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Weight plates have become a staple of any serious gym. They are an essential part of any strength training program and can be used to increase the intensity of a workout, allowing you to push your body to its limits. But before you start adding more weight to your routine, it’s important to understand the different types of weight plate design and their associated benefits.
Shop The Collection: Weight PlatesStandard weight plates are designed to be used with Olympic bars and other standard barbells. They come in several sizes and weights, ranging from one pound to fifty pounds or more. Standard plates typically feature two circular holes that allow them to slide onto the barbell's sleeve. The diameter of these holes is usually 7/8th of an inch, though some manufacturers may use slightly different measurements.
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Most standard plates are made from cast iron, which has been coated with a protective coating of zinc or chrome. This coating helps to reduce wear and tear on the plates, making them more durable. The thickness of the plates also varies depending on size and weight. Typically, thicker plates are heavier than thinner ones.
The typical design of a standard weight plate includes a flat center and two raised edges. These edges help to keep the plates securely attached to the barbell during workouts. In addition, they provide additional stability when the weight is lifted, helping to prevent the barbell from slipping out of your hands.
Using standard weight plates offers a number of benefits for those looking to take their strength training to the next level. First, because of their design, standard plates are easy to load onto a barbell. This makes it simpler to adjust the amount of weight you’re lifting, allowing you to progress through your workouts.
In addition, standard plates are highly affordable. Because of their simple design, they don’t require any specialized engineering and can be mass produced relatively cheaply. This makes them an ideal choice for anyone just starting out in strength training, as well as those on a budget.
Finally, standard weight plates are incredibly versatile. They can be used with almost any type of barbell, meaning that you don’t need to buy specialized equipment in order to get the most out of your strength training routine.
While there are many advantages to using standard weight plates, there are also some drawbacks. One of the biggest drawbacks is that standard plates can be awkward to handle, especially if you’re new to strength training. This is due to the fact that the holes in the plates can make it difficult to grip them securely.
In addition, standard plates can be prone to rusting over time. This is because of their exposed metal surfaces. To combat this, it’s important to store the plates in a dry area and to regularly check for signs of rusting.
Standard weight plates are an essential piece of equipment for any serious gym. They offer a range of benefits, including affordability and versatility, making them an ideal choice for beginners and experienced lifters alike. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential drawbacks, such as awkward handling and the possibility of rusting. By understanding how standard weight plates work and how to properly care for them, you can ensure that you get the most out of your strength training routine.
