How can cast iron plates elevate your home workouts. What are the benefits of progressive overloading. Which plate sizes are essential for a well-rounded home gym. Why is cast iron the preferred material for weight plates. How to maintain your cast iron plates for long-lasting performance.
The Power of Progressive Overloading in Strength Training
Progressive overloading is a cornerstone of effective strength training. This principle involves gradually increasing the demands placed on your muscles over time, forcing them to adapt and grow stronger. But how exactly does this work in practice?
By incrementally adding small amounts of weight to your lifts, typically 2.5 to 5 pounds at a time, you can consistently challenge your muscles without risking injury or overtraining. This method is particularly effective for exercises like shoulder presses, bicep curls, tricep extensions, and lateral raises.
Many commercial gyms offer rubber-coated plates in these smaller increments, but home gyms often lack this variety. This is where cast iron plates come in, offering the perfect solution for implementing progressive overload in your home workouts.
Versatility and Creativity: Expanding Your Exercise Repertoire
Weight plates aren’t just for traditional strength training. They can add a new dimension to your metabolic conditioning workouts as well. Have you considered incorporating 10-25 lb plates into your HIIT or kettlebell circuits? This additional load not only increases calorie burn but also helps maintain muscle mass during high-intensity workouts.
For those looking to get creative, weight plates open up a world of unconventional exercises. Try holding 10-25 lb plates during planks, push-ups, lunges, or squats to intensify these bodyweight movements. Just be mindful of potential wrist and grip fatigue when attempting these variations.
The Financial Benefits of a Home Gym Investment
While gym memberships offer access to a wide array of equipment, they come with a significant monthly cost. Moreover, as the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated, external circumstances can suddenly limit or completely cut off access to these facilities.
Investing in your own cast iron plates allows you to create a versatile home gym setup, potentially eliminating the need for expensive gym memberships. Although the initial cost may seem substantial, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. How much could you save over a year, or even five years, by canceling your gym membership and training at home?
Cast Iron: The Superior Choice for Weight Plates
While bumper plates have gained popularity due to the rise of Olympic weightlifting, cast iron plates remain the gold standard for pure strength training. But what makes cast iron so special?
- Durability: With proper care, cast iron plates can last a lifetime
- Stability: Unlike bumper plates, they won’t bounce or create excessive noise
- Grip: The textured surface offers better grip compared to smooth bumper plates
- Cost-effectiveness: More affordable per pound than bumper plates
- Space-saving: Their compact size takes up less storage space
For most strength exercises, the benefits of cast iron plates are hard to beat. They provide the perfect balance of functionality, durability, and value for home gym enthusiasts.
Essential Plate Sizes for Your Home Gym
10 lb Plates: The Foundation for Gradual Progression
Ten-pound plates should be a staple in any home gym setup. Why? They allow for precise, gradual increases in weight for upper body lifts, typically 2.5-5 pounds per session. For lower body exercises like squats and deadlifts, they enable 10-pound increments.
A good starting point is to acquire four 10 lb plates. This configuration allows for simultaneous loading on both sides of the barbell. As your strength grows, you can always add more plates to your collection.
25 lb Plates: Powering Your Major Compound Lifts
As you progress in your strength journey, 25 lb plates become essential, especially for major compound lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, overhead presses, and rows. These larger plates allow for quicker loading when working with weights above 100 lbs.
Consider starting with four to six 25 lb plates. It’s crucial to prioritize quality cast iron over cheaper steel options to ensure longevity. Pro tip: combine 25 lb plates with smaller 10 lb and 5 lb plates for precise incremental loading.
Maintaining Your Cast Iron Plates for Long-Term Performance
With proper care and maintenance, your cast iron plates can serve you for decades. Here are some essential tips to protect your investment:
- Use plate sleeves during storage to prevent chipping
- Keep plates away from excessive moisture to prevent rust
- Consider coating plates in chalk for improved grip and to limit oxidation
- Avoid dropping plates, even from short distances
By following these simple maintenance steps, you can significantly extend the life of your plates and avoid costly replacements down the line.
Top Cast Iron Plate Brands for Your Home Gym
When it comes to equipping your home gym, it’s crucial to prioritize quality over cost. But which brands offer the best balance of quality and value? Here are some reputable cast iron plate brands to consider:
- Rogue Fitness: Known for their premium cast iron plates made in the USA
- York Barbell: A legendary brand with a reputation for durable iron plates
- Titan Fitness: Offers budget-friendly plates without compromising on performance
- CAP Barbell: A reliable option that’s great for beginners
While more affordable brands exist, they often cut corners that reduce long-term durability. Investing a little more upfront in quality plates can save you money and frustration in the long run.
Maximizing Your Home Gym Potential with Cast Iron Plates
Adding cast iron plates to your home gym is a game-changer for serious strength training. By incorporating 10 lb and 25 lb plates, you unlock the full potential of progressive overloading, allowing for precise weight increases that challenge your muscles and drive continuous growth.
Cast iron plates offer unparalleled durability, stability, and versatility compared to other options. They’re not just for traditional strength training – these versatile weights can enhance your HIIT workouts, bodyweight exercises, and even unconventional training methods.
Remember, investing in quality cast iron plates is an investment in your long-term fitness journey. With proper care and maintenance, these plates can last a lifetime, providing consistent, reliable performance for all your strength training needs.
Are you ready to take your home workouts to the next level? Consider adding a set of cast iron plates to your gym setup. Start with a combination of 10 lb and 25 lb plates, and watch as your strength and muscle gains soar to new heights.
By prioritizing quality and investing in reputable brands, you’re not just buying weight plates – you’re investing in a tool that will support your fitness goals for years to come. So why wait? Elevate your home gym experience today with the addition of top-rated cast iron plates.
