If you’re new to the gym, you might be wondering what do barbells weigh. It’s a fundamental question, because the bar’s weight is a hidden part of your total lift.
Knowing this is key for tracking your progress and lifting safely. The answer isn’t as simple as one number, as barbells come in different types and standards.
What Do Barbells Weigh
This is the core question. A standard Olympic barbell, the kind you see in most gyms, is designed to weigh 20 kilograms, which is approximately 45 pounds. This is the men’s Olympic bar used for lifts like the bench press, squat, and deadlift.
However, that’s just the starting point. Many other bars exist, and their weight can vary based on the brand, material, and intended use.
Standard Barbell Types and Their Weights
Here’s a breakdown of the most common barbells you’ll encounter and what they typically weigh:
- Men’s Olympic Barbell (20kg / 45 lbs): The most common bar. It’s 7.2 feet long, has a 28mm shaft diameter, and features rotating sleeves to reduce torque during lifts.
- Women’s Olympic Barbell (15kg / 33 lbs): Slightly shorter and thinner (25mm shaft diameter) than the men’s bar. The knurling is also often placed differently to suit a smaller hand span.
- Training Barbell (15-20kg / 33-45 lbs): These are often found in commercial gyms. They might be lighter, like 35 lbs, and are built for durability over high performance.
- EZ Curl Bar (10-15kg / 22-33 lbs): The wavy bar used for bicep curls and tricep exercises. Their weight can vary significantly, so it’s best to check the end cap or your gym’s info.
- Trap/Hex Bar (25-30kg / 55-66 lbs): Used for deadlifts, this bar has a hexagonal shape you stand inside. It’s generally heavier than an Olympic bar.
How to Find the Weight of Your Specific Barbell
Don’t just assume. Follow these steps to be sure:
- Check the End Cap: Most quality bars have the weight stamped or engraved on the end of the sleeve.
- Ask Gym Staff: Your gym’s managers should know the equipment specifications.
- Consult the Manufacturer’s Website: If you know the brand, look up the exact model online.
- Weigh It: If all else fails, you can place each end of the bar on a separate scale and add the results, or use a dedicated bar scale.
Why Bar Weight Matters So Much
Accurately counting the bar’s weight is crucial for several reason. First, it ensures you’re actually lifting the weight you think you are, which is vital for following a structured program. If your program calls for a 185lb bench press, that’s 45lb bar plus 140lb in plates.
Second, it’s a major safety concern. Misjudging the load can lead to injury if you’re not prepared for the true weight. Finally, it allows for proper progression. You can’t accurately add 5 pounds next week if you don’t know your starting point today.
Understanding Plate Math and Total Weight
Once you know the bar’s weight, calculating the total is simple. Add the weight of all the plates on both sides to the weight of the bar itself. Remember that plates are usually marked in pounds or kilograms, so stay consistent.
For example, on a 45lb bar with one 45lb plate per side, the total is: 45 + 45 + 45 = 135 pounds. A common mistake is to forget the bar itself, which throws off all your calculations.
Specialty Bars and Odd Weights
Be extra careful with specialty bars. A deadlift bar might be longer and still weigh 20kg, while a thick “axle” bar for grip strength can weight over 30kg. Some cheap or old bars in home gyms can also be non-standard.
Always verify. Don’t let a suprise weight throw off your workout or, worse, cause a strain.
FAQ: Your Barbell Weight Questions Answered
Is every barbell 45 pounds?
No, this is a common misconception. While a men’s Olympic bar is 45 lbs, women’s bars, curl bars, and many others are not. Always check.
How much does an empty barbell weigh?
An empty Olympic barbell weighs 45 pounds (20kg). But again, “empty” just means without plates, the bar itself has its own significant weight.
Do all 7-foot bars weigh 45 pounds?
Most do, but not all. Some budget or multipurpose 7-foot bars might be 35 or 40 pounds. The length is a good clue, but not a guarantee.
How heavy is a squat bar?
A dedicated squat bar is often heavier and more rigid. It can weight between 25-30kg (55-66 lbs). Its important to ask or check before loading it up.
What if my gym’s bar isn’t marked?
Ask a staff member. If they don’t know, use the weighing method described earlier to be certain. It’s worth the effort for your training accuracy.
Does the bar weight count towards my lift?
Absolutely, yes. The total weight lifted included the bar and all plates. Anyone who tells you otherwise is giving bad advice.
Quick Reference Chart
Keep this simple guide in mind:
- Men’s Olympic Bar: 20kg / 45lbs
- Women’s Olympic Bar: 15kg / 33lbs
- EZ Curl Bar: ~11kg / ~25lbs (always verify)
- Trap/Hex Bar: ~25kg / ~55lbs
- Standard 1-inch Bar: Varies widely; often 10-15 lbs without plates.
Starting with a clear understanding of what do barbells weigh sets you up for success. It removes guesswork from your training and lets you focus on proper form and steady improvement. Take a moment to identify the bars in your gym next time you go—it’s one of the smartest first steps any lifter can take.