When it comes to barbells, the options can seem overwhelming. From Olympic barbells to stainless steel powerlifting bars, it can be hard to know where to start.
It’s important to use the correct type of barbell for different exercises such as deadlifts, landmines, squats, and bench presses.
That’s why I’ve created the ultimate guide to the 9 best barbell for home gyms in 2023.
But this isn’t just a simple list of products – I’ve gone in-depth with each option to ensure you make the right choice for your needs.
Stick around and I’ll walk you through it. Trust me, after reading this guide, you’ll be on your way to achieving your fitness goals in no time!
9 Best Barbells for Home Gym in 2023:
1. Best Barbell Overall: American Barbell Training BarBarbells
2. Best Budget Barbell: RitFit Olympic Barbell
3. Best Barbell for Competition: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar
4. Best Barbell for HIIT Workout: REP Fitness Colorado Bar
5. Best Barbell for Beginners: Force USA Pro Series Barbell
6. Best Multi-purpose Barbell: Gunner Barbell
7. Best Barbell for CrossFit: Rogue Fitness Ohio Power Bar
8. Best Barbell for Women: Rogue Fitness Black Zinc Bella Bar 2.0
9. Best Olympic Hex Barbell: Titan Fitness Olympic Hex Barbell
Different Types of Barbells
There are various types of barbells available, including the powerlifting barbell, Olympic weightlifting barbell, CrossFit barbell, and general-purpose barbell.
This comprehensive article covers them all, ensuring you have all the information you need.
- Powerlifting barbells: Designed for powerlifters and strength athletes looking to lift heavy weights. They’re typically made of steel and have a thick, rigid shaft to reduce whip while adding stability.
- Olympic weightlifting barbells: Used by Olympic athletes for competitions. They’re usually made from stainless steel with knurling across the shaft that provides a secure grip.
- CrossFit barbells: Designed for more intense workouts, such as the clean and jerk or snatch. They’re usually shorter than regular barbells, with a two-inch sleeve to allow quick changes between weights.
- General-purpose barbells: Ideal for beginner lifters looking for a versatile, all-around gym tool. These are usually lighter and shorter than powerlifting or Olympic barbells, making them easier to handle.
Key Considerations in Barbell Selection
With so many barbells out in the market, it may be hard to choose the best one for you. Before we get into the nitty-gritty of the top 9 barbells, let’s take a look at some key considerations in selecting one:
- Price: Your budget is always an important factor to consider when buying anything. Barbells come in a range of prices from budget options ($200) to high-end ones ($800) meant for professional gyms.
- Weight and Durability: Barbells can range from 20 lbs to well over 200 lbs, so decide how heavy you need your barbell to be. Additionally, pay attention to how durable it is – stainless steel bars are top of the line when it comes to strength and longevity.
- Knurling: The knurling on a barbell is the pattern of grooves that allows you to grip it comfortably for certain exercises. Some bars will have more aggressive knurling than others, so consider your preferences and needs when selecting one.
- Whip: The whip describes how a barbell bends under load – some bars are designed with more flexibility and ‘whip’ for Olympic weightlifting movements, while others are stiffer for powerlifting exercises.
Now that you know what to look out for, let’s jump into the list!
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The 9 Best Barbells for Home Gyms in 2023
1. Best Barbell Overall: American Barbell Training Bar
Overview
American Barbell Training Bar is an Olympic training bar that’s versatile, durable, and easy to work with.
This robust bar is crafted from sturdy alloy steel and boasts a hard chrome finish that effectively resists wear and tear. It is available in two different weights, catering to both men and women.
The grip on this Olympic bar is just right and the knurl pattern is truly impressive. Moreover, this bar is resistant to corrosion, which is an essential feature for any piece of workout equipment.
Key Features
- Application: Olympic Weightlifting, Weightlifting, Competition
- Bushing System
- Center knurl: No
- Shaft: Hard Chrome Coating
- Sleeve: Precision Ground Steel with a Hard Chrome Coating
- IWF Specification
- Made in USA
- Warranty: Limited Warranty
Pros
- Designed for both Men and Women
- Corrosive Resistance with the application of hard chrome coating
- The barbell has dual knurling and rotating sleeves to facilitate dynamic lifts.
Cons
- Not suitable for powerlifting
- Limited Warranty (10 years)
Pricing
$395.99
2. Best Budget Barbell: RitFit Olympic Barbell
Overview
Looking for a reliable Olympic barbell that can handle all your lifts? Look no further than the RitFit Olympic Weightlifting Bar.
This barbell weighs 44 pounds and can hold up to 1000 pounds, making it perfect for powerlifting and Olympic pulls. Its steel shaft is incredibly strong and durable, while the chrome-coated sleeves require minimal maintenance and provide excellent spin.
The knurling is just right for a comfortable grip, giving you the confidence you need to perform your lifts with ease.
