Benefits of the 86 Barbell for Olympic Lifting

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The 86 barbell, commonly referred to as a 7-foot Olympic barbell, is a fundamental piece of equipment in weightlifting and general strength training. Its standard length of 86 inches (7 feet 2 inches) makes it an ideal choice for a variety of lifting disciplines, including Olympic lifts. The 86 barbell is widely used by athletes, gym enthusiasts, and serious lifters due to its versatile design and optimal size. The key features of the 86 barbell include its durable steel construction, high-quality rotating sleeves for smoother lifts, and medium knurling for a secure grip. These design elements enhance performance by providing stability, reducing wrist strain, and improving control during heavy lifts. The 86 barbell is also compatible with standard Olympic weight plates, making it an essential tool for a broad range of training routines.

What is the 86 Barbell?

Length and Dimensions

The 86 barbell, often referred to as a 7-foot Olympic barbell, measures 86 inches (7 feet 2 inches) in length, making it the standard size for most Olympic weightlifting exercises. This length provides ample space for a comfortable grip, which is essential for various lifts, including the snatch, clean and jerk, and overhead press. Compared to standard barbells, which are generally shorter, the 86 barbell offers more versatility in terms of grip width, allowing athletes to perform lifts with better balance and stability.

The 86 barbell is also designed to accommodate larger weight plates, making it ideal for heavier lifting. Its longer length helps distribute the weight more evenly, reducing strain on the lifter’s wrists and shoulders during high-intensity movements. This makes the 86 barbell a crucial piece of equipment for serious weightlifters and those training for Olympic-style lifts.

Design and Build

The 86 barbell is typically constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance even under heavy loads. Steel is the preferred material due to its ability to withstand constant stress without warping or bending. The construction is designed to support the demands of heavy lifting, making it suitable for professional gyms and workout setups alike.

One notable feature of the 86 inch barbell is its rotating sleeves. These rotating sleeves are crucial for minimizing strain on the wrists during dynamic lifts. They allow the barbell to spin smoothly as the lifter performs movements.

In addition to the rotating sleeves, the 86 barbell typically includes a medium knurling pattern on the shaft. This provides a comfortable yet secure grip, which is essential for controlling the bar during lifts. The knurling is not overly aggressive, making it suitable for athletes who perform high-rep training or those with sensitive hands, ensuring a balance between grip security and comfort.

The sleeves of the 86 barbell also have a protective coating, usually chrome or zinc, which prevents rust and increases the lifespan of the bar. This coating not only protects the bar from damage but also improves its appearance, maintaining its sleek finish over time.

86 Barbell Specifications

Weight and Load Capacity

The 86 barbell typically weighs around 20 kg (44 lbs), which is the standard weight for Olympic barbells. This makes it suitable for a broad range of athletes, from beginners to advanced lifters. A key feature of the 86 barbell is its remarkable load capacity. With a maximum load capacity of up to 1500 lbs (680 kg), it can handle even the heaviest lifts. This impressive weight capacity allows the bar to be used for a variety of exercises, including squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and Olympic lifts.

In comparison to other barbells, the 86 barbell stands out for its superior strength and ability to withstand intense stress. While some barbells may have a lower weight capacity, the 86 barbell is built to endure significant weight without warping, making it ideal for heavy training and intense lifting.

Tensile and Yield Strength

The 86 barbell features a high tensile strength rating, typically around 150,000 PSI (pounds per square inch). Tensile strength is the maximum amount of force the bar can endure before it begins to deform. The higher the tensile strength, the more weight the bar can bear without losing its shape. This ensures that the 86 barbell is capable of enduring the heavy loads associated with Olympic lifting and other strength training exercises without compromising its structural integrity.

The yield strength of the 86 barbell, which refers to the point at which the bar begins to permanently deform, is also high. This ensures that even under extreme pressure, the bar maintains its shape and functionality, offering long-term durability for heavy lifting.

Sleeve and Grip

The sleeves of the 86 barbell have a 2-inch diameter, making them compatible with Olympic bumper plates. This standard size ensures that a wide range of weight plates can be used with the barbell, allowing for flexibility in loading and adjusting the weight. The 2-inch sleeve diameter is the standard in Olympic lifting, which ensures compatibility with most gym equipment.

