Polygonal weight plates are a modern alternative to traditional round weight plates. Designed with a unique geometric shape, they offer a more efficient use of space and provide an aesthetic appeal in gym environments. These plates are crafted with high-quality materials for durability and come in various sizes and weights, making them suitable for a wide range of exercises.
Advantages of Polygonal Weight Plates
Polygonal weight plates offer several advantages over traditional round weight plates, making them an increasingly popular choice in gyms. Their unique design, improved handling features, and durable construction contribute to their growing appeal. These benefits enhance both the user experience and the longevity of the equipment.
Unique Design and Grip Options
Enhanced Handling
Polygonal weight plates are designed with flat edges and multiple grip options, making them much easier to handle than traditional round plates. These plates typically feature ergonomic grips on each side, providing a secure and comfortable hold during lifting and loading. The ability to grip from different angles reduces strain on the hands and wrists, improving overall safety during workouts.
Compact and Space-Saving
The unique geometric shape of polygonal weight plates allows them to be stacked efficiently. Their flat sides help prevent rolling, which not only saves space but also reduces the risk of accidents in the gym. This feature is especially important in busy gym environments where safety and organization are key priorities.
Modern Aesthetic Appeal
Polygonal weight plates’ distinctive design adds a modern, stylish look to any gym. Their angular shape contrasts with the traditional round plates, making them an attractive addition to contemporary fitness facilities. For gyms aiming to create an upscale or unique atmosphere, polygonal weight plates can serve as both functional and decorative elements.
Stability and Safety Features
Reduced Risk of Rolling
One of the main advantages of polygonal weight plates is their ability to stay in place. Unlike round plates, which are prone to rolling off racks or bars when not in use, polygonal weight plates stay put due to their flat sides. This feature enhances the safety of the gym, as it reduces the chances of accidents caused by rolling plates.
Better Stability During Lifts
When loaded onto a barbell, polygonal weight plates provide greater stability compared to traditional plates. The unique shape helps to keep the weight evenly distributed on both sides, minimizing the risk of uneven loading that could lead to imbalanced lifts or strain during exercises. This added stability can also improve lifting technique and prevent injuries.
Secure Grip During Handling
The strategically placed grips on polygonal weight plates make them much easier to load onto and off of machines or barbells. This ensures that users have full control over the weights, which reduces the likelihood of slipping or losing grip during use.
Durability and Material Benefits
Long-Lasting Construction
Polygonal weight plates are typically made from high-quality materials like cast iron or steel, which ensures their durability over time. Unlike rubber-coated or plastic plates, these materials can withstand the wear and tear of daily use in busy gyms. Their robust construction helps maintain their shape and performance, even after years of intensive use.
Resistance to Damage
Due to their solid and impact-resistant design, polygonal weight plates are less likely to crack or deform under pressure. This makes them an excellent choice for heavy lifters who require equipment that can endure significant stress without losing its structural integrity. Whether dropped or subjected to repeated use, polygonal weight plates retain their form and functionality.
Low Maintenance
The durable materials and design of polygonal weight plates require minimal maintenance. Unlike plates with rubber coatings that may wear down over time or need frequent cleaning, polygonal weight plates are easy to maintain and resistant to scuffs and scratches. Their longevity helps reduce long-term replacement costs, making them a more cost-effective investment in the long run.
Polygonal Weight Plates for Different Workouts
Polygonal weight plates offer versatility and unique advantages for a range of workouts. Their design not only supports heavy lifting but also enhances safety, organization, and comfort during various exercises. Understanding the best use cases for polygonal weight plates can help gym-goers and trainers make the most of their equipment, whether for strength training, bodybuilding, or functional exercises.
Best Use Cases for Polygonal Weight Plates
Deadlifting and Powerlifting
Polygonal weight plates are particularly well-suited for deadlifting and powerlifting. Their flat edges and uniform shape allow them to sit securely on the ground, making it easier to load and unload weights quickly. Unlike traditional round plates that may roll, polygonal weight plates stay in place, offering greater stability during rest periods. This added stability helps lifters focus on their form and technique without worrying about the weights shifting or rolling off the rack.
Weightlifting and Olympic Lifts
When used in Olympic weightlifting, polygonal weight plates provide a distinct advantage in terms of safety and handling. The flat sides ensure that the weights stay aligned during the clean and jerk or snatch, reducing the likelihood of uneven weight distribution. The multiple grip options make it easier for lifters to handle the plates while performing complex lifts, and the flat design prevents unwanted movements during high-speed exercises.
