Have you seen those guys in the back of the gym using that big bar?
They do exercises like Bench Press, Squats, Deadlifts and Rows.
Of course, that's for meatheads and not you right?
Wrong.
You can, and SHOULD train with a barbell.
Anyone can train with the barbell.
You need to learn proper form, start with the appropriate weight (light) and slowly add weight each time you do the exercise.
Simple.
Not easy.
But simple.
If you have been training with only machines and dumbbells, this post is for you.
How to Get Started With Barbell Training
Start with proper form
Learn how to do the basic barbell lifts by reading Starting Strength or 531 or Bill Starr's The Strongest Shall Survive. Start there.
Get a trainer/coach to help you nail it down. It will be worth it.
Technique will make or break you. When the weight on the bar is light you won't think it matters. Save yourself pain and frustration down the line by learning how to lift properly from the beginning.
Regressions/Progressions
If you try to squat with the bar on your back and your chest caves in and your heels come off the floor and the bar moves around on your back then you aren't ready for the barbell squat yet.
Try a goblet squat or squat to box. For every barbell movement there is a variation that will allow you to get stronger without putting yourself into a dangerous position. When you master those regressions then you advance to the barbell.
Do more than just the bench
Just because you rarely see another guy at the gym do overhead presses or deadlifts or squats doesn't mean you need to follow them.
Sure you can leg press a few plates but you are not impressing anyone. No one cares what you are doing at the gym.
Everyone who starts out thinks other people notice them and judge what they are doing but the reality is they are all way more interested in how they look in the mirror than how much you can leg press or machine press.
Learn how to get tight
Bracing your abs, squeezing your glutes, gripping the bar until your knuckles turn white. You should always be aware of your body and getting tight during every single barbell lift.
It's easy for me to tell you to get tight. Actually doing it is another story.
Brace your midsection during all barbell lifts. Squeeze your glutes during overhead presses and bench.
It will take time but practice it every time you grab the barbell. You can always improve and get tighter. This one detail can make a huge difference so don't overlook it.
Be mindful of your hands and feet
The hands should be obvious but beginners always take a lackadaisical approach to gripping a barbell. Take a grip like your life depends on it. If you let go you will die. Seriously, choke that son of a b.
The feet get overlooked also. Especially on bench and military presses, but they are your foundation. Don't forget to use them. How? By driving them into the ground. Plant your feet firmly and keep them secure throughout the lifts.
One last tip.
If you are new to the barbell, start with the 5 main barbell exercises- squats, bench, overhead press, barbell row, deadlifts.
Once you are proficient at those lifts you can start the olympic lifts. They are a bit more tricky to learn but they add a whole new level of explosiveness to your lifting.
Please do not use a barbell for bicep curls in the squat rack. You will piss a lot of people off for no good reason.
You don't want to be that guy or girl.
If you are new to barbell training and need some help, let me know. If you are in the WNY/716 area come stop in the studio at 777 Maple Rd. Williamsville, NY 14221
For those of you outside the area I do online coaching as well, if you need a program that will keep you on track and make big progress this year.