The sleeve length of the 86 barbell is 16.25 inches. This length allows for proper placement of weight plates, ensuring they are securely fastened during lifts. The longer sleeve length also prevents the plates from shifting during dynamic movements, enhancing the safety and stability of lifts.

The 86 barbell also features medium knurling on its shaft, providing a comfortable and secure grip. This level of knurling is sufficient to ensure that the lifter has adequate control over the bar without causing hand strain. Additionally, the barbell is equipped with dual knurl-free guide marks, which help athletes position their hands correctly for lifts. These features improve comfort and help maintain proper form during heavy lifts.

86 Barbell vs. 72 Barbells

When comparing the 86 barbell to the standard 72″ barbell, there are several important differences in terms of length, weight, and suitability for different types of lifters. The 86 barbell, with its 7-foot 2-inch length, offers more space for wider grip variations, which is particularly beneficial for Olympic lifting movements like the clean and jerk and the snatch. The standard 72″ barbell, which measures 6 feet, may feel more compact, making it a good choice for general strength training but less ideal for those performing Olympic lifts due to its shorter sleeve and less maneuverable length.

Feature86 Barbell72" Barbell
Length86 inches (7 feet 2 inches)72 inches (6 feet)
WeightTypically 20 kg (44 lbs)Typically 20 kg (44 lbs)
Load CapacityUp to 1500 lbs (680 kg)1000-1200 lbs (454-544 kg)
Ideal forOlympic liftingGeneral strength training, beginners
Grip WidthWider, better for Olympic liftsMore compact, suited for general lifts
Sleeve LengthLonger, accommodates more platesShorter, fewer plates can be loaded

Who Should Use the 86 Barbell?

The 86 barbell is designed for athletes and lifters who need a barbell with exceptional durability, load-bearing capacity, and length. Its features make it an ideal choice for a variety of strength training disciplines, including Olympic weightlifting and powerlifting. Let’s break it down for specific types of athletes:

Ideal for Athletes

For athletes, the 86 barbell offers a perfect balance between flexibility and strength. The longer bar allows for more room to execute a wide range of Olympic lifts, while its sturdy construction ensures it can withstand the high-impact, dynamic movements typical. Whether you’re performing complex lifts, the 86 barbell provides the necessary stability and durability to handle these exercises repeatedly.

Ideal for Olympic Weightlifters

Olympic weightlifters will find the 86 barbell to be an excellent tool for their training. The barbell’s length, tensile strength, and rotating sleeves make it highly suitable for snatches and clean and jerks, where smooth rotation of the bar is essential. The 86 barbell is designed to bear heavy loads while maintaining the high level of precision needed for these Olympic lifts. With its advanced engineering, it provides lifters with the confidence needed to tackle their training with both safety and efficiency.

Ideal for Powerlifters

Powerlifters, who typically perform squat, bench press, and deadlift, will appreciate the 86 barbell for its strength and load capacity. The robust design of the 86 barbell ensures that it can withstand the maximum weights Whether you are squatting massive loads or deadlifting with intensity, the 86 barbell can support heavy lifts without compromising its structural integrity.

Beginner vs. Advanced Users of the 86 Barbell

While the 86 barbell is an excellent choice for experienced athletes, beginners may need to assess their specific training needs before choosing this barbell. There are several reasons why the 86 barbell may or may not be the best option for those just starting their fitness journey.

Why Beginners Might Opt for Lighter Barbells or Shorter Lengths

For beginner lifters, a shorter and lighter barbell like the 72” barbell might be more appropriate as they are still working on mastering their technique. A lighter barbell reduces the risk of injury by helping beginners focus on form and movement without being overwhelmed by excessive weight. The 86 barbell, with its longer length and heavier weight capacity, may feel cumbersome to beginners who are still adjusting to the dynamics of lifting.

Additionally, a shorter barbell can provide better maneuverability in smaller training spaces, making it easier to learn fundamental lifts like deadlifts or squats. Once beginners gain confidence and technique, they can transition to a longer barbell like the 86 barbell to support their evolving needs as they progress in strength training.

