In addition to the usual models, there are more and more exotic variants of barbells. Maybe you want to give a new boost to your weight training; if training with dumbbells and long barbells is starting to feel a bit monotonous, you will find the different types of barbells and their uses.
Dumbbell bars are the most common barbell bar. There is usually a difference between 30 mm and 50 mm dumbbell bars. The millimeter indication refers to the diameter of the hole in the discs, thus limiting the discs with which you can train.
In the case of professional weight discs, these are almost always 50 mm weight discs. As a general rule, these have a much higher weight tolerance compared to 30 mm discs. In addition, they fit on those 50 mm weight bars, which are usually fitted with ball bearings. This is a great advantage when it comes to independent balancing. Thus, when performing dynamic weightlifting exercises, your wrists are not bent.
Another aspect to take into account is the high resistance to breakage of 50 mm weight bars. It is usually in the high 3-digit range. Therefore, the professional will sooner or later end up opting for the 50 mm bars.
On the other hand, barbell bars usually have a straight shape in their most classic version. In addition, consecutive bars are available in different lengths.
Long bars are available from 160 cm to 220 cm, and the length makes a difference. The longer the bar, the greater its weight. In addition, exercises performed with a more extended bar require greater coordination (think leverage) and usually have more space to place weight discs. In any case, a fan of this training should adjust the length of the barbell according to the area available in his training place to avoid collisions with televisions, pictures, or aquariums.
The width of the weight bench or bar support should also be considered. The bar mustn’t be too short. Long enough, in this case, means that both inlet sections for the weight discs must protrude beyond the bar support. Otherwise, it will be tough to load the bar. On the other hand, if the ends of the inlet sections are very close together, the bar should be somewhat shorter. Otherwise, when loading the bar, there is a risk that it will tip over.
Of course, straight bars are very versatile and are somewhat part of the essential equipment. But, anyway, these all-rounders are not as suitable for specific exercises as are the real specialists.
For example, the curl bar, or zig-zag bar, makes the position of the wrists oblique during the exercises. When you exceed 35 kg of weight with a straight bar while performing biceps curls, it is easy for the wrists to show discomfort. They may even crunch during repetitions. At that point, a curl bar is a solution. With it, you can lift more than 50 kg without any problems.
The difference is brutal. Only the posture of the wrists determines the performance you can give. If the pose is not correct, the account will not be proper either. A good thing is when the zig-zag bar has a slightly greater curvature. This also makes it possible to perform triceps presses lying down (also called “Nosebreakers”) or standing upright rowing. With a very curved curl bar, it is possible to perform biceps curls with a very narrow grip, such as a training challenge for even the most trained biceps.
Many barbells offer other options in addition to the main bar. For example, the so-called “triceps bars” are not only perfect for triceps training. Hammer curls (thumb pointing upwards, not to the side) or front raises and shoulder presses can also be performed flawlessly with these bars. Thus, the possibilities for weight training are virtually endless.
