Hey I just wanted to say this video was so incredibly helpful for me. There are a ton of “reviews” about the transformer bar but none of them go over actual proper use. As a home gym user who is working out alone, this video gave me everything I needed to use the bar properly. With the proper positioning/bracing, the low bar, front squat felt really quite close to the referenced lifts. Thank you so much!!! I really don’t make a habit of throwing money around but this video was incredibly helpful and probably prevented some future injury. Thanks again brother!!
Most reviews extensively focus on the product, on the WHAT. Your review after quickly covering the products' features, shows you HOW to use the product. As if this was not enough, you always include safety tips, this adds a WISE dimension to your work. You are the shooting star in the cybernight of powerlifting product and how-to.
Awesome breakdown of all the movements just received mine. I heard you say you were going to do an extended video for the transformation bar movements any idea how soon? Just looking to see what else can be done with this bar. Fyi you are the only person that has gone this in-depth with information on the transformation bar kabuki strength only shows hand placement only. Kudos to you for putting this together.
Thank you! I enjoy the bar and putting these videos together. It’s been a project I’m working on for each setting but at this point I’m not prepared to record the video.
As a beginner who owns this bar, this video is ESSENTIAL! I had questions a while back that this video covers amazingly! I’m super excited that you’re doing a follow up with different exercises! I love this specialty bar but have to say my fav so far is my Eleiko oppen trap bar 🤘🏽
I've got one on order. I was wondering how much I'd use all of the settings. This demo answered all of my questions, and I can't wait to use it. This is the video that Kabuki should have made explaining their product. Great job!
This video is the best! I had my transformer bar for a few months before I found this video and it helped tremendously! I can’t imagine my leg day without my transformer bar. Thing is worth it’s weight in gold. Any eta on that second video about it?
I really should prioritize it. At this point in time, I haven’t even begun working the outline for it. It’s been requested a few times now and I need to just do it.
I had my first training session today with the Kabuki Bar. I had it set up in the low bar position. I found that when I kept my elbows pinned like you recommend the handles would cut my depth short due to hitting my thighs/knees. I had to flare my elbows slightly in order to avoid the handles and hit proper depth. I think you mentioned the elbow flair when you were discussing the front squat variation.
@@TheKurtlocker It's not that the information caused any issue at all. I just think the pinning the elbows to the side doesn't necessarily work with this bar. Uness you grip higher on the handles and or remove them you're going to have to slightly flare the elbows out at the bottom. I also noticed it somewhat helps with bringing the handles forward during my descent in the low bar position as well.
Might be a silly question, but would you recommend this kind of bar for taller lifters with long femurs who struggle squating? Redistributing where the weight is sounds like it could be a game changer for tall lifters.
Fantastic review! Thank you lots for putting the time and effort into this comprehensive video. I am mainly interested in buying this bar to do good mornings since this exercise with the straight barbell is killing my wrists. My question is, when you put the bar in the hinge mode does it truly feel like the limiting factor in your GM's is your hamstrings? I have tried SSB bars for GMs lots of times but its always my lower back and erectors that give out way before my hammies. Thanks!
That is a solid question. I definitely feel it in my hamstrings but I’d argue that the militant factor in that movement will likely be the erectors regardless of bar.
I personally find that it feel pretty similar as long as you keep the bar in the correct position. If you allow the handles to pull away or push in, the load shifts.
Amazing review like always keep up the good work ! Mine just been shipped im looking to use it for rehab .. witch setting would you recommend if i have lombar injury ( herniated disc ) ? I know you aint a doctor but your input on this could help me alot , usualy low bar feels better then high bar but witch setting would bring the less stress on the lower back ? Thank you !!
I personally think that it’s less of which setting and more of a technique thing. I have some severe disk herniation and for me focusing on a good back position regardless of setting is the best. Sorry that I don’t have an easy answer to this. I highly recommend finding a coach that can help with pain free squatting.
Thanks for the great video! I have one confusion regarding the bar angle during the movement: if the bar is hold at the same angle while descending, the weight placement relative to the body is actually changing during the movement; whereas in an actual low bar squat for example, the relative position of the weight and the body does not change.
@@TheKurtlocker Thanks for the reply! If the movement is to mimic the actual low bar squat, shouldn't the weight be stationary relative to the body instead?
When you keep the handles the same relative to the floor the load remains over the mid foot throughout the lift as you bend over. If you record all lifts from 90 degrees to the side you can see it.