Advanced Users Who Need More Weight Capacity and a Longer Bar for Complex Lifts

Advanced lifters, on the other hand, will likely benefit from the 86 barbell because of its added length and weight capacity. The longer bar allows for more space during complex lifts, which require a full range of motion. For those who are competing or performing high-intensity strength training routines, the 86 barbell provides the flexibility and robustness needed for safe and efficient execution of heavy lifts.

The 86 barbell also caters to athletes who routinely lift significant weights. Its high load-bearing capacity ensures that advanced lifters can load the bar to their maximum without worrying about bending or breaking. This makes it ideal for those who have outgrown lighter bars and are seeking a barbell that can grow with their strength gains.

FAQs about 86 Barbell

What is normal barbell size?

The standard size of an Olympic barbell is typically 7 feet in length (approximately 86 inches), and it weighs 45 pounds (20.4 kg). This size is commonly used in most gyms and is considered the “normal” barbell size for Olympic lifting and general strength training exercises. The bar has a diameter of about 28mm (1.1 inches), which is designed for a firm grip. The sleeves (the part where the weights are loaded) are 16.25 inches long and have a 2-inch diameter, fitting Olympic bumper plates.
However, barbells come in various sizes depending on their purpose. For example, women’s Olympic barbells are often shorter and lighter, typically 6.5 feet (78 inches) and weigh 33 pounds (15 kg). Junior barbells for younger lifters are typically shorter and lighter as well. Specialty barbells like curl bars or trap bars may also come in different lengths and weights to cater to specific exercises and user needs.
So, while the standard size is 7 feet and 45 pounds, there are variations based on the specific type of lifting you plan to do and the lifter’s body size.

What is the 81cm mark on a barbell?

The 81cm mark on a barbell typically refers to the distance between the center of the bar or the placement of the grips for particular lifts. In Olympic lifting, the 81cm mark is an important measurement for ensuring proper hand placement, especially in movements like the clean and jerk or snatch. The distance between the grip markings is essential for maintaining proper form, balance, and execution of these complex lifts.
Barbells are often marked with knurling at specific intervals (such as 81cm) to indicate the optimal positions for the hands during different lifts. These marks help athletes position their hands correctly, whether performing snatches or clean and jerks, ensuring that they execute lifts with the best leverage and safety.
In some barbells, the 81cm mark could also indicate the center of the bar where the load is balanced, especially for heavy lifts. Understanding this mark and its purpose is crucial for ensuring correct lifting posture and technique.

Is there a 75 lb barbell?

While the standard Olympic barbell weighs 45 pounds (20.4 kg), there are several specialty barbells available in various weights, including the possibility of a 75 lb barbell. However, these are not typical for Olympic lifting and are more commonly found in gyms, commercial fitness centers, or for specific exercises like the bench press.
75 lb barbells are often used in certain specialty bars or training equipment for a specific user or purpose. For instance, some bars designed for particular lifts, such as curl bars, might weigh in around 75 lbs, depending on the design and material. These bars are typically used for exercises that don’t require the same specifications as an Olympic barbell but still provide a substantial amount of resistance for strength training.
Additionally, some hybrid or adjustable barbells can allow users to load a range of weights, including the option to achieve a 75 lb total weight. These barbells usually feature a collar system that allows lifters to adjust the weight according to their training needs.

Are all barbells 45 lbs?

No, not all barbells weigh 45 lbs. The 45 lb barbell is the standard weight for Olympic barbells and is used in most commercial gyms for strength training and weightlifting. However, there are many different types of barbells, and their weights can vary depending on their design and intended use.
For instance:
Women’s Olympic barbells typically weigh 33 pounds (15 kg) and are often slightly shorter than the standard 45 lb bars.
Junior barbells, which are designed for younger athletes, can be even lighter, weighing around 15 lbs (7 kg).
Specialty barbells, like curl bars, trap bars, or EZ curl bars, can weigh anywhere from 25 to 60 pounds depending on their construction and purpose.
Adjustable barbells or weighted bars can vary in weight, allowing users to add or remove weight plates for customized resistance.
Therefore, while 45 lbs is the standard for Olympic lifting bars, barbells come in a wide range of weights to accommodate different exercises, lifters, and fitness levels. Always check the specifications of the barbell you’re using to ensure it meets your training needs.

Jordan Mitchell

Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.