Functional Training
Polygonal weight plates are also effective for functional training exercises, including kettlebell swings, squats, and lunges. Their design allows for a more secure and comfortable grip, which is essential during dynamic movements. Furthermore, the compact shape makes them easier to stack, store, and move around, allowing for seamless transitions between exercises.
Plate Loaded Machines
When used on plate-loaded machines, polygonal weight plates offer improved space efficiency and ease of handling. The flat design ensures that the plates fit securely and evenly on the loading pins, reducing the risk of uneven loading. Additionally, the ergonomic grips make it easier to add or remove weight quickly, saving valuable time during circuit-style workouts.
User Feedback on Performance
Increased Stability and Control
Many users report that polygonal weight plates provide better control and stability during their lifts. The secure, non-rolling nature of the plates offers peace of mind, particularly for those engaging in heavy lifts. Gym-goers have praised the flat edges for their ability to keep the plates from rolling off racks or barbells, which improves the overall safety of the gym environment.
Improved Grip and Handling
Feedback often highlights the improved grip options available with polygonal weight plates. The multiple ergonomic grips allow users to handle the weights more easily, reducing strain on the hands and wrists. This feedback is particularly noticeable during exercises that require frequent adjustments, such as setting up for squats or moving weights between stations.
Space-Saving Advantage
Polygonal weight plates are also appreciated for their space-saving benefits. Their design allows for easier stacking and storage, making them a favorite for gyms with limited space. Users have mentioned how these plates allow them to organize their equipment more efficiently without worrying about plates rolling around or taking up excessive space.
Durability Under Heavy Use
Users have expressed satisfaction with the durability of polygonal weight plates. Made from strong materials like cast iron or steel, these plates are praised for their resistance to cracking or chipping, even after frequent use. This feedback aligns with the long-term benefits of investing in durable equipment that can withstand heavy lifting and high-impact training.
Performance Comparison
While traditional round plates have been the standard for many years, polygonal weight plates offer several performance advantages. The key difference is in the added stability and grip that polygonal plates provide, which enhances user safety during lifts. Their ability to stay in place reduces the risk of accidents caused by rolling or uneven loading, making them a preferred option for many advanced lifters. Additionally, polygonal weight plates’ compact design offers more storage flexibility, allowing gyms to maximize space without sacrificing equipment quality.
How to Maximize Your Workouts with Polygonal Weight Plates
Polygonal weight plates can significantly enhance your workouts if used strategically. Their unique design offers specific advantages for different training techniques, exercises, and even supplementary equipment. By adjusting your training methods to take advantage of the features of polygonal weight plates, you can improve your performance, safety, and overall workout efficiency.
Adjusting Training Techniques for Stability
Focus on Controlled Movements
The flat design of polygonal weight plates helps to stabilize the barbell during exercises, especially during lifts like squats, deadlifts, and presses. This stability allows you to focus on more controlled movements, reducing the chances of imbalance or injury. For instance, during a deadlift, the flat edges of polygonal weight plates prevent rolling, which helps maintain the alignment of your barbell and provides a solid base for your lifts. This stability allows for smoother, more efficient lifts, which can ultimately improve your form and strength.
Utilize Balanced Loading
With traditional round plates, uneven loading can occur, especially if the plates are stacked improperly. Polygonal weight plates eliminate this issue by offering a more uniform shape that stays in place. For lifts like squats or deadlifts, be sure to load both sides of the barbell with equal weight using polygonal weight plates. The even distribution helps ensure better balance, preventing the barbell from tilting to one side, which can strain your muscles or lead to poor form.
Leverage Grip Points for Better Control
The multiple grip options on polygonal weight plates offer an opportunity to adjust your hand positioning for more control during exercises. For example, during exercises that require you to move the weights around, such as in plate-loaded machines or when setting up for deadlifts, you can grip the plate from different angles to ensure a secure hold. This gives you better leverage when lifting, especially for dynamic exercises like kettlebell swings or overhead presses.
Focus on Controlled Eccentric Movements
The increased stability of polygonal weight plates allows you to focus on slow, controlled eccentric (lowering) movements during exercises like squats, bench presses, and overhead presses. This control can increase time under tension, which helps stimulate muscle growth. Using polygonal weight plates in these controlled movements reduces the chance of the weights shifting unexpectedly, providing a safer and more efficient training experience.