Just got this bar in. What is your best suggestion for wall mounted storage. I was thinking gun rack but wasn’t sure if the cylinders would hit the wall in one of those. Any help is appreciated.
@@TheKurtlocker lol. No your good, let’s me know if I go gun rack route I will need some kind of extender or spacer from the wall to it will fit. Kinda what I was thinking but you helped confirm.
There’s a significant difference. The goblet squat places the load significantly further in front of me causing me to decrease load to use the setting. IMO it simulates a goblet squat very well
It definitely could be of use. I can’t guarantee it because I don’t know the context of your situation. I’d recommend finding a local, intelligent coach.
It absolutely provides an advantage squatting to lifters that have mobility restrictions or are only interested in squatting to build strength and don’t plan to compete in powerlifting. Not to say it doesn’t have a place in a PL program, but I believe that the duffalo bar has amazing benefits in training, including the squat
Does the Transformer Bar on different settings feel like a straight bar to the legs? For example, is the high bar position the same on the legs as a high bar squat.? Same for the low bar squat, SSB squat and goblet squat.
Can you advise how far apart the handles are - on center? I'm interested in upgrading from my Titan Fitness SSB, but not sure if the handles here would be too far apart for my liking (narrow clavicles.)
@@TheKurtlocker Thank you for confirming. Very thorough reviews! New video suggestion - Marrs Bar vs Kabuki Transformer v4 in the Front Squat, Low Bar & Hinge modes..
I’m very into that video. I just need to get my hands on a Marrs bar. I’ve had it added to my wishlist for awhile now. Thanks for the kind words and I appreciate your time.
It’s similar but I find it difficult to say yes or no to this question. I found that my 1RM on back squat was about 10 lbs heavier on the transformer when compared to a standard barbell but that is purely anecdotal and comparing attempts that were months apart from each other.
@@TheKurtlocker Would you say keeping the sleeves on the easiest setting allow you to target muscles more effectively such as quads in a front squat? I’m assuming the lower down you go the more you have to stabilize and take attention away from a target muscle. Thanks for answering my first question by the way.
I don’t think it’s a matter of keeping it in the “easiest setting” as much as it’s adjusting it to get the most efficient bar path for a back angle that hits the target muscle group. For instance, SSB in the 4th setting places the weight similarly to front squat level 1…you just need to play with it to get your settings where you want them
Absolutely. The Marrs bar is awesome at one thing and is difficult to move and store. The Kabuki Transformer does many things well and stores easier and is simpler to put into use
![The Official Squat Form Checklist [Are You Squatting Wrong?]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Uv_DKDl7EjA/mqdefault.jpg)
Hey I just wanted to say this video was so incredibly helpful for me. There are a ton of “reviews” about the transformer bar but none of them go over actual proper use. As a home gym user who is working out alone, this video gave me everything I needed to use the bar properly. With the proper positioning/bracing, the low bar, front squat felt really quite close to the referenced lifts. Thank you so much!!!
I really don’t make a habit of throwing money around but this video was incredibly helpful and probably prevented some future injury. Thanks again brother!!
Thank you! I’ve been meaning to make more content around the transformer bar and I’m happy you found this one helpful. I’m humbled and grateful
Most reviews extensively focus on the product, on the WHAT. Your review after quickly covering the products' features, shows you HOW to use the product. As if this was not enough, you always include safety tips, this adds a WISE dimension to your work. You are the shooting star in the cybernight of powerlifting product and how-to.
Thanks for that compliment. I appreciate you saying those things and hope I can continually meet those benchmarks.
Great overview. This was an expensive investment, but I don’t regret the purchase. Absolute best “squat” bar on the market.
Absolutely agree.
Awesome breakdown of all the movements just received mine. I heard you say you were going to do an extended video for the transformation bar movements any idea how soon? Just looking to see what else can be done with this bar. Fyi you are the only person that has gone this in-depth with information on the transformation bar kabuki strength only shows hand placement only. Kudos to you for putting this together.
Thank you! I enjoy the bar and putting these videos together. It’s been a project I’m working on for each setting but at this point I’m not prepared to record the video.
Thanks so much for the in-depth video Kurt! Definitely convinced me this bar is worth the $
I love mine. No regrets on the purchase
As a beginner who owns this bar, this video is ESSENTIAL! I had questions a while back that this video covers amazingly! I’m super excited that you’re doing a follow up with different exercises! I love this specialty bar but have to say my fav so far is my Eleiko oppen trap bar 🤘🏽
Thank you for the compliment. I need to do the other videos already…
Best video on this bar thank you and ima buy one now
Nice. I’m happy I could help! Thanks for watching
Outstanding review! I like the way you show the movements. It would be great to see other how-to videos related to your strongman training.
