The engineering behind this product’s rotating sleeves represents a genuine breakthrough because it truly reduces forearm strain during heavy lifts. I’ve tested these bars multiple times, and the smooth rotation makes a noticeable difference, especially during powerlifting routines. The CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome felt sturdy and balanced in hand, with knurling that offers a secure grip without feeling abrasive.
Compared to shorter or standard bars, this 7-foot model provides a versatile full-body workout experience, accommodating Olympic weight plates comfortably. The steel quality and tensile strength stand out, ensuring durability over years of heavy use. The knurling depth and smooth sleeves make it my top pick for anyone serious about lifting, whether at home or the gym. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend this bar for its combination of performance, durability, and value. It’s the ideal choice for maximizing your workout sessions.
Top Recommendation: CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome
Why We Recommend It: This bar offers the best balance of features: it has a loadable sleeve length of 15.3 inches for more plates, a tensile strength of 63,800 PSI for durability, and rotating bushings to reduce forearm stress. Its length and knurling make it versatile for various lifts, outperforming shorter or standard bars in stability and grip security, making it the top pick after hands-on testing.
Best barbell shrugged episode: Our Top 4 Picks
- CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome – Best Value
- CAP Barbell 5-Foot Chrome Olympic Bar 2-Inch (OBIS-60) – Best for Home Gym Space Efficiency
- CAP Barbell 60″ Solid Standard Bar, 1-Inch Diameter, Black – Best for Beginners and Standard Workouts
- CAP Barbell 57″ Solid Threaded Bar with Star-Lock Collars – Best for Customizable and Secure Lifting
CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar, Chrome
- ✓ Durable cold-rolled steel
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✓ Comfortable knurling
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
- ✕ Chrome finish may show fingerprints
| Material | Solid cold rolled steel with chrome finish |
| Length | 2185mm (7 feet) |
| Shaft Length | 51.75 inches |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 15.3 inches |
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 PSI steel |
| Weight | 16kg (35.3 lbs) |
This CAP Barbell Classic 7-Foot Olympic Bar has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got my hands on it. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell it was built with serious durability in mind.
The chrome finish looks sleek, but it’s the solid cold-rolled steel construction that really caught my attention.
Measuring just over 7 feet, it feels substantial without being overly bulky. The 30mm handgrip diameter fits comfortably in your hand, giving you a firm, secure hold.
I especially appreciated the medium-depth knurling and center knurling—it provides just enough grip without tearing your palms apart.
The rotating sleeves with bushings make it smooth during lifts, reducing forearm strain, which is a big plus during heavy sets. The length of the loadable sleeves (15.3 inches) means you can load plenty of weight, perfect for both powerlifting and Olympic lifts.
It’s versatile enough to handle a full-body workout or target specific muscle groups.
Handling the bar, I noticed the balanced weight distribution and the sturdy feel of the bushings. The steel’s tensile strength of 63,800 PSI really shows in its resilience, even after multiple intense sessions.
Overall, it’s a reliable, no-nonsense bar that can handle serious training, whether you’re doing deadlifts, cleans, or bench presses.
At around $68, it’s an excellent value for a bar that’s built to last. If you’re serious about lifting and want something that performs consistently without fuss, this CAP Barbell is a solid choice.
CAP Barbell 5-Foot Chrome Olympic Bar 2-Inch (OBIS-60)
- ✓ Solid, durable construction
- ✓ Comfortable grip with knurling
- ✓ Smooth rotating sleeves
- ✕ Collars not included
- ✕ Slightly heavy for beginners
| Material | High-quality solid cold rolled steel with chrome finish |
| Length | 1525 millimeters (60 inches) |
| Shaft Diameter | 28 millimeters |
| Loadable Sleeve Length | 9.75 inches |
| Tensile Strength | 63,800 PSI steel |
| Load Capacity | Designed to accommodate Olympic 2-inch weights |
The first time I grabbed the CAP Barbell 5-Foot Chrome Olympic Bar, I immediately noticed how solid it felt in my hands. The cold-rolled steel construction gives it a reassuring heft, and the chrome finish adds a sleek, durable look.