Key Features
- 3 levels to choose from (novice 500 lb, advanced 700 lb, Elite 1000 lb)
- Bar Weight: 20kg
- Tensile strength: 3 levels 50k psi, 80k psi, 140k psi
- Knurl: Medium Knurling
- Purpose: General lift to Olympic lifts
Pros
- Suitable for general-purpose to powerlifter use
- Low price for novice barbell
- The surface of the object has a medium knurling that provides a grip without being abrasive.
- Needle bearings provide a smooth spinning
Cons
- Medium Knurling may not be suitable for heavy powerlifting
Pricing
Range from $145.99 for 500 lb, $179.99 for 700 lb, and $199.99 for 1000 lb
Bottom Line
Whether you’re pumping iron at a CrossFit gym, home gym, or garage setup, the RitFit Olympic barbell is your best bet. Deadlift bars, who? This baby can handle it all, whether you’re an elite athlete or a beginner just testing the waters. So grab this barbell and let’s get lifting!
3. Best Barbell for Competition: Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar
Overview
Are you looking for a top-tier weightlifting bar for competition and serious lifting?
Check out the Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar. Made in Sweden and IWF certified, this bar offers precision engineering, high-quality materials, needle bearings, refined knurling, and re-engineered sleeve construction for optimal performance and stability.
Although it comes with a premium price tag, it is backed by a 12-year warranty and is known for exceptional durability. Get ready to feel like a powerhouse in the gym!
Key Features
- Bar weight: 20kg
- Tensile strength: 210,000
- Knurl: medium
- Rotation system: Needles bearing
- Purpose: Traning for Weightlifting competition
- IWF certified
Pros
- IWF certified
- Good Spin
- Needling bearing for smooth performance
- 12-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive over $1000
- Sharp Knurling means intense workouts
Pricing
$1100+
Bottom Line
Whether you’re an elite athlete or a serious lifter, the Eleiko IWF Weightlifting Training Bar is the perfect choice. Its top-tier construction and IWF certification ensures that you get the best barbell available on the market.
So go ahead, invest in your lifting career, and get your new Eleiko weightlifting bar.
4. Best Barbell for HIIT Workout: REP Fitness Colorado Bar
Overview
I’ve discovered the game-changing Colorado Bar from REP.
Available in 20kg and 15kg variants, it has a durable hard chrome finish, ultra-durable Duracoat sleeves, composite bushings for smooth rotation, and premium endcaps.
It’s versatile enough for all workouts and has dual knurl markings for IPF and IWF placement. Named after Colorado, it embodies strength and resilience.
Get the best Olympic, power, or competition-ready bar – get the Colorado Bar from REP.
Key Features
- Available in 20 kg and 15 kg
- Tensile strength: 190k psi
- Knurl: medium
- Composite bushing
- Dual Knurl Marks: Dual (IPF & IWF) to help with hand placement
- Purpose: Various workouts, from cross-training to powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting
- 6 different colors
Pros
- Composite bushings can effectively enhance smooth rotation and reduce noise levels during descent.
- Great knurling for grip
- Durable Duracoat sleeve for a high level of corrosive and wear resistance
- Different colors
Cons
- No center knurling
Pricing
$329.99
Bottom Line
The REP Fitness Colorado Bar is the perfect barbell for HIIT workouts. This bar offers a great combination of strength, grip, and durability – all at an affordable price!
Get ready to hit your goals with this amazing barbell from REP Fitness. Now it’s time to get lifting!
5. Best Barbell for Beginners: Force USA Pro Series Barbell
Overview
Introducing the Force USA Pro Series Barbell – powerful gym equipment suitable for both beginners and experienced lifters. With premium features like dual knurl marks, 190k PSI tensile strength, bronze bushings, and a smooth spin, it’s a must-have for Olympic lifts or powerlifting. Its adaptable design and corrosion-resistant coating make it a top choice for any home or commercial gym.
Key Features
- Available in 20kg
- Tensile strength: 190k psi
- Knurl: Standard
- Bronze bushing
- Dual Knurl Marks: IPF/IWF For both Olympic and Powerlifting
- Purpose: Various workouts, from cross-training to powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting
Pros
- Lifetime Structural Warranty
Cons
- No center Knurling
Pricing
$279.99
Bottom Line
Force USA Pro Series Barbell is a great option for both beginners and experienced lifters. It has all the features needed to perform Olympic lifts or powerlifting – dual knurl marks, 190k psi tensile strength, bronze bushing, etc.
It is a great choice for any home gym! Get ready to hit your fitness goals with this barbell.
6. Best Multi-purpose Barbell: Gunner Barbell
Overview
Looking for a multi-purpose barbell suitable for moderate to experienced lifting?
The Gunner Barbell is your answer! With a weight capacity of 1,500 lbs. and a tensile strength of 235,000 PSI, this Olympic barbell is designed to last.
