How Much Does an Olympic Barbell Weigh?

May 2, 2025
5 min read
Equipment Basics

Understanding Olympic Barbell Weights

Whether you're setting up a home gym or comparing gear for a studio, knowing the standard weight of an Olympic barbell is a key piece of the puzzle.

Standard Olympic Barbell

The most common Olympic barbell used in gyms around the world weighs 20 kilograms (44 pounds).

Variations You Might See

  • Women's Olympic Barbell: 15 kg (33 lbs)
  • Technique Barbell: 5–10 kg (11–22 lbs)
  • Short/Training Barbells: Often 10–15 kg

Quick Tip

Always check the knurling, length, and weight capacity when comparing bars. They may look similar — but the performance and feel can vary widely.