Barbell collars buying guide
Choosing the best barbell collar
Barbell collars are essential accessories for any strength training, providing stability and safety by securing weight plates in place on the barbell
In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to choose the right barbell collars for your workouts.
Types of barbell collar
- Spring collars: These are simple, spring-loaded collars that clamp onto the barbell sleeves. They're easy to use and budget-friendly, but may not provide the tightest grip, especially for heavy lifting.
- Spin lock collars: Spin lock collars feature threaded sleeves that screw onto the barbell ends. They provide a secure grip and are suitable for most lifting situations, but may require more time to secure and remove.
- Clamp collars: Also known as lock-jaw collars, clamp collars use a quick-release lever mechanism to secure the weight plates in place. They offer a tight grip and are quick and easy to use, making them popular in commercial gyms.
- Snap collars: Snap collars are similar to spring collars but feature a snap or clip mechanism for quick attachment and removal. They provide a secure grip and are convenient for fast-paced workouts.
What to look out for when choosing a barbell collar
- Durability: Look for barbell collars made from durable materials like metal or high-quality plastic to ensure long-lasting performance.
- Grip strength: Consider the strength of the collar's grip, especially if you're lifting heavy weights or performing dynamic movements like Olympic lifts.
- Ease of use: Choose collars that are easy to attach and remove, allowing you to focus on your workout without struggling with the equipment.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the collars are compatible with the diameter of your barbell sleeves to prevent slippage or instability during lifts.
- Safety features: Some collars come with safety features like rubberised grips or locking mechanisms to prevent accidental loosening during intense workouts.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of spring collars or the convenience of clamp collars, there's a collar out there to suit your preferences and lifting style.
Invest in high-quality collars to ensure stability, safety, and optimal performance during your workouts.
How to use a barbell collar
Using a barbell collar is simple and essential for safety during weightlifting exercises. Here's our basic guide:
- Prepare your barbell: Load your desired weight plates onto the barbell and ensure they are evenly distributed on both sides.
- Attach the collar: Slide the barbell collar onto the end of the barbell sleeve, making sure it sits snugly against the weight plates.
- Secure the collar: Tighten the collar securely by twisting the locking mechanism or adjusting the clamps until they are firmly in place. This prevents the weight plates from shifting or sliding off during exercises.
- Perform your workout: With the collar securely in place, you can now safely perform various weightlifting exercises such as squats, bench presses, deadlifts, and more without worrying about the weights coming loose.
- Remove the collar: After completing your workout, loosen the collar's locking mechanism or clamps and slide it off the barbell sleeve. Store the collar in a safe place until your next workout.