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So, you need a reliable barbell that won’t break the bank? 

It might seem straightforward, but the market is flooded with hundreds of budget-friendly bars, all claiming to be the best. It would take weeks to sort through all the options. And let’s be honest, the last thing you want is a bar that falls apart on you within a couple of years.

Don’t worry; we’ve done all the heavy lifting for you. We’ve combed through the vast sea of options, tested the contenders, and narrowed them down to the nine best budget barbells.

Over the past eight years, I’ve used many barbells in different CrossFit gyms and my garage gym — putting them through high-rep workouts, heavy strength training, and everything in between. I’ve also been a fitness writer and editor for almost three years and have spent countless hours researching the best barbells for various uses, including powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and more.

With my first-hand experience and the rigorous product testing at our physical testing facility (more on that below), I’m confident that you’ll find one of these best budget barbells to be a winner for you.

How We Chose the Best Budget Barbells

Choosing the best budget barbells is no easy job, but we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure that our recommendations are top-notch. 

Our dedicated team of product testers includes CrossFitters, strength and conditioning coaches, certified personal trainers, and fitness enthusiasts who have used barbells in home gyms and commercial facilities. Breaking Muscle also has a testing warehouse in Springfield, MO, where we conduct rigorous testing processes on barbells from reputable brands like REP Fitness, Rogue, Titan, and more.

Out of the dozens of bars we tested, we chose the best nine barbells based on their overall construction, tensile strength (how much weight a barbell can hold before it breaks), knurling type, sleeve spin, and coating durability. But we didn’t stop there. We also considered the brand’s reputation, the packaging it arrived in, its overall versatility, and whether or not we think it’s worth the cost.

Our Top Picks for the Best Budget Barbells

• Best Budget Barbell Overall: REP Colorado Bar
• Best Budget CrossFit Barbell: Fringe Sport Wonder Bar
• Best Budget Olympic Barbell: Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell
• Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell: Titan Performance Series Power Barbell
• Best Budget Women’s Barbell: PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar
• Best Budget Barbell From Rogue: Rogue Echo Bar
• Best Budget Barbell on Amazon: CAP Barbell The Beast
• Best Budget Curl Bar: Titan Olympic EZ Curl Bar
• Best Budget Trap Bar: Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar

Best Budget Barbell Overall: REP Colorado Bar

REP Fitness Colorado Bar

4.5

• Material: Steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 680.2 kilograms (1,500 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 190 KSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.1 inches
• Knurling: Moderate
• Warranty: Lifetime

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The standout feature of the REP Colorado Bar is that it’s mixed-use. Being mixed-use means it’s suitable for powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting — sports that typically use two separate barbells with different diameters, knurling, and whip (how much the barbell will flex before it becomes permanently bent). This is also the reason we consider it the best budget barbell overall and why we rated it 4.5 stars out of 5 after testing it.

A mixed-use barbell combines the best features of a powerlifting and weightlifting bar: a Goldilocks 28.5-millimeter diameter shaft, composite bushings for a smooth spin, and dual knurl markings. The dual knurl rings make it easier for you to ensure your grip is even for various movements, such as the bench press or snatch.

The Colorado bar is also a huge asset if you’re a home gym user like me since it allows you to engage in multiple training styles with a single tool. You’ll save space and money because you only need to invest in one bar instead of two.

The staff at Breaking Muscle noticed that this bar has a finely done volcano knurling, which offers more surface area contact between your hands and the bar for improved grip, and rated it 4.5 stars out of 5. They mentioned that the knurling stops before it gets to the bushing and feels like just the right amount of aggressiveness for a secure grip without chewing your hands up during high-rep workouts. 

This bar has no center knurling, which is a drawback if you want to use it regularly for back squats because the bar will be less grippy. If you still decide to invest in this bar despite the lack of center knurl, consider chalking your back before each set or wear a sticky shirt that offers a similar level of grip to ensure you stay safe.

The Colorado bar comes in two finishes, one of which is chrome plated. According to one of our product testers, the chrome version is not the best choice if you intend to put this bar in a CrossFit gym. Chrome coatings can reduce the longevity of a barbell by up to 50 percent.

That said, the hardened chrome version will likely perform without issue in a home gym, where it should last about 30 years because it will get significantly less use than at a commercial facility.

The other finish is Cerakote, which we think is a serious plus on the Colorado Bar. Cerakote is a special coating popular in the firearm community as it helps avoid rust build-up. On the Colorado Bar, its thin application adds a touch of durability without affecting the feel of the knurling. We also love that it’s available in five colors — red, green, black, blue, or white — so you can match the barbell to your other gym equipment, such as your favorite weight bench.

Finally, this is one of our list’s most expensive budget barbells. At the time of writing, this bar retails for around $330, which might put it out of reach if your wallet is running extra-lean. We knocked a few points off for this reason and rated it 4 out of 5 stars for price. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more and like to dabble in various styles of lifting, we think the Colorado Bar is worth it.

Best Budget CrossFit Barbell: Fringe Sport Wonder Bar

Fringe Sport Wonder Bar

4.4

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,600 pounds
• Tensile strength: 205k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Like the REP Colorado Bar, the 20-kilogram (44-pound) Wonder Bar is a multi-purpose barbell. Many features make it the best choice for CrossFit, where you frequently alternate between powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, and specialized movements like thrusters.

First, the Wonder Bar has a 28-millimeter shaft diameter, ideal for using the hook grip in Olympic weightlifting and comfortable for almost all hand sizes. (If you’re a female CrossFitter or have small hands, you can also opt for the 15-kilogram Wonder Bar with a 25-millimeter diameter.) The shaft has dual markings for powerlifting and Olympic weightlifting, meaning you don’t need to swap out your barbell when you switch between either training style.

The Wonder Bar also has an impressive 205k pounds per square in (PSI) tensile strength capacity, which means it can withstand the high volume of drops seen in a CrossFit box. I was pleasantly surprised to see they even show the yield strength (160k PSI), something few companies will ever disclose.

The 20kg Wonder Bar is unique because it offers two sleeve versions: bushings or bearings. Bushings are better for slower and heavier lifts like power lifts (squats, bench presses, and deadlifts). They’re also more affordable, more durable, and easier to maintain.

On the other hand, bearings are better for the faster lifts and lighter loads seen in Olympic weightlifting. They’re smoother and spin extra fast but require more care and upkeep. The type of bar you choose depends on your lifting style and preference. The great thing is, regardless of the kind you choose, you’ll still get an incredible 1,600-pound weight capacity.

One of the main drawbacks of the Wonder Bar is that its black zinc finish is the only option offered. Even though the jet-black color is dazzling, I’d appreciate more color options to inject some personality into your home gym. Different finishes also provide higher levels of protection to the bar, like stainless steel, which is more resistant to rust and abrasion. The Wonder Bar doesn’t cater to these preferences, limiting its appeal and adaptability to various training environments.

More importantly, the black zinc finish can fade over time, especially with frequent use and if you store it in a non-climate-controlled location. I have a different barbell with a black zinc finish, and it looks pretty beat up because the coating has faded so much.

Similar to the fading of the shaft finish, the sleeves can also show some wear and tear over time. That same black zinc finish is applied to the sleeves, which will experience metal-on-metal contact as you slide your weight plates on and off.

A customer expressed this in their review by saying, “…the only complaint I have is that the sleeves have already shown some good cuts in the metal from dropping the bumpers.” I’ve seen this same effect with barbells with Cerakote coatings applied to their sleeves — there’s simply no way to keep them looking beautiful after day one.

Best Budget Olympic Barbell: Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell

Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell

4.0

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black Cerakote
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1lbs)
• Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds
• Tensile strength: 200k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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The Living.Fit Cerakoe Barbell is the best budget Olympic bar because it’s made explicitly for Olympic weightlifting. Its 28-millimeter shaft diameter and Olympic lifting knurl marks match International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) standards, making it ideal for gripping the bar comfortably and precisely. Our testing team tried this barbell for several weeks and rated it 4 out 5 stars overall.

Besides a couple of bushings, most of this bar’s components are high-quality needle bearings. Needle bearings are essential for an Olympic bar because they allow it to spin quickly and smoothly. This reduces the torque on your wrists, elbows, and shoulders during snatches and clean and jerks and helps you avoid injury.

However, we only gave the rotation system 3 out of 5 stars because the sleeves don’t spin quite as fast as other barbells we’ve tried, especially those from premium brands like Eleiko. (To be fair, though, we do think the sleeve spin is decent for a barbell at this price point.)

The Cerakote coating protects the bar against corrosion, scratches, and general wear. At a thickness of just 0.03 to 0.04 millimeters, the beauty of Cerakote — besides its gorgeous color — is that it only needs to be applied as a thin layer, so it doesn’t affect the knurling. After we tested the Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell, we gave the knurling 4 out of 5 stars. We were able to get an excellent grip without having our hands chewed up, though there wasn’t anything special about the knurling that stood out to us.

However, the first time our product testers used the barbell, they noticed some scratching on the sleeves from where the plates rubbed. It was purely aesthetic and nothing that would compromise the structural integrity of the barbell. However, it is a little disappointing to have minor scratches and know that they’ll continue to get worse with time on an otherwise beautiful barbell.

Similar to other options in this article, the Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell lacks a center knurling. This is fine if you plan only to use it for Olympic lifting exercises, but it isn’t the greatest if you have a special love for back squats. The lack of a center knurl means that the bar will be more likely to slip around on your back during high-bar squats. It will also make low-bar squats challenging because they rely on the bar gripping your shirt to stay in place.

RELATED: Low-Bar Versus High-Bar Squats: What’s the Best Lower-Body Builder for You?

As a high-quality barbell, the Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell is well priced at around $225. We rated its overall value 4.5 out of 5 stars because of its high tensile strength of 200k PSI and lifetime warranty (covering the bar against any material, functionality, or workmanship defects throughout its lifespan). 

Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell: Titan Performance Series Power Barbell

Titan Performance Series Power Barbell

4.0

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Mountain (medium)
• Warranty: One year

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High-quality powerlifting barbells can cost several hundred dollars, but the Titan Fitness Performance Series Power Barbell is an affordable option at around $150.

It features a 29-millimeter shaft diameter, which may seem unimportant, but if you’re a powerlifter (even an aspiring one), you should train like you compete. The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) uses 29-millimeter diameters as the standard in their competitions for male competitors. By using the same diameter in your training as your competitors, you’ll gain an edge over the other lifters. At the very least, your grip will improve when lifting on a 29-millimeter bar versus a 28-millimeter barbell.

The center knurling of the Performance Series Power Barbell gives you a better grip on squats, especially if you’re a low-bar squatter, because it results in more contact area between the bar and your shirt (or back if you’re addicted to pain). It also comes in handy for sumo deadlifts, as you’ll have a knurled area to grip, unlike many of the non-center-knurled alternatives I’ve mentioned.

This power bar also flexes some of the coarsest knurling out of all the bars featured in this article. It has medium mountain knurling, which is noticeably more aggressive than volcano knurling. The sharp tips of the former type are still present and will dig deeper into your hands. For a powerlifting bar, aggressive knurling is good — the last thing you want on a one-rep max attempt is to end up dropping the bar because the knurling was too passive.

A drawback to this bar is that, being a power bar, it only has powerlifting knurl marks and isn’t suitable for other sports like Olympic weightlifting or CrossFit. I’ve tried Olympic lifts with a powerlifting bar before, and it was not a comfortable experience. The knurling is too sharp, the bar is too thick, and there’s just not enough whip, so you won’t want to Oly lift with this bar. In this way, it’s the opposite of the Rogue Echo Bar (reviewed below), which features Olympic lifting marks only.

Similarly, the aggressive knurling might not appeal to those with sensitive hands. Mountain knurling can be uncomfortable to hold and downright painful on your back when performing squats. Although your skin will develop callouses to protect itself from the coarseness, some people might find lifting with this bar an unpleasant experience.

RELATED: Best Squat Racks for Small Spaces, Beginners, and More

Best Budget Women’s Barbell: PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar

PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar

4.4

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc
• Weight: 15 kilograms (33 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Tensile strength: 190k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Manufacturer defects only

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The PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar is the best barbell for women for several reasons. First, it has a 25-millimeter shaft diameter. Not only does this match the IWF sizing for women’s barbells, but it’s also ideal for ladies because women have smaller hands than men on average, making a typical 28- to 29-millimeter barbell challenging to hold. A smaller diameter on a barbell also means less stress on your wrists, elbows, and shoulders, which is good for reducing injury risk.

This barbell also has a lighter 15-kilogram starting weight, the official starting weight for a barbell used in any IWF competition. This weight is a suitable warm-up or starting weight for women of all strength levels for exercises like the bench press and back squat. However, it also makes for a more reasonable load on exercises that recruit less muscle mass, like the overhead press and barbell rows, where technique might suffer if a 45-pound barbell is used as your first set.

Finally, the bar also has a medium knurling. Medium volcano knurling is an excellent balance between grip and comfort. It’s not too shallow or aggressive, giving just enough grip without turning your hands into a calloused glove. It’s also more tolerable for the snatch and clean and jerk because it won’t tear your skin as the barbell rotates in your hands.

Unlike many all-purpose or powerlifting barbells, the PRx Olympic Prime Bar does not have a center knurling. This is excellent for Olympic lifting exercises since it can save the skin on your throat and collarbones, but it’s not ideal if you like to back squat heavy often. Without a center knurl, the bar can slide around on your back, especially on low-bar squats because they require assistance from the bar’s knurling to stay in place.

The black zinc coating can lose its color over time, mainly if you use it often and keep it in a place that isn’t temperature-controlled. At many of the CrossFit gyms I’ve trained at, black zinc barbells were very common, and almost all had the coating rubbed off near the middle of the bar from extensive use. For this reason, I would not suggest black zinc coatings if you are concerned about how your bar looks and expect it to look brand new for years to come.

Best Budget Barbell From Rogue: Rogue Echo Bar

Rogue Echo Bar

4.0

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with bright zinc
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 800 pounds
• Tensile strength: 190k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: One year

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Rogue Fitness is known for its top-tier quality (and higher prices), but the Echo Bar is a reasonably priced barbell that should meet your high expectations when buying a Rogue product. At around $266, this bar is significantly lower than other Rogue barbells, which can range as high as $700 or more. Thanks to the economical pricing, you can get a high-quality barbell from a reputable brand without breaking the bank.

The Rogue Echo Bar is an excellent barbell for Olympic lifting. It has all the essential features you’d expect from a weightlifting-specific bar. It has no center knurl to save the skin around your shins, hips, and neck. The single knurl marks are for easy and repeatable hand placement on the shaft, ideal if you’re just getting into Olympic lifting and don’t know the difference between powerlifting and weightlifting knurl marks. It also has an F8-R rating on Rogue’s F-Scale, putting it around the middle of the pack for durability — pretty solid considering its budget-friendly price.

Rogue’s Echo Bar is USA-made, a defining feature that distinguishes it from the other options in this article. Budget barbells are affordable because they are imported from overseas, where workers don’t get compensated as well and manufacturing standards are lower. However, you’re supporting local workers and generally receive higher-quality items when you buy USA-made products, something to consider if you can spare the extra cash.

Like black zinc coatings, bright zinc finishes can fade over time. Whether from wear and tear, humidity, or large temperature swings, these can cause the finish to wear off sooner than expected. While this won’t affect the durability of the bar, it will look less appealing and require more maintenance because the bare steel will be exposed and subject to faster rust build-up.

Lastly, this barbell doesn’t feature dual knurl markings. In my opinion, I’d love to see a set of powerlifting hash marks, as I think it would increase the bar’s versatility for a wider audience. That said, it’s made explicitly for Olympic lifting, so if you’d prefer a bar with dual markings, consider the REP Colorado Bar instead.

RELATED: Best Weightlifting Belts

Best Budget Barbell on Amazon: CAP Barbell The Beast

Cap Barbell THE BEAST Olympic Bar

4.5

• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 544 kilograms (1,200 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 110,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 15 inches
• Knurling: Diamond (no center knurl)
• Warranty: 30 days

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CAP Barbell’s The Beast, which you can find on Amazon, is hands-down the most affordable budget barbell on our list. At around $100, its price tag is significantly lower than almost any other Olympic barbell on the market, which tends to cost $200 to $300, if not more. With The Beast, you get a decent barbell from a reliable seller without spending much money.

The Beast barbell has a maximum weight capacity of 1,200 pounds, which is impressive for any budget barbell but especially for one priced so economically. And let’s be honest, most of us (myself included) aren’t going to be lifting anywhere near its maximum weight capacity. So, the fact that it has a capacity of over 1,000 pounds while staying budget-friendly is a win-win.

Although its product page on Amazon appears to host at least five different bars offered by CAP Barbell (including The Beast), I was shocked to see the high ratings. Typically, you’d expect 3 out 5 stars for a barbell in this price range, but CAP Barbell has over 4,300 reviews with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Buyers speak highly of the knurling, which they say is grippy without being too aggressive, and smooth sleeve rotation. With the positive feedback and praise this barbell received in the review section, you likely won’t regret your investment.

The main drawback I see with The Beast is its lower tensile strength of 110k PSI. This is definitely lower than all the other barbells in this article, meaning it would be the first to bend if our product testers were to put it through a maximum loading test. That said, you’re unlikely to encounter bending or breaking issues unless you’re a world-record powerlifter or weightlifter. For general-purpose strength training, this bar will still serve you well.

Like black zinc, this bar’s black phosphate finish can fade. This protective layer wears off because of friction, moisture, or temperature fluctuations. This won’t affect the steel’s quality or the bar’s maximum capacity but will make it look less attractive. Wiping the bar down with a towel and keeping it dry after each use can help prolong its coating.

Best Budget Curl Bar: Titan Olympic EZ Curl Bar

Titan Olympic EZ Curl Barbell

4.2

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome
• Weight: 7.7 kilograms (17 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 200 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (light)
• Warranty: One year

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The most significant benefit of Titan’s EZ Curl Bar is that it allows you to perform specialty exercises that tend to be uncomfortable on a straight Olympic bar. For example, EZ bar curls, skull crushers, preacher curls, laying tricep extensions, and more allow you to target your biceps, triceps, forearms, and shoulders without the usual joint strain that you’d experience when using a straight bar. Because of its versatility, an EZ Curl bar is often the first specialty barbell I recommend for home gym owners.

The Titan Olympic EZ Curl Barbell only costs around $85 at the time of publishing, which is much lower than other curl bars — you’d be looking at a minimum of $100 for any alternative that offers the same design. As the most affordable bar in this article, it’s great to know that you can get a solid curl bar from a reputable brand at this price.

