Barbell Sleeve Assembly

Abstract

An assembly includes a bar having a sleeve assembly connected to an end portion. The end portion has a first outer diameter, a shoulder section having a smaller diameter than the first outer diameter, a neck section having a smaller outer diameter than the shoulder section, and a head section having a larger outer diameter than the neck section, such that the neck section forms a recessed slot. The sleeve assembly includes a sleeve having a connection assembly for connecting the sleeve to the end portion, which includes a split ring having semi-annular pieces received within the recessed slot and around the neck section, a proximal washer positioned axially inward from the split ring, around the shoulder section, a distal washer positioned axially outward from the split ring, around the head section, and an annular member extending circumferentially around the split ring to retain the semi-annular pieces within the slot.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This disclosure relates to barbell sleeve assemblies for use in weightlifting barbells or other weightlifting devices, and more specifically to a barbell sleeve assembly that includes mounting features to limit or eliminate the necessity of over-insertion of the bar through the sleeve.

BACKGROUND

Numerous configurations of barbell sleeves and barbell sleeve assemblies are known in the art of weightlifting barbells, which utilize various connection techniques for connection to the end of a bar. Many such sleeves are freely rotatable with respect to the bar and may include components such as bearings and/or bushings to facilitate rotation. Typically, such barbell sleeve assemblies are connected to the distal end of the bar by over-inserting the bar through the sleeve, inserting one or more retaining and/or rotation-facilitating components onto the end of the bar and/or into the cavity of the sleeve, and then sliding the sleeve back into position with respect to the bar. However, the structure of some barbells may hinder sufficient over-insertion for connection of such retaining and/or rotation-facilitating components. For example, some specialty barbells that include additional components connected to the bar and/or the sleeve may have one or more components that block over-insertion. As another example, barbells that have a curved or otherwise non-linear bar (e.g., a curl bar) may be incapable of sufficient over-insertion into a linear sleeve. Accordingly, there is a need for a barbell sleeve assembly with a mounting structure that does not necessitate over-insertion of the distal end of the barbell into and through the sleeve.

The present disclosure is provided to address this need and other needs in existing barbell sleeves and sleeve assemblies. A full discussion of the features and advantages of the present invention is deferred to the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a barbell that includes a bar having opposed end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, and a pair of sleeve assemblies connected to the end portions of the bar, each of the sleeve assemblies including a sleeve having an axial bore receiving a respective one of the end portions of the bar and a connection assembly for connecting the sleeve to the respective one of the end portions of the bar. Each of the end portions includes a portion having a first outer diameter and a projection located at an end of each of the end portions. Each projection has a shoulder section located axially outward from the portion having the first outer diameter, each shoulder section having a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter, a neck section located axially outward from the shoulder section and having a third outer diameter that is smaller than the first and second outer diameters, and a head section located axially outward from the neck section and having a fourth outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter and larger than the third outer diameter, such that the neck section forms a recessed slot between the shoulder section and the head section. The connection assembly includes a split ring having a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece received within the recessed slot and around the neck section of the projection, where the split ring, assembled within the recessed slot, has an inner width smaller than the second outer diameter and the fourth outer diameter, a proximal washer positioned axially inward from the split ring, around the shoulder section of the projection, where the proximal washer engages an inward axial side of the split ring, and a distal washer positioned axially outward from the split ring, around the head section of the projection, where the distal washer engages an outward axial side of the split ring. The connection assembly also includes an annular member extending circumferentially around the split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces within the recessed slot, and a retaining member positioned axially outward from the distal washer and axially engaging the distal washer and an inner surface of the bore to retain the proximal washer, the distal washer, and the split ring in connection with the bar and the sleeve.

According to one aspect, the annular member is formed by an annular flange extending axially inward from the distal washer and around the split ring, such that the distal washer is a cup-shaped member defining a cavity receiving the split ring therein.

According to another aspect, the fourth outer diameter is also smaller than the second outer diameter, and an inner diameter of the distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the proximal washer.

According to a further aspect, the retaining member is a snap ring positioned in an annular groove on the inner surface of the bore.

According to yet another aspect, the second outer diameter of the shoulder section is greater than the fourth outer diameter of the head section.

According to a still further aspect, each end portion of the bar and the shoulder section, the neck section, and the head section of the projections all have circular cross sections.

According to an additional aspect, the bar further includes a center portion having an outer diameter that is greater than the first outer diameter, creating ledges between the center portion and the end portions of the bar, and the barbell further includes a plate fixed to one of the end portions of the bar and axially abutting the respective ledge.

According to another aspect, the barbell also has a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from an end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the bore. In this configuration, a distance between the end of the bar and the fixed structure may be smaller than a length of the sleeve.

According to a further aspect, the bore of each sleeve has a proximal portion extending inwardly from a proximal end of the sleeve and a distal portion extending inwardly from a distal end of the sleeve, the proximal portion having a first inner diameter adjacent to the distal portion, and the distal portion having an inner section adjacent to the proximal portion and having a second inner diameter that is larger than the first inner diameter, creating an annular abutment surface between the proximal portion and the inner section of the distal portion. In this configuration, the proximal washer abuts the annular abutment surface, such that the sleeve is axially fixed with respect to the bar by a combination of the proximal washer abutting the annular abutment surface, the retaining member axially engaging the distal washer and the inner surface of the bore, and the respective split ring axially engaging the bar within the respective recessed slot.

