Stiff VS Deadlift Bar

To knurl, or not to knurl.  That is the question.  While it might not even be a thought to many lifters, especially if you are just starting out, there are many different types of barbells to use.  Each one has a specific purpose, and are designed to be used with certain exercises.  Let's break down the two you are most likely to encounter at your local gym.

First up, we have the stiff bar.  This bar is typically used for bench press, squat, and the majority of barbell exercises excluding deadlift.  One giveaway that you are using a stiff bar is the locations of the knurling on the bar.  The knurling is the textured area of the bar used for gripping.  Stiff bars have knurling on both ends of the shaft, but also have a segment of knurling in the center.  This will give you additional grip in squatting, helping to prevent the bar from rolling off your back.  The shaft of the bar is shorter than a deadlift bar, in part to maintain the integrity of the bar, not allowing it to bend during your lifts.

Next is the deadlift bar.  As the name implies, deadlifts are this bar’s speciality.  Right off the bat, you will notice that it does not have knurling in the center, as the extra grip is unneeded for deadlifts.  The shaft of the bar is also slightly longer than the stiff bar, allowing it to have more “bend” in it when pulling.  The diameter of the bar is more narrow, allowing for an easier and tighter grip on the bar.

Deadlifts, back exercises, how to deadlift, how to squat, barbell, gym, knurling, how to exercise