EZ bars have gained immense popularity in gyms around the world, becoming a go-to tool for weightlifters, especially when it comes to exercises targeting the arms. Whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or someone just beginning to build their strength, you’ve likely seen or used an EZ bar. But while they’re common, there’s one key question that often comes up: How much does an EZ bar weigh?
Knowing the weight of your EZ bar is essential, not just for tracking progress but also for safety. It can influence how you approach your workouts, ensuring you’re lifting appropriately for your goals and abilities.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about EZ bars—their types, their weight, and what factors influence the weight. You’ll also find a comparison table, pricing information, and tips on choosing the right EZ bar for your fitness needs.
What Is an EZ Bar?
An EZ bar is a type of cambered barbell, meaning it has a zig-zag shape rather than being straight. This unique design was specifically created to make exercises such as bicep curls and tricep extensions more comfortable by reducing the stress placed on the wrists and elbows. With the curved shape of the bar, your wrists are allowed to maintain a more natural, less strained position during curling movements.
EZ bars are an excellent tool for building arm strength, particularly for exercises that require a firm grip. By providing a more ergonomic grip compared to straight bars, the EZ bar helps reduce injury risks, making it a top choice for arm-focused training. Beyond the biceps, it can also be used for a variety of other exercises, including skull crushers, shoulder presses, and upright rows, proving its versatility.
Types of EZ Bars
Not all EZ bars are created equal. They come in different styles and sizes, each catering to different training needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of EZ bars available:
1. Standard EZ Bar
The standard EZ bar is typically the lightest and shortest of all the types. It features a 1-inch diameter shaft and is ideal for lighter weight training, commonly used in home gyms. These bars usually weigh between 10–15 lbs (4.5–6.8 kg), making them perfect for beginners or those looking to engage in less strenuous, low-weight workouts. They are a great starting point for anyone learning proper form.
2. Olympic EZ Bar
Olympic EZ bars are designed for heavy lifting and are much more durable than standard bars. They usually come with a 2-inch diameter shaft and a longer length, ranging from 47 to 55 inches. These bars are built to handle heavier loads, with the weight generally ranging from 20–25 lbs (9–11.3 kg). Because of their thicker shaft and larger loadable sleeves, Olympic EZ bars are commonly found in commercial gyms or professional fitness environments where the demand for heavy lifting is higher.
3. Rackable EZ Bar
Rackable EZ bars are similar to Olympic bars but are designed to be longer in order to fit easily into squat racks. This feature makes them particularly useful for powerlifting and strength training sessions, where ease of loading and unloading is a priority. These bars typically weigh between 25–35 lbs (11.3–15.9 kg), depending on their construction.
4. Super Curl Bar
Super curl bars are known for their more aggressive camber design, with deeper bends than the standard EZ bar. This allows for a more neutral wrist position during exercises like curls, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience discomfort or pain from the wrist angles in traditional barbell exercises. Super curl bars typically weigh between 17–20 lbs (7.7–9.1 kg) and are often used for more focused bicep and tricep training.
5. Fixed-Weight EZ Bar
Fixed-weight EZ bars are unique in that they come with an unchangeable set weight. This type of bar is ideal for beginners who do not want to deal with the hassle of loading and unloading plates. The weight of a fixed-weight EZ bar can vary widely, ranging anywhere from 10 lbs (4.5 kg) to 110 lbs (50 kg), depending on the model.
How Much Does an EZ Bar Weigh?
When it comes to the weight of an EZ bar, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The weight of an EZ bar depends on its type, length, and material. Below is a breakdown of how much the different types of EZ bars typically weigh:
- Standard EZ Bar: 10–15 lbs (4.5–6.8 kg)
- Olympic EZ Bar: 20–25 lbs (9–11.3 kg)
- Rackable EZ Bar: 25–35 lbs (11.3–15.9 kg)
- Super Curl Bar: 17–20 lbs (7.7–9.1 kg)
- Fixed-Weight EZ Bar: 10–110 lbs (4.5–50 kg)
Knowing the weight of the EZ bar you’re using is important because it helps ensure you’re lifting safely. If you’re aiming for heavier weightlifting, the Olympic EZ bar or rackable EZ bar is more appropriate. If you’re just getting started or working on lighter exercises, the standard or super curl bars may be better options.
