EZ Bars 101
If you’re wondering what that crazy-looking squiggly-shaped contraption is at the gym, then you’re probably looking at an EZ bar, a type of barbell. EZ bars — sometimes referred to as EZ curl bars — usually weigh from 18 to 25 pounds (depending on the manufacturer and whether you choose a standard or Olympic bar). By contrast, conventional curl bars weigh 13 pounds or less.
Why You Might Want One
The peculiar design of the EZ bar, with its oddball shape and two angled grips situated at its middle, is actually ingenious. Many fitness gurus prefer EZ bars to dumbbells or barbells, and it’s easy to see why. It takes the stress from your wrists while you do those bicep curls that are slowly but steadily helping you get the blazing guns you’ve been yearning for your whole life. But it’s great for more than just standard curls. You’ll find yourself using it for preacher curls, lying triceps extensions, and more.
Conventional barbells are pretty hard on your wrists, as you very well may know if you use them with any sort of regularity. And standard dumbbells may cause you to cheat a little by using your torso to lift instead of using the power of your wrists.
With an EZ bar, you will be keeping both of your hands locked into a specific position at one time. The design of the EZ bar’s grooves ensures your wrists are not in pain during the process. This allows you to move through your reps more efficiently so you get more done with less fatigue — and stand a better chance of actually sticking to your routine and reaching your fitness objectives.
The Bottom Line
If curls are normally part of your exercise routine, investing in an EZ bar is a smart move. Don’t be surprised to find yourself lifting more than ever before (and seeing bigger, better, and bulkier muscle gains) when you're lifting smarter by using an EZ bar that takes the stress off your wrists.