I too have the padded Firm barbell for many years. It was the right tool when I was doing Firm workouts. However, since I started Cathe last spring I got the Troy Lite barbell system. I found that when I did certain exercises with the padded Firm barbell (bicep curls for example)I was straining in the wrist and gave myself tennis elbow, probably because my grip had to be so wide. Also, since the padding made it so squishy my grip had to be unnaturally tight and this contributed to my problems.
The Troy Lite product is wonderful. Especially nice is that the end caps of the bar are rubber as well as the weight plates so it saves your wooden floors from getting so much of a beating. If you get the full Troy Lite set you can load the barbell up to 40 pounds. However, it can handle a total of 85 pounds. Any plate that fits your Firm barbell will fit the Troy system.
I still use the Firm barbell however. I find it very good for the times I put the weight on my shoulders during leg work. So, keep your Firm barbell and use the Troy Lite too. You won't have to get a padding for the Troy if you use the Firm one. I like to keep the padded barbell loaded at 35 pounds for the leg work.
Hope this helps.
Marlene
