When you walk into the gym and head toward the bench press, you might be thinking about the weight plates you’re going to add to the bar. But have you ever wondered how much the bar itself weighs? It might seem like a small detail, but knowing the weight of the bar on your bench press is actually essential for proper training and safety.
Whether you’re aiming for a new personal best or just trying to get a good workout in, understanding the specifics of the equipment you’re using is key to ensuring you’re lifting safely and effectively.
This article will clarify how much the bar on a bench press weighs, explain the different types of bars, and share some important factors that can affect their weight. We’ll also dive into how the type of bar you choose impacts your lifting experience, the cost of bench press bars, and the best bar for your needs. Let’s start by breaking down the standard weights of bench press bars.
Standard Bench Press Bar Weights:
What Does the Bar on a Bench Press Weigh?
When you first start lifting, the weight of the barbell might be an afterthought. However, knowing the weight of the bar you’re working with is just as important as tracking the amount of weight you’re adding in plates. There are several types of bench press bars commonly used in gyms, and each one has a different weight. Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of bars and their standard weights.
Olympic Barbell (Standard Bar)
The Olympic barbell is the most common bar found in most gyms and is often the standard for bench pressing. This bar weighs 45 pounds (20.4 kg). It’s designed to support a significant amount of weight, making it ideal for heavy lifts such as bench presses, deadlifts, and squats. The Olympic barbell typically has a 7-foot (2.13 meters) length, with a 28-29 mm diameter that provides a solid grip. It’s made of high-quality steel and is durable enough to withstand heavy loads and frequent use.
Women’s Olympic Barbell
The women’s Olympic barbell is a lighter version of the standard Olympic bar. It weighs 33 pounds (15 kg), making it suitable for those with smaller frames, beginners, or lifters who need a lighter starting point. The length of the women’s bar is often the same as the standard Olympic bar at 7 feet (2.13 meters), but the diameter is usually a little smaller, typically around 25 mm. This bar is especially useful in competitions where female athletes are lifting.
Non-Olympic (Standard) Barbell
If you’re lifting in a home gym or at a smaller fitness center, you might encounter non-Olympic barbells. These bars are typically lighter than Olympic bars and can weigh anywhere from 15 to 25 pounds (6.8 to 11.3 kg). These are ideal for general fitness and light-to-moderate lifting. Non-Olympic bars usually have a smaller diameter (around 25 mm) and are shorter in length, typically 5-6 feet long, which makes them easier to store and use in limited spaces. They are not designed for heavy powerlifting or Olympic lifting but are perfect for beginners or casual lifters.
Specialty Bars
Beyond the standard Olympic and non-Olympic bars, there are also specialty bars designed for specific purposes, such as safety bars, cambered bars, and trap bars. The weight of these bars varies widely but generally falls between 33 to 55 pounds (15 to 25 kg). These bars are usually used to reduce strain on certain parts of the body (such as the shoulders or wrists) or to target specific muscle groups. For example, a cambered bar has a slightly curved shape, which alters the angle of your arms and reduces shoulder stress during the bench press.
Other Important Weight Considerations
Bar Length and Diameter
While the weight of the bar is an important factor to know, there are other characteristics of the barbell that also play a role in its effectiveness. The length and diameter of the bar affect how it feels during lifts and whether or not it’s suitable for certain exercises.
- Length: Most Olympic bars are 7 feet (2.13 meters) in length. This length ensures that there is enough space for the plates to be loaded and for the lifter to have room to properly grip the barbell. Non-Olympic bars are generally shorter, typically ranging from 5 to 6 feet, making them a bit easier to handle in smaller spaces.
- Diameter: The diameter of the bar is another key factor that affects grip. Olympic bars have a standard diameter of 28 to 29 mm, which is ideal for a solid grip. Women’s Olympic bars are slightly thinner, with a diameter of 25 mm, making them easier for smaller hands to grip. The diameter of non-Olympic bars is usually smaller, and this can make it harder for lifters to maintain a solid grip during heavy lifts.
Load Capacity
The load capacity of the barbell is another crucial consideration. While the weight of the bar itself is important, it’s equally essential to ensure the bar can handle the amount of weight you intend to lift. Olympic bars are designed to carry a substantial load and can handle up to 1,500 pounds (680 kg). This makes them suitable for high-intensity powerlifting and Olympic lifts. Non-Olympic bars, on the other hand, typically have a lower load capacity, around 300 pounds (136 kg), and are best suited for moderate lifting.
