If we talk about the barbell, now it is so mobile and technical that you can work out with it both in the gym and at home. Having the opportunity to assemble it according to only the parameters you need, you will always be in great shape and mood. Assembling its components has become incredibly easy: removable attachments for weighting, in the form of disks of various configurations and weight gradations from 0.25 to 50 kg, will allow you to train with the required weight.
The same applies to such equipment as dumbbells. This is a simple and very convenient option for developing your body, giving it plasticity and beauty. Everyone can use them - from young to old, for this it is enough to buy collapsible models, with the possibility of varying any weight, and now the whole family is involved in this amazing process of transformation.
Choosing bars for barbells
By type, vultures have several forms:
- classic straight line - like the Olympic one;
- axel – a bar with a diameter of 48 mm for training grip strength;
- Z- and W-shaped;
- special bars for strongman and functional training from the “Beam” series; Farmer's Walk and Frame Bar for parallel grip.
For home workouts. A bar with a seat diameter of 25–30 mm is suitable. As a rule, they are cheaper and have a weight limit of up to 150 kg. The vultures themselves weigh from 7 kg and above. They do not have a mandatory length requirement - the most popular sizes are 1.5 m and 1.8 m.
Olympic. The neck most often undergoes heat treatment in production - this provides it with high strength. Such a bar must withstand weight up to 600 kg. It bends under high loads, but returns to its previous shape when the load is removed.
There are two types of Olympic bar: male and female. They have three differences.
Weight: male 20 kg, female 18 kg.
Length: 2.2 m for men, 2.1 m for women.
Center notch: The women's bar does not have one because the women's weightlifting program does not include one-arm exercises. The diameter of the sleeve where the discs are put on is strictly 50 mm.
Axel. The wide diameter of the handle is 48 mm, it is used to increase grip strength. Used in functional training.
Z- and W-shaped ones are needed for exercises to develop biceps and triceps. They are shorter - 1.2 m and, thanks to the bends, make it possible to use different grip methods.
The log, frame and farmer's walk are ideal for developing strength endurance. They are most often used by strongmen and crossfitters. The unusual shape and parallel grip imitate more natural loads for humans.
World bench press champion Andrei Paley spoke about the features of powerlifting bars. “Lifting bars are stiffer and are also divided into pulling, pressing and squatting. They are divided into bars that are allowed in alternative competitions and comply with the rules of the IPF (International Powerlifting Federation). For the latter, everything is standard, as in weightlifting - the weight of the bar is 20 kg. As an alternative, tougher ones weighing 25 kg are allowed. For the bench press and squat, the stiffness is approximately the same - everyone chooses for themselves. Therefore, classic Olympic bars are suitable for the general gym. For the gym where professionals train, the bars are selected depending on the experience of the athletes - they are very diverse.”
The bore diameter is:
- 25 mm – inch standard. Came to us from the USA. Used for wheels with a hole diameter of 1 inch (25.4 mm);
- 30 mm – European standard;
- 50 mm is the professional standard.
Mandatory notches on the handle should provide good grip on the hand, but not injure the bare palm. Many athletes do not use gloves during training.
The bushings should rotate smoothly, without jerking or creaking, and not cling. This way the athlete will protect himself from wrist dislocations. The discs rotate smoothly, the bar is securely fixed in the palms and the hands do not twist. At the same time, bars with rotating bushings are not used for deadlifts.
Kettlebells
Another representative of the “free weight” category. Coming from kettlebell lifting, the kettlebell has found a place in the fitness industry, where it has become widespread. Just as a weight for muscle development, like a barbell with dumbbells, the kettlebell is distinguished by its spherical shape and a closed handle for holding it.
Weights can be monolithic or collapsible. Monolithic weights, which in turn have a fixed weight: 4/ 8/ 12/ 16/ 20/ 24/ 28/ 32/ 36/ 40/ 48/ 56/ 68/ 80 and 92 kg, have become widespread. Just like barbell discs, competition weights must have a color that matches the weight. Competitions are held with three types of weights: 16 kg - yellow, 24 kg - green, 32 kg - red.
Since weights, like all the other equipment listed here, are considered from the point of view of the fitness industry, there is no standardization here, except for weight and color. A huge number of manufacturers produce weights of various shapes (round, square, cylindrical, etc.), various materials (metal, aluminum and more) and filling (cast and hollow inside), chrome-plated, painted, rubberized and so on.
Choosing dumbbells
Dumbbells are divided into several types: solid, stacked, non-separable. Each type is made in different versions.
Stacked and solid dumbbells are suitable for home use. The latter can be made of cast iron, steel, plastic. Composite ones have metal and plastic necks, the discs on them are rubberized, plastic or steel. The method of fastening the disks is a nut.
Stacked dumbbells with a plastic handle are the most convenient option for the home gym - one bar and a small supply of discs are enough. The diagonal of the neck is 25–30 mm, the weight of the set is up to 15 kg.
