09/26/2026
Those bars hanging off the rig aren’t just there for looks. 👀
Safety bars, also called spotter arms or safety pins, are an important piece of equipment designed to add an extra layer of safety when lifting—especially during movements like squats and bench press.
They’re positioned at an appropriate height to help catch the bar if you can’t complete a rep, allowing you to train with more confidence without relying solely on a spotter.
But safety bars can also be used creatively beyond catching a failed rep. Depending on the setup, they can help with:

• Rack pulls and partial-range deadlifts
• Elevated or modified movements
• Setting up different barbell variations
• Creating starting points or limitations for specific exercises
• Practicing movement patterns with controlled range of motion
The key is knowing how to set them up correctly for the movement you’re performing. A safety bar that’s too high or too low may not provide the intended protection or training effect.
That’s where coaching matters. At Ethos, our coaches help you understand how to use the equipment, where to position it, and how to choose the right setup for your body and your goals.
Because getting stronger is important—but training safely and confidently is part of getting stronger, too.