I remember the moment clearly. Standing in the middle of my living room, which also serves as my office and dining area, I realized my fitness ambitions were at war with my floor plan. The dream of a dedicated home gym—with a hulking power rack, clanking iron plates, and a full-sized Olympic bar—was simply not compatible with apartment living. The alternative felt just as bleak: expensive gym memberships, commute times, and crowded weight rooms. I needed a middle ground, a way to get a serious, muscle-building workout without sacrificing an entire room. This is a common struggle for anyone starting their fitness journey at home; you want effective tools, but you’re constrained by space, budget, and the desire not to turn your sanctuary into a cluttered warehouse. The search for a compact, versatile, and affordable strength training solution is what leads many of us down the rabbit hole of home fitness equipment, searching for that perfect starting point.
- 45 LB Barbell Weight Set Includes: Two 10 LB weight plates, two 5 LB weight plates, two 2.5 LB weight plates and a 10 LB, 51 inch long (1" diameter) bar and 2 spring collars. Adjustable weights set...
- Versatile: This weights set offer the ability to do any barbell-based workout, adjusting the weights as needed to train and shape your arms, legs, shoulders, back, whole body muscles and more. The...
- Low Noise and No Scratch to Floor: Weights are solid cement filler encased in a high-strength plastic shell that won’t rust or scratch floors, use with confidence at home! Unlike ordinary barbell...
What to Consider Before Buying a Barbell Weight Set
A barbell weight set is more than just a piece of metal and some plates; it’s a foundational tool for strength training, capable of transforming your physique and boosting your overall health. It’s a key solution for progressive overload—the principle of gradually increasing the stress on your muscles, which is essential for growth. The main benefits are immense: you can perform compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, rows, and presses that engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, leading to more efficient workouts and greater calorie burn. A good set provides a clear path for getting stronger, allowing you to add small increments of weight as you progress, all from the convenience of your own home.
The ideal customer for a starter set like the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is someone who is new to lifting, has significant space limitations, or is looking for a tool for rehabilitation or high-rep, low-weight toning workouts. This could be a student in a dorm, a city-dweller in a small apartment, or someone building strength after an injury. Conversely, this type of product is not suitable for experienced powerlifters or anyone whose goal is to lift heavy (well over 100 lbs). Those individuals would be better served by investing in a standard Olympic barbell and cast iron plates, which offer a much higher weight capacity and a standardized size for commercial gym compatibility.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to the barbell’s length. A standard Olympic bar is 7 feet long, which requires a lot of clearance. Shorter bars, like the one included in this set, are much easier to manage in tight quarters but may limit certain wide-grip exercises. You must ensure you have enough space not only to store the bar but to safely perform movements like overhead presses without hitting the ceiling or walls.
- Capacity/Performance: A set’s total weight is its primary limiting factor. A 45-pound maximum is excellent for beginners to master form and build a solid foundation. However, you should consider your long-term goals. If you anticipate quickly progressing beyond this weight, you may need a system that allows for expansion or a heavier initial set. The diameter of the bar (typically 1″ for standard or 2″ for Olympic) also dictates which type of additional plates you can purchase later.
- Materials & Durability: Weight plates come in various materials. Cast iron is the traditional gold standard—dense, durable, and long-lasting. However, plates made of a cement filler with a plastic or vinyl shell, like those in the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set, offer distinct advantages for home use. They are generally quieter, less expensive, and much less likely to scratch or damage your floors, which is a major concern in a non-dedicated gym space.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Look for features that make your life easier. A detachable bar simplifies storage immensely. Knurling (the diamond pattern on the grip) is non-negotiable for ensuring a secure, non-slip hold. Finally, consider the long-term care; plastic-coated plates are rust-proof and easy to wipe down, requiring minimal maintenance compared to raw cast iron.
Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a set that aligns with your space, budget, and fitness aspirations, setting you up for success from day one.
