How Much Does a Barbell Weigh and Why Does it Matter?

Jamey Powell, NASM-CPT, 200-Hour RYT, is a Brooklyn-based writer with nearly a decade of experience covering a broad range of fitness and lifestyle topics. When she’s not exercising or writing, you can catch her producing indie films, crocheting, and playing video games. 

This article was reviewed by Ashley Boyer, ACE-CPT, for accuracy.

Way back at the beginning of my strength-training journey, I was instructed by a coach to use a barbell without plates. For a moment I was, frankly, insulted. I remember thinking: You think I can't move weight? The nerve! But as soon as I grabbed hold of the bar, I realized how silly that thought was. Of course the thick metal bar weighed something—after all, barbells are typically five to seven feet long, and are made from durable steel. But how much does a barbell weigh on its own? 

It turns out the standard barbell weight is actually 20kg (44lbs), which is pretty significant. If you've ever wondered if all barbells weigh the same, or how to pick the right bar for your lifting goals, you've come to the right place. Read on to learn more and explore a few of the best barbells REP has to offer.

What is a barbell, anyway?

Barbells are long metal bars that are used for lifting weighted plates. There are a few different types of barbells out there, and they're all geared toward different types of lifting. Powerlifting bars, for example, are often used for slower lifts, like the bench press, squat, and deadlift. 

Why does barbell weight matter? The easy answer is: because you're lifting it! Barbell weight is taken into account when calculating the total amount you're lifting, so it's important to know your starting weight before tossing on the plates. 

Barbell weight breakdown

As you can imagine, the weight of a barbell depends on its type and shape. Here's how the various types of barbell stack up in terms of weight:

• Powerlifting bars: The standard powerlifting bar weighs 20kg (44lbs), but there are lighter and heavier bars available too (more on that below).
• Olympic weightlifting bars: Olympic weightlifting has different standards for men and women. An Olympic barbell for men weighs 20kg (44lbs) and 15kg (33lbs) for women. 
• Specialty bars: Specialty bars vary in size and shape, depending on the use. Their weight can vary anywhere from 17 to 55lbs. 
• Mixed-use bars: Bars designed for mixed use are typically 20kg (44lbs), but if you're CrossFit training, you'll want to use bars that differ for men and women per the Olympic weightlifting standard, above. 

How to choose the right barbell weight for you

If you're opting for a specialty barbell, like a trap bar or a curl bar, the weight will be determined by the shape of the bar. However, if you're hunting for a straight barbell, take these two main factors into consideration:

Consider your goals: If you're training for a weightlifting competition, you'll want to work with a bar of the same weight as to keep with the competition's standards. If you're wanting a basic barbell to practice your lifting technique, a lighter bar is the move (some recommendations below!). 

Take note of your workouts: If you're looking for a versatile barbell for your home gym, you'll want to opt for a bar that does the most. A great mixed-use bar (like the REP Colorado Bar) can cover a ton of ground across a variety of Olympic, powerlifting, and cross-training workouts. On the other hand, if you know you want to focus on slow, heavy lifts like a bench press or squat, a powerlifting bar (like the REP Black Diamond Bar) might be more your speed. 

Still not sure? Take REP's barbell quiz to find your perfect match. 

Some great REP barbells to check out

Lighter bars

REP Mesa Technique Bar — $179.99

Weighing in at 15lbs (6.8kg), this lightweight bar was designed to help you perfect your lifting technique. The aluminum shaft has a 28mm diameter and features IWF and IPF knurl markings. Just note that the max external capacity is 50lbs, as it's intended to help you lock in your form, not lift massive loads. 

REP Teton Training Bar — $219.99

If you're aiming for an Olympic weightlifting bar that meets the female standard weight (15kg, or 33lbs), check out the Teton bar. It has a 25mm diameter shaft, IWF knurl markings, and can handle up to 1,500lbs of external load. 

REP Axle Bar — from $79.99

Weighing in at five feet and 17lbs, the Axle Bar is not only lighter than your standard barbell, but it's thicker and shorter too. With a 2-inch shaft diameter, it will help you improve your grip and wrist strength. But, despite it's lighter profile, this baby can still load up to 700lbs of added weight. If five feet is too short for your needs, the Axle bar is also available in a seven-foot length, which weighs 22lbs. 

Standard weight bars

REP Colorado Bar — $299.99

For a solid standard weight mixed-use bar, head to Colorado. This 20kg (41lb) bar does it all, whether it's Olympic lifting, powerlifting, or HIIT-style workouts. The gorgeous (and durable) Cerakote finish comes in several color options, and it's also available in a 15kg weight.

REP Black Diamond Power Bar — $289.99

This durable powerlifting bar weighs 44lbs (20kg) and is perfect for withstanding heavy loads (up to 1,500lbs). The volcano-style knurling and IPF-standard knurl markings make it a great pick for anyone training for a powerlifting competition. Best of all, it's available in three finish options and six different colors. 

Before you go: Make sure you know how to care for your barbells—a little TLC means they'll keep up with you for the long haul.