Additional aspects of the disclosure relate to a barbell including a bar having first and second opposed end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, a first sleeve assembly connected to the first end portion of the bar, and a second sleeve assembly connected to the second end portion of the bar. The first end portion of the bar has a first recessed slot located axially inward from a first end of the bar, and the second end portion has a second recessed slot located axially inward from a second end of the bar. The first sleeve assembly includes a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion and a first connection assembly for connecting the first sleeve to the first end portion, the first axial bore having a first annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the first axial bore. The second sleeve assembly includes a second sleeve having a second axial bore receiving the second end portion and a second connection assembly for connecting the second sleeve to the second end portion, the second axial bore having a second annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the second axial bore. The first connection assembly includes a first split ring positioned around the first end portion of the bar and including a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece both received within the first recessed slot, a first proximal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially inward from the first split ring, the first proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the first split ring and axially engaging the first annular abutment surface, a first distal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially outward from the first split ring, the first distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the first split ring, and a first annular member extending circumferentially around the first split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces of the first split ring within the first recessed slot. The second connection assembly includes a second split ring positioned around the second end portion of the bar and a third semi-annular piece and a fourth semi-annular piece both received within the second recessed slot, a second proximal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially inward from the second split ring, the second proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the second split ring and axially engaging the second annular abutment surface, a second distal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially outward from the second split ring, the second distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the second split ring, and a second annular member extending circumferentially around the second split ring and radially retaining the third and fourth semi-annular pieces of the second split ring within the second recessed slot. The first connection assembly further includes a first retaining member positioned axially outward from the first distal washer and axially engaging the first distal washer and an inner surface of the first axial bore to retain the first proximal washer, the first distal washer, and the first split ring in connection with the bar and the first sleeve, and the second connection assembly further includes a second retaining member positioned axially outward from the second distal washer and axially engaging the second distal washer and an inner surface of the second axial bore to retain the second proximal washer, the second distal washer, and the second split ring in connection with the bar and the second sleeve.

According to one aspect, the first annular member is formed by a first annular flange extending axially inward from the first distal washer and around the first split ring, such that the first distal washer is a first cup-shaped member defining a first cavity receiving the first split ring therein, and the second annular member is formed by a second annular flange extending axially inward from the second distal washer and around the second split ring, such that the second distal washer is a second cup-shaped member defining a second cavity receiving the second split ring therein.

According to another aspect, an inner diameter of the first distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the first proximal washer, and an inner diameter of the second distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the second proximal washer.

According to a further aspect, the first retaining member is a first snap ring positioned in a first annular groove on the inner surface of the first axial bore, and the second retaining member is a second snap ring positioned in a second annular groove on the inner surface of the second axial bore.

According to yet another aspect, the barbell includes a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from the first end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the first axial bore. In this configuration, a distance between the first end of the bar and the fixed structure may be smaller than a length of the first sleeve.

According to a still further aspect, the first sleeve assembly further includes a first end cap positioned within the first axial bore to cover a distal opening of the first axial bore, and the second sleeve assembly further includes a second end cap positioned within the second axial bore to cover a distal opening of the second axial bore.

Further aspects of the disclosure relate to an assembly for use in weightlifting, including a bar elongated along an axial direction and having a first end portion terminating in a first end, and a first sleeve assembly connected to the first end portion of the bar. The first end portion includes a portion having a first outer diameter, a first shoulder section extending toward the first distal end from the portion having the first outer diameter, the first shoulder section having a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter, a first neck section extending toward the first distal end from the first shoulder section and having a third outer diameter that is smaller than the first and second outer diameters, and a first head section extending axially outward from the first neck section and having a fourth outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter and larger than the third outer diameter, such that the first neck section forms a first recessed slot between the first shoulder section and the first head section. The first sleeve assembly is connected to the first end portion of the bar and includes a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion and a first connection assembly for connecting the first sleeve to the first end portion, the first axial bore having a first annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the first axial bore. The first connection assembly includes a first split ring having a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece received within the first recessed slot and around the first neck section, where the first split ring, assembled within the first recessed slot, has an inner width smaller than the second outer diameter and the fourth outer diameter, a first proximal washer positioned axially inward from the first split ring, around the first shoulder section, the first proximal washer proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the first split ring and axially engaging the first annular abutment surface, a first distal washer positioned axially outward from the first split ring, around the first head section, the first distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the split ring, and a first annular member extending circumferentially around the first split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces within the first recessed slot. The first connection assembly further includes a first retaining member positioned axially outward from the first distal washer and axially engaging the first distal washer and an inner surface of the first axial bore to retain the first proximal washer, the first distal washer, and the first split ring in connection with the bar and the first sleeve.

According to one aspect, the bar has a second end portion terminating in a second end, and the assembly also includes a second sleeve assembly connected to the second end portion of the bar. In this configuration, the assembly may be configured for use as a barbell.

According to another aspect, the first retaining member is a first snap ring positioned in a first annular groove on the inner surface of the first axial bore.

According to a further aspect, the assembly also includes a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from the first end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the first axial bore. In this configuration, a distance between the first end of the bar and the fixed structure may be smaller than a length of the first sleeve.

Still further aspects of the disclosure relate to an apparatus that includes a weightlifting device and an assembly according to aspects disclosed herein, where the bar is connected to the weightlifting device and extends outward from the weightlifting device.

Other aspects of the disclosure relate to a method of connecting a sleeve assembly to a bar using a connection assembly as disclosed herein, which includes inserting the end portion of the bar into the axial bore of the sleeve, and inserting the proximal washer, the split ring, the annular member, the distal washer, and the retaining member into the axial bore in positions and engagements described herein. The method may include not over-inserting the end portion of the bar into the axial bore of the sleeve, such as by not inserting the end portion past the distal opening of the bore, or by not inserting the end portion further than the final axial position of the bar relative to the sleeve (i.e., once the connection assembly is assembled).

Other features and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To allow for a more full understanding of the present disclosure, it will now be described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view of one embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure, in the form of a barbell;

FIG. 2 is a plan view of an end of the barbell of FIG. 1, illustrating a barbell sleeve assembly at one end of the barbell of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-section view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of one end of a bar of the barbell of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4B is a cross-section view illustrating a sleeve of the barbell sleeve assembly shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective cross-section view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, showing a first step in one embodiment of a method of assembly of the barbell of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-section view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, showing a second step in the method of assembly of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the barbell sleeve assembly after the second step shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a perspective cross-section view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, showing a third step in the method of assembly of FIGS. 5-7;

FIG. 9 is a perspective cross-section view taken along lines 3-3 of FIG. 2, showing a fourth step in the method of assembly of FIGS. 5-8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a retaining ring assembly of the barbell sleeve assembly of FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a split ring and an outer ring of the retaining ring assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an outer ring of the retaining ring assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a split ring piece of the retaining ring assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a portion of another embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure, in the form of a barbell having additional functional components;

FIG. 15 is a plan view of another embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure, in the form of a barbell;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure, in the form of a barbell having additional functional components;

