January 20, 2024 3 min read
Fitness enthusiasts are always looking for new ways to challenge themselves and stay motivated. One of the most popular pieces of equipment used in a gym is weight plates. Weight plates, or standard weight plates, provide a great way for people to increase their strength, build muscle, and find balance in their workout routine.
Shop The Collection: Weight PlatesWeight plates come in a variety of sizes and styles, from basic cast iron plates to more advanced Olympic-style plates with handles. They can be used for free weight exercises such as squats, deadlifts, presses, and curls, and they can also be used for circuit training and other types of workouts. No matter what type of fitness goals you have, weight plates can help you reach them.
Shop The Gear: MAGMA Standard 1-inch Grip Plates, from $4.99 USDUsing weight plates has a number of benefits that make it an essential part of any gym. Firstly, they’re incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises. Whether you’re looking to focus on compound movements such as squats and deadlifts, or you want to target smaller muscle groups with isolation exercises, weight plates suit every purpose.
Weight plates also allow you to adjust the intensity of your workout by adding or reducing the amount of weight you’re lifting. This is especially useful if you’re just starting out and need to gradually increase the weight as you become stronger. It’s also handy for seasoned lifters who want to progress at their own pace.
In addition to this, weight plates are relatively inexpensive compared to other pieces of gym equipment, which makes them a great choice for those on a budget. Plus, since they don’t take up much space, they’re ideal for home gyms.
When it comes to weight plates, there are two main types: standard plates and Olympic-style plates. Standard plates are usually made of cast iron and are circular in shape. They come in a range of sizes, from 1.25 kg to 25 kg, and they’re designed to fit on most standard barbells.
Olympic-style plates are slightly larger than standard plates and usually feature handles for easier grip. They’re usually made of steel or rubber and come in a range of weights, from 2.5 kg to 50 kg. Olympic plates are designed to fit on Olympic-style barbells, which are longer and thicker than standard barbells. Both types of plates are widely available and can be purchased from most sporting goods stores.
Using weight plates is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to practice good form to avoid injury. Before you begin, make sure you’ve selected the right amount of weight for your fitness level. Start light and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger.
When selecting weight plates, make sure they’re compatible with your barbell. Standard plates should fit on standard barbells, while Olympic plates should fit on Olympic barbells. Once you’ve selected the right weight plates, add them to the ends of the barbell and secure them with collars. Make sure the collars are tight so the weight plates don’t move during your workout.
When performing any exercise with weight plates, maintain a neutral spine and keep your core engaged. Focus on using the proper muscles and breathing techniques, and never lift more weight than you can handle. Finally, use slow and controlled movements to ensure you’re getting the full benefit of the exercise.
Standard weight plates are a great way to increase strength, build muscle, and find balance in your workout routine. They’re incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of exercises, and they’re also relatively inexpensive. When using weight plates, it’s important to select the right amount of weight and practice good form to avoid injury. With the right approach, you can reap the many benefits of weight plates in no time.