March 07, 2016
As you may know, purchasing a quality barbell is a financial investment. Whether in a commercial or private gym, the appearance and performance of your barbell will deteriorate over time. With appropriate care and maintenance, these effects can be minimized. Extending the useful life of your barbell not only reduces replacement costs, but and instils a sense confidence and satisfaction when you step onto the lifting platform.
Although some visible deterioration of a barbell is inevitable (and sometimes even sought after), it is important to keep the look and feel of your bar as close to its original form as possible. This ensures that the bar will perform consistently over time and instils a sense of confidence in the athlete using it.
The beauty of zink- or black oxide-coated bars such as the SMAI and AlphaState ranges is that maintenance becomes rather basic.
This does not mean you can slack… routine maintenance is important!
The characteristics of a quality barbell include:
Rust is the result of the oxidation process of iron. Barbells are constructed from steel, which is primarily made up from iron and carbon. As moisture is the catalyst for the forming of iron oxide (rust), it is important to keep your barbells moisture free - including blood, sweat and tears!
While rust may give an old-style look to a barbell, it is important to take note of rust build-up. The rust is not just potentially unseemly in a commercial space, but also indicates a slower process of corrosion that will affect the structural integrity of your bar over time. Here are a few tips to minimize the damages caused by rust:
Clean chalk sediment
Lube it up
Proper storage will protect your barbell and extend its useful life.
Looking after your barbell as an asset will decrease future costs, increase return on your investment and allow for re-sale opportunity.