Its Black Zinc finish is resistant to rust, making it a reliable choice over time. This barbell also has a 28mm shaft that conforms to IPF/IWF specifications, offering a secure grip during all your preferred exercises, such as weightlifting and powerlifting.
If you value style as much as function, you should definitely opt for the stainless steel version. We assure you that the Gunner Barbell is the ideal tool for achieving your fitness objectives effectively.
Key Features
- Available in 20kg
- Tensile strength: 235k psi
- Knurl: Standard
- Stainless steel bushing
- Dual Knurl Marks: IPF/IWF For both Olympic and Powerlifting
- Purpose: Multipurpose/Allrounder
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty
- 5x Bearings: To facilitate seamless lifting, each side is equipped with a set of five bearings on each sleeve.
Cons
- The barbell might not be suitable for powerlifters as the knurling is not cut very deep.
- No center knurling
Pricing
$269.99
Bottom Line
The Gunner Barbell is a versatile, high-quality barbell that excels in Olympic and powerlifting exercises. With a remarkable tensile strength of 235,000 psi, it can effortlessly endure heavy loads without compromising performance. Additionally, its stainless steel construction not only ensures durability but also adds a touch of elegance.
Prepare to conquer your fitness aspirations with this dependable and stylish barbell.
7. Best Barbell for CrossFit: Rogue Fitness Ohio Power Bar
Overview
So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect Olympic barbell – look no further than the Ohio power bar from Rogue!
Trust me, I know a thing or two about weightlifting, and this barbell is the real deal.
With a 200,000 PSI strength shaft and chrome sleeves, this barbell is built to last and will have you crushing your lifts like a champ. And let’s not forget about the sleek stainless steel version – it’s a beauty.
Sure, it may have some cosmetic marks, but they won’t affect its performance. With a secure grip and smooth spin, this barbell is perfect for both Olympic lifts and powerlifting. And the best part? It’s backed by Rogue’s lifetime warranty, so you can trust that this is the best Olympic barbell for you. Trust me, you won’t regret adding the Ohio power bar to your home gym – it’s a game-changer.
Key Features
- Available in 20kg
- Tensile strength: 200k psi
- Knurl: Standard
- Stainless steel bushing
- Dual Knurl Marks: IPF/IWF For both Olympic and Powerlifting
- Purpose: Multipurpose
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty
- Made in USA
- Dual Knurl Mark
- 200k PSI
Cons
- No Center Knurling
- Not IWF qualified
Pricing
$370
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a barbell for CrossFit, I highly recommend the Rogue Ohio Bar. This power bar is perfect for Olympic lifts and Powerlifting, and it comes with a lifetime warranty. It offers a secure grip, smooth spin, and the right balance of flexibility and stability. It’s versatile and ideal for any workout.
Trust me, the Ohio Power Bar from Rogue is the best choice for Olympic barbells – you won’t regret it!
8. Best Barbell for Women: Rogue Fitness Black Zinc Bella Bar 2.0
Overview
The Rogue Fitness Bella Bar 2.0 is a versatile barbell designed for women’s weightlifting, weighing in at 15kg.
Despite its “women’s bar” label, it offers a slim grip that is ideal for athletes who prefer it. The knurl marks are not too intense, which makes it easy to grip with the help of chalk.
The bar is available in various finishes such as E-coat, black zinc, and stainless steel, catering to different styles. The bar has a tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, making it an excellent choice for any athlete.
Key Features
- Available in 15kg
- Tensile strength: 190k psi
- Knurl: Standard
- 22mm Diameter
- Dual Knurl Marks: IPF/IWF For both Olympic and Powerlifting
- Purpose: Multipurpose
Pros
- Good Whip
- Made in USA
- Dual Knurl mark
- 190k PSI
Cons
- No center knurl
- Knurl may not be aggressive for some individual
- Black Zinc coating may fade away in wear and tear
Pricing
$235
Bottom Line
The Rouge Fitness Black Zinc Bella Bar 2.0 is a great bar for women, with a tensile strength of 190k and a dual knurl mark. It’s gentle on hands when used with chalk, making it an excellent choice for weightlifters of all levels.
All in all, the Bella Bar 2.0 is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a slim, reliable Olympic barbell in their home gym or CrossFit box.
9. Best Olympic Hex Barbell: Titan Fitness Olympic Hex Barbell
Overview
Introducing the Olympic Hex Weight Bar. This bar is perfect for Olympic lifting or upgrading your workouts.
With its unique dual-handle design and medium-knurled neutral handles, you can target specific muscles and confidently lift up to 500 lbs.
The raised handles provide an optimal starting position for exercises like deadlifts, bent-over rows, and squat jumps. Plus, the flip design makes it easy to switch up your grip.