Using Workarounds for Deadlifts and Other Exercises
Deadlifting with Greater Stability
One of the main advantages of polygonal weight plates is their stability when performing heavy lifts like deadlifts. The flat edges of these plates ensure that they stay firmly in place on the ground, eliminating the risk of the plates rolling or shifting. This stability allows lifters to focus on form, engage the proper muscles, and lift more safely. When performing deadlifts, it is important to load your barbell symmetrically and to use the grip points for better control when handling the weights.
Use for Olympic Lifts (Clean & Jerk, Snatch)
The stable design of polygonal weight plates also benefits Olympic lifters, especially for complex movements like the clean and jerk or snatch. The evenly distributed weight prevents the barbell from becoming unbalanced when lifting or dropping the weight. The ergonomic grips make it easier to control the plates when adjusting your setup, helping you focus on your technique rather than worrying about the stability of your equipment.
Better for Dynamic Movements
For exercises like lunges, kettlebell swings, or step-ups, the flat sides of polygonal weight plates make them easier to move and grip, enhancing safety and control. When you need to shift weights quickly during circuit-style training or HIIT workouts, polygonal weight plates allow for smoother transitions and secure handling. Their stability prevents rolling, even during intense, high-speed exercises, which is crucial for maintaining focus and minimizing distractions.
Enhanced Handling for Functional Movements
Polygonal weight plates are ideal for functional fitness exercises. Their flat sides provide more predictable and stable contact with the floor during exercises like sled pushes, tire flips, or squat thrusts. Because they don’t roll, users can perform these movements with more confidence, knowing that the weights will stay in place.
Supplementary Equipment for Better Results
Using Weightlifting Belts for Safety
While polygonal weight plates provide excellent stability, adding a weightlifting belt to your routine can further enhance safety, especially for exercises like deadlifts or squats. A belt helps protect the lower back and maintain core stability, allowing you to lift heavier loads more safely. Using both polygonal weight plates and a weightlifting belt together can provide maximum support during heavy lifting sessions.
Resistance Bands for Progressive Overload
Adding resistance bands to your workout with polygonal weight plates can also increase the challenge of your exercises. Resistance bands can be attached to the barbell or around the plates to provide additional resistance during both the concentric (lifting) and eccentric (lowering) phases of the movement. This creates a progressive overload effect, helping you build strength and muscle more efficiently. For example, you could use resistance bands along with polygonal weight plates for exercises like squats or bench presses to increase the intensity.
Adjustable Dumbbells for Variety
For those who want to incorporate more variety into their routine, adjustable dumbbells can be used alongside polygonal weight plates. These dumbbells allow you to change the weight quickly, making them ideal for circuit training or high-intensity workouts. The ergonomic grips on polygonal weight plates make it easy to adjust the weights on the dumbbells for different exercises, enhancing your training flexibility.
Stability Balls for Core Engagement
For exercises like overhead presses or squats, using a stability ball in combination with polygonal weight plates can help engage your core muscles more effectively. Sitting or balancing on a stability ball while holding weights challenges your balance and stability, leading to better core activation and muscle engagement. This can improve your overall strength and coordination.
By strategically incorporating these supplementary equipment options, you can optimize the effectiveness of your workouts using polygonal weight plates. Combining stability with additional tools will help you reach your fitness goals more efficiently and safely.
Key Features of Polygonal Weight Plates
Polygonal weight plates stand out in the gym environment due to their distinctive features. Designed for functionality and safety, these plates offer several advantages over traditional round plates. Understanding these key features can help you make the most of your workouts and optimize your gym setup.
Unique 12-Sided Shape for Stability
Enhanced Stability
The 12-sided shape of polygonal weight plates is one of their most notable features. This unique design helps to prevent the plates from rolling, making them far more stable than traditional round plates. Whether stacked on the floor or mounted on a barbell, polygonal weight plates stay in place, which minimizes the risk of accidents caused by rolling. This stability is particularly valuable during exercises like deadlifts, squats, or when the plates are left resting between sets.
Easy to Stack
The flat, angular edges of polygonal weight plates allow for easy stacking. Unlike round plates that can easily roll off of racks or uneven surfaces, polygonal plates sit securely when stacked. This space-saving feature is especially beneficial for gyms or training areas with limited storage space, allowing for better organization without worrying about plates shifting out of place.
Precise Weight Distribution
The 12-sided design also helps in maintaining even weight distribution. When placed on a barbell or machine, the flat edges of the plates ensure that the load is evenly distributed across both sides, reducing the risk of an uneven lift. This stability improves lifting form and helps prevent unnecessary strain on your body.