Adding weight plates to your home gym setup can take your training to the next level. With cast iron plates ranging from 10-25 lbs and beyond, you’ll have the versatility to progressively overload your lifts and build serious strength across exercises like squats, bench press, deadlifts, and more. Let’s dive into the benefits of owning your own iron plates and explore some top-rated cast iron options to upgrade your home gym.
The Power of Progressive Overloading
One of the core principles of strength training is progressive overloading – gradually increasing the demand placed on your muscles over time to force adaptation and growth. Adding small 2.5-5 lb plate increments with each workout is an ideal way to overload the muscles without risking injury or overtraining.
While many gyms provide rubber-coated plates in 2.5 or 5 lb options, the average home gym often skips these smaller weights. This makes incremental loading nearly impossible. Bringing home durable cast iron plates down to 10 lbs solves this issue so you can reap the benefits of progressive overloads on exercises like shoulder presses, bicep curls, tricep extensions, lateral raises, and more.
Greater Exercise Versatility
Beyond progressive strength training, weight plates also add versatility to metabolic conditioning workouts. Try adding 10-25 lb plates to exercises during a HIIT workout or kettlebell circuit. The extra load increases calorie burn while also helping maintain muscle mass.
You can also get creative by using weight plates in unconventional ways. For example, hold 10-25 lb plates during planks, push-ups, lunges or squats to ratchet up the intensity. Just be cautious of wrist and grip fatigue.
DIY Savings Over Gym Memberships
While gym memberships provide access to top-of-the-line weight racks, machines, and hundreds of plate options, all that equipment comes at a hefty monthly price. And as the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated, gyms can shut down at a moment’s notice.
Owning your own cast iron plates allows you to cancel gym memberships and train from home or even outdoors. Though the upfront cost is an investment, it will pay dividends over time without expensive monthly fees.
Cast Iron: The Gold Standard for Plates
Bumper plates have become popular thanks to the rise of Olympic weightlifting, but cast iron plates still reign supreme for pure strength training. Here’s why iron is ideal:
- Extremely durable – Cast iron can last a lifetime with proper care
- Won’t bounce or make excess noise like bumper plates
- Offer better grip with textured surface vs smooth bumpers
- More affordable per pound than bumper plates
- Compact size takes up less storage space
While bumper plates have benefits for dynamic lifts like cleans and snatches, iron plates can’t be beat for most strength exercises.
Add 10 lb Plates for Gradual Progression
Ten pound plates should be a staple in any home gym. They allow you to gradually increase upper body lifts by 2.5-5 lbs each session. For lower body lifts like squats and deadlifts, go up 10 lbs at a time.
Consider starting with four 10 lb plates, allowing incremental loading on both sides of the barbell simultaneously. Then add plates as needed over time.
25 lb Plates for Major Compound Lifts
Once your core lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench, overhead press, and rows start getting heavy, 25 lb plates become essential. These will allow quicker loading for sets above 100 lbs.
Aim for four to six 25 lb plates to start. Focus on quality cast iron that will last over cheaper steel options. Pro tip – combine 25’s with smaller 10 lb and 5 lb plates for super precise incremental loading.
Maintain Your Investment with Proper Care
With proper care and maintenance, cast iron plates will serve you for decades. Here are a few tips:
- Use plate sleeves during storage to prevent chipping
- Keep plates away from excessive moisture to prevent rust
- Consider coating plates in chalk for grip and to limit oxidation
- Avoid dropping plates, even from short distances
Taking steps to protect your plates will save you from expensive replacements down the road.
Top Cast Iron Plate Brands
When equipping your home gym, prioritize quality over cost by choosing reputable cast iron plate brands including:
- Rogue Fitness – Premium cast iron plates made in the USA
- York Barbell – Legendary brand known for durable iron plates
- Titan Fitness – Budget-friendly plates with good performance
- CAP Barbell – Reliable option great for beginners
While more affordable brands exist, they often cut corners that reduce long-term durability. Spend a little more upfront for plates that will serve you well for decades.
The Takeaway
Adding cast iron plates like 10 lb and 25 lb options is one of the best ways to take your home gym to the next level. You’ll unlock the power of progressive overloading for better strength and muscle gains while also saving money over a traditional gym.
Focus on premium cast iron plates from leading brands. Maintain your investment properly. And get ready to reach new PRs in the comfort of your own home!
Add versatility – Use plates for strength training, HIIT, etc.
Looking to take your home gym to the next level? Adding a set of cast iron plates can be a game changer when it comes to versatility and functionality. With the right set of plates, you can use them for strength training, HIIT workouts, metabolic conditioning, and more – no extra equipment required!
Cast iron has long been a staple in gyms and garage gyms for good reason. It’s durable, will last forever, and provides that satisfying ‘clang’ when you drop a deadlift. When just starting out, purchasing a set of cast iron plates allows you to progress your lifts overtime by adding smaller plates. A good starter set is a pair of 45s, 35s, 25s, 10s, 5s, and 2.5s. This gives you a lot of options for progressive overload.
Let’s look at some of the many ways that iron plates can up the versatility of your home workout space:
Strength Training
The most obvious use is for heavy strength training – think deadlifts, squats, overhead presses, rows, etc. With a good Olympic barbell and set of bumper plates, you can safely perform these foundational lifts at home. Cast iron plates provide durability for years of hardcore training.
Start with that 45 lb plate and work your way up by adding smaller plates as you progress. You can find solid cast iron plates from brands like Fitness Gear and CAP Barbell online or at sporting goods stores for a reasonable price.
HIIT and Metabolic Work
Believe it or not, you can also use iron plates for HIIT and metabolic conditioning workouts to get your heart rate up. Exercises like plate-over-head walks, plate push presses, plate front squats, and plate thrusters are challenging full-body moves.