I’ll see what I can do! Thanks for watching and keep your eyes peeled
I've got one on order. I was wondering how much I'd use all of the settings. This demo answered all of my questions, and I can't wait to use it. This is the video that Kabuki should have made explaining their product. Great job!
Thank you. I do want to make more videos about this bar in the future. It’s definitely a forever bar for me at this point in time.
This is excellent, particularly the information about the hinge setting.
Kabuki should have made a video like this. Thanks!
Thank you. They are starting to on Instagram.
Excellent!
Thank you!
Best review thus far of this bar
Wow. I really appreciate that
Excellent video!
Thank you! I hope people find it helpful
This video is the best! I had my transformer bar for a few months before I found this video and it helped tremendously! I can’t imagine my leg day without my transformer bar. Thing is worth it’s weight in gold. Any eta on that second video about it?
I really should prioritize it. At this point in time, I haven’t even begun working the outline for it. It’s been requested a few times now and I need to just do it.
I had my first training session today with the Kabuki Bar. I had it set up in the low bar position. I found that when I kept my elbows pinned like you recommend the handles would cut my depth short due to hitting my thighs/knees. I had to flare my elbows slightly in order to avoid the handles and hit proper depth. I think you mentioned the elbow flair when you were discussing the front squat variation.
I apologize if the information in the video caused an issue. I mentioned doing a follow up video on the transformer and maybe now is a good time.
@@TheKurtlocker It's not that the information caused any issue at all. I just think the pinning the elbows to the side doesn't necessarily work with this bar. Uness you grip higher on the handles and or remove them you're going to have to slightly flare the elbows out at the bottom. I also noticed it somewhat helps with bringing the handles forward during my descent in the low bar position as well.
TY! Exactly what I was looking for!
Thank you for watching! Glad I was able to help you.
Might be a silly question, but would you recommend this kind of bar for taller lifters with long femurs who struggle squating? Redistributing where the weight is sounds like it could be a game changer for tall lifters.
If your anthropometry is awkward, I think you’d have success finding a setting that really works for you.
Thanks for great review and demo!
Thank you for watching!!
Great breakdown of all the movements! Would love to add one of these to my gym!
Definitely a worthy investment. The shipping right now is what’s killing sales for the bar. Hopefully we see that number come down.
In depth, great video!
Thank you! I appreciate you watching
Fantastic review! Thank you lots for putting the time and effort into this comprehensive video. I am mainly interested in buying this bar to do good mornings since this exercise with the straight barbell is killing my wrists. My question is, when you put the bar in the hinge mode does it truly feel like the limiting factor in your GM's is your hamstrings? I have tried SSB bars for GMs lots of times but its always my lower back and erectors that give out way before my hammies. Thanks!
That is a solid question. I definitely feel it in my hamstrings but I’d argue that the militant factor in that movement will likely be the erectors regardless of bar.
@@TheKurtlocker Thanks!
Does the fatigue from pulling the handles in on low bar and high bar negatively affect you on bench the next day?
I have not found that to be the case.
Thank you very much for that
No problem, Thank you for watching
Im waiting for mine to come in from Ohio. This will change leg day forever.
The rogue made one has a log of awesome improvements to it.
How does the low bar, high bar, and ssb settings feel compare to the actual bar movements
I personally find that it feel pretty similar as long as you keep the bar in the correct position. If you allow the handles to pull away or push in, the load shifts.
Amazing review like always keep up the good work ! Mine just been shipped im looking to use it for rehab .. witch setting would you recommend if i have lombar injury ( herniated disc ) ? I know you aint a doctor but your input on this could help me alot , usualy low bar feels better then high bar but witch setting would bring the less stress on the lower back ? Thank you !!
I personally think that it’s less of which setting and more of a technique thing. I have some severe disk herniation and for me focusing on a good back position regardless of setting is the best. Sorry that I don’t have an easy answer to this. I highly recommend finding a coach that can help with pain free squatting.
@@TheKurtlocker no its all good your totaly right and this bar should be a great tool to the arsenal. Thank you !
Absolutely. If you notice that you do better in a low bar position, I imagine that the low bar setting would suit you well.
