A curl bar usually weighs 15–25 lb (7–11 kg). Standard EZ bars with thin 1-inch sleeves sit at the light end, around 10–15 lb. Olympic EZ bars, the ones with thick rotating sleeves that take the same plates as a normal barbell, usually weigh 18–25 lb. Unlike the Olympic barbell, there's no official standard, so the exact number depends on the brand.
That's why the honest answer to "how much does the curl bar weigh?" is "let's find out", which you can do in about ten seconds with the tips below.
Curl bar weights at a glance
| Bar | Typical weight | How to recognize it |
|---|---|---|
| Standard EZ curl bar (1-inch) | 10–15 lb / 4.5–7 kg | Thin ends, same width as the grip; uses plates with small holes |
| Olympic EZ curl bar (2-inch) | 18–25 lb / 8–11 kg | Thick, often rotating sleeves; takes regular gym plates |
| Preacher curl bar | Usually an EZ bar, so 15–25 lb | Used on the preacher bench, sometimes with a steeper zig-zag |
| Fixed-weight curl bar | Exactly what's printed on it | Plates welded on, number stamped on the end |
| Straight curl bar (short barbell) | 15–25 lb / 7–11 kg | Straight shaft, shorter than an Olympic bar |
If you're used to the Olympic barbell, remember that a curl bar is much lighter. Swapping "the bar is 45" into your curl math is how people end up thinking they curl 95 when they really curl 70. Your biceps know the truth.
Why EZ bars have that zig-zag
The bends in an EZ bar let you hold it with your palms turned slightly inward instead of fully facing up. For many people that's more comfortable on the wrists and elbows, especially on curls and skull crushers. The trade-off is a slightly different feel on the biceps compared with a straight bar, which is why many lifters use both.
How much does a preacher curl bar weigh?
Most gyms use a regular EZ curl bar on the preacher bench, so it's the same 15–25 lb. Some preacher stations come with their own bar with a sharper angle, which is usually in the same range. The weight doesn't change because you're sitting down and leaning on a pad, although it certainly feels heavier by rep 10.
How to find out what your gym's curl bar weighs
- Check the ends. Many bars have the weight stamped on the sleeve or end cap.
- Use a scale. Stand on a bathroom scale, note your weight, pick up the bar and subtract. It takes ten seconds and earns you a few looks.
- Ask the staff. They know the equipment, or at least where the receipts are.
- Count it consistently. If you really can't find out, pick a number and use the same one every session. Progress is about comparing you with you.
Do you count the curl bar in your lifts?
Yes. The bar is part of the weight you're moving, so an Olympic EZ bar of 20 lb with a 25 lb plate on each side is 70 lb. The exception is fixed-weight curl bars, which already include everything in the number on the end.
Curl bar loading examples
With a 20 lb Olympic EZ bar:
| Plates per side | Total weight |
|---|---|
| 2.5 lb | 25 lb |
| 5 lb | 30 lb |
| 10 lb | 40 lb |
| 10 + 5 lb | 50 lb |
| 25 lb | 70 lb |
| 25 + 10 lb | 90 lb |
| 35 lb | 90 lb |
| 45 lb | 110 lb |
Want the full story on every other bar in the gym? See how much a barbell weighs.
Frequently asked questions
Is an EZ bar 20 lb?
Many Olympic EZ bars weigh around 20 lb, but some are lighter or heavier. Standard 1-inch EZ bars are often closer to 10–15 lb. Check the stamp or weigh it.
Is an EZ bar easier than a straight bar?
It's usually more comfortable on the wrists, so some people can curl a bit more with it. Both build the biceps well.
How much does a curl bar weigh in kg?
Most curl bars weigh between about 7 and 11 kg. Standard 1-inch bars are often 4.5–7 kg.
Can I use Olympic plates on any curl bar?
Only on Olympic EZ bars with 2-inch sleeves. Standard curl bars need plates with 1-inch holes.