FIG. 17 is a bottom perspective view of the barbell of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the barbell of FIG. 16 with components removed to show detail;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an end of the barbell of FIG. 16, illustrating a barbell sleeve assembly and additional functional components;

FIG. 20 is a bottom perspective view of the end of the barbell shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a cross-section view of the end of the barbell shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a perspective cross-section view of the end of the barbell shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a weight holder of the barbell of FIG. 16;

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of another embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure; and

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an apparatus according to aspects of the disclosure, in the form of a multi-grip barbell.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiments in many different forms, there are shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail example embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broad aspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated. In the following description of various example structures according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example devices, systems, and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other specific arrangements of parts, example devices, systems, and environments may be utilized and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

General aspects of the present disclosure relate to a barbell or another apparatus that includes structures for connecting a barbell sleeve assembly 30 to a bar 12. FIGS. 1-13 illustrate one example embodiment of a barbell 10 according to aspects of the disclosure, as well as components thereof, and FIGS. 5-9 further illustrate one embodiment of a method of assembling the barbell 10 to connect a barbell sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12. The barbell 10 in FIGS. 1-13 includes the bar or bar member 12 having two opposed end portions 14, 16 with first and second sleeve assemblies 30 positioned at the opposed end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12. The sleeve assemblies 30 each include a sleeve or sleeve member 31 having an axial bore 35 and a connection assembly 50 that connects the bar 12 to the sleeve assemblies 30 without requiring the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 to be axially over-inserted for assembly. As used in this application: the term “axial” refers to the direction along the elongated length of the bar 12 (i.e., between the two ends 14, 16) and/or the bore 35 of each sleeve 31; the term “radial” refers to any direction perpendicular to the axial direction, e.g., along any radius of a cross-section of the bar 12 taken perpendicular to the axial direction; and the terms “proximal” and “distal” are relative terms referring to structures located toward the center of the bar 12 (proximal) or toward the ends 14, 16 of the bar 12 (distal), respectively, in the axial direction. These terms are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. It is understood that the bar 12 may not have a straight cylindrical shape with a straight linear axis in some embodiments. In such an embodiment, the “axial” direction may be defined between the end portions 14, 16 and/or with reference to the bore 35 of the respective sleeve 31.

In certain embodiments, the sleeve 31 may be configured to hold one or more weights (not shown), such as weight plates having a center hole configured to receive a portion of the sleeve 31 therethrough. Removable barbell collars or other retaining devices may also be mounted on the sleeve assemblies 30 to hold the weight(s) in place. In other embodiments, the sleeve 31 may be connected to other functional structures, and may or may not be configured for holding one or more weights in such embodiments. FIG. 14 and FIGS. 16-23 illustrate examples of such embodiments, which are described elsewhere herein.

The bar 12 has end portions 14, 16 that are connected to the sleeve assemblies 30 and are received within the sleeves 31 of the sleeve assemblies 30 as described in greater detail herein, and a center portion 18 extending between the end portions 14, 16. The bar 12 is fixedly connected to a plate 20 at or proximate to each end portion 14, 16, that is spaced axially inward from the ends 24 of the bar 12. As shown in FIGS. 3-4, each end portion 14, 16 bar 12 has a first section 21 having a first width or outer diameter D1 and a second section 22 having a second width or outer diameter D2 that is smaller than the first outer diameter D1, creating a ledge 23 that forms a diameter reduction between the first and second sections 21, 22. The diameter D1 of the first section 21 in this embodiment is approximately equal to the diameter of the entire center portion 18 of the bar 12 extending between the first sections 21, but the center portion 18 may have at least a portion having a different diameter or width in other embodiments, such as a bar 12 with a more complex geometry. It is understood that the first section 21 may also be formed as an increased diameter section or an annular ridge in another embodiment. The second section 22 is inserted into a hole 19 in the plate 20 that has an inner diameter smaller than the outer diameter D1 of the first section 21, such that the ledge 23 operates as a stop for insertion of the bar 12 through the hole 19. The plate 20 is placed against the ledge 23 and then fixed to the bar 12, such as by welding or other integral joining technique. While the plate 20 is permanently fixed to the bar 12 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, the plate 20 may be removably fixed in another embodiment, such as by set screws, pass-through bolts, or other fasteners. Additionally, it is understood that the reduction in diameter between the first and second sections 21, 22 may not be necessary in this embodiment, as the plates 20 can be fixed in place without the use of the stop formed by the ledge 23.

The end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 in FIGS. 1-9 have projections 25 extending axially outward at the distal ends 24 of the bar 12. The projections 25 are configured for attachment of one or more retaining members of the connection assembly 50, and have multiple diameters or widths to accommodate such structures. Each of the projections 25 has a shoulder section 26 having a third width or diameter D3 that is smaller than the diameter D1 of the first section 21 (and smaller than the diameter D2 of the second section 22, if present), a neck section 27 having a fourth width or diameter D4 that is smaller than the diameter D3 of the shoulder section 26, and a head section 28 having a fifth width or diameter D5 that is larger than the diameter D4 of the neck section 27 and smaller than the diameter D1 of the first section 21 (and smaller than the diameter D2 of the second section 22, if present). The diameter D5 of the head section 28 in FIGS. 1-9 is also smaller than the diameter D3 of the shoulder section 26, but these diameters may be approximately equal in another embodiment. In this configuration, the neck section 27 forms an annular slot 29 between the shoulder section 26 and the head section 28. The shoulder section 26, the neck section 27, and the head section 28 of the projection 25 all have cylindrical shapes and circular cross-sections in this embodiment.

