Well, hello there, fitness enthusiasts, car lovers, and everyone who clicked on this link out of sheer curiosity!
Ever found yourself in a pickle, wondering if you can fit a barbell in your car? You’re not alone!
This question has plagued many a gym-goer who’s thought about moving their workout regime to the comfort of their home.
Or maybe you’ve just purchased a shiny new Olympic barbell and are now scratching your head, trying to figure out how to get it home.
Well, buckle up, because we’re about to embark on a journey to answer the question: “Can a barbell fit in a car?”
Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
Understanding the Size of a Barbell
Before we dive headfirst into the trunk of this issue, let’s take a moment to understand what we’re dealing with.
A barbell isn’t just a barbell. Oh no, my friend, it’s so much more.
There are different types of barbells, each with its own dimensions and quirks.
Standard Barbell
A standard barbell is like that reliable friend who’s always there for you. It measures around 5 to 6 feet in length and has a weight that can range from 15 to 25 pounds.
The diameter of the bar is usually about 1 inch. It’s a great option for beginners or those who don’t need to lift heavy weights.
Olympic Barbell
Then we have the Olympic barbell, the big brother of the standard barbell. This beast measures about 7.2 feet in length and weighs a hefty 44 pounds (20 kilograms).
The diameter of the bar is slightly larger, coming in at 2 inches. This is the one you’ll see the pros using at the gym.
It’s designed to handle much heavier weights, making it the go-to choice for serious weightlifters.
| Barbell Type | Length (feet) | Weight (pounds) | Diameter (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 5-6 | 15-25 | 1 |
| Olympic | 7.2 | 44 | 2 |
For more detailed information about barbells and their sizes, check out our Barbell Sizes and Barbell Length articles.
Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s move on to the next part of our journey: figuring out if these barbells can fit in your car.
Spoiler alert: it’s possible, but it may require some creativity and a little bit of elbow grease.
But hey, we’re all about going the extra mile here, right?
Can an Olympic Barbell Fit in Your Car?
Alright, let’s get down to the meat and potatoes of this guide.
You’ve got an Olympic barbell that’s about 7.2 feet long, and you’re standing in the parking lot of your local sports store, wondering if it’s going to fit in your car.
Well, let’s break it down.
Cars with Foldable Rear Seats and Sufficient Trunk Space
If you’re the proud owner of a car with foldable rear seats and a trunk that’s practically a black hole, you’re in luck!
You can slide that Olympic barbell right through the trunk, into the cabin, and have it rest comfortably between the folded seats.
Just make sure to secure it properly so it doesn’t turn into a javelin if you need to hit the brakes suddenly.
For more tips on how to load a barbell (get it? LOL), check out our How to Load a Barbell guide.
Cars with Non-Foldable Seats or Limited Trunk Space
Now, if you’re dealing with non-foldable seats or a trunk that’s more of a glove compartment, things can get a bit tricky.
But hey, who doesn’t love a good challenge?
You may need to get creative with the angles and possibly even consider using the front passenger space.
Just remember, safety first! Make sure your view isn’t obstructed and the barbell is secure.
The Best Method to Transport an Olympic Barbell in a Car
The best method, in my opinion, is to use the foldable rear seats and trunk space. It’s the easiest and safest way to transport your new workout buddy.
But remember, every car and barbell is unique, so what works for one may not work for another.
It’s all about trying different methods and finding the one that works best for you.
What Cars Can Barbells Fit In?
Now, you might be wondering, “What cars can barbells fit in?”
Well, my friend, you’d be surprised at the variety of vehicles that can accommodate a barbell.
From compact cars to SUVs, there’s a good chance you can make it work.
Compact Cars
Yes, even compact cars can fit a barbell. It might seem like a tight squeeze, but with the right positioning and a bit of patience, it’s possible.
Just remember to measure your car’s interior space and compare it with the length of the barbell before making a purchase.
Sedans
Sedans, especially those with foldable rear seats, are great for transporting barbells.
The Infiniti G35, for instance, has been known to comfortably fit a 7-foot Olympic barbell.
Just check out this discussion for proof!
SUVs and Trucks
SUVs and trucks are the heavy lifters of the car world, and fitting a barbell in these vehicles is usually a breeze.
With ample trunk space and the option to fold or even remove seats, these vehicles are perfect for transporting gym equipment.
