A hex bar, often called a trap bar, is defined by its hexagonal or diamond shape, which a lifter steps inside to perform exercises. Its unique design places the weight directly in line with the body’s center of gravity, benefiting movements like deadlifts and heavy shrugs. Unlike the straight barbell, where the weight is in front of the lifter, the hex bar allows for a more upright posture, often reducing strain on the lower back. This construction means the bar is not subject to the international standardization rules that govern traditional barbells, making its exact weight variable.
Standard Weight of a Hex Bar
The weight of a hex bar is not uniform across all manufacturers, though many aim for a weight familiar to lifters. In most commercial gyms, the standard hex bar commonly weighs between 45 and 54 pounds (20 to 24.5 kilograms). This range is often intentionally close to the universally recognized 45-pound weight of a standard Olympic barbell, simplifying plate calculations. However, the total weight for hex bars available on the market can vary significantly, ranging from about 30 pounds up to 76 pounds for heavy-duty models.
Design Elements That Alter Bar Weight
The physical characteristics of a hex bar are the primary reasons for its weight variation. The gauge and type of steel used in the frame construction directly impact the overall mass. Bars made with thicker, high-tensile steel to support extreme loads will naturally weigh more, offering superior durability and a greater weight capacity.
The length of the loadable sleeves, where weight plates slide on, also adds significant weight. Specialty bars designed for advanced lifters often have longer sleeves to accommodate a greater number of plates, increasing the bar’s empty weight. For example, a bar with 15-inch sleeves will weigh substantially more than a compact model with 10-inch sleeves, even if the frame dimensions are similar.
The overall style of the frame is another major influence, particularly with open-sided hex bars. Traditional closed-hex bars use a fully enclosed frame, while open models feature a break to allow easier entry and exit or to facilitate exercises like lunges. To maintain structural integrity and high weight capacity despite the opening, manufacturers often use heavier, reinforced steel, which can increase the bar’s total mass compared to a traditional design.
Comparing the Hex Bar to the Standard Olympic Bar
The primary difference between the hex bar and a straight Olympic barbell lies in weight standardization. A straight Olympic barbell is regulated by international lifting federations to weigh exactly 20 kilograms (44.09 pounds), ensuring consistency for competitive lifting globally. Because the hex bar is a specialized training tool not used in standardized competition, it lacks this strict requirement, allowing manufacturers latitude in design and material use. This structural distinction explains the wide range of weights found in gyms and stores.