The center portion 18 of the bar 12 may further include structures to enhance gripping of the bar 12, such as knurling (not shown), and the bar 12 may be configured with or without knurling at the centermost portion of the bar 12. The end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 in one embodiment have smooth outer surfaces to reduce friction on the outer surface. The bar 12 is generally formed of metal, and in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-15, the bar 12 is formed of a single piece of steel. While the bar 12 is illustrated as a straight cylindrical member, it is understood that portions of the bar 12 may not be straight and/or cylindrical. For example, the center portion 18 of the bar 12 may include curves or bends or more complicated gripping structure, such as for use as a curl bar, a tricep bar, a deadlift bar, etc. FIG. 15 illustrates a barbell 10 configured as a curl bar, having a center portion 18 that is curved for use in a curl exercise, with end portions 14, 16 and sleeve assemblies 30 that are the same as those described herein with respect to FIGS. 1-13, except for the addition of collars 46 at the proximal ends of each sleeve assembly 30. The collar 46 has a larger width/diameter than the outer surface of the sleeve 31, so the collar 46 can act as a stop to prevent any weights mounted on the sleeve 31 from sliding off of the sleeve 31 and onto the bar 12. In the embodiment of FIG. 15, the collar 46 is integrally connected to the sleeve 31 and provided as a single piece with the sleeve 31, such that the sleeve 31 and the collar 46 rotate together with respect to the bar 12. However, in another embodiment, the collar 46 may be separately connected to the sleeve 31 and/or connected to the bar 12 (e.g., similar to the plate 20). The sleeve 31 and the collar 46 are generally formed of metal, and in FIG. 15, these parts are formed as a single piece of steel. It is understood that each sleeve assembly 30 may be provided with a collar 46 in other embodiments as well.

Each of the sleeve assemblies 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13 includes a sleeve 31 having an axial bore 35 with proximal and distal openings 32, 33 and a removable end cap 34 configured to cover the distal opening 33 of the sleeve 30. The bore 35 of each sleeve 31 is configured to receive one of the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 therein, such that the end portions 14, 16 enter the bore 35 of the respective sleeve 31 through the proximal opening 32. Each sleeve assembly 30 may also include a collar 46 as described herein and shown in FIGS. 15 and 25. Each bore 35 has a distal portion 40 extending inwardly from the distal opening 33 and a proximal portion 41 extending inwardly from the proximal end 32. The proximal portion 41 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13 has a constant inner width or diameter ID1 that is smaller than any inner width or diameter of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 (see FIG. 4B). It is understood that in other embodiments, the proximal portion 41 may have variations in diameter, such as to accommodate bushings, bearings, or other structures.

The inner surface 36 of the distal portion 40 of each bore 35 has a circumferential annular abutment surface 37 with a smaller inner width or diameter than the distal opening 33, such that the end cap 34 is inserted into the bore 31 through the distal opening 33 and abuts the abutment surface 37. An annular groove 38 is positioned distally adjacent the abutment surface 37 and receives a C-shaped snap ring 39 to secure the end cap 34 to close the distal opening 33. Each end cap 34 is a plate member formed of stamped steel and may have a cushion member (not shown) on the inner side, e.g., a single-sided rubber tape in one embodiment. The distal portion 40 of each bore 35 also includes an inner section 42 positioned at the distal end of the proximal portion 41 and having larger inner width or diameter ID2 than the proximal portion 41 (see FIG. 4B). The step change in diameter from the proximal bore portion 41 to the inner section 42 creates an annular abutment surface 43 forming the inner end of the distal portion 40. The inner section 42 also has an annular groove 44 in the inner surface 36 of the bore 35. The distal portion 40 of each bore 35 also includes an outer section 45 positioned distally outward from the inner section 42 and having an inner width or diameter ID3 that is larger than the inner diameters ID1, ID2 of the proximal portion 41 and the inner section 42 (see FIG. 4B). The outer section 45 of the bore 35 is positioned at the outer/distal end of the inner section 42 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-13, and the change in inner diameters ID2, ID3 between the inner and outer sections 42, 45 forms the abutment surface 37 for the end cap 34. In another embodiment, the bore 35 may have another section between the inner and outer sections 42, 45 that has an inner width or diameter that is greater than that of the inner section 42 but smaller than that of the outer section 45, so as to still create the abutment surface 37. The outer section 45 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 extends to the distal opening 33 in this embodiment.

The barbell 10 includes two connection assemblies 50 that connect each sleeve assembly 30 to one of the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12. Each connection assembly 50 includes a retaining ring assembly 51 received in the inner section 42 and a C-shaped snap ring 52 or other retaining member for holding the retaining ring assembly 51 within the bore 35. The retaining ring assembly 51 is illustrated in FIG. 10 and includes a proximal washer 53, a distal washer 54, and a central washer 55 located between the proximal washer 53 and the distal washer 54. The central washer 55 and the distal washer 54 are illustrated together in FIG. 11, and the distal washer 54 is illustrated alone in FIG. 12. The proximal washer 53 abuts the abutment surface 43 and extends around the shoulder section 26 of the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. The central washer 55 is received in the annular slot 29 and extends around the neck portion 27 of the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12, and abuts the outer surface of the proximal washer 53. The central washer 55 is in the form of a split ring that includes two semi-annular split ring pieces 56 that each forms an arc of approximately 180°, to enable the central washer 55 to pass by the larger-diameter head portion 28 of the bar 12 and to engage the end surfaces of the head portion 28 and the shoulder portion 26 within the slot 29. One split ring piece 56 is illustrated alone in FIG. 13. The central washer 55 may be a different type of variable-diameter washer in another embodiment, such as a C-shaped retaining ring. The distal washer 54 is in the form of a cup-shaped washer that has an annular member 59 extending circumferentially around the central washer 55 and an annular flange 57 extending inward from the annular member 59 around the distal end of the distal washer 54 to form a cavity 58. The annular member 59 of the distal washer 54 extends around the outside of the central washer 55 and between the central washer 55 and the inner surface 36 of the bore 35 to radially hold the split ring pieces 56 within the slot 29. The proximal end of the distal washer 54 axially abuts the proximal washer 53, and the flange 57 axially abuts the central washer 55. In this configuration, the central washer 55 is received within the cavity 58 of the distal washer 54 and is radially and axially restrained by the combination of the proximal washer 53 and the distal washer 54. The annular member 59 is formed by an annular flange extending axially inward from the distal washer 54 and around the central washer 55. In another embodiment, the annular member 59 may be separate from the distal washer 54. In one example embodiment, the distal washer 54 may be provided as two pieces, i.e., a first piece (i.e., the annular member 59) with a larger inner diameter to extend radially around the central washer 55 and a second piece (the distal washer 54 having a flat shape similar to the proximal washer 54) with a smaller inner diameter to axially abut the central washer 55. The snap ring 52 is received in the annular groove 44 in the inner section 42 of the distal portion 40 of the bore 35 and axially abuts the distal end of the distal washer 54 to retain the distal washer 54 (and the entire retaining ring assembly 51) within the bore 35.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, the axial engagement between the middle washer 55 and the surfaces of the slot 29, i.e., the distal end of the shoulder portion 26 and the proximal end of the head portion 28, axially fixes the sleeve assembly 30 with respect to the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. Additionally, the radial engagement between the inner surface 36 of the bore 35 and the retaining ring assembly 51 and the second section 22 of the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 radially fixes the sleeve assembly 30 with respect to the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. The sleeve 31 is not rotationally fixed with respect to the bar 12, which permits the sleeve 31 to rotate freely with respect to the bar 12. It is understood that the sleeve assembly 30 may include one or more bearings or bushings (not shown) between the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 (e.g., the outer surface of the second sections 22) and the inner surface 36 of the bore 35, between the components of the connection assembly 50 (e.g., the proximal and distal washers 53, 54) and the inner surface 36 of the bore 35, and/or between the end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12 and the components of the connection assembly 50, to facilitate smoother rotation of the sleeve 31 with respect to the bar 12.

