One difference immediately discernible between a curl bar and dumbbell is size, with dumbbells smaller and lighter in weight than curl bars. In addition, dumbbells are intended for a one-handed lift, while curl bars require two hands. Curl bars measure approximately 45 to 50 inches in length; dumbbells generally measure no more than 20 inches in length. Weights of each vary as well, depending on the trainer's capability. However, most dumbbell weights fall in the range of 5 to 50 pounds.
Types of Dumbbells
Currently, three types of dumbbell exist for weight training purposes. The adjustable dumbbell allows the addition of different weight plates to increase or decrease the weight of the bar. Fixed weight dumbbells are those without the ability to load weight plates. These are created from cast iron and come in weight amounts that cannot be altered. Some fixed weight dumbbells are made of a sturdy plastic shell containing concrete. Selectorized dumbbells are considered adjustable because weights are mechanically altered by changing the position of a selector pin or moving a dial. You do not have to manipulate weight plates manually with selectorized dumbbells.
Types of Curl Bars
Curl bars, or EZ curl bars, are available as Standard EZ curl bars or Olympic EZ curl bars (also known as "revolving" curl bars). The Standard curl bar itself weighs about 10 pounds and usually is about 47 inches in length. The Olympic curl bar weighs 15 to 20 pounds because it is slightly longer and comes equipped with a sleeve and bearing device. Both bars are capable of holding a variety of weight plates, as well. Curl bars are termed "curl" for a reason: the bar contains angles or dips that allow trainers to use distinctive grips when lifting the bar. Grips include the standard, or underhand, grip and the pronated, or overhand, grip.
Why Use Dumbbells?
Dumbbells provide muscles with a consistent and even amount of resistance throughout the exercise movement due to the weight and gravity's natural pull. This causes muscles to work harder, in contrast to contradictory resistance, which does not. Contradictory resistance may be caused when a resistance is lessened during various points of the exercise movement, such as with cable machines. Weights are attached to a cable through a pulley system and provide a smooth movement by eliminating points where gravity would play a role. In addition, dumbbells allow regular increases of resistance to strengthen and bulk up muscles more quickly. Trainers can increase dumbbell weights in increments of 1 to 5 pounds, effectively improving muscle mass as muscles consistently grow to manage heavier weights. Dumbbells also are easily integrated with other exercises since they can be manipulated with just one hand.
Why Use EZ Curl Bars?
Taking advantage of the versatile EZ grip bar allows trainers to control more weight when performing bicep curls. Dumbbells do not afford this ability because of their smaller size. In addition, curl bars reduce the amount of pressure on elbows, lessening the risk of joint pain or trauma. Some trainers prefer to use curl bars for tricep extensions because the angled bar exerts less pressure on joints than straight bars do. These angles also promote proper wrist alignment when performing presses.
Member Comments