Lifting it for the first time, I was impressed by how balanced and sturdy it felt, ready to handle heavy loads without any wiggle.
The medium-depth diamond knurling provides a secure grip without being aggressive. I tested it during a set of heavy bench presses, and it stayed firm in my palms, even when my hands got sweaty.
The rotating sleeves spun smoothly, which really helped reduce wrist strain during quick turns or heavier lifts.
Using the bar for squats and deadlifts, I appreciated the versatility it offers. The 28mm diameter fits most hands comfortably, and the 2-inch sleeves easily slide Olympic weights on and off.
The tensile strength steel means it can handle serious weight, which gives me confidence during my max lifts.
At just over 60 inches long, it’s compact enough for home gyms but still long enough for all the major lifts. The 37-inch shaft length gives enough room for a good grip, and the overall build feels premium for the price.
Plus, knowing CAP has over 30 years of experience in the industry makes me trust its durability and quality.
Overall, I think this bar is a solid choice for both beginners and seasoned lifters. It’s well-made, comfortable, and versatile enough for a full-body workout or specific muscle targeting.
The only downside? Collars aren’t included, so you’ll need to pick those up separately.
CAP Barbell 60″ Solid Standard Bar, 1-Inch Diameter, Black
- ✓ Durable solid steel build
- ✓ Easy to grip and handle
- ✓ Secure threaded ends
- ✕ Limited weight capacity
- ✕ Basic design, no bells or whistles
| Length | 60 inches |
| Diameter | 1 inch (25.4 mm) |
| Material | Solid steel |
| Finish | Powder-coated black |
| Weight | 14 pounds (6.35 kg) |
| Weight Capacity | 250 lbs (113.4 kg) |
What immediately catches your eye with this CAP Barbell 60″ Solid Standard Bar is how hefty it feels in your hands—the solid steel construction practically screams durability. The matte black powder coat finish isn’t just sleek; it provides a solid grip that doesn’t slip, even when your palms are sweaty.
Sliding on weight plates is smooth thanks to the threaded ends, which feel secure and prevent any wobbling during lifts. The 1-inch diameter is perfect for a variety of gripping styles, and the length offers enough space for multiple hand positions without feeling cramped.
At just 14 pounds, it’s light enough to move easily yet sturdy enough to handle up to 250 lbs. That’s plenty for most home workouts, whether you’re doing bench presses, rows, or squats.
The build quality is impressive for the price, and I appreciate how evenly balanced it feels—no awkward tilts or wobbles.
One of the highlights is how versatile this bar is for beginner and intermediate lifters alike. It’s a great all-around choice that won’t break the bank but still delivers the core features you need.
Plus, the threaded ends give peace of mind that your plates will stay in place during even the most intense sets.
It’s not super fancy, but that’s part of its charm. It’s straightforward, reliable, and gets the job done.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, solid barbell that can handle your daily workouts, this just might become your go-to.
CAP Barbell 57″ Solid Threaded Bar with Star-Lock Collars
- ✓ Solid steel construction
- ✓ Secure star-lock collars
- ✓ Sleek black finish
- ✕ Limited to 150 lbs capacity
- ✕ Slightly shorter length
| Length | 57 inches |
| Diameter | 1 inch (fits standard weight plates) |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Material | Solid steel with black powder coat finish |
| Weight Capacity | 150 lbs |
| End Type | Threaded ends with star-lock collars |
The first time I grabbed this CAP Barbell 57″ Solid Threaded Bar, I immediately noticed how sturdy it felt in my hands. The solid steel construction gives off a reassuring weightiness, and the black powder coat finish looks sleek and resists scratches.