Improved Safety
With polygonal weight plates, safety is enhanced because the plates won’t easily roll away or cause accidents when not in use. This is especially helpful in high-traffic gym environments where plates are frequently moved, ensuring a safer space for users. Additionally, the flat design makes it easier for users to handle the weights without worrying about them shifting unexpectedly.
Multi-Grip Design for Versatile Use
Ergonomic Grips for Handling
Polygonal weight plates come equipped with multiple grip points, making them easier to handle during a variety of exercises. The ergonomic grips allow users to securely pick up the plates and move them between stations or place them on barbells. This design provides more control and comfort, especially during exercises like deadlifts, bench presses, or overhead presses where precision in handling is critical.
Suitable for Functional Training
The multi-grip feature also makes polygonal weight plates ideal for functional training exercises. Whether you are using them for squats, lunges, or kettlebell swings, the grips provide added versatility. This makes them easier to use in dynamic, multi-directional movements, enhancing both the safety and effectiveness of your training sessions.
Faster Weight Adjustments
When performing circuit-style workouts or high-intensity training, being able to adjust the weight quickly is crucial. The grips on polygonal weight plates allow for faster transitions between exercises, as you can easily pick up and place the plates without struggling with awkward handling. This makes your workouts more efficient and streamlined, saving valuable time between sets.
Increased Control During Lifts
The added grip points on polygonal weight plates allow for a more secure hold when lifting. This is especially important during exercises where precise control over the weights is necessary, such as overhead lifts or when doing plate-loaded machine exercises. By providing users with more handling options, these plates help reduce the risk of slippage or awkward positioning during lifts.
Rubber Coating for Floor Protection and Durability
Floor Protection
Polygonal weight plates are often coated in rubber, which provides essential protection for both the plates and the gym floor. The rubber coating absorbs impact when the plates are dropped, helping to prevent damage to the flooring and the plates themselves. This is particularly useful in environments where weights are frequently loaded and unloaded, reducing the need for expensive floor repairs.
Durability and Longevity
The rubber coating on polygonal weight plates also helps to protect the plates from wear and tear. Whether they are used in high-traffic commercial gyms or intense weightlifting sessions, the coating prevents chips, scratches, and rust from forming. This makes polygonal weight plates a long-lasting investment, requiring less maintenance and offering greater durability over time.
Noise Reduction
When used in a busy gym, noise can be a concern, especially when weights are dropped. The rubber coating on polygonal weight plates helps to reduce the sound of weights hitting the ground, creating a quieter environment. This feature is appreciated in settings where excessive noise can disturb other users or disrupt the flow of training.
Enhanced Grip on Surfaces
In addition to protecting the floor, the rubber coating provides a non-slip surface, improving the grip of the plate when stacked or resting on a surface. This prevents unwanted sliding or shifting, whether the plates are resting on a barbell or a rack, which adds to the overall safety and ease of use.
Reduced Rolling Compared to Circular Plates
Improved Stability During Rest
Unlike round plates that are prone to rolling, polygonal weight plates stay in place when left on the ground or racks. This feature makes it much easier to organize and maintain a clutter-free workout area. When setting up exercises like deadlifts, the risk of plates rolling away is significantly minimized, allowing users to focus on their workout rather than managing erratic plates.
Less Maintenance
Since polygonal weight plates don’t roll as easily as traditional circular plates, there is less need for constant adjustment or repositioning. This reduces the maintenance required to ensure that the plates remain in the correct position. It also decreases the risk of damage to other equipment from rolling plates that can cause accidents or create obstacles in the gym.
Safe and Efficient Storage
When stored on racks or shelves, polygonal weight plates are far less likely to roll off and create a mess. Their flat design makes them more stable when stacked, resulting in safer, more organized storage. This can help gym owners and users keep their spaces clean and minimize the time spent securing or repositioning plates.
Consistent Performance in Any Environment
Polygonal weight plates maintain their stability across various types of flooring and training environments. Whether in a commercial gym, personal training space, or an outdoor training area, their design ensures that they won’t roll off platforms, providing consistent performance and safety wherever they are used.
How to Maintain Polygonal Weight Plates
Maintaining your polygonal weight plates properly ensures their longevity, performance, and safety. These plates are designed to withstand heavy use, but regular care is necessary to keep them in top condition. Whether you’re using them in a gym environment or for personal training, proper maintenance will protect your investment and enhance your workout experience.
