Top 5 Short Barbells: Best Picks Reviewed Now

Ever feel cramped in your home gym, wishing your barbell fit better? Many fitness enthusiasts face this space crunch. Standard barbells take up too much room. This makes lifting tough in smaller areas. Finding a barbell that fits your space without sacrificing your workout feels like a puzzle.

That’s where the short barbell comes in! It’s a game-changer for compact training areas. But choosing the right one can still be tricky. What length is best? What weight capacity do you need? Don’t worry, we’ll clear things up.

In this post, we break down everything you need to know about short barbells. You will learn how to pick the perfect one for your goals and space. Ready to upgrade your home gym setup? Let’s dive in and find your ideal short barbell!

Top Short Barbell Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

CAP Barbell 5-Foot Solid Olympic Bar, Black (2-Inch)

Construction – Made From High-Quality Solid Cold Rolled Steel With a Black Powder Coat Finish; Collars Not Included; 30-Day Manufacturer’s Warranty
Features – Medium-Depth Diamond Knurling for a Secure Grip; Rotating Sleeves to Reduce Pressure on Wrists and Forearms
VERSATILE – Get a full body workout or target specific muscle groups; Perform a wide range of exercises ranging from bench presses to squats and everything in between
SPECS – Measures 1525 millimeter (60-inches) in length; 9.75-inch loadable sleeve length; 28 millimeter diameter for handgrips; 2-inch sleeve diameter to accommodate Olympic (2-inch) weights; 63,800 PSI tensile strength steel; Shaft length of 37”
TRUST – Trust experience; CAP has been a pioneer in the fitness industry for over 30 years and has locations worldwide; Chances are, if you have ever worked out before, you have used a CAP product

SaleBestseller No. 2

LIONSCOOL Premium 4ft Barbell (Black E-coating, 4FT, 500LBS)

Commercial Quality for Home & Gym: Made of the same material as our Olympic barbells, our heavy duty 4 ft training bar will stand the test of time. The superior seamless steel was heat-treated to reach the weight capacity of 500LBS. The shaft and sleeves feature a unique black E-coat finish, delivering superb corrosion and oxidation resistance over time and a look that is stylish and aesthetic in your home gym.
Outstanding Spin: Extra thick brass bushings and premium bearings in the sleeves makes for buttery smooth rotation. Snap ring retention system secures all the components of the sleeves for a lifetime. No more tightening the hex bolt end sleeves constantly.
Medium-depth Knurling Provides Better Grip Feel: 1.5mm deep diamond knurling with specially trimmed top offers enough gripping power while delivering comfortable grip feel. 28mm diameter shaft is easy to hold and one knurl mark at either side helps to place your hands at correct positions.
Specifications: Full length is 47.2” (4ft); Weighs 20LBS; 500 pounds weight capacity; 87,000 PSI tensile strength; 28mm handgrip diameter; No center knurl; No knurl marks. Shaft length is 31.5’’; Loadable sleeves are 7.1” long and 2” in diameter to fit Olympic weight plates.
Excellent Performance in All Your Workouts: It is perfect for daily strength training and bodybuilding exercises that can be performed without the need of a power cage - bicep curls, upright rows, bent over rows, deadlifts, presses, hip thrusts, HIIT workouts, etc. Also, with its sleek all-black design, it is a gorgeous equipment for limited space home gym.