EZ Bar Weight Comparison Table
To make the differences between the various types of EZ bars clearer, here’s a comprehensive comparison table:
| Type of EZ Bar | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kg) | Length (inches) | Shaft Diameter (inches) | Loadable Sleeves | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10–15 | 4.5–6.8 | 47 | 1 | No | Home gyms, light lifting |
| Olympic | 20–25 | 9–11.3 | 47–55 | 2 | Yes | Commercial gyms, heavy lifting |
| Rackable | 25–35 | 11.3–15.9 | 71–75 | 2 | Yes | Power racks, strength training |
| Super Curl | 17–20 | 7.7–9.1 | 47 | 1.5 | Yes | Bicep and tricep workouts |
| Fixed-Weight | 10–110 | 4.5–50 | 41–49 | 1.25–1.5 | No | Beginners, commercial use |
Basics of EZ Bar Weight
When choosing an EZ bar, understanding its weight and the specific type you need can make all the difference in achieving your fitness goals.
- Standard Bars: These are lightweight, making them ideal for beginners or for lighter training days when you focus on form rather than heavy lifting.
- Olympic Bars: These bars are designed for more serious lifting, with thicker shafts and larger sleeves that accommodate heavier plates.
- Rackable Bars: These bars are longer than standard EZ bars, making them easier to load onto squat racks, which is especially beneficial for strength training.
- Super Curl Bars: Their unique curvature is designed for arm exercises, allowing for better wrist alignment during curls and extensions.
- Fixed-Weight Bars: These bars are easy to use and require no extra plates, making them a convenient option for beginners or those who prefer simplicity in their workout setup.
Things That Influence EZ Bar Weight
Several factors can affect the weight of an EZ bar, including:
- Material: The type of steel used in the construction of the bar impacts its weight. High-quality steel bars are typically heavier and more durable.
- Length: Longer bars generally weigh more due to the increased amount of material used.
- Shaft Diameter: A thicker shaft can increase the weight, as it requires more steel to construct.
- Sleeve Design: Bars with Olympic-style sleeves, which contain bearings or bushings for smoother rotation, tend to be heavier.
- Finish: Some bars are coated with finishes such as chrome or zinc, which add a slight amount of weight but increase the durability and resistance to rust.
Why EZ Bar Weight Matters
Understanding the weight of your EZ bar is crucial for several reasons:
- Tracking Progress: As you progress in your fitness journey, knowing the weight of your EZ bar helps you monitor your lifting progress. Increasing the weight gradually is important for muscle growth.
- Safety: Using a bar that’s too heavy for you can lead to injury. Ensuring you’re lifting an appropriate weight helps you avoid strains or other injuries.
- Efficiency: Proper weight selection makes your workouts more efficient. Using the right bar weight helps maintain proper form and muscle engagement, which leads to better results.
- Equipment Compatibility: The weight of the EZ bar can also influence the type of weight plates you can use. Some plates may not fit on certain bars if the sleeves aren’t the right size.
How Much Does an EZ Bar Cost?
The price of an EZ bar varies depending on the type and material. Here’s a breakdown:
- Standard EZ Bar: Typically ranges from $30 to $60, depending on brand and quality.
- Olympic EZ Bar: These are priced between $100 and $300, with higher-end options costing even more.
- Rackable EZ Bar: Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $350 for these bars.
- Super Curl Bar: Prices generally range from $50 to $150, depending on quality and design.
- Fixed-Weight EZ Bar: These can cost between $100 and $1,000+, depending on the weight capacity and brand.
Standard Dimensions of an EZ Bar
The dimensions of EZ bars vary by type, but here are some general guidelines:
- Length: The length of an EZ bar generally ranges from 47 to 75 inches, with longer bars being used in commercial settings.
- Shaft Diameter: Shaft diameters typically range from 1 to 2 inches, with Olympic EZ bars being thicker for durability and heavy lifting.
- Sleeve Length: Olympic-style sleeves are typically between 6 and 10 inches long, allowing for larger weight plates.
Conclusion
Choosing the right EZ bar for your fitness goals is essential for achieving the best results. Whether you’re just getting started with weightlifting or you’re a seasoned lifter, understanding the weight and type of EZ bar you use will help you plan your workouts more effectively. From light workouts to heavy lifting, knowing the different types of EZ bars and their respective weights ensures you get the most out of your gym sessions.
Fun Facts About EZ Bars
- The EZ bar was specifically designed to reduce wrist strain during bicep curls.
- EZ bars are excellent for arm exercises but can also be used for shoulder, chest, and back routines.
- Many high-end commercial gyms use Olympic EZ bars due to their durability and load capacity.
- EZ bars come in various designs to target different muscle groups more effectively.