Picking The Right Weight Plates To Maximise Your Strength Training

Resistance training can be the key to a great workout regimen and one of the best ways to reach your strength training goals is by using weight plates! For an effective workout, barbells and weights are going to be your most important exercise equipment in Singapore no matter what level of strength training you do. As barbells are only as effective as the weight plates that are attracted to them, the weight of your plates will determine your progress in your training. 

Learn More: How A Weighted Vest Can Benefit Your Workout

If you are on the lookout to build your own gym at home, you would know that weight-lifting equipment is expensive and can blow through your budget incredibly fast. The key to making your budget stretch is to know exactly what types of weights you need and don’t. Here are some tips to help you pick out the right plates to maximise your strength training at home.
 

1. Know The Size Of The Weight Plates You Want

Typically, standard weight plates weigh between 1 kg to 25 kg, although you might also occasionally find plates weighing in at 40 kg. Unlike most gym equipment that clearly states the total weight (machines or dumbbells), barbell lifting requires some mental maths. You need to add up the weight of the bar and the various plates to get your desired weight.

For example, if you are planning to weight lift a total of 36 kg, subtract the weight of the barbell (let’s say it is 20 kg) from the total weight, giving you 16 kg. Divide that by two to get 8 kg which is the weight of the plates you add to each side of the barbell. 

Note: When we talk about weights, it is always a combined weight of the plates on both sides and the weight of the barbell.

2.Figure Out The Types Of Weights You Need

There are two basic types of weight plates which differ mainly in the way they are made.

• Standard Weight Plates 

Standard weight plates are made of steel or cast irons and are a popular choice in home gyms. Often, these plates are interchangeable with different types of barbells, including adjustable dumbbell handles and aerobic bars. Standard weight plates are generally smaller as compared to bumper plates or Olympic plates.

• Bumper Plates 

Bumper plates vary between 4.5 kg to 25 kg and are made with a metal interior and a thick rubber-coated exterior, allowing you to drop them safely from overhead without having to worry about breaking the weight plate or damaging the floor. These plates are also made with the same diameter with a 2-inch hole in the middle, no matter what their weights are. Bumper plates are mainly used with Olympic weights, as well as floor-based barbell routines.

3. Know The Number Of Weight Plates You Need

As weight plates come in different shapes and sizes, it is important that you have enough weight to get the most out of your strength training. Sufficient selection is also crucial, allowing you to load up your barbell with the appropriate weight for different routines. 

For a complete set, 15 to 25 individual weight plates are required to help you reach your fitness goals. This is a breakdown of the weights we recommend.

• 2 x 1kg
• 2 x 2.5  kg
• 4 x 5 kg
• 2 x 10 kg
• 2 x 15 kg
• 10 x 25 kg

Total weight: 327 kg plus the barbell (perfect for an experienced weight lifter). 

Having the right number, size and weight of plates in your home gym is vital if you want to reach your strength training goals effectively. Looking for the perfect weight plates for your home? Do check out Homefitness for the widest range of plates or contact us to know more.