Cheap EZ curl bars like to cut corners on their knurling and sleeve mechanisms, but Titan rises above all these shortcomings. Their EZ curl bar has a medium knurling that’s just right for accessory exercises. The angles on the shaft are well-designed to ensure it’s intuitive to use and, when combined with the smooth bronze bushings, is very comfortable on your wrists and elbows when performing exercises like curls and skull crushers. Its compact size of 47 inches in length and 17 pounds in weight makes it easy to store and portable when moving around your home gym.

This specialty bar from Titan has a lower weight capacity of just 200 pounds, less than some of the more expensive curl bars that feature 300+ pound capacities. However, this doesn’t mean that the bar is weak or unsafe. The accessory exercises you’ll most likely perform using this bar won’t put you anywhere near its 200-pound capacity.

Due to its 47-inch length, the Olympic EZ Curl Bar is not rackable in a power rack. Since you can’t place it across the J-hooks of a power rack because it’s too short, you’ll have to load it while it’s lying on the floor. However, this isn’t a big deal, as long as you don’t suffer from chronic back pain. Its shorter size also means you’ll have to lift it into position manually. For instance, you’ll have to place the bar in your lap and hoist it into position for skull crushers instead of simply lifting it out of the J-hooks like you would during a bench press.

RELATED: Best Adjustable Dumbells

Best Budget Trap Bar: Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar

Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar

4.1

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black oxide
• Weight: 21 kilograms (47 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 700 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (light)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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We have the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar in our testing facility and put it through several weeks’ worth of workouts. We gave it 4.1 out of 5 stars overall and especially like its durability, construction quality, and the fact that it comes with a lifetime warranty.

The open design allows for more exercises than a close-frame trap bar permits. Besides the typical exercises, variations like single-leg deadlifts, walking lunges, split squats, farmer walks, and bent-over rows can be performed using this specialty bar. The open frame also lets you easily step in and out of the bar, making it safer for accident-prone people.

Having lifted with various trap bars before and experiencing the frustration of trying to load and unload weight plates from them, I consider the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar’s built-in deadlift jack a serious blessing. The rubber feet on the bottom of the bar allow it to be stood up vertically, allowing you to easily swap your weight plates without holding the bar off the ground. For such a simple design hack, it saves time and energy that you can instead dedicate to your lifting.

Whether you have a space-constrained home gym or you simply want to perform your deadlifts in the corner of a crowded commercial facility, the trap bar’s compact frame takes up less space and makes it easier to move around. With a total length of just 59 inches, it fits nicely on some home gym flooring pieces like a single horse stall mat even when loaded to the end of both sleeves.

The sleeves are only 9.7 inches long, which is noticeably shorter than an average trap bar’s 16-inch sleeves. Shorter sleeves mean that you won’t be able to load as many weight plates on the bar. This isn’t much of a problem with iron plates, but it becomes apparent when you use thick bumper plates. When we tested this trap bar, we could only fit three 45-pound bumper plates on each sleeve, which limits its max loading capacity to around 315 pounds (the bar weighs around 47 pounds).

However, I’ve found that a good workaround is to use one 45-pound bumper plate on the inside and then use iron plates for the remaining weight.

One thing we think could be improved is the knurling. We found it to be pretty passive, which could increase the chances of your hands slipping if you load it with iron plates to the high end of its 700-pound weight capacity. We only rated the knurling 2 out of 5 stars for this reason.

Lastly, the inside of the bar is a bit cramped. With 23.6 inches between the handles, it’s clear that you might feel restricted with your feet if you tend to deadlift with a wide stance or if you’re a larger lifter. I deadlift with a stance that’s about hip-width apart, and I find that my toes bump into the rubber feet because they’re the narrowest point of the bar. We docked a few points off our rating for this reason, giving it 4 out of 5 stars for ease of use.

Benefits of Buying a Budget Barbell for Your Home Gym

Saves Money

Buying a budget barbell can save you hundreds of dollars. Budget bars are much cheaper than high-end barbells but still offer comparable features and performance. You can buy a budget barbell for $100 to $350 that will last you decades, while a high-end bar can easily cost $300 to $600 or more. Plus, the money you save can be used to buy more pieces of quality home gym equipment.

Saves Space

Many budget barbells are designed to be mixed-use or multi-purpose. This is done by combining the best features of powerlifting bars and weightlifting bars into a single barbell. As a result, you can perform heavier exercises like deadlifts and faster exercises like snatches with the same bar — instead of two separate bars — which means you only need a single barbell. One less barbell in your home gym is one less piece of equipment piece to buy, maintain, and store.

What To Consider When Buying a Budget Barbell

Price

When buying a budget barbell, price is undoubtedly the most important consideration. After all, the term “budget“ itself implies that it’s affordable. That said, the price tag often directly reflects the barbell’s quality, durability, and overall performance.

At the time of this writing, the Titan Olympic EZ Curl Bar ss on sale at a modest $84.97. Meanwhile, the REP Colorado Bar retails for $329.99. Clearly, there’s a broad range of prices even within the “budget” category.

Remember, you need to strike a balance, and you don’t have to break the bank just to get a good barbell. Regardless of the bar you choose, this figure should give you a good benchmark to work with and help you decide whether you’re getting good value for your money.

Training Style

Training style typically refers to whether you prefer to do powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, or both — or even another sport like CrossFit. Since these sports have widely different lifts, they benefit from having specific barbells that are made to improve your experience and performance. 

For example, powerlifting barbells like the Titan Performance Series Barbell are stiffer, have a larger diameter, and tend to have coarser knurling, a center knurl, and smooth bushings. On the flip side, an Oly lifting barbell like the Rogue Echo Bar has more whip, features a smaller diameter, will have a passive knurling, no center knurl, and fast needle bearings. 

Finally, a mixed-use bar like the Fringe Sport Wonder Bar combines the best features of both into a single bar for those days when you just can’t decide.

Bushings vs. Bearings

The choice between bushings and bearings (which refer to the sleeve rotation mechanism) depends on your training style and personal preference. 

Snatches and clean and jerks will feel better on your joints with bearings because the sleeves will spin faster. Power lifts like squats, bench presses, and deadlifts will feel smooth with bushings because the exercises have a reasonably straight bar path. In contrast, bearings would force your body to readjust to every technical deviation. A combination of bearings and bushings like you’d find in the REP Colorado Bar is ideal for those who want to dabble in both.

That said, I’ve heard that some elite weightlifters only lift with needle-bearing bars, even when performing heavy squats and deadlifts. The idea is to use the same implement in their training as their competition, regardless of the exercise. This is the exception more than the rule, though.

Knurling

Knurling depends mainly on the type of barbell you use and personal preference. Specialty bars like the Titan Olympic EZ Curl Bar have a more passive knurling, which is sufficient because you typically don’t move super heavy weights for exercises like EZ bar curls. In contrast, powerlifting bars like the Titan Performance Series Barbell have more aggressive knurling to lower the risk of the bar slipping out of your hands or off your back during a max lift.

Beyond this general distinction, knurling becomes very personal. Some like extremely aggressive knurling; others prefer a smooth, almost non-existent hill knurl. There’s no measurement standard for knurling like there is for sandpaper, so if this consideration is a deal-breaker, try to test the barbell before you buy it.

Finish

Stainless steel is the king of finishes because of its resistance to rust and abrasion. Unfortunately, this also makes it the most expensive, so it isn’t on any of our budget barbells.

Bare steel is a classic, where no finish is applied to the bar at all — it’s literally the raw steel that you’re feeling. This makes it great for grip, but there’s no protection from rust, so bare steel barbells often develop a permanent patina look unless you’re a stickler for maintenance.

Black zinc/phosphate is likely the most common. When manufacturers use this coating, they don’t fill in the gaps in the knurling like Cerakote, so you’ll still feel the real steel. Sadly, these finishes wear off over time.

Cerakote is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability and customizability. It’s been used in the firearm industry for decades and can be painted on in various colors and patterns for some seriously cool designs. Cerakote does fill in some of the knurling, so expect to lose a bit of grip from the original bare steel feeling.

Chrome is less common nowadays, and for good reason. Well-made chrome coatings are durable, but they make the bar more brittle and increase its risk of breaking, especially in high-use gyms. Because of this, passing on chrome is the intelligent long-term choice.

Electronic-coating (e-coats) are rare for a budget barbell, but if you find one on sale that meets your other criteria, jump on it. They’re longer-lasting than black zinc/phosphate without filling in the knurling like Cerakote.

Yield and Tensile Strength

Yield strength is the maximum stress a bar can withstand before permanently deforming (bending). Tensile strength is the maximum stress that a barbell can handle before it breaks or fractures. Both of these affect a barbell’s performance and durability.

If you’ve ever seen a “beater bar” in a gym, it’s a barbell used in a power rack for rack pulls because it was pushed past its yield strength — causing it to bend permanently. However, it’s still technically useable because it didn’t break, meaning it hasn’t exceeded its tensile strength (yet).

Warranty 

Budget barbells sometimes get a bad reputation for being cheap on all accounts, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have a rock-solid warranty behind them. Any budget barbell worth buying should have a bare minimum guarantee of one year. Excellent warranties are typically in the length of a lifetime.

Since companies can’t control how you treat your bar once you receive it, they’ll rarely send you a new one if it bends due to neglect or your insane strength. If you come across a company with a “Any Reason Lifetime Warranty” then let me know — a warranty like that might be a first.

Capacity 

Maximum weight capacities can vary widely, but any budget barbell worth its salt should have a minimum of a 1,000-pound capacity. Bars have become much cheaper to manufacture over the past decade, so a thousand pounds isn’t ridiculous to expect. Plus, this is typically the static weight limit. The dynamic weight limit of the bar is likely hundreds of pounds less as it will bend while in use, testing its durability.

Specialty bars like the Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar, which often have a much lower capacity, are the exception here.

Final Thoughts

Buying a high-quality budget barbell for your home gym doesn’t have to break the bank. You can buy an excellent bar for $85 to $350, depending on your needs and preferences. Different bars have different features, affecting how the bar feels and performs for various lifts. 

Before buying, you should consider your goals, experience level, and frequency of use. Then, research and compare different options to find the option that is best for you.

Best Budget Barbells: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Budget Barbell Overall	Best Budget CrossFit Barbell	Best Budget Olympic Barbell	Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell	Best Budget Women’s Barbell	Best Budget Barbell From Rogue	Best Budget Barbell on Amazon	Best Budget Curl Bar	Best Budget Trap Bar
REP Fitness Colorado Bar	Fringe Sport Wonder Bar	Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell	Titan Performance Series Power Barbell	PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar	Rogue Echo Bar	Cap Barbell The Beast	Titan Olympic EZ Curl Barbell	Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar
4.5	4.4	4.0	4.0	4.4	4.0	4.5	4.2	4.1
Description: Material: Steel Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds) Weight capacity: 680.2 kilograms (1,500 pounds) Tensile strength: 190 KSI Loadable sleeve length: 16.1 inches Knurling: Moderate Warranty: Lifetime	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds) Weight capacity: 1,600 pounds Tensile strength: 205k PSI Knurling: Volcano (medium) Warranty: Lifetime	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with black Cerakote Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1lbs) Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds Tensile strength: 200k PSI Knurling: Volcano (medium) Warranty: Lifetime	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds) Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds Tensile strength: 165k PSI Knurling: Mountain (medium) Warranty: One year	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc Weight: 15 kilograms (33 pounds) Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds Tensile strength: 190k PSI Knurling: Volcano (medium) Warranty: Manufacturer defects only	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with bright zinc Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds) Weight capacity: 800 pounds Tensile strength: 190k PSI Knurling: Volcano (medium) Warranty: One year	Description: Material: Alloy steel Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds) Weight capacity: 544 kilograms (1,200 pounds) Tensile strength: 110,000 PSI Loadable sleeve length: 15 inches Knurling: Diamond (no center knurl) Warranty: 30 days	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome Weight: 7.7 kilograms (17 pounds) Weight capacity: 200 pounds Tensile strength: 165k PSI Knurling: Volcano (light) Warranty: One year	Description: Material and finish: Alloy steel with black oxide Weight: 21 kilograms (47 pounds) Weight capacity: 700 pounds Tensile strength: 165k PSI Knurling: Volcano (light) Warranty: Lifetime
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Best Budget Barbell Overall

REP Fitness Colorado Bar

4.5

Description:

• Material: Steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 680.2 kilograms (1,500 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 190 KSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 16.1 inches
• Knurling: Moderate
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Best Budget CrossFit Barbell

Fringe Sport Wonder Bar

4.4

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,600 pounds
• Tensile strength: 205k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Best Budget Olympic Barbell

Living.Fit Cerakote Barbell

4.0

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black Cerakote
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1lbs)
• Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds
• Tensile strength: 200k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Best Budget Powerlifting Barbell

Titan Performance Series Power Barbell

4.0

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,500 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Mountain (medium)
• Warranty: One year

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Best Budget Women’s Barbell

PRx Women’s Olympic Prime Bar

4.4

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black zinc
• Weight: 15 kilograms (33 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 1,000 pounds
• Tensile strength: 190k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: Manufacturer defects only

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Best Budget Barbell From Rogue

Rogue Echo Bar

4.0

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with bright zinc
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44.1 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 800 pounds
• Tensile strength: 190k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (medium)
• Warranty: One year

Check Price

Best Budget Barbell on Amazon

Cap Barbell The Beast

4.5

Description:

• Material: Alloy steel
• Weight: 20 kilograms (44 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 544 kilograms (1,200 pounds)
• Tensile strength: 110,000 PSI
• Loadable sleeve length: 15 inches
• Knurling: Diamond (no center knurl)
• Warranty: 30 days

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Best Budget
Curl Bar

Titan Olympic EZ Curl Barbell

4.2

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with chrome
• Weight: 7.7 kilograms (17 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 200 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (light)
• Warranty: One year

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Best Budget
Trap Bar

Bells of Steel Open Trap Bar

4.1

Description:

• Material and finish: Alloy steel with black oxide
• Weight: 21 kilograms (47 pounds)
• Weight capacity: 700 pounds
• Tensile strength: 165k PSI
• Knurling: Volcano (light)
• Warranty: Lifetime

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FAQs

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Coming off a second-place finish in his Men’s Open debut, Derek Lunsford has his sights set on knocking defending champion Hadi Choopan off his throne at the 2023 Mr. Olympia. The former 212 Olympia winner (2021) boasts one of the best physiques in the sport, particularly when it comes to his upper body.

With just six weeks until he takes the Olympia stage in Orlando, FL, the weekend of Nov. 3-5, Lunsford’s focus has to be on another level if he wants to earn the most prestigious award in bodybuilding.

Based on his chest and ab training vlog posted on Sept. 21, 2023, there’s little doubt Lunsford is physically and mentally prepared to take on the challenge of trying to go from runner-up to champion in the span of a year. The workout begins around the three-minute mark.

Before diving into his weightlifting routine, Lunsford consumed a serving of Evogen Nutrition EVP AQ Liquid Glycerol, a specialized pre-workout supplement designed to enhance blood and muscle volume. A short stint on the treadmill set the stage for a six-part chest workout, followed by a three-exercise ab finisher.

Plate-Loaded Incline Chest Press

After mixing a serving of Evogen Nutrition Amino K.E.M. (an intra-workout supplement containing BCAAs and other amino acids) into his shaker bottle, Lunsford began his pec-building day with the plate-loaded incline chest press. He completed a warm-up set with a pair of 20.4-kilogram (45-pound) plates on each side before ramping up the intensity by adding an 11.3-kilogram (25-pound) plate to each side.

Lunsford continued to increase the load on a set-by-set basis, topping out at 81.6 kilograms (180 pounds) per side for eight repetitions. He put on a pair of elbow sleeves to provide an added layer of protection for his final set.

Incline Dumbbell Bench Press

Next, Lunsford attacked his upper pecs on the incline dumbbell press. He started with 24-kilogram (52.9-pound) dumbbells and made sure to lower the weight slowly and methodically. Lunsford worked up to a pair of 33-kilogram (72.7-pound) weights for 13 high-intensity reps.

“We twisted the elbows and wrists in so that’s really going to get that top contraction, that inner pec, that upper pec. It’s a very humbling exercise for me, to say the least,” Lunsford explained.

Low-to-High Cable Flye

After blazing through some heavier dumbbells, Lunsford continued his chest workout with a pair of cable-based exercises. First, he went with a low-to-high cable flye — an exercise that recruits the clavicular portion of the pecs. Lunsford used a supinated grip (palms upward), which helped him achieve quite a noticeable pump.

Between sets, the 2022 Mr. Olympia runner-up practiced a few poses that emphasized the vascularity throughout his upper body.

Seated Cable Flye

Rather than standing, Lunsford opted for seated cable flyes. He maintained an upright posture throughout the exercise, making sure to squeeze and contract his pecs at the top of the movement.

As fatigue set in, Lunsford went from full-range reps to partial reps at the end of the set. Following a second set, he provided some insight into his mindset as the 2023 Olympia inches closer.

“Six weeks out … this is the time to get after it and really grind and stay focused. Some people are not so drawn-in the way I am mentally. I think it comes from my sports background, especially wrestling,” Lunsford said.

Plate-Loaded Dip Machine

Lunsford’s penultimate chest exercise of choice was plate-loaded dips. Although the machine is often used to target triceps, the Indiana native took a different approach to make sure he engaged his lower pecs.

Rather than facing inward, Lunsford faced the opposite way so he could lean forward and “hang over” the weight. He compared the movement to a combination of a decline press and a dip, emphasizing the importance of keeping your chest upright and remaining in the seat.

Smith Machine Bench Press

To wrap up the chest portion of his training, Lunsford completed several sets of the Smith machine bench press. Not only did he end up delivering nine clean, quality reps with 125 kilograms (275 pounds), but he also shared some motivational advice for his followers.

“Somebody has to be the best in the world,” Lunsford said. “If you’re gifted, you’re passionate, and you’re willing to do whatever it takes and God opens up doors for you, the sky’s the limit. Anybody can be great at whatever it is that they’re passionate at and they’re willing to put the work in.”

Weighted Decline Crunch

After pushing his pecs to the limit, Lunsford began his ab training on a bench with a weighted decline crunch. He used a 20.4-kilogram (45-pound) plate for resistance.

Lunsford specifically highlighted that keeping the weight at the top of his chest makes the exercise more challenging than resting it on his stomach. He also noted that he’s been performing this ab exercise since his college days.

Cable Crunch

Lunsford went with the classic kneeling cable crunch as his second ab exercise. He maintained a neutral spine as he contracted his core on every rep. Although he did not specify the weight or reps, it was evident that Lunsford chose a fairly challenging load.

Lying Leg Lift

The final exercise Lunsford executed was a lying leg lift. He returned to the Smith machine to work on this taxing movement, holding the barbell as he lowered his legs nearly to parallel to the ground before raising his feet toward the ceiling.