FIGS. 5-9 illustrate one embodiment of a method of assembly of the barbell 10 of FIGS. 1-13, by connecting the sleeve assembly 30 to the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. Before connecting the sleeve assemblies 30, the bar 12 is assembled by welding or otherwise connecting the plates 20 to the bar 12. The end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 is then inserted into the proximal opening 32 of the bore 35 and through the bore 35 until the proximal end of the sleeve 31 abuts the plate 20 and the distal end 24 of the bar 12 extends into the distal portion 40 of the bore 35, as shown in FIG. 5. In this position, the abutment surface 43 of the sleeve 31 and the distal end of the second section 22 of the bar 12 are flush with each other, and no portion of the bar 12 projects through the distal opening 33 of the bore 35. The proximal washer 53 is then inserted through the distal opening 33 over the shoulder portion 26 of the bar 12, and the middle washer 55 is inserted into the slot 29 of the bar by inserting the split ring pieces 56 through the distal opening 33 and into the slot 29, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. The distal washer 54 is then inserted through the distal opening 33 into position around the middle washer 55 and a portion of the head portion 28 of the bar 12, and the snap ring 52 is inserted into the annular groove 44, as shown in FIG. 8. The snap ring 52 thereby holds the retaining ring assembly 51 in the bore 35 and connects the sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12. The cap 34 is then inserted into the outer section 45 of the distal portion 40 of the bar 12 to abut the abutment surface 37, and the snap ring 39 is inserted into the annular groove 38 to hold the cap 34 in the bore 35 and cover the distal opening 33, as shown in FIG. 9. The same method is repeated for mounting the other sleeve assembly 30 to the opposite end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12. Removing the sleeve assemblies 30 is accomplished by performing the method in the reverse order.

FIG. 14 illustrates another embodiment of a barbell 10, where the sleeve 31 is connected to additional functional structures. The barbell 10 in the embodiment of FIG. 14 uses the same structures for connecting the barbell sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12 as disclosed herein and illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, and may be assembled using the same method disclosed herein and illustrated in FIGS. 5-9 to connect the barbell sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12. The sleeve 31 in this embodiment may or may not be configured for holding one or more weights in this embodiment, in addition to the connection with the functional structure. In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the sleeve assembly 30 has an extension 60 connected to the sleeve 31, and the plate 20 has an extension 61 that is releasably and/or adjustably fixable with respect to the extension 60 of the sleeve assembly 30 to rotationally lock the sleeve assembly 30 with respect to the plate 20. A pin 62 is used in this embodiment to rotationally fix the extensions 60, 61 together by extending through apertures 63, 64 in the extensions 60, 61. In this embodiment, a removable pin 62 is illustrated, but a retractable pin (e.g., a pop pin) or other fastening member may be used in a different embodiment. Additionally, one or both of the extensions 60, 61 may include multiple apertures 63, 64, such that the sleeve assembly 30 may be locked in multiple different rotational positions with respect to the plate 20. Other bars 12 and sleeve assemblies 30 with different functional structures may be used in other embodiments.

FIGS. 16-23 illustrate another embodiment of a barbell 10 with a sleeve assembly 30 in which the sleeve 31 is connected to additional functional structures, similarly to the embodiment of FIG. 14. The barbell 10 in the embodiment of FIGS. 16-23 uses the same structures for connecting the barbell sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12 as disclosed herein and illustrated in FIGS. 1-13, and may be assembled using the same method disclosed herein and illustrated in FIGS. 5-9 to connect the barbell sleeve assembly 30 to the bar 12. It is understood that these components and method steps already described may not be described herein in complete detail or referenced in FIGS. 16-23 for the sake of brevity. It is also understood that components disclosed herein with respect to other embodiments may be indicated by the same reference numbers in FIGS. 16-23.

The bar 12 of the barbell 10 in FIGS. 16-23 two opposed end portions 14, 16 with first and second sleeve assemblies 30 positioned at the opposed end portions 14, 16 of the bar 12. Additionally, the bar 12 in this embodiment is configured as a squat bar, and has two handles 65 extending transversely outward from the bar 12, proximate the longitudinal center of the bar 12, as well as a pad 66 that covers a portion of the length of the bar 12 and also a portion of each of the handles 65. In the embodiment of FIGS. 16-23, the bar 12 is fixedly connected to plates 20 at or proximate to the end portions 14, 16, that are spaced axially inward from the ends 24 of the bar 12. Each plate 20 in this embodiment has an extension 61 extending radially outward from the bar 12. Additionally, each sleeve assembly 30 in the embodiment of FIGS. 16-23 has a locking plate 67 fixed to the sleeve 31 adjacent to the plate 20 and an arm 68 fixed to the sleeve 31 between the locking plate 67 and the distal end of the sleeve 31. The locking plate 67, being fixed to the sleeve 31, is rotatable with respect to the fixed plate 20, and a pin 62 is configured for releasably locking the locking plate 67 to the extension 61 of the plate 20 in a plurality of different rotational positions. In the embodiment illustrated, the locking plate 67 is a circular plate with a plurality of apertures 63 arranged along a semi-annular path, such that the locking plate 67 may be rotated to place any of the apertures 63 in alignment with an aperture 64 extending through the extension 61 of the plate 20, for receiving the pin 62.

