells, and it's uncommon to find one that precisely weighs 45 pounds. Nevertheless, barbell manufacturers typically adhere to stringent manufacturing standards, ensuring that your barbell matches the advertised weight accurately.

An Olympic Barbell Doesn't Weigh THAT Much ... So Get Lifting!

As you embark on your weight training journey, you may find that a 35 or 45-pound barbell can feel challenging, particularly during certain exercises. However, the weight shouldn't be daunting enough to discourage you from using barbells or from engaging in training overall.

Understanding the weight of your barbell offers crucial insights into the total load you're lifting in your workouts. This knowledge aids in selecting the right resistance levels for various exercises and facilitates tracking your progress more effectively.

With all the necessary information at your disposal to determine your weights and resistance levels, it's now time to load your barbell—whether it's a power bar, Safety Squat bar, or a general-purpose Olympic barbell—and start lifting!

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