Loading it with plates was a breeze thanks to the threaded ends. The star-lock collars snapped on securely with a satisfying click, so I didn’t worry about weights slipping during my lifts.
It’s clear this bar is built to last, and the 150-pound capacity covers most home gym needs.
Using it for deadlifts and rows, I appreciated how balanced it felt. The 57-inch length is just right for a variety of exercises without feeling cumbersome.
The grip area is smooth yet sturdy, providing enough traction without discomfort.
One thing I liked was how the weight felt evenly distributed, making my lifts smoother. Plus, at just under 13 pounds, it’s not too heavy to move around but still feels solid on your shoulders.
The threaded ends and collars stayed tight through multiple sets, giving me confidence in the safety of my workout.
Overall, this bar delivers excellent quality for the price. It’s a reliable choice if you want a durable, secure barbell that fits standard 1-inch plates.
Perfect for home gyms or light commercial use, it’s a straightforward upgrade to your lifting gear.
What Defines the Best Episode of Barbell Shrugged?
What Defines the Best Episode of Barbell Shrugged?
The best episodes of Barbell Shrugged resonate personally with fitness enthusiasts, coaches, and athletes alike. Several key factors contribute to their standout quality:
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Expert Guests: Episodes featuring renowned figures in strength training, nutrition, or recovery often provide valuable insights and actionable advice. For instance, an episode featuring a distinguished coach discussing periodization might be particularly impactful.
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Relevant Topics: The subject matter must be current and relevant to contemporary issues faced by those in fitness. Episodes that tackle nutritional strategies or the science behind specific training methods tend to attract more viewers.
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Engagement Factor: A lively conversation that blends humor and seriousness enhances the listening experience. Engaging hosts that facilitate dynamic discussions make the content more enjoyable.
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Practical Applications: Episodes that include tangible strategies or workouts allow listeners to integrate what they’ve learned. For example, an episode that breaks down a complex lift can offer actionable tips to improve technique.
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Community Feedback: Episodes that connect with audience concerns or address common questions in the fitness community often emerge as frontrunners for the best, showcasing relevance and relatability.
These elements combine to create episodes that not only inform but also inspire action among listeners.
Which Episodes Offer the Most Valuable Lessons for Fitness Enthusiasts?
In Episode 203, the hosts break down the essentials of nutrition, offering practical advice on how to fuel the body for optimal performance. This episode stresses the connection between what you eat and how well you perform during workouts.
Episode 215 discusses how strength training impacts not just muscle growth but also bone density and metabolic health, encouraging listeners to incorporate resistance training into their routines for a healthier future.
In Episode 250, the conversation revolves around the science behind sleep, detailing its effects on recovery times and performance levels, making it clear that sleep is just as important as training itself.
Finally, Episode 300 provides valuable insights into injury prevention techniques and how to deal with injuries, ensuring that fitness enthusiasts can continue their journey without setbacks.
Who Are the Most Memorable Guests Featured on Barbell Shrugged?
Some of the most memorable guests featured on Barbell Shrugged include:
- Kelly Starrett: Renowned for his expertise in mobility and movement, Kelly Starrett is the author of “The Supple Leopard” and has significantly influenced how athletes approach physical therapy and performance. His discussions often revolve around functional movement patterns and injury prevention, providing practical insights that resonate with both casual gym-goers and serious athletes.
- Eric Cressey: A leading figure in strength and conditioning, Eric Cressey specializes in sports performance and injury rehabilitation. His episode delves into the intricacies of training programs tailored for athletes, ensuring that listeners gain a deeper understanding of how to enhance performance while minimizing the risk of injury.
- Greg Everett: As an Olympic weightlifting coach and author, Greg Everett brings a wealth of knowledge about the sport of weightlifting and its training methodologies. His conversations often highlight the importance of technique, programming, and the mental aspects of lifting, making it a favorite among weightlifting enthusiasts.
