In the world of weightlifting, the equipment you use can make a significant difference in your performance.
One such piece of equipment that stands out is the IWF Certified Barbell.
These barbells, certified by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF), are the gold standard in the industry, used by professional weightlifters and athletes in training and competitions.
So in today’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about these types of bars.
Let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
The Importance of IWF Certification
When it comes to weightlifting equipment, IWF certification is a mark of quality and reliability.
It signifies that the barbell has been tested and approved by the International Weightlifting Federation, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of performance and safety.
Whether you’re a professional weightlifter or a fitness enthusiast, using an IWF certified barbell can enhance your training experience and help you achieve your fitness goals.
IWF Certified Barbells – A Closer Look
There are several manufacturers that produce IWF certified barbells, each with their unique features and specifications.
Among them, Eleiko, Uesaka, and Werksan are some of the most reputable brands.
These companies have a long history in the industry and are known for their high-quality, durable barbells that can withstand rigorous workouts.
Eleiko – The Powerhouse of Weightlifting
Eleiko, a Swedish company, is a powerhouse in the world of weightlifting. Their IWF certified barbells are known for their exceptional quality and performance.
Eleiko offers both training and competition barbells, each designed to meet the specific needs of weightlifters.
Whether you’re training for a competition or simply looking to improve your strength, Eleiko’s barbells are a solid choice.
Uesaka – The Japanese Precision
Uesaka, a Japanese company, is another top manufacturer of IWF certified barbells.
Known for their precision and craftsmanship, Uesaka’s barbells are a favorite among professional weightlifters.
Their training and competition barbells are designed to provide a balanced, smooth lifting experience, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and seasoned athletes.
Werksan – The Turkish Strength
Werksan, a Turkish company, is renowned for its robust and durable IWF certified barbells.
Their barbells are designed to withstand heavy weights and rigorous workouts, making them ideal for serious weightlifters.
Whether you’re training for a competition or simply looking to build strength, Werksan’s barbells can help you achieve your goals.
Understanding the Components of the Barbell
An IWF certified barbell consists of several components, each playing a crucial role in its performance.
The bar, discs, and collars are the main components of the barbell. The bar is the central part of the barbell, and its weight and specifications vary for men’s and women’s bars.
The discs, or weight plates, are color-coded for easy identification, and the collars are used to secure the discs on the bar.
Understanding these components can help you make the most of your IWF certified barbell.
The Bar – The Backbone of the Barbell
The bar is the backbone of the barbell. It’s where you grip the barbell and where the weight plates are loaded.
IWF certified bars are made to specific standards, ensuring they can withstand heavy weights and provide a secure grip.
Men’s bars weigh 20kg and are 2.2 meters long, while women’s bars weigh 15kg and are 2.01 meters long.
The bars also feature colored identification markings – blue for men’s bars and yellow for women’s bars – for easy identification.
The Discs – Adding the Weight
The discs, or weight plates, are what add weight to the barbell.
In IWF certified barbells, the discs are color-coded according to their weight, making it easy to identify the weight you’re lifting.
The colors and weights are as follows:
| Color | Red | Blue | Yellow | Green | White | Red | Blue | Yellow | Green | White |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 25 kg | 20 kg | 15 kg | 10 kg | 5 kg | 2.5 kg | 2 kg | 1.5 kg | 1 kg | 0.5 kg |
This table represents the color coding and corresponding weights of discs in IWF certified barbells.
The discs are designed to fit securely on the bar, ensuring a balanced and safe lifting experience.
The diameter of the largest discs have very tight tolerances as well. They must be 450mm with no more than +/- 1mm.
These discs are required to be coated with rubber or plastic and must be colored on both sides.
The coloring can be achieved through permanent colors or paint, at least on the rim’s surface.
Discs that weigh less than 10kg can be made of metal or any other material that has been approved by the IWF.
However, regardless of the material or weight, all discs must clearly indicate their weight for easy identification.
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Choosing the Best IWF Certified Olympic Weightlifting Barbells
Choosing the right IWF certified barbell can make a significant difference in your weightlifting performance.
Several factors should be considered when choosing a barbell, including your fitness goals, level of experience, and personal preferences.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned weightlifter, choosing a high-quality IWF certified barbell can enhance your training experience and help you achieve your fitness goals.
Check out my list of the best Olympic Weightlifting barbells to learn more!
Factors to Consider
When choosing an IWF certified barbell, consider the bar’s weight and length, the diameter of the grip, the type of bearings used, and the bar’s whip (the amount of flex the bar has).
You should also consider the type of training you’ll be doing. For instance, if you’re training for a competition, you might want to choose a competition bar.
On the other hand, if you’re a beginner or if you’re on a budget, a training bar might be a better option.
Recommendations for Different Needs
Different weightlifters have different needs and preferences.
For instance, if you’re a professional weightlifter training for a competition, you might prefer a competition bar from a reputable brand like Eleiko or Uesaka.
If you’re a beginner, you really only need a training bar that’s more affordable but still of good quality.
What Makes IWF Certified Barbells Better Than Other Olympic Weightlifting Bars?
When it comes to Olympic weightlifting bars, few can match the quality and performance of IWF certified barbells. These top barbells for home gym are specifically designed and rigorously tested to meet the International Weightlifting Federation’s strict standards. Built with premium materials and superior craftsmanship, IWF certified barbells offer unrivaled durability, grip, and spin, elevating your weightlifting experience to new heights. Whether you are a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, choosing an IWF certified barbell ensures optimal performance and safety during your workouts.
Conclusion
Choosing the right IWF certified barbell can enhance your weightlifting performance and help you achieve your fitness goals.
Whether you’re a professional weightlifter or a fitness enthusiast, understanding the components of the barbell and the standards set by the IWF can help you make an informed decision.
So, whether you’re lifting on the competition platform or in your home gym, remember – every lift counts, and so does your barbell.
Until next time,
-Dante