TETSUBarbell Rollerout vs Inchworm
The Barbell Rollerout and the Inchworm both train the abs as their primary muscle. The Barbell Rollerout uses a barbell while the Inchworm is bodyweight-only. Here is how they compare and when to pick each.
Side-by-side comparison
| Barbell Rollerout | Inchworm | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary muscle | abs | abs |
| Body part | waist | waist |
| Supporting muscles | lower back | shoulders and hamstrings |
| Equipment | barbell | bodyweight |
| Steps in our guide | 5 | 6 |
How each one starts
Barbell Rollerout — first steps
- Kneel on the floor and hold a barbell with both hands, shoulder-width apart.
- Roll the barbell forward, extending your arms and keeping your core engaged.
Inchworm — first steps
- Start in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart.
- Bend forward at the waist and place your hands on the ground in front of you.
Full step-by-step guides are linked below.
Which should you choose?
The Barbell Rollerout lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps. The Inchworm needs no equipment and scales through leverage, tempo and reps. If your gym has both options, neither is a wrong choice: pick the one that feels strongest through a full range, and swap after 6 to 8 weeks to keep the abs adapting.
Full form guides
Common questions
Is the Barbell Rollerout better than the Inchworm?
Neither is universally better — both train the abs as the primary mover. The Barbell Rollerout lets you load the heaviest weights and progress in small, steady jumps, while the Inchworm needs no equipment and scales through leverage, tempo and reps. Choose based on your equipment and which movement you can progress consistently.
Can I do both the Barbell Rollerout and the Inchworm in the same program?
Yes, but usually not in the same session — they overlap heavily on the abs. A common setup is one as your main movement and the other on a second training day, or alternating them block by block.
Do the Barbell Rollerout and the Inchworm work the same muscles?
The primary muscle is the same: the abs. Supporting muscles differ slightly — lower back for the Barbell Rollerout versus shoulders and hamstrings for the Inchworm.
Track it in Tetsu
Tetsu tracks both movements separately, keeps your PRs per exercise, and tells you which one is actually progressing. Free to start.