CrossFit and Weightlifting Training Bars

Choose the suitable weightlifting bar is one of the most important decisions you will make if you train CrossFit or olympic lifting. Not all bars are the same: the type of steel, knurling, bearings and weight make the difference between a durable tool and one that deforms after a few months.

In this guide we look at what you should consider before buying a bar and show you the best bar options. Rusterthe sponsor of this article, recognized for the quality of its bars designed for high performance. In addition, we add alternatives available on Amazonto compare and find the option that best fits your budget and training level.

How do you know if a weightlifting barbell is good?

To make the right choice, check at least these characteristics:

• Bearings or bushings: impact the rotation of the bar, which is important for Olympic movements.
• Material and strength (PSI, steel): must withstand heavy loads without deforming or breaking.
• Knurling: the type (fine, medium, aggressive), whether it has a central knurling, etc.
• Coating: chrome, zinc, black coating ("cerakote"), anti-corrosion coatings if used in humid environments.

With this in mind, most of us we train as a hobby. My recommendation is that even if there are top of the range bars of 500€ you can make your training just as comfortable with the one that does not reach 200€.with the difference you can purchase another piece for your gym.

Types of CrossFit Bars

From 20 kg

The 20 kg bars are the standard for men's competition. With a diameter of 28 mm and a double knurling that ensures a firm and secure gripThe new, high quality, high strength and elasticity products offer the ideal balance between stiffness and elasticity.

They are versatile: they can be used both in olympic weightlifting as in powerlifting or training of CrossFit (WODs).

From 15 kg

The 15 kg bars are designed for women's competitions, with a diameter of 25 mmThe handle is made of a soft, soft and flexible material, which makes it easy to grip even in smaller hands. They incorporate a smoother knurlingdesigned to offer comfort without losing traction.

As with the 20 kg, they are suitable for olympic liftingsessions of CrossFit and work of functional strength.

Technical bar

Although it is the lightest, the technical bar has a special place in weightlifting and CrossFit equipment.

It is mainly used in the CrossFit boxes for beginners to learn the technique of Olympic movements without carrying too much weight. Unlike the pike, this barbell is made with the same precision, materials and finish as competition barsThe new product is a very similar feeling in the hands.

With an approximate weight of 10 kgrepresents the perfect transition between the pike and the official bars of the 15 or 20 kg. It is an ideal tool for perfecting technique, gaining confidence and avoiding postural vices from the beginning.

If you train at home and have already mastered the standard barbell, it's probably not a priority purchase. However, it is still an excellent option for those looking to improve techniqueThe use of a reduced load on recovery days, working on mobility or training with a reduced load on recovery days.

Maintenance of CrossFit bars

We are used to treat the bars badly, many times without even knowing that we do it badly. Because it's the most common thing, what we see in the box, what we see in our athletes of reference...

Recommendations to ensure that the rods last for many years

Essential accessories for your weightlifting barbell

Buying a barbell is only the first step. To train properly safe, efficient and keep your bar in good condition.you will need some basic accessories:

Bar fasteners

Essential to keep the discs fixed in place.

• They prevent weights from slipping and falling during a lift.
• They protect both the disks as the bearings of the bar against unbalanced impacts.
• They are a matter of securitywithout fasteners, an uncontrolled movement can cause the bar to lose load on one side and cause injury.

Types of closures

• Metal clamps (collars): made of high quality metal with chrome finish. They are the simplest and most economical option.
• Nylon Lockmade of nylon and resistant resin, with secure locking system and quick opening to change discs in seconds.

Another inexpensive option on Amazon, they are made of harder ABS plastic.

Cleaning brush bars

The regular maintenance The bar's design prolongs its service life and maintains the knurling's grip.

• Quick cleaning in seconds, eliminating magnesium and sweat residues.
• Helps to prevent oxidation.
• Maintains a constant grip in every training session.

This brush is specifically designed to clean the hard chrome finish bars, designed for protect the bar surface without causing damageThe efficient and safe surface rust, dust, magnesium and dirt accumulated after intensive use sessions

This is a cheaper version on Amazon

Landing pads for bar release (Landing pads)

If you train at home, these mats are a highly recommended accessory:

• They protect the floor and reduce noise when the bar is dropped.
• Avoid damage to the disks and in the bearings.
• Made of high density foam with a very resistant PVC cover.

A smaller version on Amazon.

Frequently Asked Questions