The pin 62 in the embodiment of FIGS. 16-23 is configured as a retractable pop pin which, as shown in FIGS. 21-22, includes an engagement part 69 configured to engage the apertures 63 in the locking plate 67, an enlarged pin head 70 for gripping by the user for retracting the pin 62, and a pin shaft 71 extending from the pin head 70 to the engagement part 69. The pin 62 is mounted in a housing 72 that is mounted within the aperture 64 in the plate 20, and the engagement part 69 is retractable at least partially into the housing 72 by exerting a rearward force on the pin head 70. In other words, the pin 62 is moveable between an extended position, where the engagement part 69 is received in one of the apertures 63 and engages the locking plate 67, and a retracted position, where the engagement part 69 is retracted from the aperture 63, and the locking plate 67 can rotate freely with respect to the plate 20. A biasing spring (not shown) may be positioned to engage the engagement part 69 and an inner surface of the housing 72 to bias the pin 62 toward the extended position, e.g., a coil spring wrapped around the pin shaft 71 within the housing 72.

The arm 68 in embodiment extends outward from the sleeve 31 and has a plurality of slots 73 for receiving a weight holder 74 (e.g., a loadable sleeve) configured for holding one or more free weights (e.g., weight plates). The arm 68 in the embodiment of FIGS. 16-23 has four slots 73 positioned along the arm 68 at different radial distances from the sleeve 31. Each of the slots 73 in this configuration is formed by enlarged portions of two opposed, radially extending openings 75 on opposite sides of the arm 68. In the embodiment shown, each arm 68 has two opposed inner and outer side plates 76, 77, each having an opening 75 defining four slots 73, with a central shroud 78 extending between the side plates 76, 77 and wrapping around the end of the arm 68. The inner side plates 76 (which are located axially inward with respect to the outer side plates 77) in FIGS. 16-23 are continuous extensions of the locking plates 67. Additionally, the bar 12 may include a locking structure for locking the weight holders 74 within the slots 73, such as a pin locking member. The embodiment of FIGS. 16-23 uses a removable pin 79 that extends through holes 80 in both opposed sides of the shroud 78. The arm 68 in this embodiment has a plurality of holes 80 radially spaced along the arm 68 to correspond to the slots 73. The weight holder 74 also has a hole 81 therethrough (see FIG. 23), such that the removable pin 79 extends through both holes 80 in the arm 68 and through the hole 81 in the weight holder 74. This permits the weight holder 74 to be releasably fixed to the arm 68 in a plurality of different positions at different radial distances from the sleeve 31. In another embodiment, a different type of pin 79 may be used, such as a retractable pin (e.g., a pop pin) or other type of pin or other fastener.

The weight holder 74 is shown in greater detail in FIGS. 19-20 and 23, and has a shaft 83 with a flange 84 mounted on one end, such that the weight holder 74 is inserted into the slots 68 by inserting the distal end of the shaft 83 through the slot 68 so the flange 84 abuts the inner plate 76. The connection between the flange 84 and the shaft 83 is made by engagement of fingers 85 extending radially inward on the flange 84 with recesses 86 formed at the proximal end of the shaft 83, and the connection may be reinforced by welding, brazing, adhesive or other integral joining technique. When the flange 84 abuts the inner plate 76, the hole 81 of the weight holder 74 is generally aligned with the holes 81 in the arm 68. The pin 79 in this embodiment is shown in more detail in FIGS. 19-20 and is in the form of a detent pin, with an enlarged head 87 and a detent 88 (e.g., a spring loaded ball bearing) near the opposite end, configured to retain the pin 79 within the holes 81. The adjustment of the weight holder 74 along the arm 68 and the adjustment of the rotational angle of the locking plate 67 (and therefore the arm 68 as well) permits the bar 12 to be adjusted between multiple different angular/balancing positions, as well as different “difficulty” positions that may require more or less effort from the user.

As described herein, the various embodiments of the connection assembly 50 disclosed herein connects the bar 12 to the sleeve assemblies 30 without requiring the end portion 14, 16 of the bar 12 to be axially over-inserted for assembly. This is particularly useful in a configuration where axial over-insertion is impossible or would greatly disrupt the manufacturing and assembly processes. For example, over-insertion may be impossible in a situation where the bar has a fixed structure that extends far enough radially outward (relative to the central axis of the bar 12), or otherwise creates a large enough radial dimension, that the fixed structure and the associated portion of the bar 12 cannot pass through the bore 35. This can occur, as one example, when the distance between the fixed structure and the end 24 of the bar 12 is smaller than the axial length of the sleeve 31 and/or the axial length of the bore 35. For example, such a fixed structure may include a component that is permanently connected to the bar 12 (e.g., via an integral joining technique), such as the plates 20 in the embodiments of FIG. 14 and FIGS. 16-23. In one embodiment, the bar 12 itself may be part of another apparatus, such as a handle assembly, in which the entire length of the bar 12 itself is smaller than the length of the sleeve 31. As another example, such a fixed structure may form part of the bar, such as the curves or bends in the bar 12 in the embodiment of FIG. 15. Examples of barbells and other apparatuses in which over-insertion of the bar 12 through the bore 35 is difficult or impossible may include: curl bars (e.g., FIG. 15) or other barbells having curved grips; barbells with adjustable components (e.g., FIGS. 14 and 16-23); camber bars or other barbells having an entire center portion that is curved; safety squat bars; multi-grip bars, trap bars, or other barbells having a complex central gripping structure with sleeves mounted on both ends; various gripping handles or other weightlifting apparatuses having a sleeve connected thereto, or a plate-loadable weight post that may be replaced by a sleeve assembly as disclosed herein; etc.

