A guide to buying an EZ curl bar

EZ curl bars are a variant of the barbell that is mainly used for biceps exercises. As the bar is curved in the grip region, it allows the user's wrist to take a more neutral position, therefore reducing the risk of injury. EZ curl bars are a great addition to any home gym. This article provides you with a guide to buying an EZ curl bar.

What is it and how do I use it?

EZ curl bars are weight lifting bars that are shaped in order to give a more comfortable feel especially when doing biceps curls. The EZ bar comes in three different variations - the standard bar, the Olympic style bar and the super curl bar. Standard bar The standard EZ curl bar weighs in at around 5kg, which is a whole 2.5 kg less than a straight barbell bar - the typical length of an EZ curl bar is 47 inches (120cm). There are two choices of collar holding the plates on available for the standard bar, spin lock or butterfly fastenings, personal preference denotes which is more suited. Olympic curl bar The more expensive option. These bars tend to weigh more than the standard bar at around 7-9 kg due to the extra length they have over the standard bar. Adding to the weight, is a special feature found on the ends where the weights sit, they have a sleeve with encased bearings to allow the plates to spin freely when loaded on. The bar, because of it's extra sleeves, only comes with special butterfly fastenings to hold the weights in place. Super curl bar Some manufacturers offer super EZ curl bars. These are the same as traditional bars but feature more acute curves. The advantage of these type of bars is that the user can train with a parallel grip. All three bars have both inner grip markings and outer grip markings to allow the user to work the triceps, forearms and biceps.

Variations of weight plates

The two type of weight plates used on these bars are standard plates and Olympic plates. Standard plates will only work on a standard bar as the bar is 1 inch in diameter and an Olympic bar is 2 inches, due to the rotating sleeves. Due to these sleeves being vulnerable to damage, it is generally advised that bumper plates are used. Bumper plates are rubber-coated plates that help to absorb and minimise the transfer of energy from the plates to the bar when dropped. EZ curl bars are a common piece of equipment in home gyms, so most sports shops carry bars in stock. Prices vary depending on the brand and style of the bar.