Athletic Training Practice Exam

Which of the following free weight exercises does NOT require a spotter?

1. A barbell bench press

2. A barbell squat

3. A barbell curl

4. A deadlift

The correct answer is: A barbell curl

In this scenario, the exercise that does not require a spotter is the barbell curl. This exercise is typically performed in a standing position, where the lifter holds a barbell with both hands and curls it toward their shoulders. The nature of the movement allows the lifter to have better control over the weight, making it easier to lower the barbell safely to the ground if needed. In contrast, exercises like the bench press and squat involve positioning the body under a significant weight in a way that, if the lifter fails, they may not be able to control the weight and could be at risk of injury. The deadlift, while also a heavy compound movement, generally does not require a spotter due to the lifter's ability to drop the weight safely to the floor if necessary. However, it's common practice for heavy lifts where the lifter may be at risk of losing control to have a spotter present to provide assistance. This necessity does not apply to the barbell curl, which can be performed with less risk and hence does not typically require a spotter.