When shopping for barbells, you'll notice some labeled as "women’s barbells." These bars aren’t just marketing fluff; they’re engineered for specific uses and preferences. One of the key differences is weight.
Let’s break it down: why women’s barbells weigh what they do, how they differ from standard bars, and who should consider adding one to their setup.
The Typical Weight of a Women's Barbell
A standard women’s barbell weighs 15kg (33lbs). In contrast, the standard barbell clocks in at 20kg (44lbs). This difference may seem minor, but it plays a significant role in performance, comfort, and functionality.
Why Are Women’s Barbells Lighter?
1. Optimized for Technique
The lighter weight is intentional. It allows beginners, smaller lifters, and those focusing on technical lifts like the snatch or clean & jerk to train without being bogged down by unnecessary bulk.
2. Supports Smaller Frame Sizes
The 15kg bar is shorter and slimmer, typically with a 25mm shaft diameter compared to the men’s 28-29mm diameter. This slimmer shaft is easier to grip, especially for those with smaller hands, reducing strain and improving control.
3. Ideal Starting Point
If you’re new to lifting, the women’s barbell provides a more manageable starting point to build confidence and perfect form. Paired with technique plates, it’s an unbeatable combo for getting the basics right.
How Does a Women’s Barbell Differ from a Standard Barbell?
Length
- Women’s bars: Around 201cm (6’6”)
- Men’s bars: Around 220cm (7’2”)
The shorter length makes the women’s bar more maneuverable and less intimidating for home gym setups or tight spaces. Of course, this varies by brand.
Knurling
Most women’s barbells skip the center knurling. Why? It’s kinder on the neck and chest during Olympic lifts and front squats.
Weight Capacity
Women’s bars are often just as strong as men’s, with high tensile strength to support heavy lifting. No compromises here—just gains.
Who Should Use a Women's Barbell?
1. Beginners and New Lifters
The lighter weight and slimmer grip make the women’s barbell perfect for beginners learning the ropes (or the lifts).
2. Youth Lifters
The smaller dimensions also suit younger athletes who are just starting to train. It’s not about gender—it’s about size and comfort.
3. Olympic Lifters
If you’re aiming for precision in technical lifts, a women’s barbell helps you focus on form without overloading.
4. Anyone with Smaller Hands
Let’s face it—gripping a chunky bar with small hands can feel like holding onto a rolling pin covered in chalk. The slimmer shaft on a women’s bar solves this issue.
Do I Need a Women’s Barbell?
If you’re comfortable with a standard barbell, stick with it. But if the slimmer grip and lighter weight sound appealing, give it a shot. Remember, there’s no rulebook saying women can only use women’s bars or men can’t pick up a women’s bar. The goal is comfort and performance.
However, if you’re training for a competition, it’s wise to use the barbell that matches the event’s standards—whether that’s a 15kg or 20kg bar.
FAQs About Women’s Barbells
Q: Can men use a women’s barbell?
A: Of course! If the slimmer grip and lighter weight work better for your needs, go for it. A barbell doesn’t care about your gender—only your gains.
Q: Are women’s barbells weaker?
A: Nope! Women’s bars are built with the same high-quality steel and tensile strength as standard bars. They’re just as capable of handling heavy lifts. Sometimes they have a lower max capacity, but they still top out at 800lbs.
Q: What’s the price difference between men’s and women’s barbells?
A: There’s often little to no difference in cost. The lighter weight doesn’t mean lighter materials—it’s about specific engineering.
Q: What’s the benefit of no center knurling?
A: For lifts like cleans and front squats, the lack of center knurling makes the bar more comfortable on your neck and chest.
Q: Should youth lifters start with a women’s barbell?
A: Absolutely. The smaller diameter and lighter weight make it an excellent choice for young athletes learning proper technique.
Conclusion
The women’s barbell isn’t just for women—it’s a thoughtfully designed tool that prioritizes grip, maneuverability, and technique. Whether you’re a beginner, a smaller lifter, or just someone looking for a more comfortable grip, this barbell could be the perfect addition to your gym.
