Reader article written by Kauer

What is a Barbell Jack?

A barbell jack is a simple lever tool that makes loading and unloading the barbell much easier. It is mostly used during deadlifts where heavy weight is resting on the floor. The lever helps you lift the barbell slightly off the ground. This way, you can load and unload the barbell with greater ease. It saves time, conserves energy for actual lifting and it is safer (no crushed fingers). It is also more efficient than rolling the weight plates over a change plate.

Many companies sell a version of a barbell jack (see pictures below). But, chances are that you already have everything you need at home to make a DIY Deadlift Jack. It is truly very simple. Yet, if you don’t have any of the following materials, then you should consider buying a Barbell Jack. They can be as cheap as 40 EUR.

How do I make a Barbell Jack?

I suggest that you just try to use whatever spare materials you have. So, this is a general and broad DIY guide that does not get too specific about materials. You will also need a hand saw, a few wooden screws, a screwdriver and some leftover wood. Essentially, any wooden beam will work. Whether it’s 38 x 89 mm, 50 x 75 mm (width x height) or something similar, it will be enough. In regards to the length, you can get by with as little as 500 mm. But remember, the longer the wooden beam, the easier it will be to lift the barbell.

You need to add a notch for catching the barbell to your wooden beam. Also, incorporate a 45 degree cut-out at the bottom (see pictures above). The cut-out will help with the lever rocking motion. The lowest height of the notch, where the barbell rests when lifted, should be at least 235 mm of the floor. This way, the barbell will be lifted 10 mm off the floor (most Olympic weight plates are 450 mm in diameter). Next, you could increase its stability by making the bottom/foot more wide. Or you could paint it to match your home gym..

For my DIY Barbell Jack (see pictures above), I only used leftover wood and screws that I had laying around. It took me 15 minutes to build my first one. I built my second one in 5 minutes. If I had to build a third one, I would try to make the bottom part a bit smaller.

So, get creative. Look around the house for materials or ask your neighbour. That way you can have a DIY Barbell Jack within the next 30 minutes.

Until next time

Kauer