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Find the Perfect Bumper Plates for Your Home Gym

April 11, 2024 3 min read

Find the Perfect Bumper Plates for Your Home Gym

What are Bumper Plates?

Bumper plates, also known as Olympic plates, are a type of weight plate designed for Olympic weightlifting. Unlike traditional iron or steel plates, bumper plates are made of a rubber-like material that is designed to absorb the impact of a barbell being dropped from overhead. This makes them an ideal choice for anyone looking to do Olympic lifts in their home gym.

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Olympic bumper plates come in a variety of sizes and weights, ranging from 10 kg to 25 kg. Most common sizes are 45 kg, 35 kg, 25 kg, 20 kg, 15 kg, 10 kg, and 5 kg. Depending on your strength level, you may need multiple sizes of bumper plates to complete your workout routine. It's important to choose the right size and type of bumper plate to ensure you get the most out of your lifting session.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Bumper Plates

When buying bumper plates for your home gym, there are several factors to consider. The first factor is the weight of the plate. The heavier the plate, the more weight it can safely hold. If you plan on lifting heavy weights, you'll need heavier bumper plates. On the other hand, if you're just starting out, lighter plates are a better option.

Another factor to consider is the diameter of the plate. The larger the diameter, the bigger the hole in the center of the plate. This is important because it will determine how the plates load onto the barbell. Smaller plates will fit smaller bars, while larger plates will fit larger bars.

The material of the plate is also important. Cheaper bumper plates are usually made of recycled rubber, while higher quality plates are made of virgin rubber. Virgin rubber is more durable and can withstand heavier weights, so if you plan on doing heavier lifts, you should opt for a higher quality plate.

Finally, you should take into account the cost of the plate. Bumper plates can range in price from $50 to over $200. Generally speaking, the higher the quality of the plate, the higher the price tag. But if you’re on a budget, you can find decent bumper plates at a reasonable price.

Types of Bumper Plates

There are three main types of bumper plates: competition plates, training plates, and fractional plates. Competition plates are the most accurate and consistent plates available. They can handle the heaviest weights and are designed for competitive Olympic lifting. Training plates are slightly less accurate than competition plates, but are still suitable for Olympic lifting. They are usually less expensive than competition plates, making them a good option for those on a budget.

Fractional plates are small, 1-5 lb plates that allow lifters to make incremental increases in weight without having to add a full plate. These plates are great for people who are just starting out with Olympic lifting and don’t have access to a full set of bumper plates. Fractional plates can also be used to increase the difficulty of an exercise by adding very small amounts of weight.

Where to Buy Bumper Plates

You can purchase bumper plates from most sporting goods stores and online retailers. Online retailers typically offer the widest selection of plates and often have better prices. Be sure to read reviews before purchasing to make sure you’re getting a quality product. It’s also a good idea to compare prices across different retailers to find the best deal.

It’s also possible to buy used bumper plates, though it’s important to inspect them thoroughly before purchasing. Look for signs of wear and tear such as cracks or tears in the rubber. Also check the weight of the plates to make sure they’re accurate.

Bumper plates are an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to do Olympic weightlifting in their home gym. They come in a variety of sizes and weights, so it’s important to choose the right ones for your needs. Consider the weight, diameter, material, and cost when selecting bumper plates. You can purchase new or used bumper plates from sporting goods stores or online retailers.

With the right bumper plates, you can take your strength training to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or an experienced lifter, bumper plates can help you reach your fitness goals.