Types of Barbells and Their Purpose

A barbell is a piece of equipment used as a grip for adding weights and performing various exercises. It is a steel rod of different lengths and diameters, designed for specific types of training. The basic barbell is a straight model, typically measuring 180 cm or 200 cm in length. This variant is ideal for exercises such as deadlifts, squats, and bench presses. A straight barbell with weights allows effective training of major muscle groups, such as the back, chest, and legs. Due to its design, it ensures stability during movements, which is crucial for training safety. Many straight barbells feature a knurled surface for a more secure grip. Another type is the curved barbell (EZ curl bar), designed to provide a more natural grip during exercises. It has a bend at a 30° or 45° angle, reducing strain on the wrists and elbows when lifting weights. Curved barbells are especially useful for bicep and tricep workouts, ensuring full muscle engagement. They can also be used for overhead presses, behind-the-head curls, or pulling the barbell towards the chest. Besides straight and curved models, there is also the Olympic barbell, which measures 220 cm in length. It is intended for intensive strength exercises such as snatches and clean and jerks. The classic straight Olympic barbell is more massive and durable than other models, allowing for training with very heavy loads. A specific variant is the Olympic EZ bar, which has a wavy design and is slightly shorter, adapting better to the natural grip position during lifts. Explore our range of barbells and choose the models best suited for the exercises performed by users at your gym.

Weight Plates – Essential Components for Barbells

To turn a barbell into a fully functional piece of gym equipment, it requires weight plates, commonly referred to as lifting plates. These plates are categorized into two main types based on the material used in their construction. The first type is rubber-coated weight plates, made from odorless material and equipped with stainless steel bushings for secure attachment to barbells. They are resistant to damage and help reduce noise when dropping the barbell. Rubber weight plates are also known as CrossFit bumpers since they are widely used in this type of training. Their weight ranges from a few kilograms to 25 kg. Among them, Olympic bumpers are available, compatible with 220 cm Olympic barbells. The second type is classic steel weight plates, which in our offer are coated with rubber to protect the floor from damage. These plates come in different weight variations. Olympic plates with a 50 mm hole diameter are available in weights ranging from 1.25 kg to 25 kg. Our offer also includes urethane-coated weight plates. Both urethane, steel, and rubber-coated plates in heavier variants have special grip holes, making them easier to hold during exercises and transport.

How to Assemble a Set of Weight Plates?

A complete set of weight plates should include plates of varying weights. This allows for gradual increases in training intensity as muscle strength develops. Ideally, a set should include Olympic weight plates of:

• 1.25 kg – 2 pcs,
• 2.5 kg – 2 pcs,
• 5 kg – 2 pcs,
• 10 kg – 2 pcs,
• 15 kg – 2 pcs,
• 20 kg – 2 pcs,
• 25 kg – 2 pcs.

For a home gym, one such set allows for a variety of exercises, both with and without a barbell. Meanwhile, a commercial gym should have multiple sets of weights. The number of sets should be adjusted to the size and nature of the facility, ensuring that clients can freely adjust their barbell loads even during peak hours.

Dumbbells – A Key Addition to the Free Weights Area

In addition to barbells, an essential element of any free weights area is dumbbells. They are suitable for strength training, rehabilitation, and fitness exercises requiring smaller weights. Dumbbells consist of a short bar that can be gripped with one hand and two fixed weights at the ends. Based on their design, they are divided into two main types. The first type is classic dumbbells, featuring standard round weights, often coated with rubber or neoprene. These are ideal for isolated chest and shoulder exercises. The second type is hexagonal dumbbells, which have a six-sided shape to prevent rolling on the floor. Our selection includes both classic and hexagonal dumbbells, ranging from 2.5 kg to 90 kg. We also offer ready-made sets, making it easier to equip free weights areas in both commercial and home gyms.

What Are the Benefits of Barbell Training?

Training with a barbell is highly effective for developing muscle mass, particularly in the chest, back, and arms. It also helps improve posture by strengthening stabilizing muscles and promoting fat reduction. Barbell exercises enhance endurance, strength, and overall physical fitness. Additionally, weight plates can also be used as standalone training accessories. Exercises with plates serve as a great supplement to strength training. Plates can be used for squats to strengthen the legs and glutes, lunges that engage lower body and stabilizing muscles, and upper body exercises like overhead presses, Russian twists, and farmer’s walks. This makes weight plates an excellent option for beginners starting their strength training journey.

How to Choose the Right Barbells and Weight Plates?

Barbells and weight plates should be selected based on the user’s experience level and the type of exercises they will be performing most often. A variety of equipment should be available to meet the needs of both beginners and professional athletes. For beginners, it is best to start with lightweight weight sets that facilitate learning proper technique. Curved (EZ) barbells are ideal in this case, as their ergonomic shape reduces joint strain, making them safer for those new to strength training. Advanced gym users will appreciate access to Olympic barbells and a wide range of weight plates, including steel and urethane-coated models. These allow for more demanding training programs, including deadlifts and heavy squats. A variety of plate weights enables smooth training progression. For gyms offering CrossFit classes, it is recommended to equip the facility with Olympic bumper plates, which are suitable for functional fitness workouts for both men and women. Barbells and weight plates are an essential part of any gym that aims to provide diverse training opportunities for building strength, improving fitness, and enhancing body composition. Our offer includes rubber, steel, and urethane-coated weight plates, as well as straight and curved barbells and a wide selection of dumbbells.