How much does a weight lifting bar weigh? Should you count it when lifting?
If you’ve ever loaded plates onto a bar and wondered whether you should count the bar’s weight too—you’re not alone. A lot of gym-goers ask: how much does a weight lifting bar weigh, and do you include it in your lift total? Here's what you need to know.
The Standard Weight Lifting Bar in Gyms
In almost every commercial gym, the barbell you'll use for squats, bench press, or deadlifts is an Olympic barbell. It weighs 45 pounds (or 20 kilograms) and is about 7 feet long. This is the default bar used in most strength training racks and platforms, and it’s designed to hold heavy loads.
Sometimes you’ll see slightly shorter or lighter bars in functional fitness areas or smaller gyms—often around 35 pounds or even 15–25 pounds for beginners. But unless labeled otherwise, assume the bar is 45 lbs.
Should You Count the Bar's Weight?
Yes, always. The bar itself is part of the weight you're lifting. So if you put a 45 lb plate on each side of a 45 lb bar, you’re lifting 135 lbs total, not 90. Leaving out the bar's weight throws off your numbers and makes it harder to track progress over time.
Whether you're just getting started or following a serious program, counting the bar helps ensure you're being consistent—and that you're giving yourself proper credit for the work you're doing.
The Bottom Line
Most weight lifting bars in gyms weigh 45 lbs, and yes, that weight counts. Next time you log your sets or try for a personal best, include the bar—it’s part of the lift.
