Equipment
Barbell Exercises
The barbell is the king of strength training equipment. It allows for the heaviest loads and most efficient progressive overload. Compound barbell movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench press are the foundation of strength programs worldwide.
Why Train with Barbell
Key benefits of this equipment type
Allows heaviest loads for maximum strength gains
Efficient progressive overload with small weight increments
Compound movements train multiple muscles simultaneously
Standardised equipment for tracking progress
Proven effective for decades
Training Tips
Get the most out of your barbell training
Learn proper form before adding significant weight
Use a spotter or safety bars for heavy lifts
Invest in fractional plates for precise progression
Focus on the big lifts: squat, deadlift, bench, overhead press
Shop Barbell Equipment
Recommended gear to get started (affiliate links)
Olympic Barbell (20kg)
Standard 7ft bar for all major lifts
Olympic Weight Plates Set
Bumper or iron plates for loading
Squat Rack
Safety-first setup for squats and bench
Barbell Collar Clips
Keep plates secure during lifts
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All Barbell Exercises
Browse 170 exercises using barbell
Anti-Gravity Press
Shoulders
Barbell Ab Rollout
Abdominals
Barbell Ab Rollout - On Knees
Abdominals
Barbell Bench Press - Medium Grip
Chest
Barbell Curl
Biceps
Barbell Curls Lying Against An Incline
Biceps
Barbell Deadlift
Lower Back
Barbell Full Squat
Quadriceps
Barbell Glute Bridge
Glutes
Barbell Guillotine Bench Press
Chest
Barbell Hack Squat
Quadriceps
Barbell Hip Thrust
Glutes
Barbell Incline Bench Press - Medium Grip
Chest
Barbell Incline Shoulder Raise
Shoulders
Barbell Lunge
Quadriceps
Barbell Rear Delt Row
Shoulders
Barbell Rollout from Bench
Abdominals
Barbell Seated Calf Raise
Calves
Barbell Shoulder Press
Shoulders
Barbell Shrug
Traps
Barbell Shrug Behind The Back
Traps
Barbell Side Bend
Abdominals
Barbell Side Split Squat
Quadriceps
Barbell Squat
Quadriceps
Barbell Squat To A Bench
Quadriceps
Barbell Step Ups
Quadriceps
Barbell Walking Lunge
Quadriceps
Bench Press - Powerlifting
Triceps
Bench Press with Chains
Triceps
Bent-Arm Barbell Pullover
Lats
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about barbell training
What barbell exercises are essential?
The "big four" are back squat, conventional deadlift, bench press, and overhead press. These compound movements should form the foundation of any strength program.
How heavy should my barbell be?
Standard Olympic barbells weigh 20kg (45lbs) for men's bars and 15kg (35lbs) for women's bars. This is the bar weight before adding plates.
Barbell vs dumbbell - which is better?
Both have their place. Barbells allow heavier loads and easier progression. Dumbbells offer greater range of motion and address muscle imbalances. Use both.
Ready to start training?
Check out our workout programs that include barbell exercises.