Proper Care and Cleaning Tips
Clean Regularly
To keep your polygonal weight plates looking good and functioning properly, clean them regularly. Dust, dirt, and grime can accumulate on the rubber coating over time, especially if they are used in high-traffic areas. Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and warm water to wipe down the plates. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as they can damage the rubber coating or create scratches on the surface.
Dry After Cleaning
After cleaning your polygonal weight plates, make sure to dry them thoroughly. Leaving moisture on the plates can cause rusting on the metal inserts, which can affect their durability and performance. Use a dry cloth to wipe down the plates, particularly around the center where the metal insert is located. This will ensure that no water gets trapped in crevices or on sensitive parts.
Wipe Down Between Uses
If your polygonal weight plates are frequently used for dynamic exercises or dropped during lifts, it’s a good idea to wipe them down after each use. This helps remove any sweat or grime that might accumulate during intense training. It also prevents odors and the buildup of bacteria, which can be common in high-contact gym equipment.
Avoid Submerging in Water
While it’s important to clean your polygonal weight plates, avoid submerging them in water. Excessive moisture can weaken the rubber coating over time and cause the metal inserts to rust. Instead, gently wipe the plates with a damp cloth, ensuring you don’t soak the plate or leave it wet for too long.
Ensuring Longevity with Regular Use
Store Properly
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the longevity of polygonal weight plates. When not in use, store them in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the rubber coating to degrade over time. Additionally, keep the plates off the floor when not in use to prevent unnecessary wear or damage from constant friction or pressure. A well-organized weight rack or shelf is ideal for storing polygonal weight plates in a way that minimizes risk of damage.
Rotate Plates
If you have multiple sets of polygonal weight plates, it’s a good practice to rotate their use. By evenly distributing the wear across different plates, you help ensure that no single plate takes the brunt of the impact during high-intensity workouts. This method will help prolong the life of each individual plate, ensuring they remain in good condition for longer.
Inspect Regularly for Damage
Before each workout, inspect your polygonal weight plates for any visible damage, such as cracks, tears in the rubber coating, or dents in the metal. Regular inspection helps catch potential issues early before they escalate into larger problems. If you notice any significant damage, it may be worth replacing the plate to avoid compromising your safety during lifting.
Avoid Dropping From Height
While the rubber coating on polygonal weight plates offers some shock absorption, repeatedly dropping the plates from height or onto hard surfaces can cause the rubber to degrade and may damage the internal metal structure. If you need to drop weights, make sure the surface is cushioned, and try to limit dropping the plates as much as possible.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Damage to Rubber Coating
The rubber coating on polygonal weight plates can sometimes show signs of wear, particularly around the edges or where the plates are frequently handled. If the rubber coating starts to peel or crack, it’s essential to address the issue immediately to avoid further damage. For minor cracks, applying a rubber repair adhesive or sealant may help. However, for more extensive damage, it may be best to replace the plate to ensure it remains functional and safe to use.
Rust on Metal Inserts
Rust can form on the metal inserts of polygonal weight plates, especially if the plates are not dried properly after cleaning or exposure to moisture. If you notice rust starting to develop, use a metal brush to gently scrub the affected area and remove the rust. Follow up with a rust inhibitor spray to prevent further corrosion. Regularly inspect the metal inserts and ensure they remain clean and dry after each use to minimize the risk of rust buildup.
Degradation of Grips
The multi-grip design on polygonal weight plates is a great feature, but if the grips become worn out, it can affect their usability. Over time, constant handling can cause the rubber grips to flatten or wear down. To prevent this, store the plates properly and avoid excessive abrasion. If the grips become significantly worn, consider using non-slip gloves or grip pads to ensure you maintain a secure hold during lifts.
Uneven Wear on the Plates
Due to their shape, polygonal weight plates tend to have less rolling than traditional round plates. However, if the plates are used improperly or stored in an unbalanced manner, they can still develop uneven wear. To prevent this, ensure that you store your plates in a way that maintains even pressure across their surfaces. Regularly rotating plates and inspecting for signs of uneven wear will help you spot issues early and take corrective action before they affect the plate’s function.
By following these care and maintenance guidelines, your polygonal weight plates will serve you for many years, ensuring that they remain effective, safe, and in great condition for all your workouts.
FAQs about Polygonal Weight Plates
Fractional weight plates are smaller weight plates designed to help athletes make precise weight adjustments during their workouts. These plates typically range in weight from 0.25 kg to 2.5 kg, allowing for fine increments in weight. They are commonly used when an athlete is lifting heavy loads and wants to increase their weight by smaller, incremental amounts. Fractional plates are particularly useful for advanced lifters who have already built significant strength and are aiming to progress with smaller but consistent improvements.