Derek Lunsford Olympia-Bound Chest and Ab Workout

• Plate-Loaded Incline Chest Press 
• Incline Dumbbell Chest Press 
• Low-to-High Cable Flye
• Seated Cable Flye 
• Plate-Loaded Dip Machine 
• Smith Machine Bench Press
• Weighted Decline Crunch
• Cable Crunch 
• Lying Leg Lift

At the end of his grueling workout, Lunsford raised his shirt and had his cameraman show what looked like a well-defined 10-pack. However, the only number that matters is where he places when the 2023 Mr. Olympia takes place in November.

Featured Image: Derek Lunsford / YouTube

The post Derek Lunsford Crushes Chest and Ab Training 6 Weeks Out From 2023 Mr. Olympia appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Cable machines are a versatile and effective tool that offer an endless list of workout possibilities for the upper body and lower body. The best cable machine for home gyms can mimic several multi-joint and single-joint exercises to help cater to all types of populations, whether you’re a newbie or a veteran. Research even supports the use of cable machines for improving stability and strength for the body of the elderly. (1)

As a strength and conditioning coach, I like to use cable machines during each workout, if possible, and I coach my athletes to do the same. Cable machines can help my athletes and I perform variations of traditional movements to potentially recruit more muscle fibers for increased muscle size and strength. For example, doing cable chest presses could allow the arms to move in a different range of motion than a bench press. 

In this article, we’ll explore many great options currently being offered for cable machines. We’ll shine a light on the essential features that set different cable machines apart, ensuring you select the perfect fit for your fitness space. The wrong choice can disrupt your workout routine and hinder your progress, so it’s crucial to make an informed decision. 

How We Chose the Best Cable Machines for Home Gyms

Our selection of the best cable machines involved a comprehensive evaluation of the machine’s versatility, dimensions, and weight capacity. We prioritized cable machines that offered a broad spectrum of cable exercise possibilities, ensuring they could accommodate users of all fitness levels and preferences. Machines enabling both unilateral and bilateral movements, along with diverse exercise angles, round out our list. 

In addition to the versatility of different exercises, we considered the dimensions of each cable machine. We understand that home gym spaces can vary in size, so we aimed to provide options suitable for various setups. Our selection included cable machines with compact designs for those with limited space and larger models for individuals with more extensive home gym environments. 

Lastly, we examined the maximum resistance capacity of the cable machines. This factor is crucial for individuals seeking to challenge themselves with heavier weights. Our list featured machines with varying weight capacities, ranging from 200 pounds to 450 pounds, to cater to users with different strength levels. A higher maximum resistance capacity enables progressive overload, facilitating continued strength and muscle growth.

Our Top Picks for the Best Cable Machines for Home Gyms

• Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms Overall: REP Fitness Ares
• Best Cable Crossover Machine: Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment
• Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine: REP FT-5000
• Best Portable Cable Machine: MAXPRO SC
• Best Wall-Mounted Cable Machine: Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower
• Best Budget Cable Machine: Bells of Steel Functional Trainer
• Best Compact Cable Machine: Tonal

Best Cable Machine for Home Overall: REP Fitness Ares

REP Fitness Ares

4.2

• Dimensions: Adds 1.2 inches in height, 1.6 inches in width to the PR-4000 and five inches in width to the PR-5000, and six inches to the front of the rack with footplate
• Maximum resistance: 450 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: One year for the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime for the rack and frames

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We consider the REP Fitness Ares cable machine the best home gym cable machine because of its versatility, customizability, and compatibility with other top home gym equipment. Overall, our product testing team rated it 4.2 out of 5 stars but gave it 4.5 to 5 stars in categories such as stability, construction quality, durability, and how smoothly the cables move.

Unlike other options on our list, this isn’t a traditional cable machine — rather, it is a functional trainer and lat pulldown-low row attachment that affixes to REP’s PR-4000 or PR-5000 power racks. Its cable system allows for a wide array of exercises, from classic movements like lat pulldowns to more dynamic exercises like cable crossovers. This versatility can be especially appealing to users who want to target specific muscle groups to add variety to their workouts.

The endless list of exercise selections is complemented by the 30 aluminum pulleys with custom retainers to keep the cables on track. The use of aluminum makes these pulleys stronger and more stable and provides a smoother action of resistance for each repetition.

Another great feature is how much space it can save. The front pulleys swivel 180 degrees for versatile movements and allow you to perform exercises inside and outside the cable machine. Creating these movements stems from all the attachments included with this machine. The Ares comes with four micro-adjustment 2.5-pound weights, D cable handles, a knurled chrome lat pull-down bar and low row bar, and a connector banana. 

But as with many great purchases, there are some drawbacks. The REP Ares starts at around $2,799, which could put it out of reach for budget-conscious shoppers. This is also one of the reasons we docked a few points off our overall score. Additionally, to build this cable machine, you need to purchase the PR-4000 or PR-5000 power rack, which start at around $800 and $900, respectively. This adds to the price and financial investment of this device. 

RELATED: Best Squat Racks for Small Spaces, Beginners, and More

Another drawback is that the assembly can be challenging. We had several people work on it together, and it took them close to five hours. Plus, it arrived in multiple boxes with numbers that didn’t match up to the instructions. For someone who is not too familiar with building and creating home gym equipment, this would be one of the more challenging aspects, as the FT-5000 comes with a ton of pieces and requires a lot of focus during setup. 

Overall, the REP Fitness Ares cable machine is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home gym setup. Its versatility and build quality make it an attractive option, but its price and assembly complexity should be considered before making a purchase. Ultimately, it’s a high-quality piece of equipment that can contribute to a well-rounded and effective fitness routine.

Best Cable Crossover Machine: Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment

Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment

3.8

• Dimensions: 87” H x and 52” W (when added to power rack)
• Maximum resistance: 880 pounds
• Type: Plate-loaded
• Warranty: One year for the upholstery and attachments; 10 years for moving parts; lifetime on the frame

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The MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment is our pick for the best cable crossover machine because it comes at a reasonable price, is compatible with most of the best weight plates, and offers multiple adjustment points to enhance its versatility. It’s a lightweight addition to your home gym that doesn’t require the headache of hauling multiple weight stacks to build your setup. Each side is sold separately, but at around $429 per attachment, it’s still thousands of dollars cheaper than other machines like the REP Ares or Bells of Steel Functional Trainer. 

Unlike other cable crossover attachments, the MyRack Cable Crossover offers floating pulleys, giving you 28 different adjustment points to hit a variety of exercises. This is a huge benefit to those who are looking to not only target specific muscle groups but train them from different positions to help fully develop the muscle tissue to its fullest potential. For example, a chest fly works the chest, but you can anchor the cables lower or higher to target the upper chest or lower chest fibers more. 

Adjusting these pulleys is a breeze, as the single-hand pop-pin adjustment system makes it easy to move the pulley up and down quickly. At the base of the MyRack Cable Crossover machine is a foot pad that you can use to brace your feet against when performing rowing exercises. 

Another benefit is that this cable machine is weight plate compatible. Instead of building a cable machine and hauling multiple weight stacks, you can load it with your own plates to perform various exercises. 

This rack does come with a couple of drawbacks, though. Like the REP Fitness Ares, which is only compatible with REP’s PR-4000 and PR-5000 power racks, the Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment is only compatible with the MyRack Modular Power Rack. This could be convenient if you already own that power rack but would be an extra investment of around $500 if you don’t. 

Another drawback is the larger dimensions. It adds an extra 52 inches per side in width to the MyRack Modular Power Rack, which is already 47 inches wide. That would be a total width of 151 inches or 12.5 feet, which some home gym owners may not have the space for.

Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine: REP FT-5000

REP Fitness FT-5000

4.0

• Dimensions: 85.5” H, 58” W (front), 33” W (rear), 36” D
• Maximum resistance: 448 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: One year on the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime on the rack and frame

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The REP FT-5000 is a versatile functional trainer that features 21 cable positions with dual weight stacks that top out at 224 pounds each for a total of 448 pounds due to a 2:1 cable ratio (meaning 50 pounds feels like 25 pounds). Its aluminum pulleys help provide smooth and precise movement mechanics, further enhancing your ability to perform more optimal and enjoyable workouts. We gave it 4 out of 5 stars after testing it for several weeks because we appreciate the build quality, stability, and durability, but we had to take off a few points for other reasons — but more on that below.

Another perk to the REP FT-5000 is that it is its own cable machine, not an attachment or extension of another piece of equipment like the Ares or the Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover. Those two cable machines require the purchase of a power rack in order to use them. The REP FT-5000 is a functional trainer that can be used by itself, making it a valuable piece of equipment that is arguably an “all-in-one” piece of fitness equipment.

This functional trainer is actually the second iteration of the original REP FT-5000. The handles can go higher and lower than the original model to maximize your range of motion. The trolley is also slimmer and lighter than before, allowing for quick and easy adjustments. REP also switched to aluminum pulleys instead of nylon pulleys. Nylon pulleys tend to be more durable but this isn’t as much of an issue for home gyms, where the machine won’t be put through as much abuse as it would in a commercial gym.

The REP FT-5000 excels in its versatility and is built with massive durability to stand up to tough workouts. The frame consists of 11-gauge commercial-grade, heavy-duty steel, which you’ll find in the most rugged, high-quality home gym machines. With the weight capacity of the REP FT-5000, it needs to have a sturdy frame to withstand heavy movement. 

Another perk is the three pairs of pull-up bars provided. These pull-up attachments allow you to perform pull-ups and chin-ups with the underhand, neutral, and overhand positions. This can help recruit different muscle groups and allow you to perform compound multi-grip movements to build size and strength. An example of this would be pull-ups versus chin-ups. For pull-ups, the overhand grip prioritizes the rear deltoids and lat muscles. When doing a chin-up with an underhand grip, you recruit more of the biceps than other upper body muscle groups.

The REP FT-5000 comes with two durable, polymer D-handles, storage pegs for the attachments, and four additional 2.75-pound incremental weights so you can make smaller weight jumps for a more accurate workout. 

One of the drawbacks that resulted in us giving it a lower rating is the price, as it starts at $2,499. This plus the lengthy setup can be an issue for those who want budget-friendly equipment that doesn’t require a complicated assembly process. The FT-5000’s instructions note that it could take two people to set up, which might be a drawback for someone looking to build this on their own. It took two people from our product testing team four hours to put together, even though REP suggests assembly should only take two hours. They also found the instructions confusing, despite the fact that they have put together dozens of functional trainers.

Another potential drawback is the REP FT-5000 is built based on kilos, not pounds. The starting weight of this machine is 5.7 kilograms (12.5 pounds), and it goes up in weight in 2.5-kilogram increments. The next weight is 8.2 kilograms (18 pounds), then 10.7 kilograms (22 pounds), and so on. This might be frustrating if you are used to 2.5-, five-, or 10-pound jumps that you will see in other cable machines. We knocked a few points off our overall score for this reason.

Still, the fact this 11-gauge steel cable machine stands on its own without being an extension of another piece of equipment makes it a special purchase for someone who wants a pulley machine that provides a range of exercises to elevate their workout routine. 

Best Portable Cable Machine: MAXPRO SC

MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine

4.2

• Dimensions: Not provided
• Maximum resistance: 300 pounds
• Type: Power clutch system
• Warranty: One year

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The MAXPRO SC is not your “run-of-the-mill” cable machine. It is a foldable device that can expand into a small platform to stand on or be anchored to the floor or wall to create movement using its double cable pulleys. This 10-pound machine provides up to 300 pounds of adjustable resistance. It is a solid choice for those who need convenience and durability, as its cables are 15 times stronger than steel by weight. It costs around $679, making it much more affordable than other machines like the REP Ares or Bells of Steel Functional Trainer. 

When our product testing team tested the MAXPRO SC, they enjoyed it so much that they rated it 4.2 out of 5 stars overall. They found it to be well-built despite being so small and compact. Delivery was a breeze and the unit was packaged well in a foam-lined box — plus it came in beautiful branded packaging, which made them even more excited to try it.

If you want to anchor this device to the wall, you’ll need to purchase the MAXPRO SlimLine Wall Track, which costs around $325. This upgrade allows you to anchor the device to different heights so you can create movement from different angles. For example, you could do bicep curls by attaching the cable machine to the bottom or tricep pushdowns by connecting the cable machine to the top. 

Another great feature of the MAXPRO SC is its Smart Resistance Technology. This technology allows you to customize the resistance level easily with a turn of the dial, making it suitable for various fitness levels and goals. There are 50 resistance settings ranging from five to 300 pounds, meaning you have complete control over your workout intensity. 

The MAXPRO SC cable machine provides quiet operations and functions to make it appealing to anyone who wants to work out anywhere and at any time. It relies on creating resistance through a power clutch system, making it not less noisy than traditional cable machines that rely on weighted metal stacks banging into each other during movement. 

There are a couple of drawbacks to this cable machine. First, it only provides concentric-focused movement. Within a range of motion, the contractions of the muscle only occur during the “shortening” phase of movement. That means, for example, if you did cable deadlifts, you would only feel the movement when doing the upward motion of the lift. The opposing action of lowering the cables to the floor would not recruit the same amount of intensity as the shortening concentric phase. That could affect your exercise selection and ability to work out. 

This machine is also not built for every exercise. Cable machines like the REP FT-5000 have adjustable pulleys that swivel, allowing the cables to move in the direction of force. The MAXPRO SC doesn’t have cables with pulleys that swivel, which might limit the range of motion of certain exercises.  

RELATED: Best Adjustable Dumbbells

Best Wall-Mounted Cable Machine: Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower

Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower

3.5

• Dimensions: 27.5” L x 25” W x 84.5” H
• Maximum resistance: 350 pounds
• Type: Plate-loaded
• Warranty: One year

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The Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower cable machine offers a space-saving and durable solution for full-body workouts. This budget-friendly cable machine is a great purchase for those looking to add more versatility to their training, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast. However, after testing this machine for a few weeks, we only rated it 3.5 out of 5 stars because it doesn’t offer a lot of versatility, and the nylon pulleys aren’t as smooth as the aluminum pulleys you’d find on machines like the REP FT-5000.

One of its standout features is the price of around $279. This is a great price point compared to a lot of other cable machines on this list, like the REP Ares and Tonal, which cost between $2,700 and $3,900.

The Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower’s simple build allows you to perform typical cable movements, such as the pushdown, cable curl, upright row, and much more. As with other cable machines, it provides a 2:1 ratio so that when performing single cable movements, the load is half of what is listed so that you aren’t lifting all the weight on one arm. 

Another benefit is that it is a great space saver, as it is less than three feet deep from the wall. You can also use weight plates with this cable machine, so you don’t need to haul heavy weight stacks for your setup. While the weight pegs are only one inch in diameter, you can still use plates with a two-inch insert; just note that the inserts will hang off the pegs a bit.

One drawback to this cable machine is that its simple design limits exercise versatility. It doesn’t allow you to perform too many bilateral movements, such as cable chest flies. However, its narrow build does allow for various unilateral movements, such as single-arm bicep curls or single-arm lateral raises, that could help improve stability and single-joint strength.

Durability may also be a concern and is part of the reason we didn’t give the Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower high marks. Titan doesn’t list the steel gauge on their website, but we noticed that the 2×2 tubing felt quite thin when we worked out with this machine. We’d assume it is 14-gauge steel, which is the lowest gauge we’d recommend for home gym equipment. Eleven-gauge steel would be much more durable.

Another issue is you have to mount the system to your wall. It does come with the hardware, but you will need to have some power tools and wrenches available to mount it yourself. If you are not familiar with the process of mounting furniture or gym equipment, this could be a tricky situation. 

Best Budget Cable Machine: Bells of Steel Functional Trainer

Bells of Steel Functional Trainer

3.9

• Dimensions: 30” L x 53” W x 81” H
• Maximum resistance: 320 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: Lifetime

Check Price

While the Bells of Steel Functional Trainer starts off at $1,899, which some may not consider budget-friendly, it is still cheaper than many of the best functional trainers, which range between $2,300 and $2,700. Plus, the value you get from it is the reason we consider it the best budget cable machine.

It provides two cable pulleys and two handle attachments that allow you to perform different resistance training exercises. You can do isolation movements such as chest flies and bicep curls or compound unilateral movements such as a press or a pulldown. Some might argue this is the only piece of equipment they would need!

To add to the benefits of this device, it uses aluminum pulleys that help create more fluid movement due to how tough the aluminum material is. Plastic pulleys might not be as strong and can wear out much easier.

In addition to the toughness of the pulley system, this functional trainer is built with durable 14-gauge material that can withstand a tough workout. Whether you perform single-joint movements or sling heavy-duty compound movements with explosion and speed, this trainer can take on the task. 

The Bells of Steel Functional Trainer has many benefits, but I believe the only drawback is the complexity of setting it up. One of the first things noted on their website is that to get you their product quickly, they send the pieces in separate boxes. The separate packaging could cause issues timing the build of your functional trainer, and for some people, that lack of urgency could be a set back. Overall, though, this is a great purchase and should be highly considered by many. 

Best Compact Cable Machine: Tonal

Tonal Home Gym

4.6

• Dimensions: 50.9” H x 21.5” W x 5.25” D
• Maximum resistance: 200 pounds
• Type: Electromagnetics
• Warranty: Two-year limited warranty

Check Price

The Tonal cable machine is a sophisticated, all-in-one, electronically-powered fitness device. Its advanced technology is what allows it to be a great wall-mounted compact cable machine. It allows you to exercise with various resistance levels and adjustments through magnetic resistance rather than weight plates or weight stacks. Due to its technology, it does not have the extensive dimensions you’ll find with other cable machines or functional trainers. After trying Tonal for several months, our product testing team rated it 4.6 stars out of 5 and gave it high marks for the available programming, ease of use, versatility, and overall construction quality.

Tonal also provides digital training and instruction through its membership subscription, which is required to use the machine. You have to sign up for a 12-month commitment. However, membership provides many perks, including a strength assessment to learn about your body, intuitive weight adjustments that adjust to your movement patterns, video instruction, and dynamic weight modes such as eccentric-focused, chain-focused, and burnout-focused movement. This means the machine can focus primarily on the downward phase of the movement, the upward phase of the movement, restricting the speed of your movement, or all of the above.

Tonal adds new programs to its growing library of guided on-demand strength training workouts every week. The machine automatically tracks and reports feedback about your workouts, such as calories burned or heart rate values if you link it to your Apple watch. The machine comes with two handles, a bar, and a rope attachment, too. 

Because it doesn’t rely on gravity, Tonal’s digital weight provides resistance to both the eccentric (when the muscle lengthens) and concentric (when the muscle contracts) phases of an exercise. As such, it feels slightly heavier than traditional weights. You challenge your muscles with consistent resistance throughout the entire movement, and that type of overload results in improved strength.

This is also what helps keep movement smooth and quiet during operation. You don’t have to worry about waking up your neighbors or family during a workout.

