Weight plates are used to add resistance to barbells and weight machines. They come in different materials, sizes, and shapes, with center holes to fit standard or Olympic bars. Standard plates are lighter and easier to handle, while Olympic plates are heavier and used by power lifters. Technical plates are made of lightweight materials and used for training purposes. Cheaper plates made of cement-filled plastic are also available but may vary in weight.
Weight plates are a type of weightlifting equipment used to add resistance to barbells and adjustable barbells, as well as plate-loaded weight machines. Depending on the weights’ intended purpose and price, weight plates may be made of steel, cast iron, or occasionally cement-filled plastic. They are round or octagonal, with a center hole to fit a standard or Olympic bar. Weight plates are available in a wide variety of styles and sizes, from as little as one pound (0.45 kg) up to 100 pounds. (45kg.)
Standard weight plates are usually round and are most often made of cast iron or occasionally steel with a smooth rubber coating. These plates have a one inch center hole to fit smaller commercial dumbbells or home gym equipment. This piece of equipment is considerably lighter and easier to handle than Olympic weights, and is generally a better choice for novice lifters.
Alternatively, cheaper hobs are available, designed primarily for home use. They are usually made of a plastic casing filled with cement, and will not take as much abuse as steel or cast iron plates. If you use these weight plates, it may be helpful to check the weight on a scale before use. There can be considerable variation between plates as they can become uneven over time due to handling and general wear.
Olympic weight plates are usually made of cast iron and can be round or octagonal. Some Olympic weight plates, known as bumper plates, are coated with rubber to protect both the weight plates and the gym floor if a loaded bar is dropped. Olympic plates have two-inch center holes to accommodate Olympic weights, and larger plates often have several other holes spread around the face of the plate for easier handling. These plates are most often used by power lifters, bodybuilders, or other athletes who lift very heavy weights.
For training purposes, Olympic size plates known as technical plates are available. Usually made of strong, lightweight plastic, aluminum, or similar materials, these plates fit Olympic barbells and are tough enough to withstand drops, but are considerably lighter than standard Olympic plates. They are often used in high school gyms, where safety and durability are of the utmost importance, but they can also be used by competitive adult powerlifters. Tech Plates allow athletes to practice form and movement with a properly proportioned bar, but without the need for a full training load.
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