How Much Weight Is Needed for a Barbell Set?

A good collection of free weights gives you the power to strength train in the privacy of your own home. Barbells and weights last for a long time because you can always add to your existing collection once you start getting stronger. You can also do a number of exercises using a barbell set; you won't run out of exercises with them in your home gym. Choose the right amount of weight to maximize both your space and your workouts.

  1. Starter Sets

    • There are many starter sets of weights available. Your budget and weight needs will help determine if a set is right for you, or whether you would rather pick out certain weights and buy them on their own. Starter sets are often tailored for beginning weightlifters; you will likely need to build your own set if you are lifting more weight than average. The average starter set includes 2.5-, 5-, 10- and 25-lb. weights in addition to the barbell itself. If you need 45-lb. weights you can always add them when the time is right, or purchase them from the beginning if you believe you will use them regularly.

    The Barbell Matters

    • The barbell itself weighs 45 lbs. in Olympic weightlifting sets and usually around 15 lbs. in standard sets. If you are not ready to lift 45 lbs. of weight you might want to go for a standard set and gradually add weight to the bar as you become stronger. If you can easily lift 45 or more pounds you might prefer to go with the Olympic set so that you need fewer total weights. The choice is dependent on your personal strength and goals. Olympic bars are longer than standard bars, though, so make sure that you have enough space to store and use your set.

    Make It Personal

    • Buy the right amount of weights for you and the other users of your gym, but do not feel the need to buy more right away. It takes up a lot of space that you can use for other purposes in your home gym. Make sure that you get an assortment of weights so that you can change the weight based upon the exercises you are performing. Choose to buy approximately 75 extra pounds of weight at the beginning, but remember that you can always get more later.

    Putting Together A Good Set

    • A good way to assemble the best set for you is to go to the sporting goods store and try the weighs out. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the barbell and the weights that you choose. You should understand how to assemble and store them. If you are having trouble deciding speak to a personal trainer at the gym, or talk to a knowledgeable salesperson at the sporting goods store. These individuals have experience helping people with weights and should be able to ease your fears and point you in the right direction.