While the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is an excellent choice for its target audience, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Budget Barbells for Home Gyms
- CONSTRUCTION – Made from solid cold rolled steel with a chrome finish; Accommodates Olympic weight plates (with 2-inch center hole); 30-day warranty*
- 95 pounds set: 1x 5 feet Standard Barbell Bar (10 lbs) & Star Locks, 2x 2.5lbs, 2x 5lbs, 2x 10lbs, 2x 25lbs Cast Iron Plates.
- SPECS – 110, 000 PSI tensile strength Japanese cold rolled steel; 15-inch loadable sleeve length; The shaft length (inside length between the sleeves) is 51. 5 inches; Handgrip diameter 28. 5 mm;...
First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the AboveGenius Set
Upon receiving the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set, the first thing we noticed was the compact and efficient packaging. As one user noted, the “packaging was nice,” and we have to agree. Everything was securely packed, preventing any shifting or damage during transit. Unboxing revealed the three-piece detachable bar, two 10 lb plates, two 5 lb plates, two 2.5 lb plates, and a pair of spring collars. The initial feel of the plates was impressive for this price point. The high-strength plastic shell feels robust and durable, and the textured finish gives them a quality appearance. There’s no hint of the industrial, oily residue you sometimes find on new iron plates.
Assembly is laughably simple and genuinely takes seconds. The three bar sections screw together with thick, sturdy threads, forming a solid, unified bar with no discernible wobble or weakness at the joints. Sliding the plates on is smooth, and the included spring collars clip on firmly, holding the weights securely in place. The first thing that becomes apparent, confirming user feedback, is that this is not a full-size bar. Measuring just over four feet (approx. 51 inches), it’s significantly shorter than a traditional 7-foot Olympic bar. This is a crucial feature, not a flaw, designed specifically for space-saving and maneuverability in home environments. It immediately felt like the perfect solution for the very problem I had pondered in my living room. You can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a better sense of its compact design.
Key Benefits
- Excellent space-saving design with a 3-piece detachable bar
- Floor-friendly plastic-coated plates prevent scratches and reduce noise
- Versatile plates with ergonomic handles can be used independently
- Ideal total weight and increments for beginners or rehabilitation
- Secure, comfortable grip with effective diamond-pattern knurling
Limitations
- Maximum weight of 45 lbs is not suitable for intermediate or advanced lifters
- Shorter bar length (51 inches) can be limiting for wide-grip exercises
A Deep Dive into the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set’s Performance
After the initial setup, we put the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set through a comprehensive testing period, incorporating it into a full range of workouts over several weeks. We focused on its design, versatility, and real-world performance to determine who this set is truly for and how it holds up to regular use.
Design & Portability: The Ultimate Space-Saving Solution
The standout feature of this entire package is its brilliant design, centered around portability and storage. The three-piece bar is the hero here. In a world where home fitness equipment often becomes permanent, bulky furniture, the ability to break this bar down is a game-changer. Each section is about 17 inches long, and when disassembled, the entire set can be tucked away in a closet, under a bed, or in the corner of a room without being an eyesore. We tested the assembly and disassembly process dozens of times; the threads are well-machined and connect smoothly every time, creating a connection that feels surprisingly rigid and secure. During lifts like bicep curls, overhead presses, and bent-over rows, we felt no flexing or creaking at the joints, which was an initial concern that was quickly put to rest.
This design directly addresses the needs of those in apartments, dorms, or shared living spaces. One user review highlighted it as a “space saving option,” and we found this to be its most compelling selling point. It transforms any small area into a functional workout zone in under a minute. This portability also means you could potentially take it with you—to the office for a quick lunch-break session or even on a road trip if you’re committed to your routine. The entire package is light enough and compact enough to be genuinely portable, a feature almost unheard of in the world of barbells. It is, as another user aptly described, “compact enough to go anywhere in the house.”
