Top Uses of a Hex Bar: Building Muscles, Strength and Endurance

The Benefits of Using a Hex Bar

The hex bar, sometimes called the trap bar or deadlift bar, is a versatile piece of fitness equipment used for a variety of workouts. It can be used to target muscles in the legs and arms, improve stability and balance, and increase strength. The hex bar provides a safe, efficient way to build muscle, strength and endurance. In this article, we’ll discuss why it’s beneficial to use a hex bar, the proper form and technique, and some of the most effective exercises you can do with it.

Shop The Collection: Barbells

What Is a Hex Bar?

A hex bar is a six-sided metal bar with handles on each side. It looks like an upside-down U, with the sides of the “U” being curved. This shape allows you to stand inside the bar, rather than behind it. This allows you to keep your back in a neutral position and distribute the weight more evenly throughout your body. It also provides a better center of gravity and makes the exercise easier to control.

Shop The Gear: CAP Barbell Olympic Trap Shrug Bar, $99.99 CAD

Why Use a Hex Bar?

Using a hex bar offers many advantages over traditional barbell exercises. Here are some of the top benefits:

• Decreased stress on your lower back. Because you’re standing inside the bar, it distributes the weight more evenly across your body and takes the strain off your lower back.
• Improved balance and stability. When standing inside the bar, you must engage your core and stabilizing muscles, which improves balance and stability.
• Increased range of motion. You can move the bar through a greater range of motion, allowing you to work different muscles groups and get a more effective workout.
• Convenience. Because the bar is smaller and lighter than a typical barbell, it’s much easier to transport and store.

How To Use A Hex Bar Properly

It’s important to know how to use a hex bar properly in order to get the most benefit from your workouts. Here are some tips for using the hex bar correctly:

• Start with light weights. Start out with a lightweight bar and gradually increase the weight as you become more comfortable and confident with the movements.
• Keep your back straight. Make sure to keep your back in a neutral position throughout the exercise. Don’t arch your back or round your shoulders.
• Brace your core. Engage your core muscles to maintain balance and stability during the exercise. This will help protect your lower back.
• Maintain control. Control the bar at all times – don’t let the weight take over. Move the bar slowly and deliberately.

Top Exercises With A Hex Bar

Now that you know how to use the hex bar properly, let’s look at some of the best exercises you can do with it. Here are five of the top exercises for building muscle, strength and endurance:

1. Deadlifts

Deadlifts are one of the best exercises for building strength and muscle. The hex bar makes them even more effective by distributing the weight evenly throughout your body and taking the strain off your lower back. To do a hex bar deadlift, stand inside the bar with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees and grab the handles of the bar. Lift the bar up until you’re standing upright. Keep your back straight and your core engaged throughout the exercise. Slowly lower the bar back down and repeat.

2. Squats

Squats are a great exercise for targeting your leg muscles and building overall strength. To do a hex bar squat, stand inside the bar with your feet shoulder-width apart. Grab the bars and lift the bar up until it’s resting against your chest. Keeping your back straight and your core engaged, squat down until your thighs are parallel to the ground. Push through your heels to stand back up and repeat.

3. Overhead Presses

Overhead presses are an excellent exercise for developing upper body strength and muscular endurance. To do a hex bar overhead press, stand inside the bar and grab the handles. Lift the bar up to your chest and press it overhead until your arms are fully extended. Lower the bar back down to your chest and repeat.

4. Bent-Over Rows

Bent-over rows are a great exercise for strengthening your back and shoulders. To do a hex bar bent-over row, stand inside the bar with your feet hip-width apart. Bend your knees slightly and lean forward, keeping your back straight. Grab the handles of the bar and pull it up towards your chest, leading with your elbows. Slowly lower the bar back down and repeat.

5. Farmer's Walks

Farmer's walks are a great exercise for improving grip strength and overall muscular endurance. To do a hex bar farmer's walk, stand inside the bar and grab the handles. Lift the bar and walk forward for 30 seconds. Rest for a few seconds, then walk for another 30 seconds. You can also do side steps, backwards walking or walking in circles with the hex bar for a more challenging workout.

The hex bar is a versatile piece of fitness equipment that offers many benefits. It distributes the weight evenly throughout your body, which reduces stress on your lower back and allows for a greater range of motion. It also helps improve balance and stability. Plus, it’s easy to transport and store. All these factors make the hex bar a great choice for anyone looking to build muscle, strength and endurance.

If you’re new to using the hex bar, start with light weights and master the form and technique before adding more weight. Once you’ve got the basics down, you can add more weight and incorporate more challenging exercises into your workouts. There are countless exercises you can do with the hex bar, so have fun experimenting and find what works best for you.