If you’re new to the gym, you might wonder how much does the bar of a barbell weigh. It’s a fundamental question, because that bar weight is part of your total lift. Knowing the answer prevents confusion and helps you track your progress accurately from day one.
Barbells aren’t all the same. The standard one you see on most gym floors is an Olympic barbell. But there are other types, and each has its own standard weight. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can load your plates with confidence.
How Much Does The Bar Of A Barbell Weigh
The most common barbell, the 7-foot Olympic barbell, weighs 45 pounds (20 kg). This is the standard in the United States and many other countries. So, when you load a 45-pound plate on each end, your total lift is 135 pounds.
Remember, this is for men’s Olympic bars. Women’s Olympic bars are typically 35 pounds (15 kg) and are slightly shorter and thinner in diameter. Always check with your gym if you’re unsure, as some brands can vary by a pound or two.
Standard Barbell Types and Their Weights
Not every barbell is an Olympic bar. Here’s a quick guide to the most common types you’ll encounter:
- Men’s Olympic Barbell: 7 feet long, 45 lbs (20 kg). Used for squats, bench press, deadlifts, and overhead press.
- Women’s Olympic Barbell: 6.5 feet long, 35 lbs (15 kg). Designed for a smaller hand grip.
- Training Bar: Often 35 lbs (15 kg) but built like a men’s bar. Great for beginners learning technique.
- EZ Curl Bar: Used for bicep curls and tricep exercises. Usually weighs between 15-25 pounds (7-11 kg).
- Trap/Hex Bar: Used for deadlifts. Weight varies widely from 45 to 70 pounds (20-32 kg). Always ask or check the label.
- Standard Barbell (1-inch diameter): Found in some home gyms. These often weigh just 10-20 pounds (5-9 kg) without plates.
Why Barbell Weight Matters
Knowing the bar’s weight is crucial for several reason. First, it ensures you are actually lifting the weight you intend to. If you think the bar is 45 pounds but it’s really 35, you’re lifting 10 pounds less than you planned.
Second, it’s essential for progressive overload—the practice of gradually increasing the stress on your muscles to make them grow. If you don’t know your starting point, you can’t accurately add weight each week.
Finally, it matters for safety. Understanding the total load helps you choose appropriate equipment and spotters.
How to Find Out Your Bar’s Weight
If a bar isn’t labeled, don’t guess. Here are a few simple ways to figure it out:
- Check for Labels: Look near the collar or the center of the bar. Many manufacturers stamp the weight there.
- Ask Gym Staff: They should know the equipment specifications.
- Use a Scale: The most accurate method. Simply weigh it.
- Compare to a Known Bar: If you know a nearby bar is 45 lbs, you can heft both to feel the difference.
Common Mistakes and Misconceptions
One big mistake is assuming all long bars are 45 pounds. As we’ve seen, women’s bars, training bars, and certain brands differ. Another error is forgetting to include the bar weight when adding up plates. Always do the math: (Plate weight x 2) + bar weight = total.
Some people also think the collars (the clips that hold plates on) add significant weight. Standard spring collars usualy weigh about 0.5 pounds each, so they’re often negligible for most lifters.
Specialty Bars and Their Weights
Beyond the basic bars, specialty bars have unique weights. Here’s what you might see:
- Safety Squat Bar: Has padded shoulders and cambered bends. Can weigh from 60 to 75 pounds (27-34 kg).
- Cambered Bar: Used for bench press and squats to change the leverage. Often around 45 pounds but can be heavier.
- Swiss/Multi-Grip Bar: Features multiple hand positions. Typically weighs between 35 and 45 pounds.
Because these weights are not standard, you must verify them before you start your workout. Don’t rely on assumption.
Tips for Beginners
Starting out? Here’s your simple action plan:
- Identify Your Bar: Before your first lift, confirm what kind of bar you’re using and its weight.
- Start Light: Focus on form with just the bar or very light plates. Master the movement first.
- Log Your Lifts: Write down the exercise, the bar weight, the plates, and the total. This keeps your tracking honest.
- Ask Questions: Gym staff and experienced lifters are usually happy to help. There’s no shame in asking.
FAQ Section
Is a barbell always 45 pounds?
No, it is not. While the men’s Olympic barbell is commonly 45 lbs, many other types exist with different weights. Always check.
How much does an Olympic bar weigh?
A men’s Olympic bar weighs 45 pounds (20 kg). A women’s Olympic bar weighs 35 pounds (15 kg).
How heavy is a curl bar?
An EZ curl bar typically weighs between 15 and 25 pounds. The exact weight should be marked on the bar itself.
Do you count the bar weight?
Yes, you always count the bar weight toward the total amount you are lifting. It’s part of the load.
How much does a squat bar weigh?
A standard Olympic bar used for squats is 45 lbs. A specialty safety squat bar can weigh 60 lbs or more.
What if my gym’s bar feels lighter?
It might be a training bar (often 35 lbs) or a different brand. Use a scale or ask a staff member to be certain.
Understanding barbell weight is a basic but powerful piece of gym knowledge. It takes the guesswork out of your training and sets you up for success. Now you can walk up to any rack, identify your bar, and load your weights with total confidence. Get ready to lift smart.