All of these benefits lead to a higher price point of around $3,995. This is the most expensive cable machine on our list, which could make it an immediate drawback to more budget-conscious shoppers. You can, however, finance it for as low as $84 a month. This cable machine also requires professional mounting, which could be a drawback if you prefer to set up your gym equipment yourself. 

The final drawback is the weight limit of 200 pounds. This is the lightest of the cable machines on our list due to the machine’s electromagnetics and may not be heavy enough for some individuals.

RELATED: Best Weight Benches for Beginners, Small Spaces, With Racks, and More

What Are the Benefits of Cable Machines?

Having a cable machine comes with many benefits such as safety, convenience, and versatility. Cable machines enable you to perform movements from various angles and positions that can recruit muscle groups more effectively than traditional barbell exercises. An example of this is doing bicep curls from a low pulley position to work the bottom of the bicep or from a high pulley position to work the top of the bicep. This approach to resistance training minimizes the risk of injury, as you’re less likely to perform dangerous or uncontrolled movements that could harm your joints or muscles.

In addition to safety, cable machines provide a level of convenience that many fitness enthusiasts appreciate. No more time-consuming cleaning of barbells, weight plates, or dumbbells after an intense workout. With a cable machine, you can seamlessly adjust the resistance level with a simple pin or selector, eliminating the need for clutter and allowing you to transition between exercises swiftly. You can focus more on achieving your fitness goals and less on cleaning up the gym.

Furthermore, you have the flexibility to target specific muscle groups and add variety to your workouts. Whether you’re emphasizing isolation exercises for well-defined muscles or engaging in functional training to boost strength, cable machines offer a variety of options to suit your fitness needs. This adaptability not only keeps your workouts engaging but also maximizes the effectiveness of your training regimen.

What To Look For in a Cable Machine

Price

When purchasing a cable machine system, price is a crucial consideration. High-quality cable machines can be a significant investment and more expensive than equipment such as a power rack or high-quality barbell.

However, even though cable machines can be expensive, some can be considered an “all in one” piece of equipment that can provide massive versatility for performing multiple exercises.

Dimensions

Knowing the dimensions of your desired cable machine system is essential, especially if you have limited space in your home gym. The dimensions of a cable machine vary, as some machines might not provide dynamic front pulleys that can swivel for different movements. Some of the cable machines on our list range between 30 and 40 inches in depth, which might be an amount of space some individuals aren’t willing to compromise in their garage gym. However, we do have compact cable machines on our list that require less space, like the Tonal cable machine. 

Versatility

One of the top selling points of a cable machine is versatility. Being able to perform both unilateral and bilateral movements on a cable machine is key. Some of the cable machines on our list, like the Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower, are more narrow and do not allow for compound movements using both pulleys at the same time.

It’s key to look for machines with adjustable pulley heights, various cable attachments, and the ability to target multiple muscle groups to provide more workout options that adapt to a more elaborate workout routine. 

Weight Stack vs. Plate-Loaded

Weight stacks and plate-loaded cable machines can provide some big differences. Weight stack machines are convenient and quick to adjust, while plate-loaded machines allow for incremental weight increases and custom loading. A plate-loaded machine might also be more budget-friendly, especially if you already have Olympic plates at home. 

Pulley Ratio

The pulley ratio affects the resistance and feel of the exercises. On our list, the cable machines that are either plate-loaded or weight stacks have a 2:1 pulley ratio. This means that for every two units of distance you pull or move one end of the cable, the resistance or weight you’re lifting or moving on the other end of the cable is reduced to one unit of that distance. 

A 2:1 pulley ratio helps to improve the functionality for exercise, so that if you are lifting with one pulley, it’s half of the weight loaded. If you do decide to do bilateral movement (using both arms at the same time), the weight equals how much is loaded on the machine.

Maximum Weight

The maximum amount of weight provided through a cable machine makes a big difference for the intensity of the workout. On our list, the range of weight a cable machine can handle is between 200 and 400 pounds. To load a higher amount of weight, the pulley system needs to be built for higher loads, such as using aluminum pulleys for better movement mechanics. For advanced lifters or those aiming to lift heavy, a higher weight capacity is essential. A top-tier cable station should safely accommodate the weights you plan to use.

Warranty

A warranty is a reflection of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability. Look for a cable machine system with a solid warranty that covers the frame, components, and moving parts. Some of the cable machines on our list provide one- or two-year limited warranties. However, a couple machines on our list provide a lifetime warranty as long as you keep up with maintenance.  

Handle Attachments

The availability and variety of handle attachments on a cable station can significantly enhance your workout experience. Its important to consider whether the machine comes with a variety of handles, bars, and grips, as they can expand your exercise repertoire and target different muscle groups effectively. Some of the more common attachments are the triceps rope, curl bar, ankle strap, or the traditional single attachment for grip. 

Technology

Some modern cable machines incorporate technology features to help not only monitor exercise performance but to actually adjust the intensity of your exercises. There are machines on our list that provide resistance through advanced technology so that the machine provides quiet and smooth resistance for exercise. Other aspects of technology for cable machines provide upgrades such as digital displays, workout tracking, and connectivity options. While these can enhance your training experience, they may also add to the overall cost.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking to enhance your home gym workout, cable machines offer a versatile and effective solution. They provide endless workout possibilities, catering to individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans.

In this article, we’ve explored various outstanding cable machine options. Some of them create resistance through weight stacks, plate-loaded features, or innovative technology. Choosing the right cable machine is pivotal, as it can significantly impact your workout routine and fitness progress.  

Whether you’re a long-time fitness enthusiast or just embarking on your journey to a healthier lifestyle, finding the ideal cable machine for your home gym can elevate your workout experience to a new level.

Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms Overall	Best Cable Crossover Machine	Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine	Best Portable Cable Machine	Best Wall-Mounted Cable Machine	Best Budget Cable Machine	Best Compact Cable Machine
REP Fitness Ares	Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment	REP Fitness FT-5000 2.0 Functional Trainer	MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine	Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower	Bells of Steel Functional Trainer	Tonal Home Gym
4.2	3.8	4.0	4.2	3.5	3.9	4.6
Description: Dimensions: Adds 1.2 inches in height, 1.6 inches in width to the PR-4000 and five inches in width to the PR-5000, and six inches to the front of the rack with footplate Maximum resistance: 450 pounds Type: Weight stacks Warranty: One year for the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime for the rack and frames	Description: Dimensions: 87” H x and 52” W (when added to power rack) Maximum resistance: 880 pounds Type: Plate-loaded Warranty: One year for the upholstery and attachments; 10 years for moving parts; lifetime on the frame	Description: Dimensions: 85.5” H, 58” W (front), 33” W (rear), 36” D Maximum resistance: 448 pounds Type: Weight stacks Warranty: One year on the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime on the rack and frame	Description: Dimensions: Not provided Maximum resistance: 300 pounds Type: Power clutch system Warranty: One year	Description: Dimensions: 27.5” L x 25” W x 84.5” H Maximum resistance: 350 pounds Type: Plate-loaded Warranty: One year	Description: Dimensions: 30” L x 53” W x 81” H Maximum resistance: 320 pounds Type: Weight stacks Warranty: Lifetime	Description: Dimensions: 50.9” H x 21.5” W x 5.25” D Maximum resistance: 200 pounds Type: Electromagnetics Warranty: Two-year limited warranty
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Cable Machine for Home Gyms Overall

REP Fitness Ares

4.2

Description:

• Dimensions: Adds 1.2 inches in height, 1.6 inches in width to the PR-4000 and five inches in width to the PR-5000, and six inches to the front of the rack with footplate
• Maximum resistance: 450 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: One year for the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime for the rack and frames

Check Price

Best Cable Crossover Machine

Force USA MyRack Cable Crossover Attachment

3.8

Description:

• Dimensions: 87” H x and 52” W (when added to power rack)
• Maximum resistance: 880 pounds
• Type: Plate-loaded
• Warranty: One year for the upholstery and attachments; 10 years for moving parts; lifetime on the frame

Check Price

Best Functional Trainer Cable Machine

REP Fitness FT-5000 2.0 Functional Trainer

4.0

Description:

• Dimensions: 85.5” H, 58” W (front), 33” W (rear), 36” D
• Maximum resistance: 448 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: One year on the pop-pins, pulleys, bearings, and cables; lifetime on the rack and frame

Check Price

Best Portable Cable Machine

MAXPRO SC Portable Cable Machine

4.2

Description:

• Dimensions: Not provided
• Maximum resistance: 300 pounds
• Type: Power clutch system
• Warranty: One year

Check Price

Best Wall-Mounted Cable Machine

Titan Wall-Mounted Pulley Tower

3.5

Description:

• Dimensions: 27.5” L x 25” W x 84.5” H
• Maximum resistance: 350 pounds
• Type: Plate-loaded
• Warranty: One year

Check Price

Best Budget Cable Machine

Bells of Steel Functional Trainer

3.9

Description:

• Dimensions: 30” L x 53” W x 81” H
• Maximum resistance: 320 pounds
• Type: Weight stacks
• Warranty: Lifetime

Check Price

Best Compact Cable Machine

Tonal Home Gym

4.6

Description:

• Dimensions: 50.9” H x 21.5” W x 5.25” D
• Maximum resistance: 200 pounds
• Type: Electromagnetics
• Warranty: Two-year limited warranty

Check Price

FAQs

Research

1. Balachandran, A., Martins, M. M., De Faveri, F. G., Alan, O., Cetinkaya, F., & Signorile, J. F. (2016). Functional strength training: Seated machine vs standing cable training to improve physical function in elderly. Experimental gerontology, 82, 131–138. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2016.06.012

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For the first time in their nearly 20-year existence, the CrossFit Games will take place in the Lone Star State. Dickies Arena, located in Fort Worth, Texas, will host the 2024 CrossFit Games, according to a series of announcements delivered on Sept. 19, 2023.

“Fort Worth is a proven destination for high-profile events, and we’re excited to add to the growing number of sports and entertainment options at the state-of-the-art Dickies Arena,” CrossFit CEO Don Faul said in a press release. “Love of sport is in the DNA of most Texans, and we can’t think of a more enthusiastic audience for the Games.”

Scheduled for Aug. 8-11, the 2024 CrossFit Games will offer “the experience of a lifetime for fans, athletes, affiliates, and partners,” per Faul.

Not only does the venue have almost 30,000 square feet of event space, but it also has three standard levels of seating, including additional elevated viewing experiences on Dickies Arena’s suite and loge box levels.

Besides providing a new city with a chance to host the sport’s preeminent event, the decision to take the 2024 Games in a different direction appears to be part of a long-term plan with global implications.

“The move to Fort Worth is the first step for where we want to take the CrossFit Games,” said CrossFit General Manager of Sport and Education Dave Castro. “Just as we expect our athletes to adjust during competition, we’ll need to do the same as we rethink our execution so that we can bring the Games to not only more cities in the United States, but also consider expansion overseas.”

Moving the Games from Wisconsin, where it was held since 2017, to Texas means more than just a change of scenery. From a competitive standpoint, reigning champions Jeffrey Adler and Laura Horvath have another factor to consider as they prepare to defend their titles: the heat.

The location for the 2024 Games has been one of the hottest areas in the country in recent months. According to AccuWeather, the average high temperature in Forth Worth from Aug. 8-11 of this year was 107 degrees Fahrenheit (41.7 degrees Celsius).

Meanwhile, the average high temperature in Madison during the 2023 CrossFit Games around the same time was a relatively more tolerable 83.5 degrees Fahrenheit (28.6 degrees Celsius). Ultimately, such a stark difference in climate could have a significant impact on the outcome of the 2024 Games.

According to CrossFit’s press release, further information about the upcoming season will be announced at a later date.

Featured Image: CrossFit Games / YouTube

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Some people had a unique introduction to physical strength. At one point, they may have seen a person lift a heavy weight — whether it was a family member moving an “immovable” piece of furniture, a muscular athlete completing a “bench press challenge” on television, or a superhero hoisting a car overhead to save the day — and the spark was ignited.

These feats of strength left an indelible impression and, sooner or later, they found their way into the gym and began developing their own muscular prowess. A few of the most straightforward avenues for lifters to test themselves is with “the big three” powerlifts — the squat, bench press, and deadlift.

Competitive powerlifting offers a chance for lifters of any age, size, or experience to compare themselves to modern day peers as well as legendary lifters of the past. Here’s a look at what it takes to complete remarkable powerlifting performances.

Powerlifting Records

• What is Powerlifting?
• Powerlifting Divisions and Categories
• Current Powerlifting Records

What is Powerlifting?

To begin on page one, it’s important to understand what “powerlifting” actually is. While it might sound counterintuitive, powerlifting is distinctly different from weightlifting. The sport of weightlifting, as presented in the Summer Olympics, challenges athletes with the snatch and clean & jerk movements. Powerlifting tests athletes with the back squat, flat bench press, and deadlift (either conventional stance or sumo) to complete a “total” weight lifted for the contest.

The sport of powerlifting formally began in 1964 with “The Powerlifting Tournament of America” being the first organized and recognized competition of the squat, bench press, and deadlift. Perhaps not coincidentally, the contest was held in York, Pennsylvania — home of US Olympic weightlifting coach and founder of York Barbell, Bob Hoffman.

As powerlifting continued to grow, both across the United States and internationally. By the 1980s, it was considered a full-fledged, albeit niche, competitive sport. From the late 1970s until the early 2010s, it garnered enough widespread attention to warrant a dedicated print magazine, Powerlifting USA, which showcased sport-specific news and training features.

As the sport of powerlifting grew in popularity, recreational lifters found a relatable outlet for testing their strength. While Olympic weightlifting is largely considered to rely on significant exercise technique, the big three powerlifts are relatively more simple to learn, making them more accessible to the average gym-goer.

Powerlifting, in general, has nearly become synonymous with simply trying to build sheer strength in the gym. However, the sport itself has always revolved around three foundational exercises performed under specific criteria. If lifts are performed with different or “loose” technique, they’re ineligible for an official record.

Squat

In a powerlifting competition, the barbell back squat is the first of three movements tested. Depending on the specific federation and ruleset, the barbell is either supported on squat stands or in a monolift — a hydraulic-assisted machine which allows lifters to set up in a squat stance without repositioning their feet.

Powerlifting squats are universally tested by requiring lifters to descend until their hip joint is parallel to their knee joint. This is where the common cue “squat to parallel” comes from. Contrary to some common opinions, “parallel” is not necessarily related to the lifter’s thigh position because heavily muscled legs may not appear to reach parallel when the hip is at a suitable depth.

Lifters may use either a low bar or high bar setup, depending on their individual preference. The key performance factor is reaching the target depth, and the lifter’s body type and mobility will dictate their most efficient technique.

Bench Press

The flat barbell bench press is the sole test of pure upper body strength in a powerlifting competition. The majority of powerlifting federations have grip standards, often maintaining a grip that has at least one finger in contact with the pre-set ring markers on the barbell. Lifters must keep their head, shoulders, and glutes in contact with the bench throughout the entire press, while also keeping their feet touching the floor.

The barbell is lowered to chest-level and must remain in contact with the athlete’s body until a judge gives the “press” command to begin the ascent. This ensures a consistent depth marker for each lifter while helping to prevent momentum from bouncing the bar off of the chest. The bar is then held in the locked out position until the lifter receives a judge’s command to “rack.”

Controversially, lifters may initially set up with an arch in their lower back which may add pressing stability and reduce their range of motion, making the lift less challenging. However, some federations, such as the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), have taken steps to limit the degree of arch lifters may use.

Deadlift

“The meet doesn’t start until the bar hits the floor,” is a common phrase heard in powerlifting circles to emphasize the importance of the contest’s final movement — the deadlift. With the bar beginning on the floor, lifters must complete a deadlift in one smooth motion. Jerking or “hitching” the bar up the thighs disqualifies the lift. Full lockout is achieved when the lifter’s legs are straight and their shoulders are behind the bar.

In competition, powerlifters are not allowed to use lifting straps, but can grab the bar with a double-overhand, mixed (over/underhand), or hook grip (grabbing the thumbs along the underside of the bar).

Internet meme culture seems to enjoy claiming that “sumo deadlifts don’t count,” but no actual powerlifting organization has fallen in line with that approach. Lifters are free to choose their own deadlift stance — conventional, sumo, or somewhere in between — according to their individual leverages and optimal power output.

Total

The powerlifter’s total is the sum of their best performance in each of the three lifts. Powerlifters get three attempts for each movement, with only the highest weight being tallied for their total. If a lifter fails all three attempts at an exercise (aka “bombs out”), they are unable to post a total.

Informally and outside of competitions, some lifters recognize benchmarks such as “the 1,000-pound club” (454 kilograms), where a 1,000-pound/454-kilogram total is reached in the big three lifts in a recreational gym setting.

In competition, an elite total is generally considered to be 10-times the lifter’s body weight. However, in men’s heavier weight classes (generally 220-pounds/100-kilograms), totals approaching 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms) are considered “elite,” and are the sign of a highly advanced strength athlete. Women’s competitors have ideal totals that are similar, but reduced slightly.

Powerlifting Divisions and Categories

Competitors in the sport of powerlifting are separated not only by weight class, but by age group, sex assigned at birth, and the use (or lack) of supportive equipment. Each of these variables are relevant factors to determining powerlifting records.

Weight Classes

In the majority of powerlifting federations, weight classes are broken up in roughly 15 to 25-pound (seven to 11 and a half-kilogram) increments. The IPF — the oldest, largest, and arguably most well-known federation — has eight weight classes for men and women, all using slightly adjusted categorizations compared to other federations. The most commonly found weight classes are as follows:

Men’s weight classes:

• 52 kilograms (114 pounds)
• 56 kilograms (123 pounds)
• 60 kilograms (132 pounds)
• 67.5 kilograms (148 pounds)
• 75 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 82.5 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 90 kilograms (198 pounds)
• 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
• 110 kilograms (242 pounds)
• 125 kilograms (275 pounds)
• 140 kilograms (308 pounds)
• 140+ kilograms (above 308 pounds)

Women’s weight classes:

• 44 kilograms (97 pounds)
• 48 kilograms (105 pounds)
• 52 kilograms (114 pounds)
• 56 kilograms (123 pounds)
• 60 kilograms (132 pounds)
• 67.5 kilograms (148 pounds)
• 75 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 82.5 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 90 kilograms (198 pounds)
• 90+ kilograms (above 198 pounds)

At competitions, athletes typically weigh-in no more than two hours before the start of the contest and they must weigh below the weight cap for their class. This helps to ensure that athletes in a given weight class are competing at generally comparable body sizes.

Age Groups

Similarly, age divisions are most often categorized by younger athletes (Sub-Junior and Junior), open competitors (without specific age guidelines), and Masters (lifters over 40 years old).

