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If you're setting up a home gym or just looking to upgrade your current weightlifting setup, bumper plates are a popular choice for their durability and versatility. But they can be expensive and not everyone has the space to store them. So, what are your options if you want to lift heavy weights at home but don't want to invest in bumpers? Here are some alternative weight plate options to consider:
Cast iron plates are a classic choice for weightlifting. They are affordable, widely available, and can handle a lot of wear and tear. They also come in a range of weights, from as low as 1.25 pounds to as high as 45 pounds. However, they are not as durable as bumper plates and are prone to chipping and rusting over time. They are also not recommended for use with Olympic barbells, as the sleeves are not designed to handle the weight and can bend or break under the load. If you do choose to go with cast iron plates, make sure to buy ones with a protective coating to prevent rust and consider purchasing a weight storage rack to protect your investment.
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Shop The Gear: MAGMA Virgin Rubber 2-inch Olympic Grip Plates, from $2.99 USD
Rubber encased weight plates, also known as "grip plates," offer a more durable alternative to cast iron plates. They are made of solid cast iron with a rubber casing that helps protect against damage and makes them easier to handle. They are also quieter than bumper plates, which can be a plus if you have neighbors or family members who are sensitive to noise. However, they can still chip or crack over time and are not as durable as bumper plates. They also tend to be more expensive than cast iron plates and are not as widely available.
Urethane plates are a high-end alternative to bumper plates. They are made of a durable, rubber-like material that is resistant to chipping, cracking, and fading. They are also quieter than bumper plates and have a more polished appearance. However, they are much more expensive than bumper plates and are not as widely available. They are also not as durable as bumper plates and are not recommended for use in high-impact, high-volume training sessions.
If you don't need a full set of weight plates and just want a few options for adding resistance to your workouts, adjustable dumbbells might be a good option. These come in a range of styles, including dial-a-weight systems, sliding weight systems, and plates that you can add or remove as needed. They are compact, easy to store, and can be a cost-effective way to get a variety of weight options without investing in a full set of plates. However, they are not as versatile as barbells and may not be suitable for certain exercises or weightlifting techniques. They also tend to be more expensive than traditional weight plates on a per-pound basis.
Shop The Collection: Adjustable DumbbellsKettlebells are a versatile, space-saving option for home gym weightlifting. They come in a range of weights, from as low as 8 pounds to as high as 88 pounds, and can be used for a variety of exercises, including swings, cleans, snatches, and presses.
Shop The Gear: MAGMA Cast Iron Kettlebells, from $16.99 USD
They are also relatively affordable and can be a good choice for workouts that focus on functional movements and full-body conditioning. However, they may not be suitable for certain exercises that require a barbell, such as squats and deadlifts, and they are not as precise as traditional weight plates when it comes to adding small increments of weight. They also tend to be more expensive on a per-pound basis than traditional weight plates.
Sandbag training is a unique and challenging alternative to traditional weightlifting that involves lifting and moving a bag filled with sand. Sandbags come in a range of sizes and weights, and can be used for a variety of exercises, including squats, lunges, presses, and carries. They are relatively affordable and can be a good choice for workouts that focus on functional movements and unconventional training methods. However, they may not be suitable for certain exercises that require a barbell or precise weight increments, and they are not as durable as traditional weight plates. They also tend to be more expensive on a per-pound basis than traditional weight plates.
There are plenty of weight plate options to choose from if you want to lift heavy weights at home but don't want to invest in bumper plates. Cast iron plates are affordable and widely available, but they are not as durable as bumper plates and are not recommended for use with Olympic barbells. Rubber encased weight plates and urethane plates are more durable alternatives, but they are more expensive and not as widely available. Adjustable dumbbells and kettlebells are compact and versatile options, but they may not be suitable for certain exercises and tend to be more expensive on a per-pound basis. Sandbag training is a unique and challenging alternative, but it may not be suitable for certain exercises and is also more expensive on a per-pound basis. Ultimately, the best weight plate option for your home gym will depend on your budget, space constraints, and training goals.
