PVC Barbell Sliders Hack
INTRO
Here is a PVC pipe hack for your barbell to protect your equipment when executing Cage Presses, Standing Calf Raises, Hack Squats, etc….It will give your barbell a “Smith Machine like” effect!
This hack will also protect your equipment and reduce noise when executing Rack pulls. Finally - it even will protect your barbell from simply racking and un racking the barbell from your J-Hooks.
When I originally used this hack in a video (the CAGE PRESS video), I had a 2x2 Power Rack. Because of the width of those uprights, I originally cut the PVC pipe to be 4 7/8” long. That video can be found here:
HOWEVER, I recently upgraded to a 3x3 Rack. As a result, I needed to move the rubber grommets 1” inward - as well as swap my PVC pipe with pieces that were 5 7/8” long. That video is here (STANDING CALF RAISE video):
The Hack
I suggest doing this to a beater bar. My daily driver is my Rogue Ohio Power Bar…so I will not be using that one for this hack. Instead, I will be using my no-name “hunk of junk” that I got for free when I was buying used plates.
Step 1: Remove one sleeve from your barbell
Step 2: Add a 3/4” rubber grommet which will help keep our pipe in place
Step 3: Add a 4 7/8” long length of 1.25” schedule 40 PVC pipe if you have a 2x2 or 2x3 rack. However, if you have a 3x3 Rack, add a 5 7/8” long piece.
Step 4: Put Barbell Sleeve back on so that the pipe is directly against the rim of the sleeve,
Step 5: Repeat for the other side of the barbell. THE END.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for this hack was watching the late great John Meadows performing the Cage press which is a great way to —safely perform the the Overhead Press explosively!
Now when tried this exercise, I was scratching the crap out of my rack and the barbell. So that is where this hack comes in. The PVC allows you to eliminate friction by having that slick PVC glide up and down the surface of the rack, leaving no damage in sight.
Also due the fact that the PVC is only UP TO 5 7/8” long, you can leave it on the barbell and continue squatting, benching, etc. In other words, it does not interfere with the barbell’s use for almost all Barbell applications for most people.
Shopping
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3/4” Rubber Grommets: https://amzn.to/3kv7Qoo
1.25” Schedule 40 PVC: https://amzn.to/3ZWdqil