Sub-Junior lifters are generally 14 to 18 years old, while Junior lifters are 19 to 23 years old. To more accurately designate competitors, Masters athletes are typically sorted into five to 10-year increments. For example, “Masters I” may incorporate ages 40 to 49; “Masters II,” ages 50 to 59; “Masters III” would include 60 to 69-year old competitors, and “Masters IV” collectively compares athletes over 70.

Men and Women

The majority of powerlifting federations require athletes to compete according to the gender they were assigned at birth. In recent years, this has become an increasingly complicated situation particularly with regard to transgender strength athletes.

The categorization, and whether or not the athletes can compete in any capacity, often comes down to the individual powerlifting organization. For example, USA Powerlifting (USAPL) does not permit female-to-male athletes to compete in the Men’s division. The USAPL stands by their consistent stance which forbids any athlete from competing when using external androgens for therapeutic use, whether it is a transgender athlete maintaining normal-range testosterone levels or an aging cisgender men’s competitor maintaining similar testosterone levels.

The USAPL also does not allow male-to-female athletes to compete in the Women’s division, citing potentially lingering physiological benefits the athlete may experience from the period before transition. However, the data on those benefits is mixed, and potentially negligible. (1)

The IPF, however, follows the International Olympic Committee (IOC) guidelines regarding transgender athletes. In the IPF, as well as several other organizations, male-to-female athletes may compete in the Women’s division as long as they meet specific criteria such as declaring their gender identity and maintaining it for a minimum of four years, as well as documenting decreased testosterone levels for at least 12 months prior to competing.

The IPF also allows female-to-male powerlifters to compete as long as their testosterone levels are within the normal range for Men’s competitors.

Raw vs. Equipped

Raw lifting and equipped lifting are two of the most significant forks in the road when it comes to competitive powerlifting. The differentiation is built around whether or not the powerlifting wears specialized clothing to support and assist each movement.

In raw powerlifting, athletes typically use a weightlifting belt to support their core, knee sleeves to stabilize their knee joints during the squat, and wrist wraps for joint stability during the bench press. Knee wraps, which differ from sleeves and provide more direct benefit to increasing squat strength, are sometimes considered a slight variation of raw lifting — often designated “raw with wraps.”

With equipped lifting, competitors are allowed to use specially designed shirts and/or briefs (shorts) which aid in the completion of the lifts. The unique gear is essentially designed to be extremely stiff, which resists bending or flexing. While this can be an advantage in locking out the weight on a given exercise, it also makes the descent more challenging.

Equipped gear is designed in a variety of “levels” — single-ply or multi-ply — depending on the amount of assistance provided, as determined by the thickness and construction of the gear. Equipped lifting generally allows the use of heavier weights in competition.

However, equipped records in the deadlift are, interestingly, rarely higher than raw deadlifts. Likely due to standard deadlift technique, starting in the bottom position, which doesn’t allow briefs to provide significant assistance.

Current Powerlifting Records

For some general context, here’s a brief snapshot of several powerlifting records which currently stand (as of the time of this writing).

Squat

• 305 kilograms (672.4 pounds) Men’s Raw — Austin Perkins — 74.9 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 342.5 kilograms (755 pounds) Men’s Multi-Ply — Gerard McNamara — 60 kilograms (132 pounds)
• 366 kilograms (806.9 pounds) Raw with Wraps — Chris Pugh — 82.1 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 471 kilograms (1,038.3 pounds) Men’s Single-Ply — Ed Coan 109.8 kilograms (242 pounds)
• 490 kilograms (1,080.2 pounds) Men’s Raw — Ray Williams — 140+ kilograms (308+ pounds)
• 162 kilograms (354.9 pounds) Women’s Raw — Tiffany Chapon — 47.6 kilograms (105 pounds)
• 263 kilograms (578.7 pounds) Women’s Single-Ply — Carola Garra — 67.1 kilograms (148 pounds)
• 305 kilograms (672.4 pounds) Women’s Raw with Wraps — Hunter Henderson — 82.1 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 285.5 kilograms (629.4 pounds) Women’s Raw — Sonita Muluh — 90+ kilograms (198+ pounds)
• 367.5 kilograms (810.2 pounds) Women’s Multi-Ply — Amber Hanson — 90 kilograms (198 pounds)

Bench Press

• 205.5 kilograms (453 pounds) Men’s Masters II Raw — David Ricks — 93 kilograms (205 pounds)
• 213.4 kilograms (470.7 pounds) Men’s Raw — Eddie Berglund — 67.1 kilograms (148 pounds)
• 272.8 kilograms (600.7 pounds) Men’s Raw — John Haack — 99.8 kilograms (220 pounds)
• 351.5 kilograms (774.9 pounds) Men’s Single-Ply — Kostiantyn Musiienko — 99.8 kilograms (220 Pounds)
• 408.3 kilograms (900 pounds) Men’s Multi-Ply — Jason Coker — 89.8 kilograms  (198 pounds)
• 142.9 kilograms (315 pounds) Women’s Raw — Cosette Neely — 44 kilograms (97 Pounds)
• 146 kilograms (321.8 pounds) Women’s Masters I Raw — Jennifer Thompson — 67.1 kilograms (148 pounds)
• 182.5 kilograms (402.3 pounds) Women’s Raw — Emily Hu — 59.8 kilograms (132 pounds)
• 225 kilograms (496 pounds) Women’s Single-Ply — Rhaea Stinn — 82.1 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 240.4 kilograms (530 pounds) Women’s Multi-Ply — Laura Phelps-Stackhouse — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)

Deadlift

• 408.7 kilograms (901 pounds) Men’s Single-Ply — Ed Coan — 99.8 kilograms (220 pounds)
• 410 kilograms (903.9 pounds) Men’s Raw — John Haack — 89.8 kilograms (198 pounds)
• 440 kilograms (970 pounds) Men’s Raw — Benedikt Magnusson — 140+ kilograms (308+ pounds)
• 457.5 kilograms (1,008.6 pounds) Men’s Multi-Ply — Andy Bolton — 140+ kilograms (308+ pounds)
• 487.5 kilograms (1,074.7 pounds) Men’s Raw — Danny Grigsby — 124.7 kilograms (275 pounds)
• 200 kilograms (440.9 pounds) Women’s Raw — Heather Connor — 47.6 kilograms (105 pounds)
• 222.5 kilograms (490.5 pounds) Women’s Single-Ply — Carrie Boudreau 55.8 kilograms (123 pounds)
• 275 kilograms (606.2 pounds) Women’s Raw — Kristy Hawkins — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 290 kilograms (639.3 pounds) Women’s Raw — Tamara Walcott — 89.8+ kilograms (198+ pounds)
• 315 kilograms (694.4 pounds) Women’s Multi-Ply — Becca Swanson 89.8+ kilograms (198+ pounds)

Total

• 838.4 kilograms (1,848.5 pounds) Men’s Raw — Taylor Atwood — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 985 kilograms (2,171.5 pounds) Men’s Single-Ply — Oleksandr Kutcher — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 1,033.5 kilograms (2,254.2 pounds) Men’s Raw — John Haack — 89.8 kilograms (198 pounds)
• 1,152.5 kilograms (2,540.9 pounds) Men’s Raw — Jesus Olivares — 140+ kilograms (308+ pounds)
• 1,360.8 kilograms (3,000 pounds) Men’s Multi-Ply — Donnie Thompson — 140+ kilograms (308+ pounds)
• 428.5 kilograms (944.6 pounds) Women’s Raw — Tiffany Chapon — 47.6 kilograms (105 pounds)
• 687.5 kilograms (1,515.6 pounds) Women’s Raw — Kristy Hawkins — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)
• 726 kilograms (1600.5 pounds) Women’s Single-Ply — Agata Sitko — 82.1 kilograms (181 pounds)
• 725 kilograms (1,620.4 pounds) Women’s Raw — Tamara Walcott — 89.8+ kilograms (198+ pounds)
• 816.5 kilograms (1,800 pounds) Women’s Multi-Ply — Laura Phelps-Stackhouse — 74.8 kilograms (165 pounds)

References

1. Roberts TA, Smalley J, Ahrendt DEffect of gender affirming hormones on athletic performance in transwomen and transmen: implications for sporting organisations and legislatorsBritish Journal of Sports Medicine 2021;55:577-583.

Featured Image:Real Sports Photos / Shutterstock

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In search of his fifth straight Mr. Olympia victory, Chris Bumstead is just over six weeks away from defending his crown at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL during the weekend of Nov. 3-5, 2023. While the reigning champion faces a monumental challenge to fend off some worthy competitors, it’s clear he’s committed to ensuring each muscle group is contest-ready. 

In a YouTube training vlog posted on Sep. 17, 2023, Bumstead gave viewers an inside glimpse of a hamstring-centric leg day with his coach, Hany Rambod. Needless to say, the four-time winner (2019-2022) of the Classic Physique division looks as locked in as ever heading into the 2023 IFBB Mr. Olympia competition. The workout starts near the four-minute mark of the video.  

After consuming Evogen EVP Xtreme pre-workout and jokingly telling Rambod he hasn’t trained abs in a year, Bumstead’s grueling day at the office begins with a series of exercises targeted at building his hamstrings. 

Lying Leg Curl

Bumstead started the session on the lying leg curl machine, where he executed some single-leg warmup sets. After performing a set with both legs, he discussed his diet with Rambod, noting that it’s been easier for him to eat “bigger meals, less frequently” during contest prep. 

Bumstead continued with a set of full-range reps, followed by slow-tempo reps in which his coach emphasized controlling and contracting the hamstring. 

Standing Single-Leg Leg Curl Machine

Next, Bumstead targeted each hamstring separately on a standing single-leg curl machine. Rambod encouraged him to aim for 10-15 reps per set and to control the weight on the way down.

The decorated coach also made it a point to ensure Bumstead kept his hip forward during the isolation movement to get maximum hamstring contraction.   

Hip Abduction Machine

Bumstead gave his hamstrings a temporary break by moving over to the hip abduction (“outer thigh”) machine. He maintained a slight forward lean throughout, making sure to squeeze at the top of the movement. 

Rambod pushed Bumstead to complete the final few reps at a slower tempo during the first two sets of this glute-focused exercise. Bumstead finished with several drop sets that pushed him to his limit. 

Seated Leg Curl Machine

That brief hamstring hiatus ended when Bumstead got on the seated leg curl machine. With two 45-pound plates and another 25-pounder loaded, he methodically executed each rep as Rambod encouraged him to squeeze and then slowly let the weight back up. 

Although Bumstead remarked that he felt like the weight was “moving in slow motion,” his coach praised him for going until failure. 

Belt Squat

Sticking with the free-weight approach, Bumstead put every leg muscle to the test with belt squats. He started with a shoulder-width stance and his toes pointed straight, making sure to achieve full depth (90 degrees). 

Following a lighter set, he moved to four 45-pound plates per side — a load that left him fatigued and on a knee by the final rep. Rambod dropped the weight and had Bumstead perform another squat variation (sumo-style) with his toes pointed at about a 45-degree angle. The wider stance provided a different stimulus, with Rambod noting that Bumstead isn’t used to that foot position. 

Seated Calf Raise

With his hamstrings and quads pumped, Bumstead shifted his focus to building his calves. He took position on the seated calf raise machine and performed his first set leaning forward while holding on to the unracking handle. 

However, Rambod had Bumstead perform the next set with a more vertical body position. He utilized the same machine to target his tibialis muscles, along his shin bones, by hooking his foot under the lower lever and lifting his toes towards his shin. Bumstead worked with 25 pounds on this tibia-taxing exercise. 

Donkey Calf Raise

Finally, Bumstead finished off with donkey calf raises. 

“This is going to actually help give it a little more depth to your calf because it creates a little bit of a layer of musculature on the outer part of the front of your calf,” Rambod explained. “Jay [Cutler, four-time Mr. Olympia] had a really good tibialis.” 

Working in a bent-over position on the machine, Bumstead achieved a notable calf pump while working with a pair of 45-pound plates per side. He noted that he didn’t feel anything in his back as he wrapped up the final few reps of what was clearly an intense leg day. 

Chris Bumstead Hamstring-Focused Leg Workout Summary 

• Lying Leg Curl Machine 
• Standing Single-Leg Curl machine 
• Hip Abduction Machine
• Seated Leg Curl Machine 
• Belt Squat 
• Seated Calf Raise 
• Donkey Calf Raise 

Bumstead has already established a reputation as one of the preeminent bodybuilders in the world. Taking home the Classic Physique title for a fifth straight year would only further cement his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. And with the way he’s been training in preparation for the 2023 Mr. Olympia, it would be a massive upset if he doesn’t walk away a winner again. 

Featured Image: Chris Bumstead / YouTube

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If you’re on a mission to build a comprehensive workout space, a pull-up bar deserves recognition. As a versatile and effective tool, the best pull-up bar provides an essential opportunity to engage multiple muscle groups, primarily in the arms, shoulders, and back. Pull-ups have multiple benefits, such as fostering upper body strength, improving core stability, and contributing to overall muscle development.

I perform pull-ups constantly to elevate my strength. As a strength and conditioning coach, I also coach dozens of athletes on adding pull-ups to their routines, so I know what kind of pull-up bars are best for various types of workouts. But purchasing the wrong type of pull-up bar that doesn’t fit in your home gym space or support your body weight can limit your ability to work out effectively.

We’ve created this article to help you avoid those headaches. Below, we’ll shine a spotlight on crucial features of what we think are the seven best pull-up bars, ensuring you make the right choice that aligns with your fitness goals and available space. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or a beginning athlete, discovering the right pull-up bar for your needs can truly elevate your home workout experience.

How We Chose the Best Pull-Up Bars

The Breaking Muscle team isn’t just a collection of writers who simply research the products we review. We are CrossFitters, certified personal trainers, powerlifters, and other experts in the space who use fitness equipment every day. We either use the products we write about for our own training, know people who use them, or rely on notes from our product testing team to deliver reviews you can trust.

To come up with the list below, we evaluated several key factors of the pull-up bars, such as the material, weight capacity, and versatility, to ensure both safety and effectiveness for home workouts. We chose pull-up bars at varying price points to ensure there’s an option to suit most budgets. Furthermore, we also considered brand reputation — if we’ve used products from a company in the past and deemed them to be sub-par, we didn’t include that brand on our list.

Since everyone has different space requirements and living arrangements, we made sure to include pull-up bars that can be mounted in various ways. Whether you’re willing and able to mount a pull-up bar to your wall or need something less permanent, like a door pull-up bar, you’ll find it here.

Our Top Picks for the Best Pull-Up Bars

• Best Pull-Up Bar Overall: REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar
• Best Door Pull-Up Bar: Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar
• Best Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar: Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System
• Best Free-Standing Pull-Up Bar: Rogue MIL Pull-Up Station
• Best Portable Pull-Up Bar: Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar
• Best Budget Pull-Up Bar: Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall Or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar
• Best Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Up Bar: Titan Fitness Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar

Best Pull-Up Bar Overall: REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar

REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar

4.8

• Materials: 11-gauge steel
• Weight capacity: 500 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the structural welds

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REP’s Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar stands out as the best overall pull-up bar. It provides tremendous strength, with a weight capacity of up to 500 pounds. This is not common on most pull-up bars, especially those that are mounted, and makes it a hot commodity for those who want to do weighted pull-ups or dynamic forms of pull-ups like kipping. The bar’s 1.25-inch diameter is on par with what you’ll see on most pull-up bars and works well for lifters of all levels.

The sturdy 11-gauge steel, which is what a lot of top-tier home gym equipment consists of, allows you to attach pull-up bands, rings, and straps and safely perform a variety of movements in addition to pull-ups. For example, you can use gymnastics rings for ring dips or ab straps for hanging knee raises. This makes the REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar a versatile tool for those looking to target specific muscle groups and introduce variety into their workout routines. 

The bar itself can be attached at two points, between 14 to 26 inches from the mount, leaving plenty of space for exercises like kipping toes-to-bar and bar muscle-ups. (Just remember to measure your space and confirm you have the room to do these dynamic movements. You don’t want to hit your head on the ceiling or the wall behind you.)

The fact you can do dynamic movements on this pull-up bar means it’s suitable for CrossFit and other functional training workouts. It’s also a great choice for those who don’t want to spend a ton of money, as it starts at around $109. This price is around the average for a pull-up bar, but for how many benefits the REP pull-up bar offers, we think it’s quite the deal. 

This pull-up bar does have some limitations, such as not providing knurling. To make up for this, REP has provided a non-slip powder coating. I personally enjoy a bar with knurling, but this non-slip powder coating can be a great option that isn’t as invasive as knurling for grip.

Breaking Muscle editor Amanda Dvorak doesn’t have this exact pull-up bar, but she has a squat rack at home with a powder-coated pull-up bar and has used powder-coated pull-up bars in commercial CrossFit gyms.

“A powder coat finish does have some non-slip capabilities,” she says, “but if your hands get really sweaty or your grip muscles start to fatigue, it will eventually become more difficult to hang from the bar without your hands slipping off.”

If you do have issues with grip, it’s not that expensive to use gymnastic grips or chalk to accommodate your grip strength. 

This pull-up bar does come with almost all of the hardware needed for installation, though you’ll need a drill, a socket, and a wrench handy to help with anchoring it to the wall. It’s wise to install it on the studs of the wall as well. 

The REP Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar is a solid choice for someone who needs a diverse and durable bar to perform tough and rigorous exercises. The fact it can be hung from the wall or ceiling while supporting heavier loads and movements makes it a solid choice for home gym owners.

Best Door Pull-Up Bar: Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar

Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar

3.8

• Materials: Aluminum
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Mounting type: Door
• Bar diameter: Not listed
• Warranty: One year

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The Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar is our pick for the best doorway bar because even though it is door mounted, its width can accommodate those who want to do wide-grip pull-ups to better recruit the lat muscles instead of the traps. It can fit door frames up to 33 inches wide and up to six inches deep, whereas other door pull-up bars can only fit door frames up to 32 inches wide.

Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar presents a versatile workout option that caters to a range of upper body and core exercises, making it an excellent addition to any home fitness regimen. You can attach this pull-up bar to the top of the door frame for pull-ups and chin-ups or secure it to the bottom for sit-up exercises. You can even remove the pull-up workout bar from the door frame and tilt it on the floor to perform elevated push-ups. The high-density foam allows for a secure, comfortable grip.

Its lightweight and compact build also makes it easily portable, enabling you to perform your workout routines while on the go or in different rooms within your home. As you can see, there are a ton of benefits to this pull-up bar, including its reasonable price of around $45 — and it’s available on Amazon. If you’re a Prime member, you can get it shipped to your door for free and start using it within a couple of days.

Setting up the Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar is a straightforward process, with some customer reviews on Amazon stating that it only takes about 30 minutes. You don’t need to drill holes or secure permanent fixtures to your door frame. The user-friendly installation ensures that you can quickly establish your workout space without complex assembly. The frame protectors help protect door frames from potential wear and tear while providing a secure and stable attachment point.