Workout Versatility: More Than Just a Barbell
While it’s marketed as a barbell set, its true value lies in its versatility. The design of the weight plates is a stroke of genius. Each plate features an integrated, ergonomic handle, which effectively turns them into individual free weights. This small detail dramatically expands the range of exercises you can perform. We used the 10 lb plates for kettlebell-style swings, goblet squats, and weighted lunges. The 5 lb plates were perfect for lateral raises, front raises, and physical therapy movements for shoulder mobility. The 2.5 lb plates worked well for warm-up rotations and core exercises like Russian twists.
This multi-functionality means you’re not just buying a barbell; you’re getting a starter set of dumbbells and kettlebells as well. For a beginner, this is an incredible value proposition. It allows you to build a comprehensive, full-body workout routine without needing to purchase multiple pieces of equipment. This adaptability was appreciated by a user who was recovering from a frozen shoulder, noting that lifting helped curb the pain and that this set was a great step up. The ability to use the plates for both isolated dumbbell-style movements and compound barbell lifts makes the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set a feature-rich platform for building foundational strength and mastering a wide variety of exercises.
In-Use Performance: Grip, Stability, and Knowing Its Limits
In action, the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set performs exactly as a high-quality beginner set should. The diamond-pattern knurling on the grip sections of the bar is well-executed. It’s aggressive enough to provide a secure, confident hold even with sweaty hands, but not so sharp that it’s uncomfortable for new lifters. This was confirmed by a user who praised its “nice grip that helps prevent slipping.” The 1-inch bar diameter is comfortable for most hand sizes and contributes to a secure feel during dynamic movements.
The plastic-coated plates are another practical advantage during workouts. They slide onto the bar sleeves smoothly and, most importantly, quietly. There’s none of the loud, intimidating clanging of iron plates, which is a welcome feature for anyone working out early in the morning or in an apartment with thin walls. The spring collars are standard but effective, holding the plates tightly with no rattling or shifting during our tests.
However, understanding the set’s limitations is key to user satisfaction. The 45-pound maximum weight is its defining characteristic. This is more than enough for beginners to learn proper form on major lifts and see significant strength gains in their initial months of training. It’s also an appropriate weight for high-repetition endurance workouts. But it is not designed for heavy lifting. Likewise, the shorter bar length, which a user correctly pointed out is around 48-51 inches, means it’s not ideal for traditional, wide-grip bench presses or snatches. It’s perfectly suited for close-grip presses, squats, deadlifts, rows, and curls. Acknowledging this—that it’s a “nice little set for a beginner,” not a powerlifting tool—is crucial for having the right expectations and being thrilled with what it offers.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among users aligns closely with our own findings: the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is a fantastic piece of equipment for a specific audience. Positive feedback consistently praises its suitability as a “nice starter weight set.” One user highlighted that it’s a “solid bar for a home gym,” calling it “sturdy, well-made, and has a nice grip.” This sentiment was echoed by another who appreciated its versatility for different workouts and highly recommended it for at-home strength training.
The constructive criticism is just as valuable and tends to focus on managing expectations. One user pointed out, “Be aware that the total length of the bar is aright at 48” the pictures in the ad make it seem like it’s a full size bar and that is not the case.” This is a critical observation we confirmed; it’s a feature designed for compact spaces, but it’s important for buyers to be aware of the difference. There was also a comment about “poor quality,” which seems to be an outlier but could point to a rare manufacturing defect or, more likely, a mismatch between the user’s expectations (perhaps hoping for gym-grade steel and iron) and the product’s intended budget-friendly, home-use design. For those looking for a starter kit, checking out the overwhelmingly positive feedback can provide more context.
How Does the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set Compare to the Alternatives?
While the AboveGenius set excels in its niche, it’s important to see how it compares to other options on the market. Depending on your specific goals and existing equipment, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic 7 ft Barbell
- CONSTRUCTION – Made from solid cold rolled steel with a chrome finish; Accommodates Olympic weight plates (with 2-inch center hole); 30-day warranty*
- SPECS – Measures 2185mm in length; Shaft length of 51.75”; Loadable sleeve length of 15.3”; Handgrip diameter of 30mm; 63,800 PSI tensile strength steel; Weighs 16KG; Center knurl 4.75”; Side...