Use a single 25-45 lb plate or two smaller 10-25 lb plates during these workouts to burn calories and build muscle. Going from exercise to exercise in a HIIT workout style keeps your heart rate elevated.
Add Weight to Bodyweight Exercises
You can also get creative and use plates to add weight to traditional bodyweight moves. This increases resistance to build muscle and strength. Some ideas:
- Hold a 10-25 lb plate at your chest during pushups
- Use a plate for goblet squats
- Hold plates at your sides during lunges or Bulgarian split squats
- Place a plate on your back for weighted pull-ups or dips
Adding a cast iron plate or two will make basic bodyweight exercises much more challenging. And by using different size plates, you can easily progress these movements as you get stronger.
Farmer’s Carries and Loaded Carries
One of the most effective ways to use plates for full-body strength and conditioning is loaded carries. Farmer’s carries with the plates at your sides, plate overhead carries, and plate front rack carries are simple but brutal.
Start with a heavier plate, like a 45 lb, and go for distance down and back. Or use 2 smaller plates for longer timed intervals. Mix up unilateral and bilateral carries for variety.
Loaded carries with plates tax your grip, core, shoulders and legs for serious full-body strength gains. Introduce them into your routine 1-2 times per week.
Sleds and Prowlers
If you have a sled or Prowler, load up some cast iron plates and push or drag it for grueling metabolic work. Plate-loaded sled training develops explosive power and stamina.
Start with a manageable weight, like a 25 lb plate, and progress from there. Drag the sled for reps up and down your driveway or yard. Really focuses on driving through your heels and finishing each rep strong.
Plate Slams
Steel plates aren’t just for strength training – they can up the fun factor of your workouts too. Plate slams involve lifting a 10-25 lb plate overhead and slamming it forcefully on the ground.
Despite the name, be careful not to actually throw and completely release the plate. Control it on the descent. Plate slams work your shoulders, core, and grip in an explosive movement.
Sandbag Training
Finally, you can get creative and use cast iron plates as makeshift sandbags for tough muscle-building exercises. Place 1-4 smaller plates into a duffle bag and get to work!
Sandbag training is great for the shoulders, grip, back, and legs. Exercises like sandbag squats, clean and presses, lunges, and carries are no joke.
As you can see, the training possibilities are endless when you have a set of cast iron plates in your home gym arsenal. They allow you to progress your big lifts, torch calories, and work your whole body. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to increase your gym’s capabilities.
When equipping your home workout space, be sure to invest in high quality cast iron plates from leading brands. With proper care, they will last a lifetime. Check sporting goods stores or shop online at retailers like Fitness Gear, CAP Barbell, and more. With the right set of iron plates, you can achieve any fitness goal from the comfort of home!
Go heavy – Cast iron plates allow you to progressively overload
Looking to pump some serious iron right in your own home? Cast iron weight plates are the top choice for home gym enthusiasts who want to go heavy and progressively overload their muscles. Unlike cheaper plastic or rubber coated plates, cast iron plates provide the heft and durability needed for serious strength training.
Made of solid cast iron, these weight plates feel satisfyingly heavy in your hands. There’s just something about the cold, hard metal against your skin that gets you in the mindset for moving some serious weight. The density of cast iron allows manufacturers to pack a lot of pounds into a relatively small diameter plate.
This comes in handy when you want to load up a standard Olympic barbell or dumbbell handle but don’t have a lot of room to spare. A compact 25 lb cast iron plate takes up barely more space than a flimsy 10 lb plastic plate, but will push your muscles to the limit.
The iron grip of a heavy plate also provides a secure, non-slip surface for your hands. No more worrying about plates sliding around or touching the floor during overhead presses or renegade rows. You can get a good, tight grip and focus on your form and muscle contraction.
When it comes to durability, cast iron plates are practically indestructible. You can drop them from overhead without damage. The solid metal construction won’t crack or warp like plastic and rubber plates are prone to do. This makes them ideal for explosive lifts like cleans, snatches and deadlifts. You can be confident the plates will hold up rep after rep, year after year.
Unlike cheap plates that have a relatively short lifespan, a set of cast iron plates can serve you for decades. The initial investment pays for itself over time. And if you ever decide to upgrade to a larger set, standard cast iron plates tend to hold their value well on the resale market.
Add Weight Progressively
One of the major benefits of cast iron plates is the ability to make small, incremental jumps in weight. Good cast iron plates are machined to exact tolerances, meaning a 10 lb plate really weighs 10 lbs, not 9 or 11. This allows you to progressively overload your muscles by adding just 5-10 lbs at a time.
Progressive overload through the addition of small amounts of weight is key for continued gains in strength and muscle. Most plastic and rubber coated plate sets only allow large jumps of 15-20 lbs between fixed weight options. But with individual cast iron plates you can add just 2.5 or 5 lbs at a time.
So when you find yourself stalling on a lift, you can push through by loading just a tad more weight rather than having to increase by a big chunk. Those seemingly minor increases accumulating over time result in impressive gains.
Standard Sizing
Cast iron plates with standard hole sizing offer versatility within your home gym. Look for plates with either 1 inch or 2 inch center holes to fit most modern barbells, dumbbells and other equipment.
1 inch holes are common on fixed weight bars like EZ curl bars and trap bars. Olympic-style bars have 2 inch holes, allowing you to load up a bar for heavy back squats or bench presses. Standard sized holes ensure the plates will be compatible with whatever equipment you currently own, as well as anything you may add in the future.
Standard sizing also makes cast iron plates easy to resell to other home gym owners when the time comes to upgrade. Plates that fit 1 inch and 2 inch bars and handles have the widest appeal on the used market.
