So it seems that the bar on the free weights increases as the weight increases. I'm at a point where I need to start increasing weight on some of my lifts, but I'm having a really hard time holding the weight because it's uncomfortable for my hand because of the size of the bar. I wear gloves, so maybe I need to not at these times, but I hate to do that because I get yucky caluses (sp?) What else can I do?

Ncunceo, what kind of bar are you using? I've never heard of the diameter getting bigger as the weight increases. My gym has 35 and 45# bars (the kind you add weight plates to) and both sizes are the same diameter. EZ curl bars also use plates but have a smaller diameter (but are all the same size). The gym also has preloaded bars from 15 to 90 pounds that are the same diameter, regardless of weight. What kind are you using? Perhaps your gym has an alternative to the ones that change size?

I also have small hands and gloves are a big help in letting me grip bars. If those don't help, you might consider lifting straps but they won't work for every exercise.

I wish I had a better answer but I'm genuinely puzzled at the issue. Sorry! Could you find a link to a photo showing what you're dealing with? Maybe if we could visualize, we could come up with an answer!

No, I'm talking about the free weights. I don't go to the gym til Tuesday, I'll try to get some pics then.

OK, now I'm really confused! Are you maybe talking about dumbbells instead of barbells? Dumbbells and barbells are both are kinds of free weights (so are kettlebells). When you said "bar", I assumed you meant barbells. Sorry for being so dense!!

Yeah, it's the dumbbells that are giving me the trouble. Once they hit 25lbs I start having trouble with the size of the bar.

Gotcha.

Most brands of DBs are a standard one inch diameter but your gym must have a different kind. I'm not sure what you can do to help with your grip in that situation, other than grip strengthening exercises. My hands are small too but I've never had an issue with DBs up to 60#. Let me think on it and poke around the Internet.

^ interesting Brown thanks. I really hate how rough my hands get, but I guess I need to work on my grip if I want to use the heavier weight. I do think the gloves are part of the problem.