OVERVIEW
With needle-bearing sleeves, IWF knurl markings, and ribbed sleeves, the Gladiator barbell is ideal for Olympic weightlifting-style training. However, the medium-depth knurl also makes it suitable for higher-rep cross-training and HIIT workouts. Five needle bearings per sleeve allow for a smooth spin and turnover during lifts. The Gladiator is available in both 15kg (33lbs) and 20kg (44.1lbs). The standard bar comes with a rust-resistant, low-maintenance hard chrome coating, or upgrade the 20kg bar in full, stainless-steel, which provides the highest level of corrosion-resistance.
With a 28mm diameter for an easy grip, the Gladiator is a true Olympic bar with great whip. The Gladiator features medium-depth knurling to help with grip on lifts, but not so much that it rips up your hands during higher-rep workouts. The 15kg barbell has no center knurl, great for those high reps, whereas both versions of the 20kg bar have a center knurl, which helps hold the bar in place during back squats. International Weightlifting Federation standard knurl markings provide visuals for even hand placement on the barbell. Ribbing on the sleeves helps keep plates in place. The barbell is rated for 1,500lbs.
PRODUCT DIMENSIONS

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Bar UseOlympic Weightlifting; Mixed-Use
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Weight15kg (33lbs) or 20kg (44.1lbs)
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Length79.1" (15kg); 86.6" (20kg)
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Loadable Sleeve Length12.6" (15kg); 16.3" (20kg)
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Diameter25mm (15kg); 28mm (20kg)
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Bushing/BearingNeedle Bearings
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Sleeve StyleRibbed
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KnurlMedium
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Center KnurlNo (15kg); Yes (20kg)
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Knurl MarkingsIWF
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Shaft CoatingHard Chrome (15kg); Hard Chrome or None (Stainless Steel Bar) (20kg)
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Static Rating1,500lbs
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Tensile Strength200 KSI (15kg and 20kg); 205 KSI (Stainless Steel 20kg)
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Tolerance1%
PRODUCT FEATURES
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NEEDLE BEARING SLEEVES
The five needle bearings per sleeve design allows for excellent spin and turnover during the Olympic style lifts. -
MEDIUM DEPTH KNURL
The medium depth knurl provides a solid grip during lifts, but not so much that it will tear up your hands during high-volume training. -
IWF KNURL MARKINGS
International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) standard knurl markings help you determine even hand placement on the barbell.
MEDIA GALLERY
VIDEOS
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REP BARBELL MAINTENANCE
Get the most out of your REP barbells! We provide a step by step process for keeping your barbells functioning well and lasting a lifetime!
STORIES
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11 Rules of Barbell Etiquette
Even if you’re a seasoned lifter, you may not know all the ways to treat the barbell properly.
read full story -
More Than You Ever Wanted to Know About Knurling
You’ve probably noticed different barbells feel different in your hands. So, what’s the deal?
read full story
FAQS
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Are your barbells compatible with other branded plates?
REP’s barbells are designed to work with any standard plates featuring 2” diameter center holes.
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What is the difference between chrome or zinc finish and a full stainless steel barbell?
Stainless steel is a higher grade of metal. It is more resistant to rust than chrome or zinc finish barbells and more aesthetically pleasing.
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What is the purpose of knurl markings on a barbell?
There are two major standards for where to put knurl markings on a barbell: designed by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). The knurl markings themselves allow for athletes to set up properly for the lift they are attempting and provide a visual for even hand placement on the barbell.
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What is the difference between bushing and bearing sleeves?
Both bushing and bearing sleeves produce sufficient sleeve rotation, but ball or needle bearings allow for a faster, smoother, quieter spin and have a more reliable turnover for maximum loads, which is a better fit for Olympic-style lifts. By comparison, a bushing sleeve is more efficient for powerlifting movements, which are slower and more strength focused. The Gladiator’s needle bearing sleeve design is optimal for Olympic lifts, such as the snatch and clean and jerk.
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Which barbell is best suited for me?
This will depend on the type of training you do and your training goals. The Gladiator Olympic Barbell was designed for Olympic weightlifting and mixed-use. If you are not sure how to decide on a barbell, email us at info@repfitness.com and one of our customer service representatives will help match you and your training style with a barbell.
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How do I take care of my barbell?
You’ll want to remove dirt or chalk from the knurling with a brush and oil on a microfiber cloth. You also should occasionally remove the external sleeve to oil and fully clean it. Check out the REP Barbell Maintenance Video in the Video Gallery section above for more information.
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Does the Gladiator Olympic Barbell have a warranty?
Yes, it comes with a 5-year warranty for standard 15kg and 20kg Gladiator Barbells, and a limited lifetime warranty for the 20kg Stainless Steel Gladiator Barbell.