I have both. I prefer traditional for 2 handed swings and 2 handed presses. The handles on traditionals give more room for both of my hands - competitions are a bit small for both hands for me. I also find them easier to use for bottoms up presses. For just about everything else, i like the competition better. They sit better on my arm for turkish getups, one armed presses, etc. The consistency of size regardless of weight with competition bells is obviously a plus for training.