Bestseller No. 3

47 Inch Olympic Barbell Bar for Weightlifting,500Lbs Capacity Easy Curl Bar for 2-Inch Weight Plates

500LB heavy-duty Olympic barbell：This professional 47 inch olympic barbell is engineered for powerlifting and strength training, supporting up to 500 pounds. It serves as a robust barbell bar for squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, making it the core of any serious home or commercial gym.
Professional knurled grip for control：The barbell features precision-machined knurling that provides an exceptional, non-slip grip. This design ensures superior handling during curls, lifts, and presses, enhancing safety and performance for both the straight barbell and cable machine curl bar applications.
Smooth-copper sleeve rotation：Equipped with high-performance copper sleeves, this barbell ensures smooth, low-friction rotation. This reduces wrist strain during Olympic lifts and dynamic movements, making it equally suitable as a primary Olympic bar or a stable, rackable curl bar for accessory work.
International standard & versatile compatibility：Designed to the official 2 inch(50mm) sleeve standard, this barbell is universally compatible with all Olympic weight plates. Its versatile design bridges the gap between a classic straight bar for compound lifts and specialized bars like a preacher curl bar or tricep bar for targeted training.
All-in-one strength solution：From serving as a dedicated bicep curl bar for arm isolation to functioning as a primary weight bar for full-body workouts, this barbell delivers unmatched versatility. It consolidates the need for multiple specialized bars, such as an easy curl bar or a super curl bar, into one professional, heavy-duty tool.

SaleBestseller No. 4

RITFIT Olympic Barbell 4ft/6ft - 2 Inch Weight Bar for Strength Training, Weightlifting, Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Curl, Overhead Press - 350lbs/500lbs Capacity 4FT Black

RitFit 4ft Olympic Bar has a bar shaft diameter of 25 mm, and a length of 1.2 meters (4 feet). Needle bearings allow for a smoother, quieter spin and a more reliable turnover at maximum loads.
【Build to Last】Built to the highest standard using high-quality steel materials, barbells feature an oxide finish and are built to be durable for a lifetime of quality weight lifting.
【The Best Choice for You and Your Home Gym】 These short barbells are mostly used for accessory work such as curl. The shorter barbell is suitable to perform close grip exercises with better balance.
【4 Different Options】RitFit Olympic Bars provide 4ft/5ft/6ft/7ft length to choose from. Whether you’re a newbie, intermediate, or elite athlete, you can find a bar good for you.We provide rackable barbells for most weightlifting exercises, also provide unrackable barbells for lightweight workouts.
【Brand Reputation】RitFit Weight Bar is rugged and durable enough to come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY against Bending.Just choose us!

SaleBestseller No. 5

RITFIT Olympic Barbell 4ft/6ft - 2 Inch Weight Bar for Strength Training, Weightlifting, Squat, Deadlift, Bench Press, Curl, Overhead Press - 350lbs/500lbs Capacity 4FT Silver

RitFit 4ft Olympic Bar has a bar shaft diameter of 25 mm, and a length of 1.2 meters (4 feet). Needle bearings allow for a smoother, quieter spin and a more reliable turnover at maximum loads.
【Build to Last】Built to the highest standard using high-quality steel materials, barbells feature an oxide finish and are built to be durable for a lifetime of quality weight lifting.
【The Best Choice for You and Your Home Gym】 These short barbells are mostly used for accessory work such as curl. The shorter barbell is suitable to perform close grip exercises with better balance.
【4 Different Options】 RitFit Olympic Bars provide 4ft/5ft/6ft/7ft length to choose from. Whether you’re a newbie, intermediate, or elite athlete, you can find a bar good for you.We provide rackable barbells for most weightlifting exercises, also provide unrackable barbells for lightweight workouts.
【Brand Reputation】RitFit Weight Bar is rugged and durable enough to come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY against Bending.Just choose us!

Bestseller No. 6

Olympic Barbell Bar 4FT, 350LB Steel EZ Curl or Straight Weight Lifting Bar with 2 Spring Collars, Fits 2-Inch Olympic Plates, Rotating Sleeves, Knurled Strength Training Bar for Home Gym

Versatile Bar for Essential Lifts: This straight Olympic barbell bar is a multi-purpose tool for foundational movements like bench presses and overhead presses. The classic design is a practical choice for building upper body power at home.
Safe & Secure Plate Locking: We include 2 Spring Collars to keep your weight plates firmly in place. These easy-to-use clips prevent weights from shifting, ensuring a balanced and stable lifting session every time.
Fits 2-Inch Weight Plates: This weight bar features rotating sleeves engineered for a seamless fit with standard 2-inch plates (plates not included). It ensures smooth adding or removing of weights to keep your training efficient.
Firm Grip with Pro-Grade Knurling: Built with a textured diamond knurled pattern for a confident hold. The grip provides the necessary friction to prevent slipping, which is essential for maintaining control during solo strength sessions.
Durable 4FT Home Gym Solution: Made from steel, this compact strength training bars is rated for 350 lbs and built for daily use. It provides a heavy-duty feel in a frame optimized for limited fitness areas or small apartments.