Note that the weight limit is 300 pounds, lighter than some other pull-up bars on our list with weight capacities of 500 to 600 pounds. Its lighter weight capacity stems from the materials used. Made of aluminum, this product showcases some level of strength but is an inferior choice compared to its competitors that are made with steel. 

Despite these drawbacks, the pull-up bar’s exceptional versatility, easy installation, and enhanced portability make it a valuable asset for individuals looking to engage in effective upper bodyweight workouts without the need for extensive gym fitness equipment or space.

RELATED: Best Home Gym Machines

Best Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar: Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System

Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System

4.6

• Materials: 14-gauge steel
• Weight capacity: 600 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: One year

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The Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System stands out as our best wall-mounted pull-up bar due to its massive strength and versatility. It’s a well-rounded workout tool for any athlete who desires an intense upper body pulling workout.

One of its most beneficial features is its sturdy build, as it’s made of 14-gauge steel. While 14-gauge steel isn’t quite as sturdy as 11-gauge steel (a lower number means the steel is stronger), this pull-up bar holds a massive 600 pounds. This is among the highest weight capacities I’ve seen in pull-up bars for home gyms. 

Depending on your goals, whether you’re a strength athlete or a CrossFitter, you can choose from a 14-inch or 22-inch mount from the wall or ceiling. Having multiple options could be beneficial for those who want to incorporate simpler or more challenging pull-up variations. For example, you can use the 14-inch mount so you’re closer to the floor and can get support from your favorite weight bench or plyometric box to assist with eccentric lifts that would require you to focus on the downward phase of the movement. This can help if you can’t yet perform the “upward” phase of the pull-up.

Also, with a 14-inch or 22-inch mount, you can do movements such as ring rows (you’ll need to secure a set of gymnastics rings to it), weighted pull-ups, kipping pull-ups, butterfly pull-ups, hanging leg raises, knees-to-elbow, and more.

Another benefit is the simple installation process. Fringe provides easy-to-follow instructions on its website, and you only need 30 minutes to set up this system. Installation requires specific tools such as a drill, drill bits, and a stud finder, which you can find online or at any hardware store if you don’t already have them. This pull-up bar does come with the hardware for stud installation, though. However, at two inches wide, 25.25 inches tall, and 24.25 inches deep, it may not be an ideal choice for those with tight spaces.

Another limitation is the price. The Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System starts at $150, which is one of the more expensive pull-up bars on this list. In our experience, Fringe Sport is one of the more expensive fitness brands. But while the initial investment might seem high, the system’s value lies in its long-term utility and quality construction. Since it’s backed by a one-year satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident that you’re investing in a durable and functional fitness tool.

Best Free-Standing Pull-Up Bar: Rogue MIL Pull-Up Station

Rogue Fitness MIL Pull-up Station

4.0

• Materials: 2×3, 11-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 800 pounds or more
• Mounting type: N/A
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

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The MIL Pull-Up Station by Rogue stands out as the best free-standing pull-up bar on the market. Made with 2×3 11-gauge steel, its heavy-duty construction makes it the strongest pull-up bar and chin-up bar on our list with a maximum weight capacity of at least 800 pounds.

This free-standing pull-up bar provides a larger footprint of 48 x 67 inches, which ensures longevity and stability with training. You can not only do strict pull-ups, but kipping pull-ups as well. It does not have to be bolted down, making this an ideal pull-up bar for both home gyms and commercial setups.

Another benefit is the portability. Although it’s an extra cost of about $115, you can purchase a “pull-up station handle kit” that allows you to break down the pull-up bar. Of course, the pieces of this pull-up bar are larger than other gym equipment, such as high-quality resistance bands, so I wouldn’t suggest traveling with it on vacation. But if you were to travel with this rack for competitions or need to move it around the gym, this handle kit would make it easier to work with. 

Customers note that setting up the MIL Pull-Up Station is rather straightforward, thanks to the provided assembly instructions and hardware. However, individuals less familiar with DIY tasks might find the process a bit time-consuming. I have set up many Rogue racks and stations in my career as a strength and conditioning coach, so I can say that for those who are already familiar with building Rogue products, it doesn’t have much of a learning curve. 

While the MIL Pull-Up Station offers a multitude of benefits, it comes with a few drawbacks. Its price point might deter some potential buyers, especially those on a tight budget. This MIL Pull-Up Station starts off at $495, hundreds of dollars more than other simpler pull-up bar set-ups.

Another drawback is the space required. This product stands tall at 93 inches, and the larger footprint of 48 x 67 inches might require more space that not all home gym owners will have. Rogue also states that it can’t be used as a squat rack. This means that the number of exercise choices is limited, unlike the door-mounted pull-up bars on this list that you can relocate on the door frame to perform various exercises, such as sit-ups.

Best Portable Pull-Up Bar: Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar

Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar

4.0

• Materials: Alloy steel
• Weight capacity: 440 pounds
• Mounting type: Door frame
• Bar diameter: Not listed
• Warranty: Not listed

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The Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar for Doorway is a portable, user-friendly option that offers convenience and effectiveness for home pull-up bar workouts and starts at a low price of $25. It has a narrow design and weighs just four pounds, making it ideal for traveling. 

Setting up and mounting this pull-up bar is a very easy process. With its unique structure, it can secure to the sides and top of the door frame for maximum security. It does not require drilling or permanent fixtures, which can come as a relief if you’re not handy or don’t want to ruin your door frame.

A top feature of this pull-up bar is its multiple grips that make it a multifunctional piece of equipment. With multiple grip positions available, you can do movements such as pull-ups, neutral grip pull-ups, and chin-ups to change the amount of recruitment between your back muscles, arm muscles, and shoulder muscles, promoting balanced strength and development. The Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar can even be mounted to the base of the door frame for sit-ups or placed on the floor for elevated push-ups with a neutral grip (palms facing each other). 

One drawback is the 32-inch width, which is considerably narrower than other pull-up bars on this list with a width of 40 to 50 inches. This close grip might not be ideal for some movements, as a narrow grip might overload the arm muscles versus the back muscles.

Besides this, this budget pull-up bar provides a ton of versatility and strength to give both advanced athletes and beginners a solid workout. 

Best Budget Pull-Up Bar: Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar

Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar

4.4

• Materials: 11-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime

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The Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar isn’t necessarily the cheapest option on our list. We still consider it the best budget pull-up bar option because it provides a ton of features and benefits that make it well worth its price of around $99. 

The first perk is its customizable bar placement. With this station, you can adjust the depth of the pull-up bar in two different positions to do traditional movements such as pull-ups or chin-ups and get more depth to perform dynamic movements such as kipping pull-ups. 

Another benefit is the strength of the material, as it is built with 11-gauge steel. This gauge of steel is common amongst the highest-quality home gym equipment and allows most users to safely perform both static and dynamic movements.

I also love that it is built with a bare steel finish, which allows you to get a great grip on the bar despite not having an intense knurling. This is similar to the finish you may find on your favorite barbell that’s made with bare steel. Bells of Steel coats the bar in oil to prevent rust and corrosion during storage and shipping. If you ever notice rust on your bar, though, you can clean it with Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and a barbecue brush, then dry it with a microfiber towel.

Once mounted, you will notice the two eyelet anchors that can enable you to include upgrades and additional equipment, such as a pulley system and resistance bands to add even more versatility to your workout. Being able to use the pulleys and bands allows you to do movements, especially single-joint movements, that you couldn’t with a pull-up bar such as tricep extensions or straight arm pulldowns.

To be able to do all these things, you need to have a stellar mount against the wall or ceiling. Installing this mounted pull-up bar does require specific tools, such as a drill, a leveler, and a stud finder to drill pilot holes to begin the mounting process. The installation process can be easy for those familiar with DIY projects. For those who are new to this, however, it could be a tough process to understand and would require perhaps purchasing or borrowing tools you may not be familiar with. All other mounting hardware is included with this purchase. 

Ultimately, the Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a high-quality, customizable upper body workout solution with tons of features.  

Best Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Up Bar: Titan Fitness Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar

Titan Fitness Large Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar

4.2

• Materials: 14-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: One year

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We think the Titan Fitness Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar is the best ceiling-mounted pull-up bar. This sturdy piece of equipment made of 14-gauge steel is a solid choice that can withstand a load of 350 pounds at a budget-friendly price of around $69. 

One of its top features is its adjustable height and depth, depending if it is mounted on the ceiling or wall. You can attach the bar 31 to 39 inches from its mounting point, which could help provide versatility to your workout space if you need more or less height and depth for performance. If you hang it from the ceiling, you should also have plenty of space to hang from it without your feet touching the floor and to do pull-ups without your head hitting the ceiling.

Another perk to this product is that it has accessory compatibility, so you can use it with bands and straps to do other types of movement besides pull-up variations. Other exercises you could do are exercises such as push-ups, ring rows, bicep curls, push-downs, and hanging leg lifts for core strength as well.

One drawback is that the mounting hardware is not included. As mentioned previously, mounting a pull-up bar to the ceiling or wall is not too difficult, but it depends on your DIY experience. If you are new to mounting any type of furniture, it does require more focus and research, which makes it a tougher process than using a door mount pull-up bar.

Additionally, the Titan Fitness Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar requires 10-foot ceilings, which might not be compatible with your workout space. You can still mount it to the wall, but those who want to use the ceiling will need to make sure their workout space can accommodate it. 

Despite these drawbacks, this ceiling or wall-mounted bar is a solid choice for those seeking a rugged ceiling mount pull-up bar. Its adjustable height, sturdy build, and compatibility with various accessories make it a versatile piece of fitness equipment for many. 

RELATED: Best Adjustable Dumbbells

Benefits of Buying a Pull-Up Bar

Functional Strength

Pull-up bars are excellent for developing functional strength. Unlike isolated exercises that focus on a single muscle group, pull-up bars engage multiple muscle groups in the arms, back, and shoulders simultaneously through compound movement. This helps improve overall functional fitness for real-life movement.

Core Engagement

Pull-up bar movements require significant core engagement to stabilize the body. This leads to improved core strength, stability, and posture as the core works in conjunction with the upper body.

Variety of Grips

Some pull-up bars feature various grip options, such as wide grip, narrow grip, chin-up grip, and neutral grip. Each grip targets different muscle groups. For example, chin-ups will target more of the biceps than regular pull-ups, and wide-grip pull-ups will target more of the lats. Being able to switch up your grip makes for a well-rounded upper body routine and helps prevent muscle imbalances.

Increased Muscle Mass

A pull-up bar can contribute to increased muscle mass, particularly in the back, shoulders, and arms. By progressively adding intensity through volume or different pull-up variations, you can stimulate muscle growth effectively.

Enhanced Grip Strength

Pull-up bars are ideal for developing grip strength, as the entire body is supported by the hands. Hanging from and training with a pull-up bar can lead to improved grip strength, which is beneficial for various activities and sports like climbing, tackle football, or even wrestling.

Minimal Equipment

One of the key advantages of pull-up bars is their minimalistic nature. Mounted pull-up bars require little space and no complicated setups or additional equipment. This makes them a convenient and cost-effective option for home workouts, a garage gym, or spaces with limited resources.

What To Consider When Looking for a Pull-Up Bar

Mounting Type

Pull-up bars come in various mounting types, such as doorway-mounted, wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, and freestanding. Each type has its pros and cons in terms of ease of installation, space requirements, and stability. When considering which pull-up bar is right for you, make sure your purchase meets your needs.

Dimensions

The dimensions of the pull-up bar are crucial to ensure it fits comfortably within your intended space. The ceiling and wall-mounted pull-up bars on this list range from 40 to 50 inches wide and mount between 14 to 39 inches off the wall or ceiling, giving space for you to perform traditional and dynamic movements like the kipping pull-up. The door-mounted pull-up bars range from 32 to 33 inches wide, so you’ll need to make sure your door frame can accommodate them.

Cost

The cost of a pull-up bar ranges from as low as $40 to up to $500. The most expensive pull-up bar on this list is actually a freestanding pull-up station and has more materials than a normal mounted pull-up bar. If this is out of your budget, consider a door-mounted or wall- or ceiling-mounted pull-up bar instead, as they tend to be cheaper.

Versatility

Some pull-up bars allow you to do more than just the basic pull-up exercise. They allow for various grip positions, such as wide, narrow, neutral, and underhand grips. Some models include attachments for push-ups and sit-ups, which would require you to attach the pull-up bar to the base of the door frame or tilt it on the floor. If you get a wall- or ceiling-mounted pull-up bar, you can attach gymnastics rings or bands to it for ring rows or band-assisted pull-ups.

RELATED: Best Kettlebells for CrossFit, Beginners, and More

Grips and Diameter

The grip and diameter of the pull-up bar can help improve the effectiveness and versatility of each workout. The typical diameter of a pull-up bar on this list is around 1.25 inches and the more grips a pull-up bar offers (straight bar, bent bar, neutral grip bar), the more exercises you can perform to target multiple muscle groups. 

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity also stands as a critical metric in evaluating the suitability of a pull-up bar. An adequate weight capacity ensures that individuals of varying sizes and fitness levels can confidently engage in their workouts without compromising stability or risking damage to the equipment. 

The weight capacity of a pull-up bar varies a ton, depending if it’s a wall-mount, ceiling-mount, door-mount, or freestanding pull-up station. The pull-up station on our list from Rogue has a weight capacity of 800 pounds or more. The pull-up bar with the lightest weight capacity on our list is the Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar, which can hold up to 300 pounds. You’ll need to consider your body weight and whether or not you will be performing pull-ups with a weighted vest to ensure your pull-up bar is sturdy enough to handle all the weight. 

Construction and Stability

The material from which the pull-up bar is constructed holds paramount importance. Purchasing a pull-up bar crafted from stronger and more durable materials ensures not only longevity but a sturdy platform for exercise selection. 

Some pull-up bars on this list are built from aluminum, which is suitable enough for lightweight athletes but may not be supportive enough for heavier users. Others are built from different strengths of steel, such as 11-gauge or 14-gauge, to accommodate heavier athletes or those who want to perform rigorous exercises that require more strength. 

How To Install a Pull-Up Bar

Installing a pull-up bar can be an easy or rigorous process depending on your DIY experience.  The hardest type of pull-up bar to install is a wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted system. Mounting the system requires focus and precision, it’s especially necessary in order to do both traditional and dynamic movements you might see in CrossFit like kipping pull-ups. A door frame mount isn’t as complicated, and a freestanding pull-up bar is its own structure and typically will have all the hardware needed to create it.

Below is a general guide to mounting a pull-up bar to help you understand what the process will look like.

What You’ll Need:

• Corded or cordless drill
• Varying drill bit 
• Sockets
• Stud finder
• Tape measure
• Marker or pencil

Step 1: Locate Studs

Use a stud finder to locate the center of two opposing studs on the wall or ceiling. Ensure that the distance between the studs matches the length of your pull-up bar system.

Step 2: Prepare for Installation

Using one of the pull-up bar support beams as a guide, place it along the length of your first stud, and mark where your first pilot hole will go. Continue to mark the wall and confirm with a stud finder that you are placing the system in the correct spot. 

Step 3: Drill Pilot Holes and Install Bolts

Drill the first pilot hole using the marked spot on the stud. You’ll know you’ve hit a stud if you feel resistance from the drill into the wall. Insert the first bolt by hand without fully tightening it. Proceed to drill pilot holes and install bolts along the support beam by hand and make sure to not tighten them until the next step.  

Step 4: Install Support 

With both support beams installed but still loose, slide in and bolt your crossbeam.

Step 5: Finalize the Installation

Tighten the bolts of the support beams to securely fasten them in place. Give the pull-up bar system a gentle tug to ensure it’s stable and properly attached to the studs.

Step 6: Start Your Workouts

With the installation complete, you’re ready to start using your new pull-up bar for a variety of exercises

How To Use a Pull-Up Bar

Using a pull-up bar requires proper technique and control to maximize its benefits and minimize injury. Stand beneath the pull-up bar with your hands positioned slightly wider than shoulder-width and palms facing away from you. Extend your arms fully while keeping your core muscles engaged. Initiate the pull-up by engaging your back muscles and squeezing your shoulder blades together. As you continue to lift, bend your elbows to recruit your arms to get your body as close to the pull-up bar as possible. Aim for a controlled movement and gradually increase the number of repetitions as your strength improves.

If you struggle to do a pull-up, try experimenting with easier variations. One of the best variations to learn how to perform a pull-up is the “eccentric pull-up” in which you start from the top of the lift and lower yourself as slowly as possible. This recruits the same muscles used to lift yourself upward, and with the eccentric being an easier variation to execute, you can do a ton of volume and train your muscles continuously until you can begin to do normal pull-ups instead.

Once you master the pull-up, try doing different variations, such as neutral grip pull-ups or chin-ups, to recruit different muscles each time. Chin-ups will work more of the biceps, and neutral-grip pull-ups will work more of the Remember to maintain proper form throughout each exercise. Avoid excessive swinging or using momentum to lift yourself (unless you’re doing kipping or butterfly pull-ups — but even then, it’s important to do so with proper technique).

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re an experienced exercise enthusiast or just starting out, there are a ton of benefits to purchasing a pull-up bar. It allows you to improve your functional strength, core stability, muscle size, grip strength, and much more — all while requiring minimal gear. It’s versatile and allows you to target various muscle groups in the shoulders, back, and arms to elevate your own health and fitness. 

In the list above, we explored different pull-up bars, from wall-mounted to freestanding, catering to various preferences. With this diverse list of pull-up bars, there should be something that meets your needs and allows you to take your fitness to a new level. 

