Abstract

A barbell weight lifting apparatus comprising a plurality of spaced weights stored on spaced apart support trays and arranged in two horizontal rows on a frame, the weights each having an identically positioned horizontal slot therein and a vertically disposed pin mounted in therein for securing the weights to a lifting bar. The lifting bar has a rotatable collar on each end with spaced circumferential grooves cut therein in positions to be in line with the pins in the weights when the lifting bar is positioned in the slots. The lifting bar has round wheels attached to the ends thereof which rest in a guide channel on each end of the frame and cooperate with a pair of spaced alignment bar mounted on the frame for control of the motion of the lifting bar to maintain the lifting bar in proper alignment with the frame and the weights during weight loading and unloading procedures. Weights not selected for attachment to the lifting bar are prevented from movement off the frame by a horizontal safety bar. Two alternate embodiments of the weights used and the associated securing mechanism are provided. One weight utilizes a side-mounted pivotal lever for securing the weight to the bar. The rearward end of the lever is formed as a latch to engage the weight frame. The second alternate weight employs a side-mounted vertically slidable plate for a locking mechanism to attach the weight to the bar.