If you’re setting up a home gym or just curious about equipment specs, one common question is: how long are olympic barbells? The standard length for these bars is a key detail for planning your space and ensuring compatibility.
While that 7-foot figure is the norm, there’s actually a bit more to the story. Different types of bars and different sports have their own specific standards. Knowing the exact dimensions can help you make the right choice and use the bar safely.
How Long Are Olympic Barbells
The most common Olympic barbell you’ll find in commercial gyms is the men’s weightlifting bar. Its standard length is 2.2 meters, which converts to approximately 7 feet, 2 inches. The portion you grip, known as the shaft, is 1.31 meters (about 51.5 inches) long.
Women’s Olympic weightlifting bars are slightly shorter. They measure 2.01 meters in total length, or roughly 6 feet, 7 inches. The shaft length is 1.31 meters, same as the men’s bar, but the overall bar is designed for a slightly narrower grip.
Why the Standard Length Matters
This standardized length isn’t arbitrary. It serves several important purposes in training and competition.
First, it ensures consistency in equipment across all levels of sport, from local meets to the Olympic Games. Athletes can train knowing the feel of the bar will be the same everywhere. The length also provides the necessary whip and flex for dynamic lifts like the snatch and clean & jerk.
For your home gym, the length determines the space you need. You must have enough room to safely lift and rerack the bar without hitting walls or other equipment. A 7-foot bar needs a rack with at least that much interior width.
Variations in Barbell Length
Not all Olympic barbells stick to the exact 7-foot standard. Several specialized bars are designed with different lengths to serve unique training purposes.
A “shorty” or compact barbell is a popular option for home gyms with low ceilings or limited space. These bars are often 5 or 6 feet long but still use Olympic-sized sleeves. They’re great for general strength training, though they lack the whip of a full-length bar.
Powerlifting bars are typically the full 7-foot, 2-inch length, but their construction is stiffer. They’re built to handle very heavy loads with minimal bend. On the other hand, deadlift bars are longer, usually around 8 feet 2 inches. This extra length allows for more whip, which can help you get the bar off the floor.
Common Specialty Bar Lengths
* Trap/Hex Bar: These vary widely, but a full-size trap bar is often similar in footprint to a 7-foot barbell.
* EZ Curl Bar: These are much shorter, typically ranging from 4 to 5 feet in total length.
* Tricep Bar: A straight, multi-grip bar usually around 4 feet long.
* Safety Squat Bar: These are cumbersome and often have a longer overall profile than a straight bar, sometimes exceeding 7.5 feet.
Key Dimensions Beyond Just Length
Understanding a barbell means looking at more than just it’s total length. Here are the other critical measurements:
* Sleeve Length: This is the part that holds the weight plates. Standard Olympic sleeve length is about 16.5 inches.
* Bar Diameter (Grip): The part you hold. Men’s bars are 28mm, while women’s bars are 25mm in diameter.
* Loadable Sleeve Length: This is the actual space for plates, usually around 10-12 inches.
* Weight Capacity: Rated by the manufacturer, often between 1,000 to 1,500+ pounds.
* Bar Weight: A men’s Olympic bar weighs 20kg (44 lbs). A women’s bar weighs 15kg (33 lbs).
How to Choose the Right Barbell Length for You
Selecting a barbell depends on your primary training goals and your available space. Follow these steps to make a smart choice.
1. Assess Your Primary Training. Are you focused on Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, or general fitness? This will point you toward a specific bar type.
2. Measure Your Space. Clear at least a foot on either end of the bar’s total length for safe movement and reracking.
3. Consider Your Budget. Higher-end bars with better steel and bearings cost more, but are worth it for serious training.
4. Check the Knurling. The pattern of rough markings affects grip. Decide if you want a more aggressive or passive feel.
5. Feel the Bar. If possible, try different bars to assess the whip, grip, and overall balance before buying.
For most people with adequate space, a standard 7-foot, 20kg Olympic barbell is the versatile workhorse that covers all the bases. It’s compatible with all Olympic plates and suitable for a wide range of exercises.
Caring for Your Olympic Barbell
Once you have your bar, proper maintenance is crucial for longevity. Always store it horizontally on a rack, not leaning against a wall, to prevent bending. Wipe it down with a dry cloth after each use to remove sweat and moisture.
For the sleeves and bushings/bearings, a light machine oil applied occasionally will keep the spin smooth. Avoid letting chalk build up in the knurling; use a stiff brush to clean it out regularly. Never drop the bar without weights on it, as this can damage the shaft and the floor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long is a standard Olympic bar?
A standard men’s Olympic weightlifting bar is 2.2 meters long, or about 7 feet 2 inches. A women’s bar is 2.01 meters, or roughly 6 feet 7 inches.
Are all 7-foot bars Olympic bars?
No. A bar can be 7 feet long but not be an “Olympic” bar. The key distinction is the sleeve diameter. Olympic bars have 2-inch sleeve ends to fit Olympic-style plates with 50mm holes. A “standard” bar has 1-inch sleeves.
What is the length of a Olympic barbell in feet?
As mentioned, it’s approximately 7.2 feet for men and 6.7 feet for women. Always check the manufacturer’s specs, as some powerlifting bars might be slightly different.
Can I use a shorter Olympic bar for squats and deadlifts?
Yes, you can. A shorter bar, like a 6-foot “shorty,” works fine for squats, deadlifts, presses, and rows. The main compromise is a slightly reduced loadable sleeve length, which may limit the total weight you can fit on the bar.
How much space do I need for a 7-foot barbell?
You should have at least 8 to 9 feet of clear width in your gym area. This allows you to safely lift and rerack the bar without any risk of hitting obstructions. Don’t forget to account for the plates on the ends, which add even more width.
Why are some barbells longer than 7 feet?
Specialized bars, like deadlift bars, are longer (often over 8 feet) to allow for more flex or “whip.” This whip can store elastic energy during a deadlift, potentially helping with the initial pull off the floor. It’s a feature specific to that lift’s demands.
Understanding the answer to “how long are olympic barbells” gives you the knowledge to equip your gym properly and train effectively. Always prioritize quality and the right specs for your goals over just finding the cheapest option available.