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Hex Bar vs. Straight Bar Good Mornings: Which is Right for You?

December 02, 2023 3 min read

Hex Bar vs. Straight Bar Good Mornings: Which is Right for You?

Good mornings are a great way to strengthen your hamstrings and glutes while also developing core stability. But when it comes to choosing the right type of barbell for the exercise, you may be wondering which one is best: the hex bar or the straight bar?

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The hex bar, also known as the trap bar, is a unique barbell shape with two handles sticking out from its center. This different shape allows you to stand in the middle of the barbell, gripping the two handles instead of standing to the side and gripping the bar. The straight bar, on the other hand, is a more traditional barbell shape, with a single handle along its length.

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Both of these bars can be used for good mornings, but they each offer different benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of using a hex bar vs. a straight bar for good mornings, and help you determine which is the best choice for you.

Hex Bar Good Mornings

Hex bar good mornings are a great option for those looking to target their hamstrings and glutes without putting too much strain on their lower back. Since the weight is centered between your legs, it’s easier to maintain proper posture throughout the exercise.

The hex bar also offers some biomechanical advantages over the straight bar. When performing good mornings with the hex bar, your arms and shoulders are kept in a neutral position, meaning your elbows don’t have to travel behind your body as far as they would with the straight bar. This reduces the stress placed on your shoulders, allowing you to perform the exercise more comfortably.

Additionally, the hex bar allows you to keep your torso more upright during good mornings. This helps reduce the risk of hyperextending your lower back, making it a safer exercise for those with existing back issues.

Straight Bar Good Mornings

Straight bar good mornings are a popular choice among those looking to build strength and size in the lower body. Since the weight is held away from the body, you have to use more core stability to maintain proper form throughout the exercise.

The stance you use when performing straight bar good mornings can also help target different muscles. For example, using a wider stance will emphasize the glutes and outer thighs, while using a narrower stance will target the inner thighs and adductors.

Finally, since the barbell is held away from your body, you can use a heavier load than with the hex bar. This makes straight bar good mornings a great option for those looking to increase their overall strength.

Which Is Right for You?

Ultimately, both the hex bar and the straight bar can be used for good mornings, but each one offers different benefits and drawbacks. If you’re looking for an exercise that’s easy on the lower back and shoulders, then the hex bar is the way to go. However, if you’re looking to increase your overall strength and target specific muscles, then the straight bar is the better option.

No matter which barbell you choose, make sure to always practice proper form and technique. A good morning should involve a controlled lowering of the barbell, followed by a strong drive through the hips and heels to return to the starting position. This will ensure that you get the most out of your workout and reduce the risk of injury.

When it comes to choosing the right barbell for good mornings, there is no “right” answer. Both the hex bar and the straight bar have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh all of your options before making a decision. Whichever barbell you choose, just make sure to practice proper form and use caution when increasing the weight.