The bench press is one of the most commonly performed exercises in the gym. It is a powerful compound movement that targets multiple muscle groups, including the chest, shoulders, and triceps. However, in order to perform this exercise correctly, you need to have access to a proper bench press bar. And, one of the most common questions people have is, how much does a bench press bar weigh? In this article, we will discuss everything there is to know about the weight of a bench press bar.
First of all, it is essential to understand that there are different types of bench press bars. The most commonly used bars are the Olympic bars and standard bars. Olympic bars are typically found in commercial gyms and fitness centers, while standard bars are more commonly used in home gyms. Therefore, the weight of the bench press bar may vary based on the type of bar you are using.
How Much Does a Bench Press Bar Weigh?
An Olympic bar weighs around 45 pounds or 20 kilograms. However, some Olympic bars can weigh up to 55 pounds or 25 kilograms. It is also important to note that Olympic bars have a diameter of 2.2 inches or 28 millimeters, and their length ranges from 7 feet (2.13 meters) to 9 feet (2.74 meters). Furthermore, Olympic bars come with a rotating sleeve, which makes them suitable for performing exercises like powerlifting, Olympic lifting, and CrossFit.
On the other hand, standard bars are usually shorter and lighter than Olympic bars. They tend to weigh around 13-17 pounds or 6-8 kilograms, and their length is around 5-7 feet (1.52-2.13 meters). Standard bars have a diameter of approximately 1 inch or 25 millimeters, which may make them feel less sturdy than Olympic bars. However, they are still suitable for performing bench press exercises at home.
It is also important to consider the weight of the plates you are using while performing bench press exercises. The plates you use should match the weight of the bar you are lifting. For example, if you are using an Olympic bar, you should look for Olympic weight plates that have a diameter of 2 inches (50 millimeters), while for standard bars, you should use weight plates with a diameter of 1 inch (25 millimeters).
In conclusion, the weight of a bench press bar depends on the type of bar you are using. Olympic bars typically weigh around 45 pounds or 20 kilograms, while standard bars can weigh around 13-17 pounds or 6-8 kilograms. Therefore, it is essential to choose the right bar based on your fitness goals and the type of training you are doing. Additionally, it is crucial to match the weight of the plates you are using with the weight of the bar, to ensure proper form and prevent injuries. By understanding how much a bench press bar weighs, you can perform this exercise correctly and safely, and achieve the desired results in your fitness journey.