Bestseller No. 7

HANDBODE Short Olympic Barbell 4 ft, 2 Inch Weight Bar for Strength Training, Weightlifting, Squat, Hip Thrust, Deadlift, Bench Press, Hard Chrome, Knurled Grip, 500lb Capacity, Black, Home Gym

Excellent Load Capacity: HANDBODE 4ft Olympic Bar features a 28mm diameter and 1.2m (4 feet) length. Its needle bearing system ensures a smoother, quieter spin with reliable performance at maximum loads, supporting a weight capacity of up to 500 lbs.
Durable Iron Construction & Sturdy Design: Made from robust Q195 iron, this bar offers a solid and stable build designed for daily training and home gym use. With a manageable weight of approximately 20 lb, it balances control and durability, ideal for frequent workouts.
Smooth Rotation with Bronze Bushings & Bearings: A combination of bronze bushings and bearings allows the sleeves to rotate smoothly, improving performance during Olympic lifts and reducing strain during dynamic movements.
Durable Electroplated Finish & Gloss Sleeves: The shaft is protected with a black electrophoretic coating to resist wear and corrosion, while the sleeves feature a glossy black or silver plating for lasting durability and a professional look.
Ideal for Various Users & Fundamental Training: The balanced weight and 28 mm grip diameter make this bar suited for both men and women performing essential strength exercises such as curls and pulls, meeting the needs of medium-load, high-rep training

Bestseller No. 8

POWER GUIDANCE Chrome Olympic Barbell Bar, Weight Bar for lifting, Hip Thrusts, Universal Strength Training Bars 22lb 4ft/47 inch (Straight)

【High Quality & Extremely Solid】Made of A3 solid steel, capable of holding up to 330lbs weight plates and absorbing heavy pressure, offering maximum support and safety during intense powerlifting.
【 Moderate Knurl& Durable Coating】With a medium depth knurling, it has plenty of knurl for your heavy lifts, but not a shark tooth knurl that rips up your hands for higher rep workouts. The chrome-plated coating creates stunning looks and durability.
【Maintenance-free Circlip structure】Adopting an outstanding maintenance-free structure design, there is no need to pay attention to the nut structure of the product during daily exercise, and the sleeve will not fall due to the use of the product.
【Strength Training Companion】Knurl is detailed enough for a precise grip, exercise in a more standard posture, stimulates the biceps triceps in a deeper level, perfect for deadlifts, bench press, barbell curl. making strength training a breeze.
【Wide Range of Application】 Olympic barbell is suitable for athletes of any size and level. Can also be used as a traditional barbell. A great addition to your weight room, an excellent choice for a home gym.

Your Complete Guide to Buying the Right Short Barbell

A short barbell, sometimes called an “E-Z curl bar” or a “short fixed barbell,” is a fantastic tool for home gyms or tight spaces. It lets you build muscle without needing a massive Olympic bar. Choosing the right one ensures you lift safely and effectively. Here is what you need to know before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a short barbell, several features make a big difference in how you use it.

Grip Diameter

Grip Thickness: This is how thick the bar feels in your hands. Thicker bars build forearm strength but can hurt your wrists if you have smaller hands. Standard bars are usually 1 inch or 1.25 inches thick. Choose what feels comfortable for your grip strength.
Knurling: Knurling means the rough, crisscross pattern on the bar. Good knurling gives you a secure grip. You want deep, sharp knurling for heavy lifts, but softer knurling is better if you do high repetitions or have sensitive hands.