Non-separable dumbbells have the same design as stacked dumbbells. The only difference is that the weight of the dumbbell can only be changed with special tools. There are also automatic dumbbells, they are very comfortable, but they are much more expensive than classic ones. For example, one dumbbell weighing 24 kg with a weight adjustment of 2.5–24 kg costs about 12 thousand rubles.
For gyms, rows of non-separable dumbbells in 1 kg increments are often chosen. For budget gyms, solid cast iron dumbbells can also be used - they are much cheaper than others, but they make a lot of noise when they fall on the floor and can break. In such a room, it is imperative to take care of shock-absorbing covering, for example, laying rubber mats, linoleum, carpet.
Non-collapsible dumbbells generally have rubberized weights and a steel handle. The handle can be chrome-plated or plastic-coated, with anti-slip notches or smooth, spindle-shaped or straight.
Chromed steel is almost unaffected by external factors: moisture, sunlight, mechanical damage. This is a more hygienic projectile and is easy to clean and wipe down. The benefit of the notches is the anti-slip effect - it is easier to hold the dumbbell during the exercise.
The plastic shell of the handle is usually smooth - the dumbbell can slip out of your hand. Over time, cracks appear in the plastic. For example, as a result of numerous dumbbell falls or careless use.
The weight parts on dumbbells are most often made round and hexagonal. The convenience of the hexagonal shape is that the dumbbells will not roll away from the athlete. They are used in CrossFit - during high-speed exercises, athletes do not have time to monitor the movement of the dumbbell on the floor.
A mandatory attribute in the gym is a rack for storing dumbbells. In order not to select it individually, purchase dumbbell rows. Sets may vary, but a suitable stand is included. In Iron King, these rows are conventionally divided by weight.
The “light” range includes weights from 2 to 9 kg. "Medium" consists of weights of 2–16 kg or 10–19 kg. “Severe” is 9–30 kg in 2 kg increments. From these rows you can form a classic set for an average hall. Combine them with each other. The lungs are used for aerobics and fitness. Medium – for crossfit or group training. Large weights are for gaining weight.
The “heavy” row is the widest, it contains 18 pairs of dumbbells weighing 3–10 kg in 1 kg increments and 10–30 kg in 2 kg increments. The range has everything needed for athletes of different levels.
“Super” – a row of 12 pairs of dumbbells. These are large weights of 18–40 kg in 2 kg increments. “Super” can be used to complement the finished zone if additional weights are needed.
“Pro” is the heaviest and most powerful row. We included dumbbells weighing 20–50 kg. The row will be in demand in a special hall where professional powerlifters, bodybuilders and strongmen train. If your gym is a family entertainment center, then 50 kg dumbbells are unlikely to be needed. As a last resort, purchase more as needed.
Editor's Choice
Starfit BB-501 2×10 kg (from 5999 rubles)
Starfit BB-501.
Photo: market.yandex Starfit BB-501 2×10 kg is a set of collapsible dumbbells that come complete with a convenient case. In total, the set contains two bars, four plates of 0.5 kg, four of 1.25 kg, four of 2.5 kg. A very practical solution if you move around a lot, go on business trips, but you need to keep yourself in good physical shape. And it’s also convenient to store such sports equipment at home; it takes up little space in the case. Dumbbells look presentable. Functional and convenient for training. The bar lies confidently in the hand. Weight can vary from 2.5 to 10 kg. The material from which the dumbbells are made is cast iron with a chrome-plated surface.
Convenient case, compactness, functionality
Lock nuts need to be tightened periodically
show more
Lite Weights 3103CD 10 kg (from 1319 rubles)
Lite Weights 3103CD.
Photo: market.yandex Lite Weights 3103CD is a collapsible dumbbell, the weight of which ranges from 3.3 to 10 kg. A fairly inexpensive option. This is explained by the internal filler of the pancakes - cement. The outside of both the bar and the plates are covered with plastic. The neck itself is made of steel and is hollow. The plates are secured with plastic Vader nuts. There are two pieces in the set. Judging by the reviews, it is a very convenient sports equipment for training at home. The set includes four discs of 1.25 kg and two of 2.5 kg.
Price, neck does not slip
Large enough size
show more
Indigo IN038 15 kg (from 4283 rubles)
Indigo IN038.
Photo: market.yandex Indigo IN038 cast (non-separable) hexagonal dumbbell with a weight of 15 kg. Thanks to their hexagonal shape, these dumbbells can be used as push-up supports. Only, this must be done with caution and an appropriate level of physical fitness. In general, a definite advantage is good balancing, which is convenient during training. The discs have a rubberized surface. Also, the shape of the dumbbells allows them to be stacked on top of each other, thereby taking up less storage space.
Hexagonal shape, good balance
Rubber smell upon first use
show more
What to choose - discs for bars or a barbell
Disks are cast iron, rubberized and bumper. With them it is easy to form a barbell with the weight at the athlete’s request. To do this you will need a bar and discs.