Thanks for the great video! I have one confusion regarding the bar angle during the movement: if the bar is hold at the same angle while descending, the weight placement relative to the body is actually changing during the movement; whereas in an actual low bar squat for example, the relative position of the weight and the body does not change.
The bar remains stationary not relative to your body but instead relative to the floor. I misspoke here. My apologies.
@@TheKurtlocker Thanks for the reply! If the movement is to mimic the actual low bar squat, shouldn't the weight be stationary relative to the body instead?
When you keep the handles the same relative to the floor the load remains over the mid foot throughout the lift as you bend over. If you record all lifts from 90 degrees to the side you can see it.
Just got this bar in. What is your best suggestion for wall mounted storage. I was thinking gun rack but wasn’t sure if the cylinders would hit the wall in one of those. Any help is appreciated.
I have mine in my French cleat storage in what is essentially a homemade gun rack
@@TheKurtlocker gotcha. Thanks!
@the_grinch_life1187 hope that helps. Kind of a short answer
@@TheKurtlocker lol. No your good, let’s me know if I go gun rack route I will need some kind of extender or spacer from the wall to it will fit. Kinda what I was thinking but you helped confirm.
How much would you say the difference is in what you can lift with goblet squat setting vs. high bar / low bar settings?
There’s a significant difference. The goblet squat places the load significantly further in front of me causing me to decrease load to use the setting. IMO it simulates a goblet squat very well
I have a lot of lower back issues (herniated discs). Think this bar could help by loading the weight differently than a barbel?
It definitely could be of use. I can’t guarantee it because I don’t know the context of your situation. I’d recommend finding a local, intelligent coach.
where that bar at indeed
I want one but already got the ss yoke a few years back for $289 shipped during their black friday sale :/
The SS yoke is a solid purchase. Maybe considering waiting for the opportunity to upgrade?
Duffalo vs transformer… does Duffalo have any advantage in squatting?
It absolutely provides an advantage squatting to lifters that have mobility restrictions or are only interested in squatting to build strength and don’t plan to compete in powerlifting.
Not to say it doesn’t have a place in a PL program, but I believe that the duffalo bar has amazing benefits in training, including the squat
Does the Transformer Bar on different settings feel like a straight bar to the legs? For example, is the high bar position the same on the legs as a high bar squat.? Same for the low bar squat, SSB squat and goblet squat.
I find that it replicates the same feel in the legs and forces your back angle into the proper position to replicate the lifts indicated on the bar.
@@TheKurtlocker Thanks!
Can you advise how far apart the handles are - on center?
I'm interested in upgrading from my Titan Fitness SSB, but not sure if the handles here would be too far apart for my liking (narrow clavicles.)
Ann by our 12.5” center to center.
@@TheKurtlocker Thank you for confirming. Very thorough reviews!
New video suggestion - Marrs Bar vs Kabuki Transformer v4 in the Front Squat, Low Bar & Hinge modes..
I’m very into that video. I just need to get my hands on a Marrs bar. I’ve had it added to my wishlist for awhile now. Thanks for the kind words and I appreciate your time.
Would your 1RM be the same with this bar as your barbell movements? Such as low bar and front squat.
It’s similar but I find it difficult to say yes or no to this question. I found that my 1RM on back squat was about 10 lbs heavier on the transformer when compared to a standard barbell but that is purely anecdotal and comparing attempts that were months apart from each other.
@@TheKurtlocker Would you say keeping the sleeves on the easiest setting allow you to target muscles more effectively such as quads in a front squat? I’m assuming the lower down you go the more you have to stabilize and take attention away from a target muscle. Thanks for answering my first question by the way.
I don’t think it’s a matter of keeping it in the “easiest setting” as much as it’s adjusting it to get the most efficient bar path for a back angle that hits the target muscle group. For instance, SSB in the 4th setting places the weight similarly to front squat level 1…you just need to play with it to get your settings where you want them
@@TheKurtlocker Awesome. Mine is coming next week.
Can u remove the handles for jm press?
On my version, no. The newer ones can be removed but they don’t take it all the way to the pad. Just the curved section
Do you feel this bar is better than the Marrs bar?
Absolutely. The Marrs bar is awesome at one thing and is difficult to move and store. The Kabuki Transformer does many things well and stores easier and is simpler to put into use
Thanks for reply was about to buy Marrs bar. I know The Rock uses the Kabuki.@@TheKurtlocker
@chrisdonnell2575 to be clear. The Marrs bar is incredibly good at one thing. But IMO isn’t better. Thanks for asking my opinion.