Domande frequenti - Bilancieri Weightlifting/Powerlifting

• What is the difference between an Olympic weightlifting barbell and a powerlifting barbell?
  The weightlifting bar features smooth-rolling bushings, pronounced flex in the bar to accommodate the snatch and clean & jerk, less aggressive knurling and high tensile strength. The powerlifting bar has a diameter of 29 mm, superior rigidity for squats, bench presses and deadlifts, more aggressive knurling and central knurling for positioning under the neck during squats.
• What is an axle bar and what is it used for?
  The axle bar has an increased bar diameter, typically 50mm, and no rotating bushings. It originated from strongman training to intensively train grip strength: the increased circumference makes it much harder to wrap the hand around the bar, thereby developing grip strength. It is used for deadlifts, strongman cleans and presses, assisted farmer’s walks and specific forearm strength training.
• Is a 185 cm Olympic barbell suitable for weightlifting?
  An 185 cm barbell does not comply with IWF standards (which specify 220 cm for men and 201 cm for women) and is not suitable for technical snatch and clean and jerk exercises with heavy loads. It is, however, a valid choice for home gyms with limited space, general strength training, supplementary exercises and movements where the standard length is not a requirement. The reduced length also affects the flex.
• What distinguishes a hex bar (trap bar) from traditional barbells?
  The hex bar is hexagonal or rhomboidal in shape, with the athlete positioning themselves inside the frame. The load’s centre of gravity lies in line with the body, reducing the bending moment on the lumbar spine compared to a conventional deadlift. It is used for hex deadlifts, farmer’s walks, shrugs and jump squats. Sidea offers compact, standard, low hex and super hex versions to suit different height and range of motion (ROM) requirements.
• What is the maximum load capacity of Sidea balance beams?
  The load capacity varies depending on the model. Premium men’s Olympic barbells typically achieve test loads of 680–700 kg, training models range from 450–600 kg, whilst introductory barbells and 5 kg aluminium models are designed for low technical loads during training phases. The stated load capacity takes into account the tensile strength of the steel and the durability of the bushings.
• What is the difference between an EZ bar and an angled bar?
  In the Sidea range, the two names refer to the same piece of equipment: the EZ-angle bar (curl bar) has a W-shaped profile that allows for semi-supine and semi-prone grips. It reduces stress on the wrists during bicep curls, French presses and chin-ups. The Premium model features improved finishes and knurling compared to the standard version.
• Does the safety squat bar replace the Olympic barbell squat?
  No, it’s a complementary piece of equipment. The safety squat bar (SSB) has shoulder pads and front handles that alter the movement pattern: the centre of gravity is shifted slightly forwards, placing less stress on the shoulders and wrists. It is useful for athletes with restricted thoracic or glenohumeral mobility, as a variation to stimulate the quadriceps, and for powerlifters’ training outside their peak training periods.
• How can you tell the difference between a women’s barbell and a men’s barbell?
  IWF standards: the men’s Olympic barbell weighs 20 kg, has a bar diameter of 28 mm and a total length of 220 cm. The women’s barbell weighs 15 kg, has a diameter of 25 mm, a length of 201 cm and does not feature central knurling. The smaller dimensions make it easier for female athletes and users with smaller hands to grip the barbell. Both bars maintain the standardised distance between the sleeves for disc placement.
• Fixed pre-loaded barbells: when does it make sense to include them in a weight room?
  Pre-loaded barbells (fixed barbells) are useful in class studios, group training sessions and circuit training where the time taken to change discs increases the duration of the exercises. They take up more space than a stock of bumper plates, but eliminate the need for assembly. They are the practical choice for pump training sessions, workouts involving frequent supersets, and facilities with a high turnover of users within the same weight range.
• Do you need a dedicated rack to store barbells?
  Yes, both for safety and to ensure the equipment’s longevity. A barbell left on the floor or stacked incorrectly will damage the knurling, bushings and finish of the bar. Sidea manufactures wall-mounted barbell racks and horizontal powerlifting racks that can accommodate several barbells, organised by category. We recommend planning for storage right from the gym design stage using our Gym Design service.
• What instalment payment options are available?
  Sidea offers a range of instalment payment options to make it easier to purchase professional equipment. Please see the dedicated page: Payment options Sidea.
• I’m a fitness professional – can I get special rates?
  If you work in the fitness or sports sector, register on the website as a Professional or as an ASD to gain access to the price list reserved for industry professionals. Pro registration allows you to view exclusive discounts and special terms across the entire Sidea catalogue.
• Is Sidea listed on the MEPA for public sector procurement?
  Yes, Sidea is an authorised supplier on the MEPA (Public Administration Electronic Marketplace). Public bodies, schools, universities, local authorities and public sports facilities can purchase Sidea equipment via the platform Public Sector Online Procurement. For information on product codes and direct MEPA orders, please contact Sidea customer service.
• What are Sidea’s returns and warranty terms?
  Sidea guarantees the right to cancel within 14 days of delivery for all online purchases, in accordance with current legislation. Products must be returned undamaged and in their original packaging. For full details on returns, refunds and the warranty, please see the page Terms and Conditions of Sale.
• Why choose Sidea equipment?
  Sidea has been designing and distributing professional fitness equipment since 1999: over 25 years’ experience serving gyms, sports coaches, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios and enthusiasts of advanced home fitness. Official distributor StrongFirst e Luxiaojun, which is exhibiting at the FIBO international trade fair and is the technical sponsor of the Summit of Strength. Every product is designed with durability, functionality and suitability for real-world operational contexts in mind. The service Gym Design Offers bespoke design services with 3D renderings. A warehouse covering over 4,000 m² in Gambettola (FC) to ensure rapid order fulfilment, direct technical advice and a special price list for professionals and amateur sports clubs.