FIG. 24 illustrates an embodiment of an apparatus 11 that includes a bar 12 having an end portion 16 with a sleeve assembly 30 as disclosed herein mounted on the end portion 16. The bar 12 is connected to a weightlifting device 13, such as a weightlifting handle (e.g., for use with an articulating arm or other moveable implement), a moveable weight carriage, or other weightlifting device that may use a barbell sleeve or a weight post for weight plate loading, and extends outward from the device 13. FIG. 25 shows an example of an apparatus 11 in the form of a multi-grip barbell, having a weightlifting device 13 in the form of a barbell grip assembly, with two bars 12 connected to opposite ends of the device 13 and extending outward from the device 13. The bars 12 in this embodiment are removably connected to the device 13 by a threaded connection, but may be permanently connected in another embodiment, e.g., by welding. Each of the bars 12 has an end portion 14, 16, with a sleeve assembly 30 as disclosed herein mounted on the respective end portion 14, 16. As also disclosed herein, a device 13 such as in FIG. 25 may be in the form of another type of specialty barbell grip assembly, such as a trap bar. In the embodiments of FIGS. 24 and 25, the or each sleeve 31 has a collar 46 connected thereto and provided as a single piece with the sleeve 31, such that the sleeve 31 and the collar 46 rotate together with respect to the bar 12. However, in another embodiment, the collar 46 may be separately connected to the sleeve 31 and/or connected to the bar 12 (e.g., similar to the plate 20).

Various embodiments of barbells and other apparatuses, assemblies, barbell sleeve assemblies, and retaining and connection assemblies for the same, as well as methods of assembly, have been described herein, which include various components and features. In other embodiments, the barbells and other apparatuses, assemblies, barbell sleeve assemblies, retaining and connection assemblies, and methods may be provided with any combination of such components and features. It is also understood that in other embodiments, the various devices, components, and features of the barbells, assemblies, barbell sleeve assemblies, retaining and connection assemblies, and methods described herein may be constructed with similar structural and functional elements having different configurations, including different ornamental appearances.

The barbells and other apparatuses, assemblies, barbell sleeve assemblies, retaining and connection assemblies, and methods disclosed herein provide numerous benefits and advantages over existing structures. For example, the structures and features disclosed herein permit connection of a sleeve assembly to a bar while limiting or eliminating the necessity of over-insertion of the end of the barbell through the sleeve. As another example, the structures and features disclosed herein provide a simple method of assembly that creates a secure connection and enables free rotation of the sleeve with respect to the bar. As a further example, the connecting structures described herein provide a simple and durable connection structure that holds the sleeve to the bar securely and does not create excessive noise when the sleeve is rotated or the barbell is dropped. These benefits and advantages enable a wider variety of bars and functional structures to be used in connection with a barbell having a barbell sleeve mounted on an end thereof. Further benefits and advantages are recognizable to those skilled in the art.

Several alternative embodiments and examples have been described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments, and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with the other embodiments disclosed herein. It is understood that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the details given herein. The terms “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “rear,” “proximal,” “distal,” and the like, as used herein, are intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the embodiments in any way. Nothing in this specification should be construed as requiring a specific three dimensional orientation of structures in order to fall within the scope of this invention, unless explicitly specified by the claims. When used in description of a method or process, the term “providing” (or variations thereof) as used herein means generally making an article available for further actions, and does not imply that the entity “providing” the article manufactured, assembled, or otherwise produced the article. The term “approximately” as used herein implies a variation of up to 10% of the nominal value modified by such term, or up to 10% of a midpoint value of a range modified by such term. “Integral joining technique,” as used herein, means a technique for joining two pieces so that the two pieces effectively become a single, integral piece, including, but not limited to, irreversible joining techniques such as welding, brazing, soldering, or the like, where separation of the joined pieces cannot be accomplished without structural damage thereto. Additionally, the term “plurality,” as used herein, indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number. Accordingly, while the specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the invention and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying claims.

Claims

1. A barbell comprising: a bar having opposed end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, each of the end portions comprising a portion having a first outer diameter and a projection located at an end of each of the end portions, each projection having a shoulder section located axially outward from the portion having the first outer diameter, each shoulder section having a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter, a neck section located axially outward from the shoulder section and having a third outer diameter that is smaller than the first and second outer diameters, and a head section located axially outward from the neck section and having a fourth outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter and larger than the third outer diameter, such that the neck section forms a recessed slot between the shoulder section and the head section; anda pair of sleeve assemblies connected to the end portions of the bar, each of the sleeve assemblies comprising a sleeve having an axial bore receiving a respective one of the end portions of the bar and a connection assembly for connecting the sleeve to the respective one of the end portions of the bar, the connection assembly comprising: a split ring comprising a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece received within the recessed slot and around the neck section of the projection, wherein the split ring, assembled within the recessed slot, has an inner width smaller than the second outer diameter and the fourth outer diameter;a proximal washer positioned axially inward from the split ring, around the shoulder section of the projection, the proximal washer engaging an inward axial side of the split ring;a distal washer positioned axially outward from the split ring, around the head section of the projection, the distal washer engaging an outward axial side of the split ring;an annular member extending circumferentially around the split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces within the recessed slot; anda retaining member positioned axially outward from the distal washer and axially engaging the distal washer and an inner surface of the bore to retain the proximal washer, the distal washer, and the split ring in connection with the bar and the sleeve.

2. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the annular member is formed by an annular flange extending axially inward from the distal washer and around the split ring, such that the distal washer is a cup-shaped member defining a cavity receiving the split ring therein.

3. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the fourth outer diameter is also smaller than the second outer diameter, and an inner diameter of the distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the proximal washer.

4. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the retaining member is a snap ring positioned in an annular groove on the inner surface of the bore.

5. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the second outer diameter of the shoulder section is greater than the fourth outer diameter of the head section.

6. The barbell of claim 1, wherein each end portion of the bar and the shoulder section, the neck section, and the head section of the projections all have circular cross sections.

7. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the bar further comprises a center portion having an outer diameter that is greater than the first outer diameter, creating ledges between the center portion and the end portions of the bar, wherein the barbell further comprises a plate fixed to one of the end portions of the bar and axially abutting the respective ledge.

8. The barbell of claim 1, further comprising: a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from an end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the bore, wherein a distance between the end of the bar and the fixed structure is smaller than a length of the sleeve.

