MADabolic Hot Take | Strength and Conditioning Does Not Require a Barbell

The barbell is a specific strength-oriented tool – one our co-founders (and program designers), Kirk Dewaele and Brandon Cullen frequently used in their sport-specific training before founding MADabolic.

But…it’s by no means the ONLY tool in the strength-building toolbox, and – while we respect the hell out of it – the barbell has its limitations.

Here's a look at why we choose NOT to use a barbell on our training floor:

• Risk vs. Reward: Moving the barbell well requires more technique and progression than other strength-building tools. Even with an adequate on-ramp, the barbell is still unforgiving. By subbing the barbell for dumbbells, kettlebells, medballs, weight plates, and similar tools, we can place a MAD newbie on the same training floor as a seasoned MAD member on day one without compromising safety. Putting a class of 20 people under a barbell produces more risk of injury than we are willing to tolerate.
• Spatial Efficiency: By using more compatct equipment to build strength, we have greater flexibility in program design and spatial efficiency. Additionally, trainers are able to maintain a more direct line of sight on all clients moving under load and more quickly and effectively triage problematic movers. TLDR: we need less space to help clients build strength while keeping them safe.
• Strength & Stability: Dumbbells, kettlebells, and medballs allow for training unilateral positioning and additional planes of motion vs. the fixed structure of the barbell. Our strength-building tools of choice help reinforce a wide range of strength and stability -- critical components to aging athletically.

In short, if you are training for the Sport of Fitness, you’re probably familiar with the barbell and should be.

If you are pursuing the Sport of Life, the barbell is not required to build strength and see results.