Best Pull-Up Bar: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Pull-Up Bar Overall	Best Door Pull-Up Bar	Best Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar	Best Free-Standing Pull-Up Bar	Best Portable Pull-Up Bar	Best Budget Pull-Up Bar	Best Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Up Bar
REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar	Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar	Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System	Rogue Fitness MIL Pull-Up Station	Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar	Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar	Titan Fitness Large Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar
4.8	3.8	4.6	4.0	4.0	4.4	4.2
Description: Materials: 11-gauge steel Weight capacity: 500 pounds Mounting type: Wall or ceiling Bar diameter: 1.25 inches Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the structural welds	Description: Materials: Aluminum Weight capacity: 300 pounds Mounting type: Door Bar diameter: Not listed Warranty: One year	Description: Materials: 14-gauge steel Weight capacity: 600 pounds Mounting type: Wall or ceiling Bar diameter: 1.25 inches Warranty: One year	Description: Materials: 2×3, 11-gauge steel  Weight capacity: 800 pounds or more Mounting type: N/A Bar diameter: 1.25 inches Warranty: Lifetime warranty	Description: Materials: Alloy steel Weight capacity: 440 pounds Mounting type: Door frame Bar diameter: Not listed Warranty: Not listed	Description: Materials: 11-gauge steel  Weight capacity: 330 pounds Mounting type: Wall or ceiling Bar diameter: 1.25 inches Warranty: Lifetime	Description: Materials: 14-gauge steel  Weight capacity: 350 pounds Mounting type: Wall or ceiling Bar diameter: 1.25 inches Warranty: One year
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Pull-Up Bar
Overall

REP Fitness Wall or Ceiling Mount Pull-Up Bar

4.8

Description:

• Materials: 11-gauge steel
• Weight capacity: 500 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty on the structural welds

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Best Door
Pull-Up Bar

Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull Up Bar

3.8

Description:

• Materials: Aluminum
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Mounting type: Door
• Bar diameter: Not listed
• Warranty: One year

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Best Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar

Fringe Sport Pullup Bar System

4.6

Description:

• Materials: 14-gauge steel
• Weight capacity: 600 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: One year

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Best Free-Standing Pull-Up Bar

Rogue Fitness MIL Pull-Up Station

4.0

Description:

• Materials: 2×3, 11-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 800 pounds or more
• Mounting type: N/A
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

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Best Portable Pull-Up Bar

Ally Peaks Pull-Up Bar

4.0

Description:

• Materials: Alloy steel
• Weight capacity: 440 pounds
• Mounting type: Door frame
• Bar diameter: Not listed
• Warranty: Not listed

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Best Budget
Pull-Up Bar

Bells of Steel Adjustable Wall or Ceiling Mounted Pull-Up Bar

4.4

Description:

• Materials: 11-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 330 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: Lifetime

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Best Ceiling-Mounted Pull-Up Bar

Titan Fitness Large Adjustable Ceiling Wall-Mount Pull-Up Bar

4.2

Description:

• Materials: 14-gauge steel 
• Weight capacity: 350 pounds
• Mounting type: Wall or ceiling
• Bar diameter: 1.25 inches
• Warranty: One year

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FAQs

The post The Best Pull-Up Bar of 2023, According to a Strength and Conditioning Coach appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Have you shied away from pea protein powders because you think they won’t support your fitness goals? As a registered dietitian nutritionist, I often recommend that my clients incorporate more plant-based proteins into their diets. They can absolutely help you build muscle, recover quicker after the gym, and possibly decrease the likelihood of developing a chronic disease. 

In this review, we will investigate the ingredients and health-promoting benefits behind our top picks for the best pea protein powder supplements. Whether you are hoping to increase muscle mass, manage your weight, boost your immune system, or decrease post-workout recovery time, we are sure to have a pea protein powder for you.

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

How We Chose the Best Pea Protein Powder

Here at Breaking Muscle, our mission is to help you achieve your goals by recommending the best protein powders and other supplements that will reinforce all the hard work you do in the gym. Not only have we personally tested over 75 protein powders (including at least a dozen pea protein powders), we thoroughly researched each product below so that you can choose the best pea protein powder for you. 

We also reviewed each brand’s macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein content), total calories per serving, affordability, flavor profiles, and third-party verification so you can save time and money while making an informed decision. 

Our Top Picks for the Best Pea Protein Powders

• Best Pea Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein
• Best Tasting Pea Protein Powder: Swolverine Plant Protein
• Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Pea Protein
• Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Ladder Plant Protein
• Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium
• Best Pea and Rice Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein
• Best Organic Pea Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

Best Pea Protein Powder Overall: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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We don’t hand out the title for best overall to just any pea protein powder supplement. Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein powder sits atop our list because it’s third-party tested to ensure it’s free of toxic ingredients, offers an impressive 24 grams of protein per serving, and has excellent solubility.

This organic yellow pea and rice protein powder has 2,060 milligrams of naturally occurring flavor, 310 milligrams of Himalayan rock salt, and 270 milligrams of organic stevia. Himalayan rock salt is where most of the sodium from this product derives from. There are 260 milligrams of sodium per scoop, which is high compared to other pea protein powders that have closer to 110 milligrams of sodium per scoop. However, most healthy individuals can safely consume up to 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. Plus, Himalayan rock salt functions as a natural preservative and may offer some other benefits as well.

The pink color that Himalayan rock salt is known for comes from a combination of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. (1) These minerals function as electrolytes, which can help prevent and treat dehydration. Magnesium helps to control whole-body inflammation after working out, delay the onset of fatigue during exercise, and possibly increase muscle mass. (2) 

Transparent Labs uses stevia as a naturally occurring, plant-based sweetener. Researchers have found that stevia can help facilitate weight loss and assist with the management of high blood pressure. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and can help improve heart contraction and blood flow. (3)

We had a Breaking Muscle staff member try the French Vanilla flavor, and she only rated it 2 stars out of 5. She found that it tasted artificial despite containing only natural ingredients, which she thinks may be due to the stevia. 

However, reviewers on the Transparent Labs website report that they keep coming back to this pea protein powder because of its consistency in ingredient quality. They are particularly pleased with the taste, especially the chocolate-flavored option.

Regarding solubility, our product tester gave it 3.75 stars out of 5 because it foamed a lot. She also noted that it had a gritty texture, though it wasn’t too off-putting.

Again, other users’ experiences seem to vary. When it comes to mixability, customer reviews on the website say that it blends perfectly in both beverages and foods like pancake mix. 

We did give the Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein 4 out of 5 stars for its overall macronutrient profile and high marks for its clean ingredients and label transparency. If you’re looking for a pea protein powder that doesn’t contain artificial ingredients, tells you exactly what’s in its formula, and delivers a high amount of protein per serving, this is one worth trying.

RELATED: Best Organic Protein Powder

Best Tasting Pea Protein Powder: Swolverine Plant Protein

Swolverine Plant Protein

4.4

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.77
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 22 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Cake, Salted Caramel 
• Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality labs – an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory

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Your search for the best-tasting pea protein powder is over. Available in two delicious flavors (Chocolate Cake and Salted Caramel), Swolverine Plant Protein is sure to not only excite your taste buds but also help you meet your fitness goals.

As of this writing, it has 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 131 reviews across four purchasing platforms. The majority of reviewers are very pleased with this plant-based protein powder’s mixability. They also like that they can combine the two flavors with other ingredients to create protein-packed items, such as milkshakes, brownies, and muffins.

One of our product testers, who is also a certified personal trainer, competitive Olympic weightlifter, and former CrossFit affiliate owner, generally agrees with other consumers’ assessments. She found the texture slightly grainy but couldn’t see any clumps left behind after she mixed it in a shaker bottle. She also loved the Salted Caramel flavor, noted that it is easily drinkable even when mixed with water, and described it as one of the only plant-based protein powders they actually like.

Pea protein is tied to the prevention and management of several chronic diseases. It is also super beneficial for bulking muscle mass and decreasing your recovery time post-workout. For these reasons, many vegan protein powder brands rely solely on peas, specifically yellow peas, as their protein source. However, Swolverine is one of the few brands that incorporates pumpkin protein into its formula. 

In addition to the 22 grams of pea protein isolate you get per 34-gram scoop, you get 7.7 grams of pumpkin protein. Pumpkin protein may help prevent and treat diabetes, increase antioxidant function, and even reduce episodes of depression. Pumpkin seeds (where pumpkin protein comes from) are high in vitamins and minerals that can help reduce your likelihood of developing diseases such as osteoporosis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. This form of protein also contributes to muscle relaxation post-workout. (4)

Tip: Try mixing this powder with soy or oat milk for enhanced plant-based protein intake. Per cup, you will get an additional eight grams of protein from soy milk and four grams from oat milk. 

Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss: Naked Nutrition Pea Protein

Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder

4.2

• Number of servings: 76
• Cost per serving: $0.76
• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals

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For a mere 120 calories, you will get 27 grams of protein for only two grams of carbs and 0.5 grams of total fat per serving of Naked Pea Protein, which is why it wins our award for the best pea protein powder for weight loss. To sweeten the deal, Naked Pea Protein also uses no artificial ingredients. Rest assured that this pea protein powder is here to help you attain the level of fitness you seek. 

Yellow pea protein isolate — the only ingredient listed on the supplement label — has been strongly correlated with reducing the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. These three disease states are the major contributors for developing chronic kidney disease. (5) As a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, I heavily encourage plant-based eating as a way to preserve remaining kidney function. 

The nutrition facts label provides insight into the wide array of specific nutrients you will get nine essential amino acids, three high-quality branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and seven non-essential amino acids. Supplementing with branched-chain amino acids has been identified as a novel way to increase the likelihood of losing weight. This is because they may improve the way our bodies absorb carbohydrates and metabolize them effectively for weight loss. (6)

A serving size of Naked Pea Protein will provide you with 16 percent of your recommended daily value of iron. Having adequate stores of iron is associated with controlling inflammation throughout your body, which can help reduce obesity. (7) Iron that comes from plant-based sources versus whey or other animal-based sources is referred to as “non-heme iron” and is not as easily absorbed as animal-based iron (or “heme iron”). However, pairing iron with vitamin C can help increase iron absorption. 

To get the most from your Naked Pea Protein, consider pairing your protein shake with a low-calorie, nutrient-dense fruit or vegetable snack on the side: oranges, mangoes, red bell peppers, broccoli, legumes, kiwi, spinach, strawberries, or tomatoes.

Many users report that this powder doesn’t have a lingering metal after-taste like other protein powders. It blends really well without any leftover clumpy residue.

A Breaking Muscle product tester also gives Naked Pea Protein high marks for solubility, rating it 4 out of 5 stars. She especially likes mixing it with oats because it gives them a rich, creamy texture.

However, she only gave it 2.5 out of 5 stars for taste. It is unflavored, so scoring low in this category isn’t surprising. She recommends starting with one scoop instead of the recommended two scoops if you aren’t used to pea protein powders; otherwise, you’ll need to use some sweeteners or add it to another flavored beverage to make it more palatable.

RELATED: Best Creatine Supplements

Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building: Ladder Plant Protein

Ladder Plant Protein

4.0

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport

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Co-founders LeBron James and Arnold Schwarzenegger teamed up to create the Ladder brand, and their vegan amino acid blend can help support your performance and build lean muscle mass. In fact, research shows that supplementing with pea-based protein powder is just as effective as the best whey protein powder for muscle mass growth. (8)

With every scoop of Ladder Plant-Based Protein, you will get 1,000 milligrams of the amino acids l-leucine, l-methionine, l-isoleucine, and l-valine. Leucine, isoleucine, and valine are classified as high-quality branched-chain amino acids. These BCAAs, especially leucine, may play a significant role in protein synthesis and increasing lean muscle mass. (9)

This product has a whopping 530 milligrams of sodium per serving. A good rule of thumb is to choose products with less than 200 milligrams of sodium per serving to promote heart health. Sodium is also an electrolyte and therefore needed for post-workout recovery. However, Ladder Plant-Based Protein may not be ideal for those limiting sodium intake and/or those who have a heart condition. (10)

On the Ladder website, users report some issues with the solubility of this product. Many report that using shaker bottles is not enough to completely dissolve the powder. There are also mixed reviews about the flavor.

However, Breaking Muscle Reviews Editor Amanda Dvorak uses Ladder’s plant-based protein regularly and enjoys it. She gives Ladder Plant-Based Protein 4 out 5 stars for taste and texture and 4.5 out of 5 stars for solubility.

“I usually opt for whey protein, but I like having some plant-based protein powder in my pantry because too much dairy can sometimes make my rosacea and other skin issues worse,” she says. “It’s hard for me to find a plant-based protein powder that I truly like, but I honestly love Ladder. I get a slight earthy taste with the Vanilla flavor, but it’s not as bad as other vegan protein powders I’ve had. It’s also one of the smoothest plant-based protein powders I’ve ever tried. It’s not super grainy and leaves virtually no clumps behind.”

RELATED: Best Protein Powder for Muscle Gain

Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder: Vega Sport Premium

Vega Sport Protein

4.2

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

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Ironically, our favorite protein powder for vanilla flavor is the supplement that offers the most flavors in this review: Vega Sport Premium. Users seem to be happy with all flavors offered, but most reviewers who bought the vanilla flavor harp on how excellently it blended into smoothies with berries without leaving a gritty texture. 

Speaking of good, Vega Sport Premium plants a tree for every order they receive. If that doesn’t make you want to read more about them, allow me to introduce you to tart cherries. 

Tart cherries have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may help prevent major chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. For post-workout, tart cherries may allow for a faster recovery time in returning to your peak form and lead to less muscle fatigue. (11)

The combination of protein sources used in Vega Sport Premium is special. In addition to the humble pea, you will also get pumpkin seeds, alfalfa, and organic sunflower seeds. This protein blend leads to you getting an awesome 30 percent of your recommended daily amount of iron in every 41-gram scoop of Vega Sport Premium. Iron is an essential mineral, meaning that we can only get it from dietary means. It is important to ensure we get enough of it every day to prevent anemia, support the nervous system, and help with metabolic processes. (12)

The Vega Sport Premium website recommends that you mix this product with cold water or a non-dairy beverage, such as plant-based milk, for best results. However, adding this protein powder to a smoothie or a favorite recipe is also recommended. The brand’s website even offers suggestions for creative ways to use their yummy pea-based protein powder, such as pumpkin spice protein pancakes. 

Best Pea and Rice Protein Powder: Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

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Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein uses a 2:1 protein ratio of 20,000 milligrams of organic rice protein and 9,411 milligrams of organic pea protein isolate. 

Research studies have demonstrated that the use of rice protein is appropriate after resistance exercise due to its ability to improve overall body composition and increase sports performance. Studies have also found that there are no major differences worth noting between the participants who received whey versus brown rice protein. This means that this form of protein can help facilitate muscle mass build while simultaneously improving endurance. (13)

Pea protein is often mechanically split during manufacturing, whereas soy-based and whey-based proteins have to be chemically split. This translates into the pea protein source remaining intact and therefore being more naturally nutrient-dense, particularly when it comes to soluble fiber. This form of fiber is really beneficial for preventing heart damage and promoting the health of your digestive system. (5)

Tip: Many reviewers report that Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein powder mixes very easily with oatmeal and blends well into smoothies. According to reviews, all flavors offered are delicious and blend well without clumping. Users appreciate that this product is cruelty-free and uses clean ingredients that can be incorporated into a variety of things: water, soy milk, banana bread, and smoothies.

Best Organic Pea Protein Powder: Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

4.5

• Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag 
• Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21
• Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored
• Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing

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If you are looking for an organic-certified pea protein, Gainful Vegan Protein Powder is our top pick. You have the choice of organic brown rice protein, organic pea protein, or a combination of both of these plant-based protein sources.

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder is unlike any other supplement we have reviewed. With most protein powders, you simply add them to your online (or literal) shopping cart, and off you go. However, to add this product to your online cart, you will be prompted to take a quiz that analyzes nutrient-influencing factors that are specific to you. 

They have a team of registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) on board to expertly tailor the Gainful Vegan Protein Powder to your body type and fitness goals. Your nutrition goals, the type of exercise you routinely do, your age, height, weight, goal body weight, top three health goals, dietary restrictions, and dietary patterns are all evaluated to make a protein supplement that best supports you. To make things effortless, you will receive 14 to 28 pre-packaged servings so that you can add them to the beverage or food option of your choice with ease. 

This supplement checks a lot of boxes and should be easier for you to absorb and digest when compared to other products on the market. This is due to Gainful using ingredients that are gluten-free, soy-free, vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, and free of most major allergens.

To increase the provided health benefits and decrease gut sensitivity, this pea protein powder is also naturally sweetened with organic monk fruit and organic stevia leaf extract.

We haven’t tried the vegan protein option from Gainful, but one of our product testers has received a custom blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, and casein protein powder. She rated the company 5 out of 5 stars for customer service and 5 out of 5 stars for its overall formula due to how personalized it is to her unique needs (she chose recovery and satiety as her main concerns).

It is sure to fit into your lifestyle because it is made for all forms of exercise, whether you do CrossFit, run, practice yoga, dance, or engage in any other kind of physical activity. 

RELATED: Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss, Muscle Gain, Diabetes, and More

Benefits of Pea Protein Powder 

Protein is a fundamental macronutrient that plays an extremely important role in your diet. Pea protein powder will provide you with many health benefits. Most notable are: 

• Promote weight gain via increased muscle mass or weight loss via decreased fat mass (5)
• Potentially decrease your risk of chronic illness development (5)
• Increase post-workout recovery time and strength (8)
• Improve overall muscle mass (8)(18)

How Much Pea Protein Powder Should You Have Per Day?

When determining the amount of pea protein powder you should have per day, keep in mind that it should supplement your overall daily protein intake goal. You should still prioritize whole-food sources instead of replacing them.

Generally speaking, protein should compose 10 to 35 percent of your daily intake of calories. However, the amount of protein you need per day is based on several factors, including age, sex, level of physical activity, and your fitness goals. (14)

If you are interested in a quick calculation, open the calculator app on your phone. To keep things simple and determine your recommended dietary allowance of protein, multiply 0.8 grams of protein by your weight in kilograms. If you are an avid exerciser, want to add muscle mass, or are even just starting out at the gym, you will need more protein to help with the recovery of muscle micro-tears, improve mass, and increase muscle strength. You may need to increase this number to anywhere from 1.0 to 1.6.

Essential amino acids are the fundamental building blocks for protein that we have to get from dietary sources. Pea protein is almost a complete protein source. However, it is not an adequate source of the essential amino acid methionine. That being said, you can have pea protein powder every day, but it is very important that it is not your only source of protein throughout the day. To follow a more plant-based diet, consider pairing your pea protein powder with good sources of methionine, such as soybeans, nuts, navy beans, wild rice, or kidney beans. 

What To Consider When Buying Pea Protein Powder

Deciding to add dietary supplements to your diet can open you up to a world of benefits. However, in order to optimize your health, it is vital to choose a product that contains ingredients (and specific ingredients in appropriate amounts) that contribute to accomplishing your goals. Try to avoid picking just any powder because it has pea protein in it. Choose a pea protein powder that is designed with your health and fitness goals in mind. To make things easier on you, let the guide below be a resource for what to look for in a pea protein supplement. 

Macronutrients

Knowing the recommended amount of macronutrients (carbohydrates, fat, and protein) you should consume in a day goes hand in hand with accomplishing your health and physical activity goals. 

For example, if you are prepping for a marathon and have worked out for a long period of time, it is important to replenish the amount of glucose stored in your muscles. This will help your body adapt to longer exercise times and repair tissue damage. Therefore, choosing a pea protein powder with a high amount of carbohydrates will be extremely useful.

It is also important to replenish muscle glycogen when working out to fuel your muscles. Carbs help with endurance during your workout and recovery after your workout. For moderate exercise that lasts longer than 30 minutes, multiplying 1.2 grams of carbohydrates for every kilogram of your body weight will help with replenishing glucose levels. (15)

The amount of fat you desire in your pea protein powder will be highly dependent upon your individualized goal. If your goal is to gain weight, a higher fat and higher calorie product would be appropriate. Lean towards the higher end of that percentage range — 30 to 35 percent of your total daily calories. (16) Otherwise, limit total fat intake to 20 to 35 percent of your total daily calorie intake. 