Coatings for Protection
While the toughness of raw cast iron is part of the appeal, most plates feature some sort of coating for protection. Bare cast iron can potentially rust and corrode if stored in a damp area. A protective coating eliminates this issue.
The most basic coated plates feature a semi-gloss black paint. This gives the plates an attractive, classic appearance reminiscent of old-school gym iron. The paint prevents rusting and helps limit chipping of the iron over time.
For better corrosion and scratch resistance, look for plates with an electrostatically applied powder coating. This creates a durable surface that maintains the natural metallic sheen of the iron. Powder coated plates don’t require paint or frequent maintenance.
Rubber or urethane coatings also provide excellent protection. They give each plate a bit of bounce to protect your floors, equipment and plates from damage on impact. The grippy coating also reduces slipping during use.
Go Heavy at Home
Serious strength comes from lifting serious weight. If your goals involve increasing muscle, power and personal records, equip your home gym with heavy-duty cast iron plates.
The compact size, rugged durability and incremental weight jumps of quality cast iron plates allow you to safely push your body to the limit in your own space. Once you experience the satisfaction and motivation that comes from going heavy with iron, you’ll never go back to flimsy plates again.
Standard plates – Review common standard plate sizes
Building a home gym? One of the first steps is selecting the right weights. To maximize versatility, it pays to understand standard plate sizing conventions. Choosing plates with standard hole diameters allows them to fit a wide range of barbells, dumbbells and other equipment both now and in the future.
Unlike the fixed weight plates on cheap beginner sets, individual standard plates let you progressively increase resistance in small increments. This is key for continued strength and muscle gains over time. Here’s an overview of the most common standard plate sizes found in home gyms and garage gyms.
Olympic Plates – 2 Inch Hole
Olympic plates refer to free weights featuring a 2 inch diameter center hole. This matches the size of Olympic standard barbells, allowing the plates to slide securely into place.
Olympic barbells are the standard for serious strength training. Their high load capacity makes them ideal for heavy lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench presses and overhead presses. Olympic plates are available from lightweight 1.25 lb plates up to monstrous 100 lb plates and beyond.
Typical Olympic plates include:
- 1.25 lb
- 2.5 lb
- 5 lb
- 10 lb
- 25 lb
- 35 lb
- 45 lb
Olympic plate sets are a common starting point for new home gyms. A 300 lb Olympic set with two 45s, two 35s, and four smaller plates per side is enough for most beginners to learn proper form on all the major barbell lifts.
Standard 1 Inch Plates
Standard plates have a 1 inch center hole to fit lighter bars and fixed barbells. Common standard sizes include:
- 1.25 lb
- 2.5 lb
- 5 lb
- 10 lb
These are useful for smaller fitness gear like EZ curl bars, trap bars and tricep bars. Standard 1 inch plates can also add incremental weight to dumbbell handles and loadable kettlebells. They give flexibility for smaller muscle isolation exercises.
When shopping, double check the hole size on any specialty bars or handles you plan to use standard plates with. Some have holes sized between 1 inch and 2 inches, requiring corresponding plate sizes.
Fractional Plates
Fractional plates ranging from 0.25 lb to 2.5 lb are specially designed for incremental loading. The small size increments allow you to progressively overload by as little as a quarter or half pound.
This microloading capacity helps drive continued progress when you’ve plateaued on a lift. Bare steel fractional plates can have either a 1 inch or 2 inch center hole for outfitting Olympic or standard bars.
Rubber coated fractional plates increase grip and protect the bar sleeve. Some popular fractional plate sizes are:
- 0.25 lb
- 0.5 lb
- 0.75 lb
- 1 lb
- 1.25 lb
- 1.5 lb
- 2.5 lb
Grip Plates
Grip plates are smaller diameter plates ranging from 5 to 25 lbs. They have thinner profiles to fit more weight in less space on things like dumbbell handles and leg press machines.
The compact size allows you to load up heavy weights for single limb and isolation exercises without the plates touching the floor or taking up extra room. Grip plates usually have a 1 inch center hole but 2 inch Olympic grip plates are also available.
Machined vs Cast Iron Plates
High quality machined iron plates are cut from a solid iron block on a lathe for precise weight tolerances and hole sizing. This ensures every 10 lb plate weighs exactly 10 lbs.
Cast iron plates are made by pouring molten iron into a mold. While durable, the casting process leads to slightly more variability in the final product. Machined plates are preferable for reliably tracking strength gains.
Coatings
Bare steel plates will eventually rust without a protective coating. Most plates feature a black paint, powder coat or rubber/urethane coating to prevent corrosion and damage.
Coated plates maintain a smooth, rust-free surface for years. They also reduce noise on impact and provide a secure grip. The coating adds a small amount of weight – generally only a fraction of a pound.
Go Standard for Versatility
Choosing free weights with standard sizing maximizes utility and flexibility. You can use standard plates across multiple types of fitness equipment now and into the future as your home gym evolves. Focus on buying quality machined plates with protective coatings for smooth, quiet performance and lasting durability as you pursue strength gains.
Cost savings – Buying your own plates vs gym membership
Pumping iron at home offers major cost savings compared to a traditional gym. Once you make the initial investment in a quality set of plates, the savings really add up over time. Here’s a look at the economics of buying your own plates versus an ongoing gym membership.
Upfront Cost
Buying a set of cast iron or machined plates represents a larger upfront cost than a single month at the gym. But over the long run, owning your own plates is significantly more affordable than paying a high priced gym membership every month.
As a benchmark, a 300 lb Olympic plate set with two 45s, two 35s and four smaller plates per side costs $300 to $500. You can often find quality used plates for even less on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace if you keep an eye out.