The primary advantage of fractional weight plates is that they enable gradual progression, preventing the risk of plateaus or overloading during training. Instead of increasing the weight in large steps, which can sometimes feel too challenging, fractional plates allow for smoother, more manageable progress. This is beneficial for exercises like bench presses, squats, or overhead presses, where small adjustments can make a significant difference in performance and safety.
In terms of design, fractional plates are typically smaller and more compact compared to standard plates, making them easy to handle and store. They are often made of durable materials like cast iron or steel and sometimes have a rubber coating to protect both the plates and the gym floor.
The cost of weight plates can vary significantly depending on the material, quality, and design, but there are several key factors that contribute to their expense. One of the primary reasons is the raw materials used in the manufacturing process. High-quality weight plates are often made from durable materials such as cast iron, steel, or rubber-coated metals. These materials are costly to source and process, and their price can fluctuate based on global supply chains and market demand.
Additionally, weight plates are often designed to last a lifetime, especially those made with robust, high-quality materials. Their durability and longevity mean that you are making a long-term investment in your fitness equipment. Plates with additional features like multi-grip designs, rubber coatings for floor protection, and a polygonal shape for added stability come with higher manufacturing costs, as they require more specialized production processes.
Brand reputation and the technology involved in manufacturing also play a role in the price. Higher-end brands that focus on precision, safety, and performance generally offer weight plates that are priced higher, reflecting the investment in research, design, and quality control. However, it’s important to remember that spending more on high-quality weight plates can lead to fewer replacements, enhanced safety, and a better overall training experience.
Finally, shipping and logistical costs can also affect the price, especially for heavy items like weight plates. Delivery from manufacturers to retailers or direct to customers can add substantial costs to the final price, particularly for large and heavy sets.
Yes, cast iron weight plates are a popular choice for both commercial gyms and personal fitness settings due to their durability, reliability, and affordability. Cast iron weight plates are known for their ability to withstand heavy use, making them a long-lasting investment for anyone looking to build a solid weightlifting setup.
One of the main benefits of cast iron plates is their high density, which allows them to be compact and take up less space while still providing substantial weight. They are also very durable and can handle repeated drops and impacts without easily cracking or breaking. Cast iron is resistant to wear, so these plates can last for years with proper care.
However, cast iron plates do not have a protective coating like rubber or urethane, so they can be noisy and may cause damage to gym floors or equipment if dropped from a height. Additionally, they may show wear and tear over time, such as rusting if exposed to moisture or humidity. To avoid this, it’s essential to store cast iron plates in a dry, controlled environment and clean them regularly to prevent rust.
Despite these considerations, cast iron weight plates remain a reliable and cost-effective option for those who prioritize performance and longevity. They are suitable for a wide range of exercises, from Olympic lifts to powerlifting and general strength training.
A 1:45 plate refers to a combination of a 45-pound plate and a 1.25-pound fractional plate, commonly used for fine-tuning weights in lifting. When placed on each side of the barbell, the weight calculation for a 1:45 plate setup looks like this:
A standard 45-pound plate weighs 45 pounds.
A fractional 1.25-pound plate adds 1.25 pounds to the weight.
Therefore, if you are using one 45-pound plate and one 1.25-pound plate on each side of the barbell, the total weight on each side is 46.25 pounds. If you are working with a standard barbell (which weighs about 45 pounds), the total weight for the entire setup would be:
45 pounds (barbell) + 46.25 pounds (one side) + 46.25 pounds (other side) = 137.5 pounds.
This configuration allows for smaller weight increments when adding weight to your lifts, offering a finer progression for athletes looking to increase their strength incrementally. This is particularly useful for powerlifters or athletes who are training for maximum strength and need to make precise adjustments. Fractional plates like the 1:45 combination are also great for avoiding jumps in weight that feel too heavy or too light, ensuring steady, manageable progress.
Welcome! I’m Jordan Mitchell, the dedicated editor at Leadman Fitness, where we specialize in manufacturing high-quality bumper plates, barbells, weight machines, kettlebells, and dumbbells. With a passion for fitness and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that our product information is clear, accurate, and engaging for our customers. My role involves collaborating closely with our design and production teams to highlight the innovative features and superior craftsmanship that set Leadman Fitness apart in the industry. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, I’m here to provide you with the information you need to achieve your training goals with our top-of-the-line equipment.