Types Of Olympic Plates You Need To Know About
Which one to choose from standard plates or Olympic plates? A fitness enthusiast uses standard plates for his routine workout whereas Olympic plates are designed for athletes that can be used in weight lifting competitions. Both the plates have major differences. The standard plate generally has a 1-inch hole in between, but the Olympic plate has a 2-inch hole which makes it versatile for any barbell to pass through. The weight matters whether the Olympic weight plate is 20 kgs or 10 kgs, the diameter in between can easily allow the barbell to pass through. This is a major benefit of the Olympic plate. This plate has other benefits too alongside types as well. So, if you are planning to purchase weight plates for your home gym or commercial use, this article will guide you to choose the right one.
Type of Olympic weight plates
Olympic plates have subtypes and each has its own advantage. Explore the options below before making the final purchase.
Rubber weight plates
Rubber weight plates are made using urethane coated plates. They feature an extra layer of rubber coating that makes it durable, safe, and ensures longevity. The shape and dimensions of these plates are the same as that of rubber plates. The only difference is these plates are generally less durable and susceptible to damages. One added advantage is, these plates are odorless and do not produce a foul smell like rubber products.
Training bumper weight plates
The depth of training bumper weight plates is different but the diameter is the same. The affordable training bumper plates may not have the exact depth of the International Wrestling Federation(IWF) competition plates. These plates are of the specialist facility, commercial gym, or exercises like CrossFit. The color of the plates varies but comes generally in black.
Technique bumper weight plates
A technique bumper plate is made of solid rubber weight disc which can be used safely causing no harm. The bumper plates allow performing the exercises safely without any risk of damage to the floor, equipment, or performer. These plates strengthen the core and are required to perform certain movements. The technique plate is its subtype and is made of a single piece of rubber without a metal ring around the hole. These plates normally range between 2.5 kg to 5 kg which is used in competition.
Fractional plates
Fractional plates also known as incremental, weigh from 0.5 kg to 2.5 kgs. These plates do not have a metal circle in the center and are good to be used in the competition. The grip in the circle sticks to the bar that holds the grip and does not move the other plates in place.
Powerlifting weights
These powerlifting plates are made of calibrated steel, cast iron, and chromed metal. They are thinner and allow more weight to the bar. The unique function of thin discs is it keeps the person closer to the center of gravity that eliminates any whip on the squat. Such plates are specifically useful in powerlifting competitions and training athletes as sports centers.
Competition plates
Attributes like calibration make competition plates unique. According to the International Weightlifting Federation(IWF) rules plates need to be accurate to +0.1 % to -0.05%. The important factor is competition bumper plates are accurate, consistent and the weight people lift is light or heavy.
These are the types of plates designed for the purposes of competition between athletes. These plates have a wide range of benefits, which are as follows
Benefits of Olympic weight plates
– Olympic plates are versatile and can be used for multi-purposes.
– The weight stability in Olympic plates is much more stable on the weight lifting bar.
– The weight plate is much more flexible to be used for various exercises than standard weight plates.
– Olympic weight lifting bars endure a greater weight than standard weight bars.
– Olympic bars are thicker than standard bars. The Olympic bars will return straight if the plates are removed after the workout of the competition.
– Olympic weight plates can be brought in grip style. This means handles are convenient and flexible to be used in any of the competitions which help in remaining highly competitive.
– The Olympic bars rotate because of their role in the bar. This reduces torque that is more prone to spinning.
These are some of the benefits you will get from Olympic plates. So whether you choose it for your home gym or commercial purposes this fitness gear is your route to an enjoyable workout.