9. The barbell of claim 1, wherein the bore of each sleeve has a proximal portion extending inwardly from a proximal end of the sleeve and a distal portion extending inwardly from a distal end of the sleeve, the proximal portion having a first inner diameter adjacent to the distal portion, and the distal portion having an inner section adjacent to the proximal portion and having a second inner diameter that is larger than the first inner diameter, creating an annular abutment surface between the proximal portion and the inner section of the distal portion, and wherein the proximal washer abuts the annular abutment surface, such that the sleeve is axially fixed with respect to the bar by a combination of the proximal washer abutting the annular abutment surface, the retaining member axially engaging the distal washer and the inner surface of the bore, and the respective split ring axially engaging the bar within the respective recessed slot.

10. A barbell comprising: a bar having first and second opposed end portions spaced from each other along an axial direction, the first end portion having a first recessed slot located axially inward from a first end of the bar, and the second end portion having a second recessed slot located axially inward from a second end of the bar; anda first sleeve assembly connected to the first end portion of the bar and comprising a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion and a first connection assembly for connecting the first sleeve to the first end portion, the first axial bore having a first annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the first axial bore, the first connection assembly comprising: a first split ring positioned around the first end portion of the bar and comprising a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece both received within the first recessed slot;a first proximal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially inward from the first split ring, the first proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the first split ring and axially engaging the first annular abutment surface;a first distal washer positioned around the first end portion of the bar and axially outward from the first split ring, the first distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the first split ring;a first annular member extending circumferentially around the first split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces of the first split ring within the first recessed slot; anda first retaining member positioned axially outward from the first distal washer and axially engaging the first distal washer and an inner surface of the first axial bore to retain the first proximal washer, the first distal washer, and the first split ring in connection with the bar and the first sleeve; anda second sleeve assembly connected to the second end portion of the bar and comprising a second sleeve having a second axial bore receiving the second end portion and a second connection assembly for connecting the second sleeve to the second end portion, the second axial bore having a second annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the second axial bore, the second connection assembly comprising: a second split ring positioned around the second end portion of the bar and comprising a third semi-annular piece and a fourth semi-annular piece both received within the second recessed slot;a second proximal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially inward from the second split ring, the second proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the second split ring and axially engaging the second annular abutment surface;a second distal washer positioned around the second end portion of the bar and axially outward from the second split ring, the second distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the second split ring;a second annular member extending circumferentially around the second split ring and radially retaining the third and fourth semi-annular pieces of the second split ring within the second recessed slot; anda second retaining member positioned axially outward from the second distal washer and axially engaging the second distal washer and an inner surface of the second axial bore to retain the second proximal washer, the second distal washer, and the second split ring in connection with the bar and the second sleeve.

11. The barbell of claim 10, wherein the first annular member is formed by a first annular flange extending axially inward from the first distal washer and around the first split ring, such that the first distal washer is a first cup-shaped member defining a first cavity receiving the first split ring therein, and the second annular member is formed by a second annular flange extending axially inward from the second distal washer and around the second split ring, such that the second distal washer is a second cup-shaped member defining a second cavity receiving the second split ring therein.

12. The barbell of claim 10, wherein an inner diameter of the first distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the first proximal washer, and an inner diameter of the second distal washer is smaller than an inner diameter of the second proximal washer.

13. The barbell of claim 10, wherein the first retaining member is a first snap ring positioned in a first annular groove on the inner surface of the first axial bore, and the second retaining member is a second snap ring positioned in a second annular groove on the inner surface of the second axial bore.

14. The barbell of claim 10, further comprising: a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from the first end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the first axial bore, wherein a distance between the first end of the bar and the fixed structure is smaller than a length of the first sleeve.

15. The barbell of claim 10, wherein the first sleeve assembly further comprises a first end cap positioned within the first axial bore to cover a distal opening of the first axial bore, and the second sleeve assembly further comprises a second end cap positioned within the second axial bore to cover a distal opening of the second axial bore.

16. An assembly for use in weightlifting, comprising: a bar elongated along an axial direction and having a first end portion terminating in a first end, the first end portion comprising a portion having a first outer diameter, a first shoulder section extending toward the first distal end from the portion having the first outer diameter, the first shoulder section having a second outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter, a first neck section extending toward the first distal end from the first shoulder section and having a third outer diameter that is smaller than the first and second outer diameters, and a first head section extending axially outward from the first neck section and having a fourth outer diameter that is smaller than the first outer diameter and larger than the third outer diameter, such that the first neck section forms a first recessed slot between the first shoulder section and the first head section; anda first sleeve assembly connected to the first end portion of the bar and comprising a first sleeve having a first axial bore receiving the first end portion and a first connection assembly for connecting the first sleeve to the first end portion, the first axial bore having a first annular abutment surface formed by a change in inner diameter of the first axial bore, the first connection assembly comprising: a first split ring comprising a first semi-annular piece and a second semi-annular piece received within the first recessed slot and around the first neck section, wherein the first split ring, assembled within the first recessed slot, has an inner width smaller than the second outer diameter and the fourth outer diameter;a first proximal washer positioned axially inward from the first split ring, around the first shoulder section, the first proximal washer proximal washer axially engaging an inward axial side of the first split ring and axially engaging the first annular abutment surface;a first distal washer positioned axially outward from the first split ring, around the first head section, the first distal washer axially engaging an outward axial side of the split ring;a first annular member extending circumferentially around the first split ring and radially retaining the first and second semi-annular pieces within the first recessed slot; anda first retaining member positioned axially outward from the first distal washer and axially engaging the first distal washer and an inner surface of the first axial bore to retain the first proximal washer, the first distal washer, and the first split ring in connection with the bar and the first sleeve.

17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the bar has a second end portion terminating in a second end, further comprising a second sleeve assembly connected to the second end portion of the bar, wherein the assembly is configured for use as a barbell.

18. The assembly of claim 16, wherein the first retaining member is a first snap ring positioned in a first annular groove on the inner surface of the first axial bore.

19. The assembly of claim 16, further comprising: a fixed structure forming a part of the bar or fixedly joined to the bar, the fixed structure located axially inward from the first end of the bar and creating a radial dimension too large for the fixed structure and a portion of the bar associated with the fixed structure to pass through the first axial bore, wherein a distance between the first end of the bar and the fixed structure is smaller than a length of the first sleeve.

20. An apparatus comprising a weightlifting device and the assembly of claim 16, wherein the bar is connected to the weightlifting device and extends outward from the weightlifting device.