If you’re new to working out, you might be wondering, “how much does a barbell weigh?” What are you actually lifting when you throw some plates onto the barbell and start bench pressing? At a typical gym where the bars for bench and squats are the same, you’re starting out with 45 pounds – this is how much a normal gym barbell weighs. So, when adding plates to do your exercises, be sure to account for this. You’ll know just how strong you are and where you need to improve.
Here is a quick guide on some other common bar weights:
- EZ Bar – 15 pounds
- Adjustable Dumbbell (without weight) – 5 pounds
- Trap Bar – Varies – Around 50 – 75 pounds
- Bar on Smith Machine – 15 pounds
How Much Does the Bar Weigh?
EZ Bar Weight
As mentioned, and EZ Bar typically weighs 15 pounds. You’ll mainly use this bar for different types of curls. A benefit of using this bar is that you’ll have less strain on your wrists because you’re holding the bar at a slight angle. This distributes the stress of the weight throughout your arm more-so than when using a dumbbell. You can also alter your grip to work different parts of your biceps, which is a nice addition to utilizing and an EZ bar in your workout routine. Give it a try if you’re looking for some variation or if curls are hurting your wrists/elbows.
Adjustable Dumbbells Weight
This varies based upon the type of adjustable dumbbells you are utilizing, but I’ll the empty weight is generally around 5 pounds. Whether you have a fancier set like the Core Fitness adjustable dumbbells or BowFlex SelectTech 552s, or a less expensive set like the Yes4All dumbbells, you will generally be starting with a 5 pound minimum per dumbbells. These a great for home gyms and you typically won’t see them at your regular fitness center, as these places will usually have a full dumbbell rack or two.
How Much Does a Barbell Weigh? – Trap/Hex Bar Weight
Depending on the make and model, a trap bar usually weighs between 50 and 75 pounds. This HulkFit Olympic Trap Bar weighs between 45 and 77 pounds depending on which variation you choose (regular is 45 pounds and open back is 77). While this CAP trap bar weighs 52 pounds, so it really depends on what you’ll be using it for, how much you plan on lifting (pay attention to the weight limits), and really what your personal preferences are. If you need to know this information at your gym, there will definitely be an employee that knows the answer. And if you are adding a trap bar to your home gym, then just make sure you know what you’ll be needing it for.
How Much Does a Barbell Weigh? – Smith Machine Bar Weight
Most people don’t have a Smith Machine in their home gym, so this is basically an informational section for those who use planet fitness or other gyms that have these types of machines. It’s useful to know that since there are safety measures build into a Smith Machine, such as resistance lines and stoppers if you fall, that means the weigh of the main bar is adjusted. It may look like a typical barbell, but when you are, for example, using the Smith Machine for squats, the bar alone is only adding 15 pounds to your routine, not 45. Make sure you know this going into your next workout!
Final:
This was meant to be a nice, fun, and short informational article for those interested in learning more about exercising. If you are just beginning your workout journey, then it’s nice to know exactly how much you’re lifting. Not only with this help you be in control of your program, but it will also guide you to a safer workout routine. You will be able to plan ahead, know how much weight to use, and be careful of injury when having more information.
Chances are if you googled “how much does a barbell weigh?” then you’re interested in gaining a better understanding of your workout routine. Now you can workout with safety and more information than in your last time at the gym. Know how much you are lifting, and decide which bars will help you do the best and push you towards your goals.