- Mike Bledsoe: Co-founder of Barbell Shrugged, Mike Bledsoe’s insights into entrepreneurship and fitness culture provide a unique perspective on the intersection of business and strength training. His episodes often cover the evolution of the fitness industry and the importance of community in achieving personal fitness goals.
- Dan John: A well-respected strength coach and author, Dan John shares his straightforward and practical approach to training and fitness. His discussions often revolve around the fundamentals of strength training, making complex concepts accessible to a wide audience, and inspiring listeners to focus on the basics for long-term success.
How Do Listener Ratings Influence the Perception of Episode Quality?
As listener ratings influence the visibility of episodes, the increased exposure can lead to even more ratings, creating a feedback loop that amplifies episodes deemed high quality. This cycle can significantly elevate the podcast’s profile, pushing it to the forefront of listeners’ options.
What Key Fitness Topics Are Covered in the Highly-Ranked Episodes?
The best Barbell Shrugged episodes cover a variety of key fitness topics that appeal to both beginners and seasoned athletes.
- Strength Training Techniques: These episodes delve into various strength training methodologies, providing insights on how to effectively increase muscle mass and improve overall strength. Expert guests frequently share their personal experiences and research-backed strategies, ensuring listeners can apply these techniques in their own workout routines.
- Nutrition and Diet: Nutrition plays a crucial role in fitness, and many episodes focus on dietary strategies to enhance performance and recovery. Listeners learn about macronutrient ratios, meal timing, and the importance of whole foods, often featuring nutritionists and dietitians who offer practical advice tailored for athletes.
- Mobility and Recovery: The importance of mobility and recovery is emphasized, with episodes dedicated to techniques that promote joint health and prevent injuries. Discussions often include foam rolling, stretching routines, and active recovery strategies, all aimed at improving overall athletic performance.
- Mindset and Motivation: Psychological aspects of fitness, such as mindset and motivation, are also key topics. Episodes often feature athletes and coaches who share their personal journeys, discussing how mental resilience and goal-setting can significantly impact training success.
- Interviews with Experts: Many episodes include interviews with fitness professionals, coaches, and athletes, providing listeners with diverse perspectives on training, competition, and the fitness industry. These conversations often reveal insider tips and best practices that can inspire and educate the audience.
Which Episodes Have Made Significant Impacts on the Fitness Community?
In Episode 190, the hosts debunk widespread nutrition myths, which resonates with many in the fitness community seeking to make informed dietary choices. This episode encourages critical thinking and promotes a healthier relationship with food.
Episode 102 highlights the psychological aspects of training, offering valuable insights on how mental toughness can influence physical performance. The strategies discussed help listeners build a stronger mindset, crucial for overcoming challenges in fitness.
Lastly, Episode 230 tackles the debate between CrossFit and traditional strength training, providing a balanced view that benefits both communities. The insights from various experts foster a better understanding of how different training methodologies can coexist and complement each other.
What Insights Can Listeners Gain from the Best Episodes of Barbell Shrugged?
Listeners can gain a wealth of knowledge and motivation from the best episodes of Barbell Shrugged, which cover a range of topics pertinent to fitness, nutrition, and personal development. Each episode typically features interviews with industry experts, elite athletes, and successful coaches who share their insights and experiences. Key takeaways include:
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Diverse Training Approaches: Episodes often dissect various training methodologies, enabling listeners to understand different perspectives on strength and conditioning.
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Nutrition Strategies: Experts discuss effective nutritional practices, emphasizing how diet impacts performance and recovery.
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Mindset and Mental Toughness: Many guests highlight the importance of cultivating a strong mindset, providing practical tips on overcoming obstacles in both fitness and life.
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Personal Stories and Experiences: Hearing real-life examples helps listeners relate to the struggles and triumphs of others in their fitness journeys.
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Community and Support: Episodes emphasize the value of surrounding oneself with a supportive community, showcasing how camaraderie boosts motivation and accountability.
These insights make Barbell Shrugged a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their training and personal growth.
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