By comparison, an average commercial gym membership costs around $50 per month, or $600 per year. Over two years that adds up to $1200 – far more than a basic 300 lb Olympic plate set.
With good care and maintenance, a quality set of plates will serve you for decades before needing replacement. So you can think of plates as a long term investment in your fitness.
Additional Equipment
Beyond the plates themselves, you’ll need a quality Olympic barbell ($150 to $300) and likely other accessories like a bench, rack or stands, dumbbell handles, etc. So factor in another $500 to $1500 to outfit a garage gym.
Even on the high end, after adding up all the gear your startup costs pale in comparison to ongoing gym dues. And you own the equipment outright instead of renting limited access each month.
Long Term Savings
Over time, the savings of buying your own plates and fitness gear versus gym membership fees really add up. Let’s compare costs over 5 years:
Gym membership at $50 per month = $3000
Home gym equipment (high end estimate) = $2000
Buying your own plates and gear saves $1000 over a 5 year period. The savings grow even more substantial when you factor in 10 or 20 years of serious training.
And with a home setup, you can use your gym whenever you want without driving, crowds or peak hours. The convenience and access can be invaluable.
Resale Value
Quality cast iron plates hold their value incredibly well on the secondhand market. It’s common to recoup 75% to 100% of your initial plate purchase when reselling used. You can often make back a sizable chunk of your entire gym startup costs.
Try getting a refund on your gym membership fees after a couple years! That’s money you’ll never see again.
Reselling plates you no longer need allows you to upgrade your home gym equipment over time while minimizing out of pocket costs. In this way, buying plates and gear is an investment in your fitness.
Workout Anytime
Having your own home gym means you can workout anytime – no driving, no crowds, no waiting for equipment. You can hit the gym first thing in the morning, middle of the night, whenever it fits your schedule.
No more racing to make it to a class on time or being limited by the gym’s operating hours. You can even squeeze in a few extra sets or reps when you have a free moment. That convenience and flexibility can be invaluable.
Save on Supplements
Gym markups on supplements, vitamins and protein powders are insane. You can easily save 50% or more buying in bulk online versus single tubs at the gym counter.
Whey protein for less than $10 per pound? Yes please! Those cost savings really add up when you use supplements daily.
Never Skip Workouts
With a home setup, bad weather, traffic, scheduling conflicts and other issues no longer prevent you from putting in work. No excuses – you can hit your workout anytime. Skipping workouts ruins gains, so home access means faster long term results.
Building your own garage or basement gym centered around a quality set of plates provides ongoing savings and unmatched convenience. The iron isn’t going to lift itself – start pumping!
Space efficient – Plates don’t take up much room
Setting up a home gym? Make the most of your available space by choosing efficient, compact weight plates. Though dense and heavy, quality cast iron and machined plates take up surprisingly little floor space thanks to their slim profile design.
This makes them ideal for working out in garages, basements, apartments and other areas without excessive square footage. Here’s a look at how the design of weight plates maximizes space efficiency.
Small Diameter
Plates range in diameter from as small as 6 inches for fractional plates up to 18 inches for large 45 lb Olympic plates. Even hefty 45s are relatively compact in diameter.
The small footprint allows you to stage multiple plates on the floor near the bench, rack or lifting platform without consuming too much space. Several 45’s stacked up take up barely more floor space than a single bulky dumbbell.
Compare this to the massive footprint of seated lever machines, chest presses and other strength equipment. Plates win in terms of efficient use of training space.
Slim Profile
Though dense and heavy, weight plates are designed with a slim profile to minimize space. Plates usually range from 1 to 2 inches thick depending on the weight and style.
This slim design allows you to load up a bar with 4 or more plates per side without them clanging together or touching the floor. Hundreds of pounds can be loaded on a bar with a compact footprint.
The thin but sturdy construction also makes plates easy to carry and store on vertical plate trees and racks.
Compact Storage
When not being used, plates can be neatly organized on a vertical storage rack or tree. Compact storage allows you to keep your full complement of plates tidy and organized, yet out of the way.
A basic plate tree accommodates a full Olympic plate set in a sleeve just a couple feet wide. Large sets can be stored on either double or triple plate trees. There are also space efficient plate racks that hang on the wall when not in use.
Proper storage keeps your plates looking tidy, protects them from damage, and doesn’t allow them to become obstacles in your training space.
Multi-Purpose Weights
Unlike fixed use machines, free weights like barbells and dumbbells paired with plates can be used for endless exercise variations. This maximizes the utility you get out of the space the equipment consumes.
By using a bar, plates and a bench you can train chest, shoulders, back, arms and more. Far more versatile than having separate equipment for each bodypart.
The flexibility of plates also allows your home gym to grow and evolve over time without needing more space. You can always add additional weight plates down the road.
Go Vertical
To maximize floor space, utilize vertical storage including wall-mounted racks, plate holders and barbell gun racks. These keep equipment organized and accessible but completely out of the way.
A power rack with pull-up bar and plate storage pegs also provides efficient vertical storage. Olympic bumper plates can even be stored vertically resting on their edges against the wall.
Going vertical with plate storage ensures they take up zero floorspace when not being used for lifting heavy stuff.
Lift Outside
One of the benefits of steel weight plates is they can be used outdoors in your yard, driveway or garage. Outdoor training maximizes space by getting your workout completely out of the living areas.
The durable construction of cast iron and steel plates allows them to be safely used outside without worry of damage. Just keep bare steel plates oiled to prevent rusting.
You can even mount a pull-up bar on the side of your house or garage and use portable stands for bench and squats. Your local parks are also an option.
