Axle Bars
Primary type: Cardio equipment
An Axle Bar is a thick, solid steel bar used in weightlifting, often thicker than a standard barbell, and challenging grip strength. Typically around 2 inches or more, it is significantly more difficult to grip than a standard barbell. It's a staple in strongman training but is also used in general strength and conditioning programs to enhance grip strength and add variety to weightlifting routines.
How to use Axle Bars
- Load the bar with the desired weight, just like a standard barbell.
- Grip the bar firmly; the thick diameter will challenge your grip.
- Perform various exercises such as deadlifts, presses, or cleans, focusing on maintaining a strong grip.
- Due to its size, the Axle Bar may not fit into standard racks or bench press setups, so be mindful of this when planning your workout.
Benefits of using Axle Bars
- Enhances grip strength due to the thicker diameter.
- Challenges your muscles differently compared to a standard barbell, enhancing overall strength development.
- Useful for functional strength training, as it mimics real-life lifting scenarios where objects are not ergonomically designed.
Targeted Muscles
- Similar to a standard barbell, it targets a wide range of muscle groups depending on the exercises performed.
- Particularly effective for developing forearm and grip strength.
Common Exercises with Axle Bars
- Deadlifts for lower body and back strength.
- Overhead presses for shoulder and arm development.
- Cleans and snatches for full-body power and coordination.
Skill Level
- Suitable for intermediate to advanced lifters due to the increased grip challenge.
- Beginners may start with lighter weights to adapt to the thicker bar.
Safety Tips
- Use a mixed grip or hook grip if struggling with the thickness of the bar during heavy lifts.
- Ensure proper form and technique to avoid injury, especially when lifting heavy weights.
- Consider using chalk to improve grip if allowed in your gym.
Alternative/Similar Equipment
- Standard Olympic barbells for traditional weightlifting.
- Fat grip attachments for regular barbells to mimic the thick grip of an Axle Bar.
- Dumbbells or kettlebells for grip strength development.