6ft Olympic Bars
A 6ft Olympic bar is not the same as many of the bars that you may have used in commercial gyms. Olympic bars compliant with IWF regulations are 7.2ft long for men and 6.6ft long for women. The Olympic 6ft bar is usually around 15kg and designed to take less weight, but can also be a great choice if space is an issue. Browse the full range below.
The Olympic 6ft bar is by definition shorter than the bars you may find in commercial or weightlifting gyms. The benefit of the 6ft Olympic weight bar is that it is suitable for lightweight reps, though it should be noted that it will offer less stability if you want to lift heavy weights. These bars are particularly good for isolation exercises like the bicep curl and triceps extension.
6ft Olympic barbells suit smaller workout spaces as they are shorter to store and use and are often used by beginners as they are easier to handle and a bit less intimidating than longer barbells. If you are short with small hands or have a weaker grip then this could be the barbell for you. They also usually work out cheaper than longer barbells.
The main disadvantage of the 6ft Olympic weight bar is that it will take less weight than a longer bar and it may not be length compliant with your rack, so do check all measurements. It will also not offer as much stability and if you want to perform deadlifts and squats then look for a longer barbell such as a 7ft Olympic barbell.
When choosing an Olympic 6ft bar, start by considering the intended use and the weight capacity you'll need. Check the knurling, as this will help you maintain a solid grip during lifts, and opt for a bar with a flexible whip, allowing it to bounce slightly at the end of a movement.
Pay attention to the quality of the steel composition and look for the quoted tensile strength – this indicates the bar's ability to handle heavy loads without breaking. Lastly, select a bar with a durable finish to prevent oxidation, and consider brands that offer a lifetime warranty for added peace of mind.
If you're looking for an alternative to a 6ft Olympic bar, perhaps if you're short on space, there are some alternatives. Free weights like like dumbbells and kettlebells can offer similar results, as can power bars. However, bear in mind that power bars are ideally better for heavy slower lifts like the bench press and deadlift.
If you're not sure what strength equipment is right for your needs, call us today and we will help you select the right 6ft Olympic bar for your needs. We can also offer advice on all aspects of gym design and installation, including PT and Pilates studio design as well as commercial and home gym design. Call us today!