Efficient Flooring
Rubber interlocking tiles, stall mats or sheet rubber provide affordable, durable flooring for garage gyms. These protective surfaces handle heavy drops and stand up to abuse from barbells.
The modular tile design makes it easy to tailor your floorspace to the specific training area. No wasted space or unused corners. Interlocking tiles also minimize seams compared to large sheets.
Quality flooring protects your concrete while allowing you to make full use of your available training space. It’s a smart investment for any home gym.
With some creative planning, weight plates allow you to setup a complete strength training gym even in a one or two car garage. The versatile, compact nature of plates and barbells makes efficient use of the space you have.
Premium build – High quality cast iron prevents breakage
Equipping your home gym with top-notch plates is a smart investment. Premium cast iron plates provide unbeatable durability to handle years of heavy lifting punishment. Here’s an overview of what makes quality cast iron plates virtually indestructible.
Dense Cast Iron
Quality cast iron plates start with dense, heavy iron formed in a mold under high pressure conditions. The dense molecular structure gives cast iron its legendary strength and durability.
Lesser quality “cast iron” plates actually substitute cheaper steel in the casting process. This results in plates that lack the density to withstand abuse. Always look for 100% cast iron construction.
The heavier and denser the raw iron, the stronger and longer lasting the final plate will be. Density prevents breakage from drops.
Precision Machining
After casting, premium iron plates are CNC machined to fine tolerances. This levels the surfaces and ensures consistent sizing of the center hole.
Machining removes imperfections and tooling marks from the raw casting, resulting in smooth, blemish-free plates. The precision bore creates a tight fit on barbells to prevent unwanted slide or play.
Mass produced cheap plates skip this machining step, leaving imperfections and inconsistent sizing. The extra machining ensures consistent quality.
Chamfered Edges
Quality iron plates feature chamfered or beveled edges. This rounded edge design distributes force on impacts to prevent chipping and cracking.
Chamfered edges also protect your bars, dumbbell handles and other equipment from scratches and damage during loading and unloading. The smooth edges won’t chew up your equipment.
Raw cast edges are prone to chipping over time as microfractures develop. Machined chamfering fortifies the edges against damage.
Top-Grade Coatings
To prevent surface rusting and corrosion, quality plates feature a protective coating. This also improves aesthetics and provides a smooth, easy to grip surface.
Basic coatings like vinyl or powder coating offer decent protection at an affordable price point. For professional grade durability, look for premium urethane or rubber coatings.
Quality coatings shield the iron and won’t crack, peel or flake with heavy use. They also minimize noise on impact.
Reinforced Hubs
Another mark of premium quality is a reinforced hub around the center hole. This fortifies the weakest area of the plate against damage.
Plates that develop stress cracks usually fail around the hub first. Reinforcing this area with additional iron stabilizes the hole under load.
Reinforced hubs prevent the hole from deforming during use. Cheap plates often flatten or bend around the hub, making them difficult or impossible to load on a bar.
Durable Construction
Between the dense cast iron, precision machining, chamfered edges and reinforced hub, quality plates are practically bulletproof. They can withstand years of being dropped, loaded and unloaded without breakage or degradation.
Less durable plates may dent, bend or crack under heavy use. This introduces potentially dangerous sharp edges and tooling marks into your training space.
Premium cast iron plates will likely outlast you. They are truly a lifetime investment for your home gym. Pay a little extra up front and you’ll never need to replace them.
Made in USA
To ensure the highest manufacturing standards, look for plates made domestically in the USA. American-made plates are held to higher production and material standards than cheap overseas imports.
USA machining results in tighter tolerances and quality control compared to mass produced import plates. Support American manufacturing by buying quality domestic plates.
When selecting weight plates, don’t look at them as a cost but rather as a lifetime investment in your training. Opt for premium cast iron plates with top-tier coatings and reinforced construction, and they will provide decades of flawless performance.
Easy to use – Standard hole size fits most equipment
Choosing weight plates with standard center hole sizing maximizes compatibility and ease of use. Standard-sized plates easily fit Olympic barbells, dumbbells, specialty bars and more both now and into the future.
1 Inch Standard Plates
Plates designed for use with standard 1 inch bars and handles have a 1 inch diameter center hole. Common standard sizes include:
- 1.25 lbs
- 2.5 lbs
- 5 lbs
- 10 lbs
These are ideal for smaller bars like EZ curl bars, tricep bars, cambered bars, etc. The 1 inch hole ensures the plates fit snugly without wobble or play.
Standard plates also work with loadable dumbbell handles, trap bars, specialty presses and other fitness gear with a 1 inch sleeve.
2 Inch Olympic Plates
For heavy training, Olympic plates feature a 2 inch center hole to fit Olympic barbells and 2 inch dumbbell handles. Common Olympic sizes include:
- 2.5 lbs
- 5 lbs
- 10 lbs
- 25 lbs
- 35 lbs
- 45 lbs
The oversized 2 inch hole allows plates to slide smoothly onto Olympic bars for heavy lifts like squats, deadlifts, bench press and overhead press.
Perfect Fit
The snug fit of standard and Olympic plates minimizes unwanted play or slide during use. This gives you better control over the weight and allows you to focus on proper lifting technique.
Loose, wobbly plates throw off your balance and positioning. A tight fit transfers force directly where you want it.
Consistent sizing also means switching plates between different bars and handles is fast and easy. No fiddling to get them on or off.
Added Versatility
Choosing plates with standard 1 inch or 2 inch holes gives added versatility. You can use standard plates across a wide variety of fitness equipment both now and years into the future.
As you grow your home gym, standard plates will work across all your new barbells, dumbbells, plate loaded machines and other gear.
You aren’t limited only to certain proprietary bars or machines. Standard plates fit nearly any strength equipment on the market.
