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WEIGHT PLATE BUYERS GUIDE
When building or expanding your gym one essential purchase is weight plates. Weight plates are the backbone of strength training, supporting everything from squats and deadlifts to bench presses and Olympic lifts. However, not all weight plates are created equal. Choosing the right ones for your gym can significantly affect performance, durability, and safety.
In this buyer’s guide to weight plates, we’ll break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision, from the various types of plates to important factors like material, grip, and storage. Whether you are stocking up your garage gym or equipping a commercial facility, this guide will help you choose the right weight plates for your needs.
Why Weight Plates Matter: The Foundation of Strength Training
Weight plates aren’t just heavy objects to throw around in the gym. They are fundamental to building strength, endurance, and muscle. From beginners starting their fitness journey to professional athletes lifting hundreds of pounds, the right weight plates make all the difference.
But why does it matter what kind of plates you choose? Aside from factors like durability and functionality, different plates offer unique benefits depending on your fitness goals. Understanding your needs is the first step toward creating the perfect gym setup.
Types of Weight Plates
When it comes to weight plates, there are several key types you should consider. Each has its own strengths, making them suitable for different types of workouts.
Let’s take a look at the most common options on the market.
1. Olympic Weight Plates
Olympic weight plates are the standard for most gyms. They are designed to fit Olympic-sized bars, which have a 2-inch diameter sleeve. Olympic plates are highly versatile making them the go-to choice for serious lifters.
Key Features:
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2-inch centre hole: Fits Olympic bars, which are more common in gyms.
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Wide range of weight options: Plates can range from 1.25 kg to 25 kg or more.
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Material options: Available in cast iron and rubber-coated.
Why Choose Olympic Plates?
For those looking to build serious strength, Olympic weight plates are a must. They offer stability, can handle heavier loads, and are built to last.
2. Bumper Weight Plates
If you’re into Olympic weightlifting, CrossFit, or high-intensity interval training (HIIT), bumper weight plates might be the best option. These plates are made from dense rubber, allowing them to be dropped from overhead without damaging the plate, bar, or floor.
Key Features:
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Rubber coating: Reduces noise and prevents damage during drops.
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Standardised diameter: All bumper plates have the same diameter, regardless of weight.
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Shock absorption: Perfect for exercises like clean and jerks or snatches where weights are frequently dropped.
Why Choose Bumper Plates?
Bumper plates are essential for Olympic lifts or CrossFit-style workouts. Their rubber construction provides durability and safety, protecting your equipment and flooring.
3. Cast Iron Weight Plates
A more traditional option, cast iron weight plates are usually smaller in diameter compared to bumper plates but still offer the same weight. These plates are often less expensive, making them an excellent option for home gym owners looking to save money while still lifting heavy.
Key Features:
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Cost-effective: Generally cheaper than bumper plates.
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Compact design: Cast iron plates tend to be thinner, allowing you to load more weight onto the bar.
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Durability: Solid cast iron plates can last a lifetime if properly maintained.
Why Choose Cast Iron Plates?
If you want a budget-friendly option for traditional weightlifting, cast iron weight plates are ideal. They’re tough, durable, and allow you to load more weight onto your bar thanks to their thinner profile.
4. Tri-Grip Weight Plates
Tri-grip weight plates are designed for ease of use and convenience. As the name suggests, these plates feature three cut-out handles, making them easier to lift, carry, and load onto bars or machines.
Key Features:
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Three ergonomic grip handles: Allows for easier handling.
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Versatility: Can be used for more than just barbell training—great for weighted carries or functional exercises.
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Available in different materials: Tri-grip plates come in cast iron, rubber-coated, or urethane designs.
Why Choose Tri-Grip Plates?
If convenience and versatility are important to you, tri-grip weight plates are a smart choice. Their handles make them easier to move and store, reducing the risk of injury when handling heavy weights.
What to Consider When Buying Weight Plates
When you’re ready to purchase weight plates for your gym, it’s important to take several factors into consideration. Not all plates are created equal, and choosing the right ones depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
1. Weight Plate Material
Weight plates come in a variety of materials, from basic cast iron to rubber-coated or urethane.
Each material has its own benefits:
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Cast Iron: Durable, affordable, and long-lasting, but can be noisy and prone to rust if not properly cared for.
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Rubber-Coated: Offers protection for your floors and equipment, while reducing noise during use.
For home gyms, rubber-coated plates might be a better investment, especially if noise reduction and floor protection are concerns.
2. Plate Diameter & Thickness
Different plates come in various thicknesses and diameters, depending on the type.
For example, bumper plates have a standard diameter regardless of their weight, while cast iron plates vary in size. If you’re planning to lift heavy, thinner plates like cast iron can allow you to fit more weight
on the barbell.
If you’re short on storage space, thinner plates like cast iron or urethane might be more practical.
3. Weight Increments
Consider the weight increments you need when purchasing plates. Common increments include 1.25 kg, 2.5 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 15 kg, 20 kg, and 25 kg plates. Having a variety of sizes allows for more precise adjustments to your lifts and ensures you can progress steadily.
Investing in fractional plates (0.5 kg or 1 kg) can be particularly useful for breaking through plateaus in your strength training.
Weight Plate Storage Solutions
Once you’ve invested in the right weight plates, you’ll need a proper weight plate storage solution to keep your gym organised and safe.
Let’s explore a few popular options:
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Weight Trees: A weight tree allows you to store multiple plates vertically, saving floor space and making it easier to find the plate you need quickly.
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Plate Pegs: These are mounted on the wall or weight racks, allowing you to store your plates off the ground. Perfect for home gyms with limited space.
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Combination Racks: Some weight storage racks combine storage for plates, barbells, and dumbbells in one unit, providing an all-in-one solution for your gym setup.
How to Choose the Right Weight Plates for Your Gym
Now that you understand the different types of weight plates and the key factors to consider, it’s time to choose the right ones for your gym. Here’s a quick checklist to help guide your decision:
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What kind of training do you do?
If you’re into Olympic lifting or CrossFit, bumper plates are essential. For traditional weightlifting or bodybuilding, Olympic or cast iron weight plates might be more suitable.
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How much space do you have?
If you have a smaller gym, consider thinner plates like cast iron or urethane to maximise your barbell’s loading capacity.
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What’s your budget?
For those on a tight budget, cast iron weight plates offer the most bang for your buck. However, if durability and protection are priorities, investing in rubber-coated can save you money in the long run by preventing floor damage and reducing noise.
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Do you need ease of handling?
If you’re looking for convenience, tri-grip plates make it easier to carry, load, and unload weights. They’re perfect for anyone who values ergonomic design and versatility.