Key Features
- Available in 20kg
- Maximum weight capacity: 500 lbs
- Knurl: Medium Diamond Texture
- 22mm Diameter
- Purpose: Multipurpose
Pros
- Easy design to switch grips
- Affordable price
Cons
- 1-year warranty
- Only fits two standard Olympic plates
- No knurl on the lower handle
Pricing
$159.99
Bottom Line
The Titan Fitness Olympic Hex Barbell is a great bar for all types of exercises. The dual handles make it easy to switch up your grip, and the raised handles provide an optimal starting position. With its maximum weight capacity of 500 lbs, this bar is perfect for building muscle mass and strength efficiently.
Barbell Maintenance
I’m excited to share some valuable tips with you today on how to properly maintain your Olympic bar.
Let’s face it, we’ve all invested a lot of time and money into our workouts and equipment, and we want to ensure a long-lasting performance from our bars. That’s where barbell maintenance comes in.
- Proper Cleaning: You want to keep that bar looking and feeling brand new, and that means proper cleaning and lubrication.
- Regular Inspection: You should also inspect your bar regularly for any signs of wear and tear.
- Proper Storage: Proper storage is also key in preventing rust and damage.
- Proper usage: Make sure you use the right barbell for the correct exercise
Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way. Remember, regular maintenance and care will not only save you money in the long run, but it will also ensure safe and effective workouts. So don’t forget, show your bar some love and it will reward you with some serious gains.
Safety Tips When Handling a Barbell
I want to talk about something that’s often overlooked in the gym: barbell safety.
We all know how important it is to push ourselves to lift heavier weights, but we also need to make sure we’re doing it in a safe and controlled manner.
So, let’s start with the basics.
First and foremost, always check the bar before starting your lift. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear, and if you’re not sure, don’t risk it.
Once you’re sure the bar is safe to use, make sure you’re gripping it securely and using collars to keep the weights in place.
Don’t forget to warm up properly before exercising. Your body will thank you.
As you start lifting, remember to maintain good form and control your movements. And if you’re lifting heavy weights, don’t be afraid to ask for a spotter.
Using a power rack can also help minimize any risks, and you should never use a barbell without one.
Lastly, know your limits and give your body time to rest between sets. With these tips in mind, we can all continue pushing ourselves to reach new heights on the power bars and Olympic bars!
Conclusion
An Olympic barbell is an excellent option for weightlifting enthusiasts. A powerlifting bar is a wise investment for those who are serious about lifting as it is designed to handle heavier loads.
For home gyms, it is advisable to purchase a multi-purpose barbell. The Force USA Pro Series Barbell is a great option for beginners, while the American Barbell Training Bar is perfect for advanced powerlifters. A quality barbell is a valuable investment for both new and experienced lifters.
By following my tips and choosing the right equipment, you’ll be well on your way to lifting like a pro.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced lifter, investing in a quality barbell is one of the best decisions you can make for your home gym.
FAQ
What’s the standard barbell size?
The standard size for a barbell is 7 feet long and weighs 45 pounds.
What kind of barbell should I buy?
It depends on the types of exercises you plan to do. If you’re primarily focused on powerlifting, I recommend investing in a power bar. If you’re looking for a multi-purpose option, consider purchasing an Olympic barbell.
Is it worth buying a barbell for home?
Absolutely! A barbell is an excellent investment for any home gym. It can be used for powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and CrossFit workouts. Plus, a quality barbell will last for many years and make your workouts much more enjoyable.
What are the different types of bars?
The two main types of bars are Olympic barbells and power bars. Olympic barbells are generally thinner and have rotating sleeves, while power bars are thicker with no rotating sleeves. Both types of bars offer different benefits for different types of workouts.
How much does a good barbell cost?
The price of a barbell will vary depending on quality and features. You can find quality Olympic and power barbells for anywhere from $200 to $600.
Can I use a barbell in my garage gym?
Yes, you can! A barbell is the perfect addition to any home gym. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced lifter, having a quality barbell is essential for getting the most out of your workouts.
Are all barbells suitable for powerlifting?
No, not all barbells are suitable for powerlifting. Power bars are the best option for powerlifting as they are thicker and provide more stability when lifting heavier weights. However, you can also use a regular Olympic barbell if it meets your needs. Just make sure to research the specifications before making any purchasing decisions.
Can you use an Olympic barbell for CrossFit?
Yes, Olympic barbells can be used for CrossFit workouts. Their thinner diameter and rotating sleeves make them ideal for performing complex movements such as snatches and cleans. However, if you plan on doing a lot of Olympic lifting with your barbell, then you may want to invest in an Olympic specialty bar.
How often should I clean my barbell?
It’s important to keep a barbell clean and free of sweat, dirt, and grime. You should aim to clean your barbell at least once a month with a mild soap and water solution. Additionally, you may want to apply some lubricant or oil periodically to help prevent rusting.