Knurling and Grip
Another element that affects the weight and performance of a bench press bar is the knurling. The knurling refers to the textured pattern on the bar’s surface, which provides grip. The more aggressive the knurling, the better the grip, but it can also lead to hand discomfort if the grip is too rough. Powerlifting bars typically have more aggressive knurling, while Olympic bars have moderate knurling that provides a balance between comfort and grip. Non-Olympic bars usually have a lighter knurling, suitable for general fitness purposes.
How Much Does the Bar on a Bench Press Cost?
The Cost of a Bench Press Bar
When it comes to purchasing a bench press bar, the cost can vary significantly depending on the type of bar you’re looking for. Below is an overview of the price range for the most common types of bench press bars:
- Standard Olympic Bars: The cost of a standard Olympic barbell typically ranges from $100 to $300, depending on the brand, quality, and materials used. Higher-end brands, such as Rogue or Eleiko, will generally fall on the more expensive side, while lesser-known brands may be more budget-friendly.
- Women’s Olympic Bars: Women’s bars are usually priced between $150 and $250. These bars are designed specifically for female lifters and come with a slightly lighter weight and narrower diameter, which can be an essential factor in performance.
- Specialty Bars: Specialty bars, such as cambered or safety squat bars, can range from $200 to $500 or more. The price depends on the design and materials. For example, a trap bar for deadlifts may cost around $250.
- Budget Options: If you’re just starting and don’t want to spend too much, entry-level bars can be found for as low as $50. These are often non-Olympic, lighter bars, ideal for beginners who want to build basic strength and muscle.
Factors Affecting Price
The price of a bench press bar is affected by several factors:
- Brand: Well-established brands like Rogue, Eleiko, and Ivanko typically offer higher-quality, durable bars, which come with a higher price tag.
- Material: Bars made with higher-quality steel or with features like chrome or stainless steel coating will generally cost more.
- Features: Specialty bars with additional features like adjustable sleeves, specialized knurling, or unique designs for specific lifts will also command a higher price.
Comparison: Olympic vs. Standard vs. Specialty Bars
Comparing Different Types of Bench Press Bars
| Feature | Olympic Barbell | Standard Barbell | Specialty Barbell |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 45 lbs (20.4 kg) | 15–25 lbs (6.8–11.3 kg) | 33–55 lbs (15–25 kg) |
| Length | 7 ft (2.13 m) | 5–6 ft (1.52–1.83 m) | Varies |
| Diameter | 28–29 mm | 25 mm | Varies |
| Load Capacity | Up to 1,500 lbs (680 kg) | Up to 300 lbs (136 kg) | Varies |
| Ideal Use | Powerlifting, Olympic lifts | General fitness | Specific exercises (e.g., squats, safety lifts) |
Detailed Description
- Olympic Bars: Ideal for serious lifters, Olympic bars are the go-to for powerlifting, Olympic lifts, and heavy workouts. Their durability and ability to handle high weights make them perfect for anyone looking to push their limits in training.
- Standard Bars: These are better for those just starting or those with limited space or budgets. While they may not be suitable for very heavy lifts, they are great for general fitness and for performing exercises like curls, rows, and light bench presses.
- Specialty Bars: These bars are designed to minimize stress on the body while targeting specific muscle groups or exercises. They’re ideal for advanced lifters who want to improve their technique or for those with joint issues.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bench press bar depends on several factors, including your fitness goals, experience, and budget. Olympic bars are the best option for serious powerlifting or Olympic lifting, while non-Olympic bars are more suited to beginners or those with less intense lifting goals. Specialty bars offer unique benefits for targeting specific muscle groups or reducing joint strain.
No matter what type of bar you choose, it’s essential to consider its weight, cost, and specific features to ensure it aligns with your lifting needs. Always take time to assess your goals before purchasing a barbell to get the most out of your workouts.
Fun Facts
>>The first bench press was performed in the late 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1950s that it became a standard part of competitive weightlifting.
>>The world record for the bench press is held by Tommy Kono, who bench pressed 661 pounds (300 kg) in 1981.
>>Safety bars are designed to reduce shoulder strain and make the bench press a safer exercise by altering the angle of the lift.
>>The smallest Olympic bar is the Junior Olympic bar, weighing only 33 pounds (15 kg).