Abstract: The invention herein provides a “thick bar” barbell that permits free rotation of weight plates during weightlifting movements, weighs less than 50 lbs. and accommodates standard Olympic weight plates. Briefly, the invention comprising a generally cylindrical bar of generally annular cross-section having an outer diameter of between approximately 1.5 inches and 3.5 inches and extending longitudinally between a pair of end regions. A rod member is securely inserted within each end region of the bar. Each rod member has an outer segment extending longitudinally outward beyond the respective end region of the bar, the segment having an O.D. less than the O.D. of the bar. Generally cylindrical sleeves are mounted on the outer segments of the rod members for rotation thereabout the bar's longitudinal axis, with a bushing between each of the rod segments and the respective sleeve. The outer diameter of each sleeve is sized to accommodate the 50 mm hole found in standard Olympic weight plates.