Barbell question

masterk · 12 Mar 2007 at 19:46

Hello there, im feeling i need to get myself a barbell, i currently have a few sets of dumbbells. Question is, if i buy something like this;

"Powerhouse 5 foot Standard Spinlock Barbell with collars"

Will it work with my current weights? Are they all standard so i can use my old weights?

Cheers.

Styles · 12 Mar 2007 at 21:35

If your other weights are standard then yes they should be. You'll find that the Olympic bars will be much thicker, about 2" iirc whereas the standard are a lot smaller.

With a BB I wouldn't go for spinlock, I HATE these, time wasters.

Shmo · 13 Mar 2007 at 09:50

I'd recommend going for a 6' bar if you can. Found the 5' bars a bit restrictive on squats and bench, and wide grip bench is impossible. Might save some money upgrading later.

Styles · 13 Mar 2007 at 12:41

Shmo said:
I'd recommend going for a 6' bar if you can. Found the 5' bars a bit restrictive on squats and bench, and wide grip bench is impossible. Might save some money upgrading later.

A good point, personally I'd go for the 7' bar, and yes the 5' are restrictive but depends entirely what he wants to do. No mention of a bench or racks.

kefkef · 13 Mar 2007 at 13:31

Personally i'd steer clear of the spinlock stuff, gets to be a bit of a grind if you are changing weights between sets having to spin the collar off then back on again.

With regards length, add at least 2ft onto the end of each side of any bar so you have plenty of room for those 'swaying' moments you might have when tired, also for easy access for changing plates. I've got a 7ft Olympic bar on the bench in the garage and it can get quite awkward as there is only 1ft of clearance either side (having to move the punch bag out of the way to give more room!)

masterk · 13 Mar 2007 at 19:47

Cheers guys.

masterk · 15 Mar 2007 at 20:57

Quick question if you dont mind, for the time being can i simulate a deadlift with dumbells? Would putting two heavy dumbells on an aerobic step-up and working from there be ok?

Cheers.

Styles · 15 Mar 2007 at 21:18

You don't need a step. Just do the movement exactly as you would but have the DB in your hands down by your side. Eyes up focusing on something, back straight, and go.

Get yourself a BB asap though.