A standard Olympic weight lifting bar is the type of barbell you find at most commercial gyms. It has certain dimensions and specifications that set it apart from regular barbells and other Olympic barbells. The standard Olympic barbell refers to the men's version as the women's version is smaller.
Specifications
Standard Olympic barbells are seven feet long and weigh 45 lbs. They have 2-inch rotating sleeves at the ends of the barbell that hold the weight plates. Unlike regular barbells, the sleeves on Olympic barbells allow the weight plates to rotate as you move the barbell. This rotation helps reduce joint strain on your elbows and wrists. The amount of weight an Olympic barbell can handle varies, but most can handle loads over 800 lbs.
The Plates
Olympic barbells require Olympic weight plates. These plates have 2-inch center holes, unlike standard weight plates that have 1-inch center holes. Olympic weights are available in 2.5 lbs., 5 lbs., 10 lbs., 25 lbs. and 35 lbs. plates. They are made of steel or cast iron and are usually coated with enamel or rubber. Some plates have grip holes that form a handle, making it easier to pick up the plate.
Other Olympic Bars
Smaller versions of the standard Olympic barbell, sometimes called women's Olympic barbells, are available. These bars are usually 5 ft, 6 ft or 6.5 ft long. They are not as heavy as a standard Olympic barbell, although they don't have a weight specification. These smaller Olympic barbells still have 2-inch rotating sleeves and only take Olympic weight plates.
Exercises
You can use a standard Olympic barbell for just about any strength exercise. However, lifters commonly use these heavy, durable bars for large, compound exercises such as squats, bench press, deadlifts and rows. Professional weightlifters, who perform the snatch and clean and jerk, use Olympic barbells in competitions. The smaller Olympic barbells are convenient for exercises that don't require as much weight, such as curls, triceps extensions and shoulder presses.
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