stupid question... barbell weight vs dumbbell weight

uncbluci
uncbluci Posts: 31 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
In the weights area of my gym there is a rack of barbells with fixed weight plates (you can't take them off) of different sizes. There is a number printed on each plate- is that the weight of each plate, or the total? And how comparable is the barbell to dumbbells... should I go for the same amount of weight that I can do with dumbbells, or does the bar make it easier (thus should go for higher weight)?

Replies

  • wellbert
    wellbert Posts: 3,924 Member
    It's the total.

    you can do higher total weight with a bar. many feel that provides greater strength gains.
  • sonshine9211
    sonshine9211 Posts: 6
    Good Morning:

    I work out in a gym 5-6 days a week. I have been told and read that machine weights do most of the work. By using free weights you are doing the work and reap more benefits.
    Each machine weight is setup differently. You need to talk to the gym and ask them about the weight measurements.
    Have a super day!
  • FullOfWin
    FullOfWin Posts: 1,414 Member
    I dunno about the numbers although my assumption would be that is the total weight.

    For barbell vs dumbbell weight to use, it depends on the exercise. For presses (flat bench\incline\overhead) you can definitely do more total weight with the barbell version. With something like curls, pretty much the same weight either way.
  • rybo
    rybo Posts: 5,424 Member
    The bar allows you to do a higher total wight.
    However, I LOVED dumbells. IMO they allow you to get stronger because of the additional stabilization needed. I think its a good idea to cycle back and forth every now and then, but if I had to choose on which was better in the long run, I would go dumbells every time.
  • karllundy
    karllundy Posts: 1,490 Member
    The bar allows you to do a higher total wight.
    However, I LOVED dumbells. IMO they allow you to get stronger because of the additional stabilization needed. I think its a good idea to cycle back and forth every now and then, but if I had to choose on which was better in the long run, I would go dumbells every time.

    Totally agree! I always see the greatest gains with dumbbells, even though the amount is lower.
  • uncbluci
    uncbluci Posts: 31 Member
    Ok, that makes sense. I've been using strictly free weights but the ones I needed were taken and I decided to just try the bar and change things up. I assumed the number was each plate so I went for around the same weight I use with dumbbells (talking bench press here) and it was WAY too easy. I'll probably stick to free weights but if I decide to try the bar again I'll make sure to go heavier. Thanks!

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