Cast iron discs are relatively inexpensive and durable training equipment. And their main advantage is price. Disadvantages: clang when dropped, paint comes off, they can damage the floor covering. Be sure to use a weightlifting platform - the athletes, the floor and the discs themselves will remain safe.
Rubberized discs – a steel or cast iron disc is covered with a protective layer. These discs are durable and quiet. They can also use a steel or rubber-coated bushing, which reliably protects the disc from damage along the inner radius. Discs with rubberized bushings are suitable for home use. For the hall, purchase one with steel.
Bumper discs with a mounting hole of 51 mm and an outer diameter of 450 mm. This is an Olympic standard, so this size is the most common. They do not make noise, spring well from the floor, are not damaged and do not spoil the floor covering. 450 mm discs provide optimal height of the bar from the platform when performing deadlifts.
The purpose of bumpers is to maintain high flexibility. Therefore, even in a 15-kilogram disk there can be no more than 2 kg of metal, the rest is high-quality rubber, polyurethane or crumb rubber. Typically, these discs are thicker than cast iron or rubber-coated ones - fewer of them will fit on the bar.
When choosing discs, keep in mind that individually they can be used not only for barbells. A large number of machines use free weights. Gym-goers use weight discs during pull-ups, push-ups and other exercises.
To please every customer, pay attention to discs with grips. They are convenient to use just for weighting.
non-separable barbells is that fixed weights are always at hand. Between sets, gym clients do not need to assemble and disassemble equipment. The length of the non-separable rods is 1.8 m, the weight varies between 10–40 kg, in increments of 2–2.5 kg, depending on the manufacturer. For the rods you will need a special holder - it can be mounted on the wall or be free-standing.
Barbells of small weights are convenient to use in the gym for setting press techniques and cyclic loading. For athletes, every kilogram counts, so it is more convenient to increase the weight of the barbell gradually. Therefore, you cannot limit yourself to one type of barbell - both types are very functional in use.
How to choose collapsible dumbbells?
The choice of suitable collapsible dumbbells should be based on studying parameters such as:
- weight - you should choose based on your own preferences and capabilities. It is advisable for beginners to choose models with light weight, however, for regular training, experienced athletes can opt for heavier equipment;
- materials - steel dumbbells are considered the most practical and durable. However, products with neoprene coating are quiet, have minimal slipping, and also have the ability to absorb excess moisture;
- locks - collapsible dumbbells can be threaded, have spring rings or a screw clamp. The most reliable is the threaded clamp - it is ideal for working with heavy weights. A spring clamp is more suitable for quickly changing elements;
- a set of pancakes - at the initial stage of home training you will need at least two pancakes per apparatus. Over time, their number should increase - you need to select the optimal mass with a smooth change, so you should not neglect the disks;
- shape - dumbbells can be of any shape if there is a special stand that ensures ease of use. If this element is missing, it is better to purchase a model with beveled edges - it will not roll on the floor and will not damage the coating.
How do free weights differ from different manufacturers?
Free weights from foreign manufacturers have unusual colors for discs, weights and dumbbells. The domestic manufacturer not only concentrates on design, but also tries to produce products that last for centuries.
For example, Iron King produces free weights made using different technologies:
- bright bumpers;
- discs made of pressed rubber crumb;
- solid cast iron discs for men's rocking chairs;
- almost eternal rubber-coated cast-iron discs with and without grips.
In the production of our free weights, only domestic rubber is used, which is non-toxic and has no pungent odor.
Foreign manufacturers use steel as a weighting agent in discs and dumbbells. There is sand in dumbbells and weights. Russian manufacturers most often use cast iron, hence the difference in price. Cast iron is cheaper to produce, so the buyer saves money without losing the quality of the product. Sandbags, vests and weighted cuffs are filled with sand “stuffing”.
The free weights market is a segment where a high price does not always guarantee high quality. Therefore, there is no point in chasing imported goods. All materials and technologies used for production are available to us. There are several Russian factories that have been working professionally with famous athletes for a long time. Our discs and weights have long been setting records at world-class competitions.
Introduction
Free weights are sports equipment that are not elements of exercise machines or other complex structures. That is, you can perform the exercises even without the use of additional strength equipment, such as benches, racks or frames. Free weights include barbells, dumbbells and kettlebells. However, to understand the material, it is necessary to analyze the topic in more detail. That is, talk about the components of barbells - bars, discs and locks.
First of all, free weight in bodybuilding is not only dumbbells or a barbell, but primarily the bar. And it should not be confused with a barbell. A neck is simply a metal rod. Such a rod can be made of either metal or plastic. It has a working area (grip) and a hanging area (seat) for discs. The working area usually has a notch that prevents your hands from slipping off the bar. The notch can be applied both to the material of the neck itself and to various plastic or rubber handles, if available. In addition, the bar as a basis for discs can also be a dumbbell. Let's start with the vultures.
