Building a home gym? Then picking the right barbell for squats is kind of a big deal. And no, not just any barbell will do. Different options bring different benefits (and challenges), so choosing the right one can make or break your squat game.
Let’s break it down and compare three popular choices: the Safety Squat Bar, the classic barbell, and the Smith Machine.
Spoiler alert: each has its perks, and the best one depends on your needs.
Safety Squat Bar: The Shoulder-Friendly Squat Savior
The Safety Squat Bar (SSB) is a dream come true for those who love squats but hate shoulder pain. This bar is designed to take the pressure off the shoulders, making it ideal for anyone with mobility issues, past injuries, or just an irrational fear of the standard back squat setup.
✔ Shoulder-Friendly: Perfect for lifters who struggle with traditional barbell positioning due to limited mobility or injuries.
✔ Built-in Handles: Helps maintain balance and stability without awkward arm contortions.
✔ A Solid Squat Specialist: If squats are your ride-or-die, this bar is built for you.
Things to Consider
- It’s dedicated to squatting. Unlike a standard barbell, it’s not as versatile for other lifts. That being said, you can use the Bells of Steel SS4 for lunges, good mornings, and rows.
- It takes up more storage space than a typical barbell, so if your home gym is already packed tighter than a can of protein-packed sardines, you might need to get creative.
The Classic Barbell: The MVP of Home Gyms
If home gyms had a king, it would be the basic barbell. Versatile, reliable, and ready to tackle everything from squats to deadlifts to curls (even though we all know biceps are built with strict form… right?).
✔ Multi-Purpose: The jack-of-all-trades. Squats? Check. Bench press? Check. Deadlifts? Double-check. Fancy overhead baton twirling? Sure, bud.
✔ Space-Saving: No need for a specialty bar if you want to keep your gym setup simple.
✔ Progressive Overload Machine: A must-have for serious strength training.
Things to Consider
- Shoulder mobility is key. If reaching behind your back feels like trying to scratch that one impossible spot, a traditional barbell might not be your best bet for squats.
- Requires a solid rack setup—safety first!
The Smith Machine: The Comeback Kid
Ah, the Smith Machine. Once the black sheep of strength training, now making a serious comeback. It’s like cargo shorts—once mocked, now appreciated for their practicality.
✔ Guided Movement: Great for beginners or lifters working on squat form.
✔ Built-in Safety: No spotter? No problem. The locking system has your back.
✔ Less Focus on Stabilization: Allows for more controlled reps and targeted muscle activation.
Things to Consider
- Less engagement of stabilizer muscles. (your legs will work hard, but your core won’t get as much love.)
- Fixed bar path can feel restrictive, especially for those used to free weights.
Which One is Right for You?
Still undecided? Here’s the quick rundown:
- Got shoulder pain? The Safety Squat Bar is your best friend.
- Want one bar to rule them all? Stick with the classic barbell.
- Looking for extra safety or just starting out? The Smith Machine has your back (literally).
At the end of the day, the best squat bar is the one that fits your goals, mobility, and training style. Whichever you choose, just make sure to squat deep, train smart, and—most importantly—don’t skip leg day. 😉
