Barbells

Some famous names you should know

Barbells are some of the most popular free weights available.  Easy to use and requiring no special equipment, barbells are a great weight training solution for anyone regardless of age, income, or ability level.

Several barbell manufacturers have made names for themselves in the exercise world.  Their barbells and exercise techniques have formed health clubs worldwide and spawned legions of loyal followers. 

Popular barbell companies

Westside Barbell. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Westside Barbell offers a training program for elite lifters.  Westside's training program is designed specifically for each individual lifter, focusing on weak areas and how to improve them.  Westside sells an entire line of merchandise, from commercial barbells to personal training videos and workout clothing.

York Barbell. This manufacturer and training company is based in York, Pennsylvania and has been considered one of the leading barbell companies for the past 65 years.  They publish a magazine called Strength and Health, which offers training tips and has a loyal following of lifters. 

Cap Barbell.  With warehouses in New Jersey, Texas, and California, Cap Barbell is one of the leading manufacturers of commercial and personal fitness accessories.  They ship large amounts of equipment each year, from barbells to exercise machines and components.

The companies listed above are just a small sampling of what's available when it comes to choosing barbells or training programs.  Across the United States, weight training has become increasingly more popular, and with this increase has come a huge variety of manufacturers and health clubs based around barbells and free weights.

Choosing your own barbells

If you're interested in purchasing top of the line barbells or other exercise equipment, it's in your best interests to research carefully.  Keep in mind that professional fitness equipment is a true investment, and it's imperative to your safety as well as to your fitness goals to invest wisely.

If you're looking for a high quality barbell training program, your priorities will be a little different than if you're just searching for equipment.  If you have a barbell company and training center near you, your choice may be made by proximity.  If not, most top-of-the-line barbell companies offer home videos and other forms of training that you can follow regardless of your location.

More information on free weights