Future-Proof
Weight lifting is a lifetime journey. Your equipment needs will grow and evolve over time. Selecting plates with standard sizing now future-proofs your home gym.
Standard plates purchased today will seamlessly integrate with new equipment down the road. You’ll have the flexibility to upgrade bars, benches, racks and dumbbells without having to buy all new plates.
The universal compatibility of standard plates maximizes your options for upgrades and customization.
Easy Storage
Standard sized plates store neatly and efficiently on plate trees, racks, holders and pegs. The uniform sizing allows plates to be organized logically and retrieved quickly.
Avoid odd-sized plates or plates with unusually large or small center holes that won’t work with storage solutions. Standard is best.
Resell Easily
When the time comes to upgrade your plate collection, standard sized plates retain excellent resale value. The universal compatibility ensures high demand when selling used.
Plates that only fit proprietary bars or non-standard holes are a much harder sell. Stick with 1 inch and 2 inch standard sizing for the widest future appeal.
Choosing plates with standard 1 inch and 2 inch center holes maximizes ease of use across a wide variety of gym equipment now and years into your fitness journey.
Noise reduction – Cast iron absorbs sound vs metal
Making some serious gains doesn’t have to mean making serious noise. Quality cast iron weight plates provide the ideal combination of heavy duty durability and sound dampening properties.
Compared to raw steel or metal plates, cast iron absorbs sound and vibration on impact. This allows for quieter workouts that don’t disturb the entire household.
Dense Construction
Cast iron is formed by pouring molten iron into a mold. The dense molecular structure that results helps deaden sound on impact.
The thick cast material absorbs vibration rather than transferring or amplifying it through the floor. This allows plates to be safely dropped from overhead lifts without excessive noise.
Thinner, cheaper steel plates tend to create an annoying metallic ring when dropped. The dense iron absorbs that vibration for a muffled landing.
Rubber Coatings
Many cast iron plates feature a protective rubber or urethane coating. This provides durability while further isolating and dampening noise.
The flexible rubber material helps absorb sound on impact. It provides a layer of sound insulation between the dense iron core and the floor.
Bumper plates with thick rubber coatings are exceptionally quiet and ideal for minimizing noise while maximizing durability.
Noise Considerations
When setting up a home gym, be considerate of noise levels, especially if you lift early morning or late evening. Here are some tips to keep the peace:
- Use cast iron or bumper plates to minimize noise on drop sets, deadlifts, etc.
- Add sound dampening rubber mats or turf to further isolate impacts.
- Avoid bare concrete or tile floors which amplify noise.
- Face loud equipment like squat racks away from bedrooms.
- Talk to your household about workout times to find a compromise.
Isolate the Source
Stopping noise at the source is most effective. Cast iron plates mute noise where it originates – right at the point of impact with the floor.
Trying to soundproof an entire room is difficult and expensive. Reducing noise at the plate level is much simpler and affordable.
It also allows you flexibility to lift anywhere without needing permanent sound installation. Bring quiet plates anywhere!
Sound Dampening Mats
Pairing sound-absorbing cast iron plates with acoustical flooring is an ideal combination. Rubber mats dampen any residual noise not absorbed by the plates.
Horse stall mats provide excellent dampening properties along with durability, shock absorption and floor protection.
Fold-out interlocking foam mats are another great option. They provide quieter landings to further isolate noise.
Drop Pads
Custom drop pads constructed of dense foam or recycled rubber provide a designated landing zone for noisy lifts like deadlifts.
The raised pad localizes noise in one area rather than transmitting it through the entire floor. Fold up when not in use.
DIY options like layers of plywood covered in turf or horse mats also work well. Place in a garage or corner of the gym away from other living spaces.
Lift Responsibly
With the right precautions, you can absolutely lift heavy and intense while being respectful of noise. Communicate with household members, isolate impact areas, and use sound reducing plates and flooring for a peaceful powerlifting sanctuary.
Brand spotlight – Overview top brands like Fitness Gear
When building a home gym, selecting weight plates from a reputable brand ensures quality and durability. With so many options on the market, focusing on well-known established brands is a safe bet.
Here is an overview of some of the top plate brands perfect for outfitting your garage or basement gym.
Fitness Gear
With a comprehensive selection of weight plates and strength equipment, Fitness Gear is a go-to choice for many home gym owners on a budget.
Their Pro line offers classic cast iron plates in all standard sizes from 1.25 lbs up to 45 lbs. The durable iron construction withstands serious abuse during heavy lifting.
Fitness Gear’s rubber coated cast iron plates add great grip and noise dampening. Theircrumb bumper plates are alsopopular for CrossFit style training. Fantastic value from a trusted brand.
Rogue
Known for premium quality, Rogue produces machined iron plates alongside color coded bumper plates perfect for CrossFit boxes and garages.
Rogue’s American-made machined plates provide the strictest tolerances and quality control. Their urethane coated Equalizer plates look great and deliver durability.
For Olympic lifting, Rogue Color Kilo and Color Lb bumper plates are the gold standard. Precision cut for competition specs and performance.
Rep Fitness
Rep Fitness plates offer quality cast iron and bumper plates on par with the big names but at lower prices. Theirdeep dish iron plates look great loading up the bar.
Rep’s black bumper plates are affordable and durable for high rep Olympic lifting. Great value from a brand rapidly gaining popularity.
Titan Fitness
For outfitting a gym on a budget, Titan Fitness delivers excellent quality at very wallet-friendly pricing. Their cast iron plates exceed expectations for the price.
Titan’s color coded bumper plates offer a comparable alternative to the big names at almost half the cost. Big savings without sacrificing quality.
York Barbell
An old school legend, York Barbell iron plates provide no-nonsense durability crafted to last a lifetime. As a pioneer in strength equipment, their legacy speaks for itself.
