So far, we have discussed the different sizes and materials of weight plates, which is a good starting point. But there are a few other details to consider when choosing the right weight plates for you.
1. Bumper Plates
While bumper plates are made of rubber, they should not be confused with rubber-coated plates. Always check before buying, as they can sometimes look very similar. Bumper plates are best used for Olympic weightlifting, as they can be dropped safely from great heights.
Bumper plates come in a variety of colors, as well as solid black. Colored bumper plates make it easy for spectators to calculate the weight a competitor has lifted. For example, gray represents 5 kg and red represents 25 kg.
It is good to remember that bumper plates do come in a few variations, as described below:
Regular Rubber Barbell Plates: These plates are made of rubber and are commonly used for all Olympic weightlifting training. When buying standard weight plates, always choose plates with an iron or steel ring in the middle, as this allows you to easily move the plate up and down without it "sticking". Black is usually used for training, while colored ones are used for competition.
High-Temperature Bumper Plates: High-Temperature Bumper Plates are generally just as durable as regular bumper plates, but are slightly more expensive. The main difference is that they rebound quite a bit if dropped. This means that there is a risk that they will bounce onto you or someone nearby.
Calibrated Competition Plates: These plates are primarily used for competitions. Being calibrated means that the weight of the plate is as accurate as possible; this is very important in the Olympics, but less so for the average gym-goer.
Polyurethane Bumper Plates: Polyurethane is more durable than rubber, but also much more expensive.
Technical Plates: Technical plates are the same as regular plates, but are lighter, weighing less than 5 kg. This allows people to mimic a heavy deadlift, but only lift a smaller weight, such as 2.5 kg.
2. Steel and Iron Plates
When it comes to plates, there are two main types: iron and steel. Steel is more durable, but also more expensive.
Some plates have a rubber coating to protect against wear and tear. Always check if the plates are designed to be dropped on the ground, as some plates may be damaged by this.
In summary, there are two types of weight plates, as listed below:
Calibrated steel or iron plates: Again, calibrated steel or iron plates mean the weight is as accurate as possible and are primarily used for competitions. They are pricier and are usually thinner, which means more plates can be loaded onto the barbell.
Regular iron or steel plates: Traditional weight plates that have been widely used for decades. Think of every photo of Arnold Schwarzenegger you have ever seen.
Overall, just choose a barbell plate that fits your needs and budget to help you achieve your fitness goals.
3. Triple Grip Plates
Triple Grip Barbell Plates are a type of barbell plate used in weightlifting and strength training that features three grips or handles around the circumference of the barbell plate. These grips make it easier to lift and hold the barbell plate during a workout and provide a more secure grip, so you don't have to worry about the plate slipping out of your hands.
Triple Grip Barbell Plates are available in a variety of weights and are perfect for those who want to improve their strength and conditioning. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced weightlifter, triple grip barbell plates are a great choice for most workouts.
It is important to note that Triple Grip Barbell Plates are not designed to be dropped repeatedly. Therefore, if you are doing exercises that require dropping heavy objects, you may want to look at our Bumper Plates.
4. Changing Plates
It is not uncommon for a plate to be too heavy for you, especially when you are pushing yourself to the limit.
It may be more practical and effective to add smaller weights, such as 1 kg. This is especially useful for powerlifters and bodybuilders who are at an advanced stage and need to increase their maximum load at a steady rate.
By using changing plates, you can gradually progress and reach your fitness goals over time without putting too much stress on your body.
5. Fractional Plates
Small plates are very similar to changing plates. The main difference is that small plates are lighter and smaller in overall size, with the smallest plate weighing 0.125 kg.
The benefits of changing plates are the same, they allow you to slowly but safely increase your maximum load, while also providing mental benefits. A few grams of weight can turn into a few kilos with time and effort.