Hex bar

With its open, six-sided frame and raised or level handles, a hex bar lets you stand in the middle rather than behind the load. Weight plates sit on sleeves at each end. The centred position can feel steady and natural, while the rigid metal frame feels substantial and needs controlled handling.

You mainly use a trap bar for lifting from the floor, practising standing up with a load, and carrying it for short distances if you have room. These movements train your legs, hips, back, shoulders and grip together. Different handle heights can shorten or lengthen the reach to the bar, making the movement easier to adapt.

It suits you if you want a stable way to learn floor lifts or prefer holding the load beside your body. You need clear floor space around the bar and plates, plus secure storage when it is not in use. Changing plates lets you scale the load, while different handle heights may change the reach; dumbbells held at your sides offer a simpler alternative.