Ever loaded up a barbell, started lifting, and felt your plates shuffle like they were late for work? That’s what happens when you skip barbell clamps—those small but essential tools that keep your weight plates locked in place.
Some lifters swear by clamps, while others go rogue and lift without them. But should you? Let’s break it down.
What Are Barbell Clamps?
Barbell clamps (also called barbell collars) are attachments that secure weight plates onto your barbell. Unlike spring clips, which require a grip of steel to squeeze on, clamps typically snap, twist, or lock into place, providing a secure and hassle-free hold.
Benefits of Using Barbell Clamps
So, why should you bother with clamps instead of letting your plates roam free like a pack of feral gym wolves?
1. Keeps Your Plates Secure
Weights that shift mid-lift can throw off your balance, increase the risk of injury, and turn your set into a chaotic juggling act. Clamps keep everything tight and stable.
2. Safer for Heavy Lifting
If you’re squatting, pressing, or deadlifting with serious weight, the last thing you want is a plate slipping off mid-rep. Clamps ensure your weight stays where it should—on the bar.
3. More Durable Than Spring Clips
Spring clips can loosen over time, but quality barbell clamps keep a firm grip and last longer.
4. Faster Weight Changes
If you’re doing supersets or drop sets, clamps make weight swaps quicker and easier than struggling with stiff spring clips.
5. They Stick to Your Rack (or Your Fridge)
Bells of Steel’s Magnetic Barbell Clamps are the GOAT of gym convenience. When you're done, stick them to your power rack instead of playing hide-and-seek every workout. Or, if you’re mid-session and suddenly craving a snack? Boom. Straight to the fridge.
The Downsides of Using Barbell Clamps
As much as we love clamps, they aren’t perfect for every scenario.
❌ Not Ideal for Solo Bench Pressing Without Spotter Arms
If you fail a rep without a spotter, bailing is harder with clamps on. Solution? Use spotter arms instead of risking a DIY guillotine session.
❌ Slightly More Expensive Than Spring Clips
Clamps cost a bit more, but they last longer and offer better security. Consider it an investment in not embarrassing yourself at the gym.
❌ Not Always Necessary for Light Lifting
If you’re doing warm-up sets with baby weights, you probably don’t need clamps—unless you want to look extra serious.
Why Do Some Lifters Skip Clamps?
Some lifters intentionally go clamp-free. Here’s why—and what you should do instead.
1. Bailing on Bench Press
When solo lifting, some lifters keep clamps off so they can dump the plates if they fail a bench press. While this makes sense, it’s also a recipe for disaster (and possibly getting banned from your gym).
Better option? Use spotter arms. They save your life AND keep the gym floor from sounding like a war zone.
2. Olympic Weightlifting
In Olympic lifting, some athletes prefer a bit of movement in the plates for momentum. That’s fine, but if you’re not competing in the Olympics, clamps are still your friend.
3. They Forgot (or Lost) Them
We get it—gym gear has a way of vanishing into thin air. That’s why magnetic clamps are a game-changer. Stick them to your rack, fridge, or even your dumbbell storage, so they’re always within reach.
Barbell Clamp FAQs
Do I really need barbell clamps?
If you’re lifting anything heavier than your morning coffee, yes. They keep your plates secure, your lifts safer, and your gains uninterrupted.
Can I use barbell clamps for deadlifts?
Absolutely! They help keep the bar balanced, especially when you’re pulling heavy. Just don’t drop the weights. 🔴🔴🔴
Are spring clips or barbell clamps better?
Clamps are more secure, easier to use, and last longer. Spring clips work in a pinch, but if you want the best hold, clamps win every time.
Where should I store my barbell clamps?
On your rack, fridge, or anywhere magnetic—if you’re smart enough to grab Bells of Steel’s Magnetic Barbell Clamps. Otherwise, expect them to mysteriously disappear into the gym abyss.
Final Verdict: Should You Use Barbell Clamps?
Unless you enjoy chasing rolling weight plates across the floor, the answer is YES. Whether you’re lifting heavy, training at home, or just want your workouts to run smoother, clamps are an easy win.
And if you’re going to get clamps, get the best—Bells of Steel’s Magnetic Barbell Clamps. Because nothing says "I’m serious about lifting" like clamps that stick to your rack and not your bad decisions.