Sleeve Length and Type

Sleeve Length: This is the part where the weight plates slide on. Make sure the sleeves are long enough to hold the amount of weight you plan to lift.
Sleeve Diameter: Most short bars take standard 1-inch plates. Some smaller ones might take 2-inch Olympic plates. Check this carefully!
Spin/Rotation: For some exercises, the sleeves should spin freely (like on a curl bar). For others, they should stay fixed. Most fixed short bars do not spin.

Important Materials and Construction

The material of the bar affects how long it lasts and how much weight it can hold.

Steel Quality

Solid Steel: High-quality bars use solid steel. This offers the best durability. Avoid bars that feel too light or hollow.
Chrome Plating: Most good bars have a chrome finish. This coating protects the steel from rust and makes the bar look shiny. It also helps keep your hands from getting sweaty and slipping.

Weight Capacity

Always check the maximum weight rating. If you plan to lift heavy, look for a capacity of at least 200 lbs. Lower-quality bars might bend under too much weight, which is dangerous.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality is often seen in the small details.

Improving Quality

Finish Smoothness: Look at the welds and ends of the bar. Smooth, clean finishing shows better manufacturing.
Consistent Knurling: Quality bars have knurling that is even across the entire grip area.

Reducing Quality (Red Flags)

Rattling Parts: If the bar has plastic end caps or sleeves that wiggle, the quality is likely low.
Sharp Edges: Rough edges can tear up your hands quickly.
Weight Discrepancy: If the product description says it is 15 lbs, but it feels much lighter, it might not be solid steel.

User Experience and Use Cases

A short barbell is versatile, but its size makes it best for specific lifts.

Best Uses

Bicep Curls: This is the most common use. The slight bend in many short bars (EZ-curl style) reduces stress on the wrists during curls.
Triceps Extensions: Great for skull crushers or overhead extensions where a long bar might hit the floor or rack.
Close-Grip Presses: You can perform bench presses or floor presses with a closer grip than you can with a standard bar.

Space Saving

The main benefit is space. These bars fit easily in closets or under beds. They are perfect for apartments or small home gyms where a full 7-foot Olympic bar won’t fit.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Short Barbells

Q: What is the main difference between a short bar and a standard barbell?

A: A standard barbell is usually 7 feet long. A short barbell is much shorter, often between 3 to 5 feet long. This makes it easier to store and use in small spaces.

Q: Can I use Olympic weight plates on a short bar?

A: It depends on the bar. Most standard short bars use 1-inch plates. You must check the sleeve diameter before buying plates.

Q: What is the purpose of the bend in an EZ-curl bar?

A: The gentle curve allows your wrists to rest in a more natural position during curls. This reduces strain on the wrist joints.

Q: How much weight can a typical short barbell hold?

A: Light-duty bars might hold 150 lbs. Higher-quality, solid steel bars often hold 250 lbs or more. Always check the manufacturer’s rating.

Q: Are short barbells good for deadlifts?

A: No, they are generally too short for deadlifts. You need a long bar to get enough space between your legs to pull the weight correctly.

Q: What kind of collars should I use?

A: You need collars designed for the bar’s sleeve diameter (usually 1 inch). Spring clips or simple clamp collars work well for light to moderate weights.

Q: How do I clean my short barbell?

A: Wipe down the bar with a damp cloth after use to remove sweat. Use a mild soap if needed. Dry it immediately to prevent the chrome finish from rusting.

Q: Is a short bar better than dumbbells for curls?

A: Not necessarily better, but different. A bar allows you to lift heavier total weight. Dumbbells allow for a greater range of motion and help correct muscle imbalances.

Q: What does “knurling” mean on a barbell?

A: Knurling is the diamond-pattern texture cut into the bar’s grip area. It gives your hands traction so the bar does not slip when you sweat.

Q: Are short barbells usually magnetic?

A: No, they are not magnetic. They are made of steel, which is a magnetic material, but the bar itself does not have any magnetic properties for lifting.