Strength training equipment is available in Olympic size and standard size. Olympic free weight bars, benches and weights are what you will usually find at a health club due to their longevity and ease of use. The bars and weights are available in different sizes so you will be able to use them as you begin your fitness program and as you gain strength. Before beginning a workout program using Olympic weights, speak with your doctor and receive safety and technique training from a certified personal trainer.
Bar Length
An Olympic weightlifting bar is usually 7 feet long, with 2-inch diameter ends that support the weight plates. A straight bar is also available in 5- or 6-foot lengths. Olympic weight bars are also available in an ez-curl design that has the shape of an elongated "w." A curl bar measures 4-feet long.
Material
An Olympic weight bar is available in different metals. The most common are chrome and solid steel, but black oxide and aluminum bars are also available. Olympic plates are available in iron, rubber, rubber grip and urethane-coated plates. Regardless of the type of metal, an Olympic plate will fit an Olympic bar.
Weights
A 7-foot Olympic bar weighs 45 lbs. Depending on the material used to make the bar, a 5- or 6-foot bar can weigh between 15 and 30 lbs. An ez-curl bar weighs 25 lbs. Olympic weight plates are available in 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 35, and 45 lbs.
Safety
After you determine your lifting weight and slide the weight plates onto the bar, secure your weights with a collar. These are available in spring-loaded design to easily slip onto the end of your bar and securely rest next to your weight plates. A collar prevents the weights from slipping off the bar and potentially dropping to the floor, or onto your toes.
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