The 10 Best Weighted Bars
Special Honors
Vipr Pro The Vipr Pro is larger and more expensive than many simple exercise bars, but it offers more versatility, too. The strong, rounded handles ensure it's easy to manipulate, no matter which size you select, while flared ends lend it stability you can count on. Plus, the logo is customizable, whether you need personalization for an individual or a team. vipr.com
BodyRock Body Bar The BodyRock Body Bar resembles a barbell more than it does a traditional weighted bar, since you can add weights onto the ends. But even by itself, the 8-pound bar offers more than enough of a workout for many, especially since it has integrated handles that rotate to help you vary your exercises and target different muscle groups. bodyrock.tv
Editor's Notes
September 22, 2020:
For most, we still think that the Yes4All Total Body represents the best value. You can select from among several sizes, or choose a set; each piece is color-coded for quick identification, so even if you purchase several, you won't introduce any hassles to your workout. We kept the CanDo Slim Introductory Set for beginners, as well. With this set and a good set of exercise bands, newbies will be able to get started building muscle tone, even without venturing into a gym.
To accommodate users looking for a weighted bar for rehabilitation, we kept the MJM International Therapy and added the Sammons Preston Rehab. These come in various weights, and are designed to be easy to sanitize properly, so they're handy for physical therapists working with many patients.
Finally, we kept one choice for travelers, the ProBar Mobility. It breaks down into smaller pieces and includes 1.1-pound weights that help you progress as you grow stronger. The nylon carrying case makes it a breeze to transport, although as you may expect, it will make your gym bag or carry on a little heavier.
August 21, 2019:
A home gym is great if you have the room, but we've looked for robust weighted bars that are easy to store and transport. At this time, the Gold's Gym 3-Piece and Fitness Republic Sculpting have become tough to find, so we've removed them. But we still like the Yes4All Total Body, for several reasons — it’s offered in various weights, it doesn’t roll, and the end caps are color-coded, to name a few. For those who want the portability of a unit that breaks down into pieces for travel (and different exercises), we added the ProBar Mobility. The main bar alone is four pounds, but it comes with two 1-pound weights that screw onto the ends. Because we know that these choices are good for those who already have some experience, we also decided to add the CanDo Slim Introductory Set. It includes a feather-light 1-pound bar that should be fine for most beginners. And unlike many, each bar is colored over its entire length, rather than just at the end caps, so they’re easy to spot anywhere you put them.