Body bar

Long and evenly weighted, a body bar is usually a slim metal bar covered in soft rubber or foam, with capped ends for a comfortable grip. You hold it with one or both hands, rest it across your shoulders, or use it for balance. Its fixed, balanced load feels steadier than separate hand weights, though it can feel awkward at first.

You can use it for gentle strength sessions, movement practice, and warm-ups. It adds resistance while you squat, step, press overhead, twist, or bend forward, involving your arms, shoulders, back, stomach, hips, and legs. Because the load is spread across the bar, you can practise smooth, coordinated movements without having to manage two separate weights.

It suits beginners who want one simple load to hold, as well as more experienced users looking for variety. Its weight is fixed, so you scale the effort by using a lighter bar or changing the movement. You need enough clear space to turn and raise its full length safely. A broom handle is a useful unweighted alternative for learning the movements first.