Remember, the key to fitting a barbell in any car is to measure, plan, and secure the barbell properly.
| Car Type | Can Fit a Barbell? | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Compact Cars | Yes, with some maneuvering | Measure interior space and compare with barbell length |
| Sedans | Yes, especially with foldable rear seats | Example: Infiniti G35 can fit a 7-foot Olympic barbell |
| SUVs and Trucks | Yes, usually easily | Ample space, option to fold/remove seats |
Preparing the Barbell for Transport
So, you’ve figured out how to fit the barbell in your car. Great job! But wait, we’re not done yet.
Before you start shoving that hunk of metal into your vehicle, let’s talk about how to protect your barbell (and your car) during transport.
Original Packaging
If you’ve just purchased your barbell and it came in a box or some form of packaging, keep it!
This can provide a layer of protection for your barbell and prevent it from rolling around in your car.
Cardboard Tubes
If the original packaging is no longer an option, consider using a cardboard tube. It’s a simple and cost-effective way to protect your barbell.
Just slide the barbell into the tube, secure the ends, and voila! You’ve got yourself a DIY barbell case.
Barbell Bags
For those who are willing to invest a little more, barbell bags are a great option.
They’re designed specifically for transporting barbells and often come with handles and straps for easy carrying.
Creative Solutions
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there are also some creative solutions out there. Some people have used bamboo poles to protect their barbells.
Just split the bamboo pole, place the barbell inside, and secure it with some rope or tape.
For more information on how to protect your barbell, check out our Barbell Buying Guide.
Measuring the Barbell
Now, let’s talk about measuring. This is an important step that you shouldn’t skip. Knowing the exact length of your barbell and the space in your car can save you a lot of headaches.
Measuring the Barbell
The first thing you need to do is measure your barbell. If you don’t have a tape measure, don’t worry. You can use a broomstick or a pole of similar length.
Just mark the length of the barbell on the broomstick or pole and then use that as your measuring tape.
Measuring the Space in Your Car
Next, measure the space in your car. Remember to consider all possible spaces where the barbell could fit, such as the trunk, the back seat, and even the front passenger area.
And don’t forget to measure the width of your car doors or trunk opening to make sure the barbell can fit through.
Remember, “Measure twice, transport once.” It’s always better to spend a little extra time measuring than to find out the hard way that your barbell doesn’t fit in your car.
Trial and Error
Alright, folks, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get down to business. You’ve done your homework, you’ve measured, and you’ve prepared. Now comes the fun part: trial and error.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Trial and error? That doesn’t sound very scientific.” And you’re right.
But sometimes, the best way to figure something out is to just give it a go.
So, grab that barbell, channel your inner strongman (or strongwoman), and start experimenting.
Try different angles. Try different positions. Try with the seats folded down, then try with them up.
The key here is to be patient and persistent. And remember, safety first! Always make sure the barbell is secure before you start driving.
Loading and Unloading the Barbell
Now, let’s talk about loading and unloading the barbell.
This might seem like a straightforward process, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure you’re doing it safely and efficiently.
Loading the Barbell
When loading the barbell into your car, it’s important to lift with your legs, not your back.
Trust me, a strained back is not the souvenir you want from this experience.
Also, make sure to clear a path. The last thing you want is to trip over something while carrying a heavy barbell.
Once you’ve got the barbell in your car, secure it properly. You don’t want it rolling around while you’re driving. Use bungee cords, ropes, or even seat belts to keep it in place.
Unloading the Barbell
Unloading the barbell is pretty much the same process, just in reverse. Again, lift with your legs and clear a path. And remember, there’s no rush. Take your time and do it safely.
Conclusion
Well, my friends, we’ve come to the end of our journey. We’ve laughed, we’ve learned, and we’ve probably lifted more barbells than we ever thought possible.
But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?
Let’s take a moment to recap what we’ve covered:
- We learned about the different types of barbells, their sizes, and weights. Remember, not all barbells are created equal!
- We discovered that yes, a barbell can fit in most cars, whether it’s a compact car, a sedan, or an SUV. It just takes a bit of creativity and patience.
- We discussed how to prepare a barbell for transport, from using the original packaging to getting creative with bamboo poles.
- We emphasized the importance of measuring both the barbell and the space in your car before attempting to fit it in.
- We encouraged you to try different methods and find the one that works best for you. Remember, trial and error is part of the process.
- And finally, we provided tips for safely loading and unloading the barbell into and out of your car.
So, can a barbell fit in a car? With careful planning, a bit of creativity, and a dash of patience, the answer is a resounding “Yes!”
And remember, if you ever find yourself in doubt, just refer back to this guide. We’ve got your back (and your barbell).
Until next time,
-Dante