Always assess the type of fat in the ingredients label prior to purchase. Ingredients that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds, will offer a wide array of health benefits and are therefore encouraged. They help to decrease your likelihood of developing a chronic illness, may improve cognitive function, and are likely to be able to improve blood lipid panels (lab work that looks at fat in the blood). (17)

Protein is essential for repairing the muscles post-workout and increasing muscle mass. It is also a very satiating macronutrient — meaning that it helps to fight hunger and manage weight more easily. The amount of protein you will need in a day will vary greatly by age, sex, and physical activity level. Aiming for at least 20 grams of protein per serving when choosing a pea protein powder is a good general rule. In order to make sure that you are meeting macronutrient goals that best support your health journey, consult with a registered dietitian nutritionist!  

Other Ingredients

Some pea protein powders are made with artificial sweeteners such as sucrose and may cause gastrointestinal irritation. For those who are sensitive to it, it would be better to choose a product made with plant-based sugars like stevia. 

Depending on what you hope to achieve with the addition of pea protein powder to your diet, choose a product that will help you accomplish those goals. For example, those working out routinely would benefit from branched-chain amino acids being in their supplement’s formulation. Those who sweat heavily during exercise and/or are working out outside routinely would benefit from having a higher volume of electrolytes in their pea protein powder. 

Flavors

Like many other factors, flavor plays a huge role in the decision-making process. Before jumping into using a product, consider how you want to use your pea protein powder. Many people opt for the traditional shaker bottle and water. So it will be important for you to choose a pea protein powder that is a flavor that you like. However, smoothies and smoothie bowls are also a popular way to incorporate pea protein powder into your daily routine. 

If you are looking for ways to bulk up your nutrient intake, try adding pea protein powder to steel-cut oatmeal, overnight oats, whole-grain cereal, pancake or waffle batter, cake or muffin batter, or even your coffee. The supplement you choose will influence the flavor profile you are trying to achieve. 

Vanilla pea protein powder added to dark chocolate chips and banana muffin batter is a go-to in my household. It’s also a good choice for mixing with any of your favorite bodybuilding supplements. Really, vanilla flavor works well in just about everything. You can use pea protein powder to make a more nutrient-dense and healthier version of the dessert of your choosing. Try adding chocolate peanut butter flavored pea protein to cookie batter or cafe mocha flavored pea protein to coffee. 

Third-Party Testing

Dietary supplements are not regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). So in order to establish brand credibility and trust, manufacturers use third-party testing. Independent third-party testing essentially verifies that the ingredients used by the manufacturer are pure, free of contamination, and in the quantities represented on the supplement’s label. Contamination can come in many forms and different third-party testing looks for different specifications — microbial life, heavy metals, and toxins are just some examples.

Price

The pea protein powders found in this review will vary from $0.76 to $3.24 a serving. The more affordable options are not necessarily manufactured with ingredients that are cheaply sourced. In the case of the products above, products on the higher end of the price range simply have more ingredients, to increase the amount of benefits you are exposed to. 

For example, the most expensive product (Vega Sport Premium) offers what other products do not: 2 billion CFUs of probiotics to help with gut nutrient digestion and absorption. The second most expensive powder (Gainful Vegan Protein Powder) is quite literally individualized to you and therefore specially formulated to meet your needs. 

Final Thoughts

Pea-based protein powder is an easy way to incorporate beneficial vegetable nutrients and help you to keep up your health and wellness desires. Before you add just any pea protein powder to your Amazon cart, rely on this review as a guide for the best protein powders, made from premium pea protein blends. We do the hard work for you of analyzing the many plant-based pea protein powders out there to consolidate them down into our top picks. 

Pea protein powder is a great product to help you build muscle, manage body weight, decrease your post-workout recovery time, and ensure that you are consuming enough daily protein to support your fitness goal. This guide was researched by a nutrition expert to give you peace of mind and confidence in your dietary supplement choice. 

Best Pea Protein Powder: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Pea Protein Powder Overall	Best Tasting Pea Protein Powder	Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss	Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building	Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder	Best Organic Pea Protein Powder
Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein	Swolverine Plant Protein	Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder	Ladder Plant Protein	Vega Sport Protein	Gainful Vegan Protein Powder
4.5	4.4	4.2	4.0	4.2	4.5
Description: Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein Number of servings: 30 Cost: $1.67 per serving Calories per serving: 130 to 150 Protein per serving: 24 grams Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla  Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $1.77 Calories per serving: 130 Protein per serving: 22 grams Flavors: Chocolate Cake, Salted Caramel  Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality labs – an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory	Description: Number of servings: 76 Cost per serving: $0.76 Calories per serving: 120 Protein per serving: 27 grams  Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals	Description: Number of servings: 30 Cost per serving: $2.00 Calories per serving: 130 Protein per serving: 21 grams Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla  Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport	Description: Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed Number of servings: 12 to 20 Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving Calories per serving: 170 to 180 Protein per serving: 30 grams Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport	Description: Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag  Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21 Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results  Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results  Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Pea Protein Powder Overall

Transparent Labs Organic Vegan Rice & Pea Protein

4.5

Description:

• Protein type: Pea protein isolate, rice protein
• Number of servings: 30
• Cost: $1.67 per serving
• Calories per serving: 130 to 150
• Protein per serving: 24 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, French Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: Yes, by independent labs

Check Price

Best Tasting Pea Protein Powder

Swolverine Plant Protein

4.4

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $1.77
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 22 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate Cake, Salted Caramel 
• Third-party tested: Lief and Micro Quality labs – an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory

Check Price

Best Pea Protein Powder for Weight Loss

Naked Nutrition Pea Protein Powder

4.2

Description:

• Number of servings: 76
• Cost per serving: $0.76
• Calories per serving: 120
• Protein per serving: 27 grams 
• Flavors: Chocolate, Unflavored, and Vanilla
• Third-party tested: Informed Choice Certified, ICP Mass Spectrometry tested for heavy metals

Check Price

Best Pea Protein Powder for Muscle Building

Ladder Plant Protein

4.0

Description:

• Number of servings: 30
• Cost per serving: $2.00
• Calories per serving: 130
• Protein per serving: 21 grams
• Flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla 
• Third-party tested: NSF International’s Certified for Sport

Check Price

Best Vanilla Pea Protein Powder

Vega Sport Protein

4.2

Description:

• Protein type: Alfalfa, pea, pumpkin seed, sunflower seed
• Number of servings: 12 to 20
• Cost: $2.22 to $3.55 per serving
• Calories per serving: 170 to 180
• Protein per serving: 30 grams
• Flavors: Berry, Chocolate, Mocha, Peanut Butter, Vanilla
• Third-party tested: NSF Certified for Sport

Check Price

Best Organic Pea Protein Powder

Gainful Vegan Protein Powder

4.5

Description:

• Number of servings: 14 to 28 packets per bag 
• Cost per serving: $1.61 to $3.21
• Calories per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Protein per serving: Will depend upon your nutrition prescription results 
• Flavors: Caffe Mocha, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Cookies & Cream, Madagascar Vanilla, Rich Cocoa, Strawberry Cream, and Unflavored
• Third-party tested: None, at the time of this writing

Check Price

FAQs

Research

1. Carapeto C; Brum S; Rocha MJ. Which table salt to choose?. Nutr Food Sci. 2018;8:1-4. ISBN: 2155-9600.
2. Heffernan SM, Horner K, De Vito G, et al. The role of mineral and trace element supplementation in exercise and athletic performance: a systematic review. Nutrients. 2019;11(3):696. doi: 10.3390/nu11030696
3. Hossain MF, Islam MT, Islam MA, et al. Cultivation and uses of stevia: a review. AJFAND. 2014;17(4). doi: 10.18697/ajfand.80.16595
4. Hussain A, Kausar T, Sehar S, et al. A Comprehensive review of functional ingredients, especially bioactive compounds present in pumpkin peel, flesh and seeds, and their health benefits. Food Chem Adv. 2022:1. doi: 10.1016/j.focha.2022.100067
5. Krefting J. The appeal of pea protein. JRN. 2017;27(5):31-33. doi: 10.1053/j.jrn.2017.06.009
6. Shah SH, Crosslin DR, Haynes CS, et al. Branched-chain amino acid levels are associated with improvement in insulin resistance with weight loss. Diabetologia. 2012;55:321–330. Doi: 10.1007/s00125-011-2356-5
7. Zafon C, Lecube A, and Simó R.  Iron in obesity. An ancient micronutrient for a modern disease. Obes Rev. 2010;11:322-328. doi: 10.1111/j.1467-789X.2009.00638.x
8. Banaszek A, Townsend JR, Bender D, et al. The effects of whey vs. pea protein on physical adaptations following 8-weeks of high-intensity functional training (hift): a pilot study. Sports. 2019;7(1):12. doi: 10.3390/sports7010012
9. Nie C, He T, Zhang W, et al. Branched chain amino acids: beyond nutrition metabolism. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(4):954. doi: 10.3390/ijms19040954
10. Zhang Z, Cogswell ME, Gillespie C, et al. Association between usual sodium and potassium intake and blood pressure and hypertension among U.S. adults: NHANES 2005–2010. PLOS. 2013;8(10):75289. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0075289
11. Vitale K, Hueglin S, Broad E. Tart cherry juice in athletes: a literature review and commentary. Curr Sports Med Rev. 2017;16(4):230-239. doi: 10.1249/JSR.0000000000000385
12. Elstrott B, Khan L, Olson S, et al. The role of iron repletion in adult iron deficiency anemia and other diseases. Eur J Haematol. 2020;104:153–161. doi: 10.1111/ejh.13345
13. Joy JM, Lowery RP, Wilson JM, et al. The effects of 8 weeks of whey or rice protein supplementation on body composition and exercise performance. Nutr J. 2013;12:86. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-12-86
14. Wu G. Dietary protein intake and human health. Food Funct. 2016;7:1251-1265. doi: 10.1039/c5fo01530h
15. Ivy JL. Regulation of muscle glycogen repletion, muscle protein synthesis and repair following exercise. J Sports Sci Med. 2004;3(3):131-138. PMID: 24482590
16. Dietary Guidelines for Americans: Guidelines and Key Recommendations. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK469839/#:~:text=Keep%20total%20fat%20intake%20between,low%20fat%2C%20or%20fat%20free. Last reviewed: November 16, 2017. Accessed September 08, 2023.
17.  Omega-3 fatty acids. National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Omega3FattyAcids-Consumer/. Last reviewed: July 18, 2022. Accessed September 01, 2023. 
18. Babault N, Paizis C, Deley G, et al. Pea proteins oral supplementation promotes muscle thickness gains during resistance training: a double-blind, randomized, Placebo-controlled clinical trial vs. Whey protein. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015;12:1. doi: 10.1186/s12970-014-0064-5

The post Best Pea Protein Powders for Weight Loss, Muscle Building, and More (2023) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Research of the Week

Both short and longer naps help restore blood pressure function in shift workers.

For optimal seminal health, including fertility, testosterone, and sperm volume, aim to have high HDL and low triglycerides.

Tea appears especially helpful for circadian health.

A little passive stretching is good for older men.

High-load strength training tends to be more effective than blood flow restricted strength training, but the latter can be comparable if applied properly.

New Primal Kitchen Podcasts

Primal Kitchen Podcast: The Secrets of High Performers with Psychotherapist and Triathlete, David Roadhouse

Primal Health Coach Radio: Laurie Olivier

Media, Schmedia

Is a volcano responsible for much of 2023’s heat?

Interesting Blog Posts

Reminder: we are designed to eat meat.

Social Notes

How I work out when I don’t have much time.

Everything Else

Testing artificial wombs to support premature babies may begin soon.

Things I’m Up to and Interested In

Cool supplement to consider: Nattokinase for managing atherosclerosis.

Interesting: Using the Fast and the Furious soundtrack to trigger insulin secretion in human cells.

Consistent finding: Problems arise when a population strays from their traditional diet.

Milk differences: Vegan mothers produce milk with more selenium, less iodine and iron than omnivorous mothers.

Keep busy: More hobbies, less depression.

Question I’m Asking

How do you exercise when you’re short on time?

Recipe Corner

• Sheet pan Italian chicken.
• Braised apricot and cranberry brisket. You might reduce some of the sugar, and definitely swap out the canola oil for avocado oil.

Time Capsule

One year ago (Sep 9 – Sep 15)

• Primal Skincare: Best Practices for Healthy Skin—How to get and keep good skin.
• A Guide to Choosing Sustainable Fabrics—What to wear and why.

Comment of the Week

“‘What’s your “elevator spiel” for better health?

No idea; I take the stairs.“

-Touché.

The post New and Noteworthy: What I Read This Week—Edition 238 appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.

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Many people prioritize setting up their workout program, but they don’t often give their nutritional planning as much attention. Lifting weights can be relatively simple, but managing macronutrients and determining an effective calorie intake can be more challenging.

Rather than trying to construct an effective diet plan on your own, you might be ready to enlist the help of a professional, but who?

If you search around the web, you’re likely to find services offered by dietitians, as well as by nutritionists. While the occupations might sound identical, they actually have very different and distinct roles and responsibilities.

Both professionals offer nutrition-based counseling, but they’re distinguished by their educational requirements, their potential to help a variety of clients and goals, even their technical legal standing. Here’s an extensive look at what really lies behind these two confusing titles.

Nutritionist vs. Dietitian

• What Do They Know?
• What Do They Do?
• Which Do You Need?

Education Requirements — What Do They Know?

Beginning with fundamental educational requirements, nutritionists and dietitians differ greatly. What formal education is required to begin a career as a nutritionist? None. One can simply educate themself on general nutrition principles to whatever extent they see fit and then apply the title of “nutritionist.”

The self-determined criteria might include getting a formal education in nutrition or obtaining a certification in nutrition offered by various organizations, such as Precision Nutrition or the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA). However, neither a higher education degree nor an accredited certification are technically required before being labeled a nutritionist.

What education is required to become a registered dietitian? Quite a bit. In the US, for example, a four-year undergraduate degree in nutrition and a seven to 12-month unpaid dietetic internship are mandatory.

After which prospective dietitians obtain registration by passing the Registered Dietitian Examination offered by the Commission on Dietetics Registration (CDR) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND). Hence the title “registered dietitian” (RD). 

Many dietitians have gone on to obtain a master’s degree and/or PhD in nutrition or related fields. In fact, starting in January 2024, prospective dietitians will be required to obtain a master’s degree in nutrition to qualify for completing the RD examination. (1)

As a snapshot of what a dietitian needs to study, an undergraduate degree in nutrition includes courses in preparatory math, general chemistry, organic chemistry, biochemistry, and microbiology.

The curriculum also includes courses that make up what is called a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), which includes Introduction into Dietetics and Nutrition, Community Nutrition, Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), Advanced Concepts in Nutrition, Food Service Management, Energy and Exercise, Nutrition Communication, Research Methodology, Food and Culture, Contemporary Nutrition, and Advanced Concepts in Nutrition. 

A seven-month-long dietetic internship program consists of 1,200 to 1,500 hours of training supervised by preceptors (experienced RDs). This training involves working in rotations for clinical nutrition in a skilled nursing facility and hospital; community nutrition in a non-profit or government agency or health-maintenance organization, such as Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) or Meals on Wheels; and food service management in a school and skilled nursing facility or hospital. 

Aside from nutritionists and dietitians, there is also an occupational designation of nutrition professionals called Certified Dietitian-Nutritionists (CDN). To be a CDN, one has to complete an undergraduate degree in nutrition, complete 10 years of experience in nutritional practice (usually under the supervision of a registered dietitian), and show proof of education and experience to the Office of Professions of the Department of Education. 

Services Provided — What Do They Do?

Both dietitians and nutritionists can provide nutrition education and counseling to people looking for weight control, body composition and physical performance goals, or general well-being.

However, nutritionists are generally not legally allowed to provide advice for those medical conditions. So it would be beyond the scope of practice for a nutritionist to consult with a person with diabetes, for example.

Dietitians can provide those types of services for a variety of medical conditions such as bariatrics, kidney disease, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), cardiovascular diseases, or diabetes.

Dietitians can also work with people in various stages of life including pediatrics, pregnancy, and advanced age. Additionally, dietitians can write prescriptions for enteral (tube-feeding) and parenteral (intravenous) nutrition in skilled nursing facilities and hospitals. 

Both dietitians and nutritionists may work for athletic teams, in private practice, or in fitness and weight loss centers. However, because of their education, training, legal status, and ability to care for health conditions, dietitians can also be found working in hospitals, skilled-nursing facilities, academia, public health programs, health maintenance organizations, and government agencies. 

Know Your Goal — Which Do You Need?

When the time comes that you’re ready to let a professional develop a goal-focused nutrition plan, whether it’s for building muscle or shedding fat, you might decide to invest in working with either a nutritionist or a dietitian.

If you are someone with no current medical conditions that are managed by nutrition (high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease, etc.) and your goals are to improve your  overall well-being or just to increase your own general education on nutrition, you can choose either a dietitian or nutritionist.

For more tangible goals such as weight loss, muscle gain, contest prep for physique competitions like bodybuilding, or optimal physical performance — whether it’s for a traditional sport like baseball or a strength sport like powerlifting — you could also be well-served by either a dietitian or nutritionist.

However, if you need the nutrition-based management of medical conditions, you should look for counseling from a dietitian. Their training requires more in-depth education and experience working with significant medical issues, which allows more appropriate and more accurate recommendations.

How to Make the Right Choice

Whether you seek the services of an individual nutritionist or dietitian, be sure to review their education and general credentials. It’s also important to check their history working in the specific area of nutrition you’ll be utilizing them for.

If you are a powerlifter, athlete, or bodybuilder and you’re aiming to meet strength, performance, or body composition goals, check to see if the nutrition professional you are considering has experience counseling others with the same goals. The nutritionist or dietitian might even have personal experience reaching those goals.

Similarly, if you are seeking nutrition counseling for a medical condition, look into the background and success rate of a prospective dietitian. With the advent of social media and personal/professional websites, many nutrition professionals may have photo collections showcasing the results and testimonials from their clients. 

Diet isn’t a “Four-Letter Word”

Now you’re ready to make a proper decision as to which of the seemingly interchangeable occupational designations can help you best plan your diet. You also now have a better idea of who will be taking care of your, or your loved ones’, nutritional needs when it comes to healthcare institutions. The right (or wrong) nutrition professional could end up being the difference between success and failure or fitness and sickness.

References

1. Sanchez, M. and Pucciarelli, D.L. (2019) Master’s Degree, a New Requirement to Become an RDN by 2024: A Comparison of Nutrition Graduate Programs Offered in the USA. Food and Nutrition Sciences, 10, 1-14. https://doi.org/10.4236/fns.2019.101001

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