- FEAUTRES – Medium-depth knurling and center knurling for a secure grip; Rotating sleeves with bushings to reduce pressure on forearms
The CAP Barbell Olympic Bar represents the next step up for a serious lifter. This is a standalone, 7-foot, Olympic-standard barbell, meaning it has 2-inch sleeves and is built to handle significant weight (plates sold separately). If your goal is heavy powerlifting—squatting, benching, and deadlifting hundreds of pounds—this is the type of bar you need. It’s for someone building a more permanent, dedicated home gym. In contrast, the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is a complete, all-in-one package for beginners. It prioritizes space-saving, convenience, and a low entry barrier over sheer weight capacity. Choose the CAP bar if you’re an intermediate-to-advanced lifter; choose the AboveGenius set if you’re just starting out.
2. Jayflex Hyperbell Dumbbell Converter Up to 200 lb
- DUMBBELL TO BARBELL CONVERTER: With the adjustable steel barbell bar, transform your adjustable dumbbell set into a heavy-duty weight bar for weights lifting and strength training bars at home.
- WORK FROM HOME FITNESS: The perfect addition to your home gym equipment, this weight lifting bar allows you to work on your fitness from the comfort of your own home.
- ADJUSTABLE DUMBBELLS: The dumbbell barbell converter fits most standard and adjustable dumbbell weight sets with straight or curved handles up to 1.5” thick and minimum of 4.5” long, providing...
The Jayflex Hyperbell is a fascinating and innovative piece of equipment. It’s not a barbell itself, but a converter bar that clamps onto your existing dumbbells, effectively turning them into a barbell or kettlebell. Its main advantage is its potential weight capacity (up to 200 lbs) and its incredible space efficiency if you already own a set of adjustable dumbbells. This is the perfect solution for someone who has invested in dumbbells and wants to add barbell movements without buying a whole new set of weights. However, the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is a more straightforward, complete solution for someone starting from scratch. It provides the bar and the weights in one affordable package, making it a simpler entry point into strength training.
3. CAP Barbell Standard Threaded 34″ Triceps Bar
- Solid Steel w/ Chromed Finish
- Threaded Ends w/ Star Lock Collars
- 30 Day Manufacture's Warranty
The CAP Triceps Bar is a specialty tool designed for specific isolation exercises. Its unique shape with parallel grips allows for a neutral wrist position, which is ideal for targeting the triceps (with overhead extensions or skullcrushers) and biceps (with hammer curls). This is an accessory bar, meant to supplement a pre-existing gym setup. It does not replace the functionality of a straight bar. The AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set, with its straight bar, is far more versatile, enabling a full-body workout routine. You would purchase the CAP Triceps Bar to add variety to your arm workouts, whereas you would buy the AboveGenius set to build the foundation of your entire home gym.
The Final Verdict: Is the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set Right for You?
After extensive testing and analysis, our conclusion is clear: the AboveGenius 45 LB Barbell Weight Set is an outstanding choice for its intended user. It is, without a doubt, one of the best entry-level, space-saving strength training solutions available. Its clever three-piece bar design, floor-friendly plates, and versatile plate handles make it far more than a simple barbell. It’s a compact, all-in-one starter gym that’s perfect for beginners, individuals working with limited space, or those needing a reliable tool for physical therapy and toning.
It’s crucial, however, to recognize its limitations. This is not the set for aspiring powerlifters or anyone looking to lift heavy. The 45-pound maximum and shorter bar are intentional design choices that cater to convenience and home use, not high-performance athletics. If you fall into its target audience and are looking for an affordable, effective, and incredibly convenient way to start building muscle at home, we wholeheartedly recommend it. It removes nearly every barrier—space, cost, and complexity—to starting your fitness journey. If you’re ready to take that first step, you can check the latest price and availability on this excellent starter set today.
Last update on 2025-11-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API