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Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Most Out of a Hex Bar

April 27, 2024 3 min read

Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Most Out of a Hex Bar

What is a Hex Bar?

A hex bar, also known as a trap bar or a shrug bar, is an increasingly popular piece of gym equipment. It’s shaped like a hexagon, hence the name, and is designed to allow you to do exercises like squats, deadlifts, and shrugs with greater comfort and safety than traditional barbells. The hex bar has two handles that extend out from the center, allowing you to stand in the middle and hold the bar at either side. This makes it easier to keep your back straight while lifting, reducing strain on your spine.

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Benefits of Hex Bar Training

Hex bar training provides several advantages over traditional barbell workouts. One of the most notable advantages is that it reduces the risk of injury by allowing you to maintain the correct posture when lifting. Additionally, the hex bar is easier to maneuver than a barbell, making it perfect for people who are new to weightlifting or don’t have a lot of space in their home gym. Finally, the shape of the hex bar allows you to lift heavier weights without having to worry about balance.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Most Out of a Hex Bar

1. Choose the Right Weight

The first step to getting the most out of your hex bar workout is to choose the right weight. If you’re a beginner, start with a light weight and work your way up. It’s important to find a weight that will challenge you but won’t be too hard to lift. Once you’ve found a weight that you can comfortably lift, it’s time to start your routine.

2. Position Yourself in the Center of the Hex Bar

Once you’ve chosen the right weight, it’s time to position yourself in the center of the hex bar. Make sure that you’re standing tall with your feet shoulder-width apart and your arms extended out to each side. You should be able to easily grip the handles on either side of the bar.

3. Keep Your Back Straight

When performing any exercise with the hex bar, it’s important to keep your back straight. This will help ensure that you’re using the correct form and not putting undue stress on your spine. To keep your back straight, focus on keeping your core tight and your chest up. Also make sure that you’re not arching your lower back.

4. Start With Squats

Squats are one of the best exercises you can do with the hex bar. To perform a squat, start by placing your feet shoulder-width apart and gripping the handles with your hands. Then, bend your knees and lower your body until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Push through your heels to stand back up to the starting position.

5. Move On to Deadlifts

Deadlifts are another great exercise for targeting your entire lower body. To perform a deadlift with the hex bar, start by standing in the center with the bar directly in front of you. Bend your knees slightly and grab the handles with an overhand grip. Keeping your back flat, push through your heels as you lift the bar off the ground. When the bar reaches knee level, pause and then slowly lower it back down to the starting position.

6. Finish With Shrugs

Shrugs are an excellent exercise for working your upper back and traps. To perform a shrug with the hex bar, start by standing in the center with the bar directly in front of you. Grab the handles with an overhand grip and keep your arms straight. Then, shrug your shoulders up towards your ears while keeping your arms locked in place. Pause at the top of the movement and then slowly lower your shoulders back down.

7. Mix Things Up

Once you’ve mastered the basic hex bar exercises, you can begin to mix things up. Try adding different variations of squats, deadlifts, and shrugs to your routine. You can also use the hex bar to perform overhead presses, rows, and even curls. Get creative and see what other exercises you can come up with.

8. Stay Consistent

The key to getting the most out of your hex bar workouts is consistency. Try to stick to a regular schedule and challenge yourself by increasing the weight or reps each time. This will help you reach your goals faster and ensure that you’re making progress.

Conclusion

The hex bar is an incredibly versatile piece of gym equipment that can help you get the most out of your workouts. With the right technique, it can help you build strength, power, and muscle mass. Take the time to learn the proper form and challenge yourself by increasing the weight or reps each time. With consistency, you’ll be able to see the results you’re looking for.