Why are Barbells Important in Strength Training?

Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or just getting into strength training, barbells should be part of your lifting kit. There’s a reason that you see so many people of all fitness abilities using barbells regularly in their training. Your gym equipment can help you reach your goals effectively and safely. Let’s talk about why barbells are important in strength training. 

In this article: 

 
• What is a Barbell?
• 5 Benefits of Barbell Training for All Abilities 
• Why You Need High-Quality Barbells 

A barbell is a metal bar that you can load weight plates on. It’s a two-handed weight bar that you can use for exercise like:

• Deadlifts
• Weighted squats 
• Hip thrusts 
• Bench press
• Bent over rows 

There are different types of barbells; the most common types are:

• Olympic barbell - this is a straight bar that weighs about 20kg. You can load it with weight plates and perform heavy weightlifting exercises. 

• EZ or curl barbell -  this bar has a curly appearance and is used for bicep curls and mainly for upper arm exercises. 

• Cardio bar - the light bar weighs around 9kg and is usually a fixed weight. You would use these in group fitness classes for interval training and improving endurance. 

Although the term barbell is used to describe several different types of bars, we will be talking about the traditional Olympic barbell. This is likely the one you will come across at the gym when lifting weights. An Olympic barbell has a specific diameter, so you need to purchase Olympic weight plates to make sure everything matches up. 

If you’re new to lifting weights, it’s a good idea to start slow. There’s no need to lift barbells every training session. With weight training, it’s important that you have the correct form to perform an exercise in the safest way possible. Here are five of the top benefits of barbell training for all fitness abilities. 

Barbells save time in the sense that you can target multiple muscle groups with one movement. For example, squats and deadlifts use several muscle groups at the same time. So, instead of working out different muscle groups, you can challenge multiple areas in one workout. By working the entire body, you save time. 

When you lift heavy weights, you’re relying on equipment to support the weight without bending. The benefit of a barbell is that you can lift heavy weights with control. When the weight plates are loaded on the bar correctly, they should be a fixed weight. 

Versatility in exercise is vital for motivation. When you do the same workouts again and again, it can get boring. Barbells allow you to perform different movements and activities. It’s a versatile piece of equipment that offers various physical benefits. 

Weightlifting can improve the way your muscles work together. Strength training can improve athletic performance in several ways. In addition to increasing strength, barbell training can also improve balance and coordination. 

Although it may be an obvious benefit, it’s an important one to mention. Lifting weights can increase strength and build muscle mass. You can control the weight plates you load onto the bar, meaning you can increase your strength gradually over time. 

When buying barbells, it’s vital that you opt for high-quality materials. If you are repeatedly dropping weights, you want a bar that will last and handle everything you can throw at it. Safety is key when lifting weights, so it’s essential that you purchase a barbell that can take the weight. Other features to look out for include:

• Maintenance - high-quality bars are very durable and designed for repeated use.
• Storage - think about how you still store the bar and how compatible it is with squat racks. 

Barbells are a crucial part of strength training. They can help you to target multiple muscle groups in one movement. By investing in a high-quality barbell, you can support your body and invest in a product that will last even when you repeatedly drop it to the floor.