Hands‑on coaching to master Westside’s specialty bars—from setup and mechanics to programming applications.
Specialty bars are a cornerstone of the Conjugate Method. At Westside Barbell, they’ve helped build world‑record powerlifters, world‑class athletes, and fighters across multiple sports. This session shows lifters and coaches how these tools work, why they matter, and how to apply them in training.
Each session is up to 90 minutes and tailored to your experience level.
What’s Included
- Educational breakdown of why specialty bars are used in the Westside system
- Coaching on bar setup, mechanics, and execution
- Hands‑on instruction with multiple specialty bars
- Guidance on programming applications for strength, speed, and injury prevention
Practical Training — Bars You’ll Use
- Safety Squat Bar (SSB): Build squat strength while protecting shoulders and elbows
- Cambered Bar: Improve balance and posterior‑chain strength
- Football Bar (Swiss Bar): Pressing strength with a joint‑friendly neutral grip
- Freak Bar: Develop stabilization and control under load
- Bamboo Bar (Earthquake Bar): Train shoulder stability with oscillating kettlebell loading
- Axle Bar (Fat Bar): Build grip strength and pulling power
- Bow Bar: Enhance depth and posture with a cambered squat variation
Lifts are taught at a skill‑building level, not max effort. The focus is on setup, mechanics, and effective implementation.
Why Specialty Bars?
Specialty bars let you attack weaknesses, build strength, and train around injuries in ways a straight bar cannot. At Westside, these tools have been refined through decades of training and competition—this session shows you not only how to use them, but how to program them so you can take the skills back to any gym.
FAQ
How long is a specialty bar training session?
Up to 90 minutes, with time for education, hands‑on coaching, and Q&A.
Do I need experience with specialty bars?
No. This session is designed for all levels—from hobby lifters to advanced coaches.
Can I bring a training partner?
Yes. You’re encouraged to bring one training partner at no extra cost.
What makes specialty bars different from a straight barbell?
Each bar changes mechanics—targeting weaknesses, reducing joint stress, or improving stability in ways a straight bar cannot.
What bars will I learn to use?
Safety Squat Bar, Cambered Bar, Football (Swiss) Bar, Freak Bar, Bamboo Bar, Axle (Fat) Bar, and Bow Bar.
Will this help if I’m not a powerlifter?
Yes. Specialty bars are widely used for athletes, grapplers, and general strength due to their versatility and reduced joint stress.
Will I learn how to coach these bars?
Yes. You’ll be taught how to cue, correct, and program specialty bar work for athletes and clients.