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Olympic Barbell vs. Olympic EZ Curl

Sep 1, 2011 | By Rick Rockwell

One immediately discernible difference between an Olympic EZ curl bar and an Olympic barbell is in the shape of the bar itself. An Olympic EZ curl bar incorporates deep depressions in the bar that are easier for the weight trainer to manipulate. Olympic barbells, on the other hand, are straight bars equipped with rotating sleeves. Both are used in weight training exercises by body builders who want to enlarge muscle mass and build strength. While the EZ curl bar is meant for tricep and bicep curling exercises, the barbell effectively exercises both leg and arm muscles.

EZ Curl Bar

The curl bar is so named because its grooves allow the trainer to change grips in order to adjust the intensity of the curls. These angles also reduce wrist and elbow stress while performing curling exercises. Ideally measuring around three to four feet long and weighing various amounts, the EZ curl bar specifically works upper body muscles, especially the biceps and shoulders. These curl bars are not placed on weight racks like barbells so they cannot be used for chest presses or squats.

Olympic Barbell

Also referred to as a weightlifting barbell, the Olympic barbell is a straight, long bar with rotating sleeves capable of carrying plates of different weights. A man's Olympic barbell is about seven feet long and weighs about 45 pounds. A woman's Olympic barbell is similar, but is about six and a half feet long and weighs roughly 30 pounds. These are also utilized in weight training but are placed in racks when not in use because they are heavy and large. Trainers lift these from the ground by using leg muscles to hoist the barbell onto their shoulders before using arm muscles to elevate it above the head.

EZ Curl Bar Advantages and Disadvantages

Although trainers find it easier to handle an EZ curl bar, research has shown that using a straight bar for curls may be advantageous for bicep training. It seems that having your wrists locked during curling exercises is better than allowing them the mobility afforded with EZ curl bars. But if you experience pain in the arm from muscle overuse or minor injury, the angles of an EZ curl bar may alleviate discomfort. However, both types of bars are entirely capable of adding mass and strength to biceps and shoulders.

Olympic Barbell Advantages and Disadvantages

Professional weight lifters can perform snatches and "clean and jerks" by only using an Olympic barbell. In addition, barbells allow more weight to be implemented and balanced by sliding heavy plates onto the ends whenever the trainer feels he is ready to try lifting a heavier barbell. Another advantage involves the inclusion of leg muscles into the exercise. However, because Olympic barbells are heavier and involve more parts of the body than curl barbells, trainers suffer a greater number of injuries while using an Olympic barbell.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Sep 1, 2011

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