A barbell consists of a long steel bar with sleeves that hold weight plates on each end. It is the primary tool for compound strength lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and overhead presses. Olympic barbells weigh 20 kg for men or 15 kg for women and spin on bearings for smooth lifts. Loadable to hundreds of pounds, the barbell is indispensable for building raw strength and muscle mass. It is used in powerlifting, Olympic weightlifting, bodybuilding, and general fitness. Proper technique and safety collars are essential when training with heavy loads.