If you’ve ever loaded up a barbell and had plates slide around like they’re on an ice rink, you’ve already learned why barbell collars matter. And if you’ve spent time at a commercial gym, you’ve definitely encountered spring clips—those small but mighty clamps that keep your weights in check.
But if you’ve ever struggled to get them on (or off), you’re not alone. Let’s break down what spring clips are, why they matter, and how to use them like a pro.
What Are Spring Clips?
Spring clips (aka spring collars) are simple metal clamps that slide onto the ends of a barbell to prevent weight plates from shifting or falling off. They work by using a tightly coiled metal spring that applies pressure to the bar when squeezed and released.
Benefits of Spring Clips
✔ Budget-friendly – One of the cheapest options for securing your weights.
✔ Lightweight – No added bulk or unnecessary weight.
✔ Durable – All-metal construction means these things can take a beating.
✔ Simple design – No fancy mechanisms, just squeeze and slide.
✔ Widely available – Found in almost every gym and easy to replace if lost.
Cons of Spring Clips
❌ Can be tricky to use – If you have small hands or weak grip strength, getting them on and off can be a pain.
❌ Not the tightest hold – Over time, they can loosen up, especially if your barbell has a slightly smaller sleeve diameter.
❌ Not ideal for fast-paced training – If you’re doing circuits or changing weights often, these can slow you down.
How to Use Spring Clips on a Barbell
Getting spring clips onto a barbell might look easy—until you actually try and your hands start shaking like you’re mid-deadlift. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you’re locking in your weights the right way.
Step 1: Load Your Plates
First things first, get those weight plates onto your barbell. Slide them all the way to the collar (the thicker, inner section of the bar) so they’re sitting snugly.
Step 2: Grab Your Spring Clips
Hold the spring clip with the looped ends facing away from you and the handles in your fingers. If your gym’s clips are bent, rusty, or look like they survived a war, maybe grab a different pair.
Step 3: Squeeze the Handles
With a firm grip, squeeze the two handles together. This opens the clip, allowing it to slide onto the barbell sleeve.
✔ Pro tip: If the clip barely moves, use two hands or brace one side against your body while squeezing.
Step 4: Slide the Clip Onto the Barbell Sleeve
With the handles still compressed, push the clip onto the bar until it’s pressed firmly against the weight plate. Make sure it’s snug and secure, but not so tight that it damages the sleeve.
Step 5: Release and Adjust
Slowly release your grip, letting the spring clip tighten around the barbell. Give it a quick tap or pull to ensure it’s secure. If it slides too easily, it might be time for a new pair.
Step 6: Repeat on the Other Side
Because lifting with only one side secured is a fast track to disaster, repeat the process on the opposite side of the bar.
Are Spring Clips the Best Option for You?
Spring clips get the job done, but they aren’t the only option. If you’re looking for a faster, stronger, or more convenient solution, consider these alternatives:
✅ Clamp Collars – Easy to snap on and off with a single lever. Great for heavier lifts and fast-paced training.
✅ Zip Clips – Quickest option for changing weights on the fly.
✅ Magnetic Clamp Collars – Secure grip with the bonus of sticking to your rack when not in use.
Check out Bells of Steel’s full lineup of barbell collars for options that fit your lifting style.
Barbell Spring Clip FAQs
Do spring clips fit all barbells?
Spring clips are designed for Olympic barbells (2” sleeves). If you’re using a standard barbell (1” sleeves), you’ll need smaller clips.
How tight should spring clips be?
They should be snug enough to keep plates from moving but not so tight that you struggle to get them off. If they slide too easily, it might be time for new clips.
Can I use spring clips for heavy lifting?
Yes, but if you’re lifting very heavy or dropping the bar, clamp-style collars provide a stronger grip.
Why do some lifters train without collars?
Some lifters (especially in powerlifting) prefer to train without collars so they can dump the plates if they fail a lift. However, in most cases, securing your weights is the safer choice.
Final Thoughts
Spring clips may not be the fanciest piece of gym equipment, but they do their job—keeping your weights secure so you can focus on lifting, not chasing runaway plates.
Whether you stick with classic spring clips or upgrade to clamps or zip clips, make sure you’re using something to lock in your gains. Because the only thing that should be dropping in your gym is your squat depth—not your plates.
