If you've spent any time in a powerlifting gym or scrolling through lifting forums, you've probably heard the buzz around the Buffalo Bar
. But what exactly is this mysterious piece of equipment, and why are so many powerlifters raving about it?
Let’s break it down and see if the Buffalo Bar is really worth adding to your lifting arsenal.
What is the Buffalo Bar?
The Buffalo Bar is a specialty barbell with a gentle, curved design. Unlike your standard straight power bar, the Buffalo Bar has a cambered shape that arches in the middle. This design reduces stress on your shoulders, wrists, and elbows, making it a popular choice among lifters who struggle with mobility or joint pain.
While it might look like a novelty at first glance, the Buffalo Bar is a serious tool in the powerlifting world. It’s especially loved for squats, where the curved design allows the bar to sit more comfortably across the back. But it’s not just squats where this bar shines—it’s also great for bench presses and even deadlifts, offering a more comfortable and ergonomic lifting experience.
Why Powerlifters Love the Buffalo Bar
So why do powerlifters swear by the Buffalo Bar? It comes down to comfort and longevity.
Powerlifting is a brutal sport on the body, especially on the shoulders and elbows. The Buffalo Bar’s curved design takes the strain off these joints, making it easier to train heavy without the nagging aches and pains that can come from using a straight bar.
For lifters with existing injuries, the Buffalo Bar can be a game-changer. Whether you’re dealing with shoulder impingement, bicep tendonitis, or just the general wear and tear that comes with years of heavy lifting, the Buffalo Bar can help you keep training hard without aggravating your injuries.
But even if you’re injury-free, the Buffalo Bar offers benefits. The unique angle of the bar engages your muscles differently than a standard barbell, providing a new stimulus that can help break through plateaus. Plus, it encourages a more natural wrist and shoulder position, which can improve your form and reduce the risk of injury in the long run.
Should You Use a Powerlifting Barbell, a Buffalo Bar, or Both?
Now, here’s the million-dollar question: Should you swap out your trusty power bar for a Buffalo Bar? The answer isn’t so straightforward.
For competition prep, you’ll still want to prioritize your standard powerlifting barbell. After all, that’s what you’ll be using on the platform, and there’s no substitute for the specificity of training with competition equipment. But incorporating the Buffalo Bar into your training routine can be a smart move, especially if you’re dealing with joint pain or looking to add some variety to your lifts.
Think of the Buffalo Bar as a supplemental tool rather than a replacement for your power bar. Use it for your heavy squat sessions, especially during off-season or general strength-building phases. It’s also great for those days when your shoulders are feeling beat up and you need to give them a break without skipping your bench press.
In essence, blending the two is your best bet. Use your powerlifting barbell for competition-specific training and the Buffalo Bar to complement your routine, keep your joints happy, and add some variety to your workouts.
The Buffalo Bar’s Limitations
While the Buffalo Bar is an excellent tool, it’s not without its limitations. The biggest drawback? You won’t be using it in a powerlifting competition. Powerlifting meets require the use of a straight barbell, so you can’t rely solely on the Buffalo Bar if you’re serious about competing.
Additionally, the Buffalo Bar isn’t always the best choice for all exercises. While it’s fantastic for squats and certain bench press variations, it might not be as effective for other lifts like deadlifts, where a straight barbell is more appropriate. It’s a tool that excels in specific scenarios, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Summary of Key Points
- The Buffalo Bar is a curved specialty barbell designed to reduce joint stress.
- It’s particularly loved by powerlifters for squats and bench press variations.
- Best used as a supplement to, rather than a replacement for, your standard powerlifting barbell.
- Not suitable for competition but great for reducing injury risk and adding variety to training.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Bar is a fantastic addition to any powerlifter’s toolkit, especially for those looking to reduce joint stress and add some variety to their training.
While it shouldn’t replace your standard power bar—especially if you’re competing—it’s a great option for heavy squats, bench press variations, and even some accessory work.
Whether you’re dealing with an injury or just want to mix things up, the Buffalo Bar is worth considering. Ready to give it a try? Check out Bells of Steel’s selection and take your lifting game to the next level!