York also produces quality Olympic bumper plates ideal for CrossFit and general training. Made in the USA by a company with decades of experience.
Fringe Sport
Catering to crossover strength athletes, Fringe Sport specializes in competition-worthy Olympic bumper plates.
Their Signature Bumper Plates look amazing and perform flawlessly. Consistent quality with thoughtful design details make them a top choice.
Eleiko
The gold standard of Olympic weightlifting, Eleiko produces performance plates used in championships worldwide. You can feel the difference in quality.
For lifters willing to invest in the very best, Eleiko Crafted Plates represent peak innovation, consistency and precision. An heirloom set.
Reliable Brands Matter
Trusting quality plates to support hundreds of pounds on your back or overhead is no joke. Using reputable brands you can count on is smart.
Stick with established names like Rogue, Rep Fitness, Fringe Sport, and York with proven track records. You can lift with confidence using plates from leading brands.
Buying considerations – Price, durability, sizes needed
Adding weight plates is one of the most important purchases when equipping a home gym. With so many plate options on the market, it pays to consider a few key factors when selecting the right set for your needs and budget.
Price
Plates can range from budget-friendly iron plates for $1/lb up to premium machined plates or colored bumpers costing $2+/lb. Determine how much you want to invest upfront versus starting with a more affordable set.
Remember you can always add speciality bars, premium plates and other upgrades later. A basic 300 lb Olympic set works for most beginners.
Durability
Consider how aggressively you’ll use the plates. Cast iron or machined iron plates are the most durable options capable of taking abuse during heavy lifting.
Cheaper steel or plastic plates may dent, bend or crack under heavy loads. Prioritize quality construction for long term use.
Coatings
Bare steel plates will eventually rust. Most quality plates feature a protective coating. Basic paint or powder coat provides good corrosion resistance and costs less.
For more durability, choose a premium rubber or urethane coated plate. These also minimize noise on impact.
Standard Sizing
Stick with plates featuring either a 1 inch or 2 inch center hole. These will fit most barbells, dumbbells, machines and storage accessories both now and in the future.
Avoid odd sized holes or proprietary bars that limit the plates’ use. Standard offers flexibility.
Needed Sizes
Consider which denominations you need to accommodate different lifts. Most start with a basic 300 lb Olympic set with 2x 45s, 2x 35s, and 4x smaller plates per side.
Add smaller fractional plates for progression. And determine if you need additional 25s, 45s etc for heavy lower body lifts down the road.
Bumper vs Iron
Bumper plates have a rubber coating around a steel or iron core. They protect equipment and allow dropping from overhead.
Cast iron plates don’t have a rubber coating but are very durable if lifted properly. Cost is the main tradeoff.
Local Pickup vs Shipping
Smaller standard plates can ship affordably. But 45s and sets incur high shipping fees. Local pickup saves money if available.
Check delivery fees as well as return policies in case any defects are found.
New vs Used
Quality iron plates have excellent resale value. Buying used can provide major savings.
Inspect plates closely for cracks, bends or other damage prior to use. But used bumper plates aren’t recommended.
Future Growth
Consider how your lifting abilities and gym setup may change and grow. Having the option to add additional heavy plates down the road is ideal.
High quality plates that will last a lifetime make the best investment, even if you start small.
By keeping these key considerations in mind, you can select durable plates tailored to your budget, lifting style and garage gym setup.
10 lb plates – Great for incremental weight increases
The humble 10 lb plate plays an integral role in every weightlifter’s progression. These mid-range plates allow you to gradually increase resistance by manageable 5 or 10 lb jumps.
This incremental loading is key for continued gains over time. Here’s a closer look at how 10 lb plates can bring your lifts to the next level.
Add Weight Strategically
Pushing your muscles by adding weight over time is necessary for growth and strength gains. But large jumps in weight can overload the body in an unproductive way.
Small, strategic increases are best for gradual adaptation. 10 lb plates allow you to bump up weight by a challenging but sustainable 5-10 lbs per side.
Think sustainable progression versus massive jumps that compromise form and injury risk.
Prevent Sticking Points
Sticking points happen when you can complete a certain number of reps but can’t quite increase the weight substantially from there. You get “stuck” mid-progression.
Adding a 10 lb plate per side lets you push through sticking points by making small but impactful jumps.
Even 5-10 lbs can be the difference between completing those extra 1 or 2 reps that drive growth.
Dial In Progression
Whether you follow a linear, wave or other training program, incremental loading allows you to precisely dial in progression.
10 lb plates provide a midpoint weight between 5 lb and 25 lb jumps. You can smoothly increase weight each session as called for.
No more stagnating or big weight fluctuations. 10s let you chart steady gains.
Push Rep PRs
Adding a single 10 lb plate to each side of the bar can give you the extra tension needed to push for 1 or 2 extra reps on a personal record set.
More overall volume at a weight close to your max results in strength breakthroughs. 10s help provide that little extra resistance.
An additional 20 total pounds could be the difference between 10 grinder reps and 12 strong ones.
Isolation and Single Limb Work
10 lb plates really shine when adding incremental weight to dumbbell, machine and single limb movements. Smaller jumps keep stability while allowing gradual overload.
You may jump up by 10-25 lbs at a time on compound barbell lifts. But smaller 5-10 lb increases on isolation work builds balanced strength.
Use Anywhere
With a standard 1 inch center hole, 10 lb plates work seamlessly across a range of fitness gear beyond just barbells.
EZ curl bars, trap bars, tricep bars, leg press machines and cable stations all welcome the additional weight. Compatibility and portability at its finest.
10 lb plates will earn their keep as your trusted training partner for PRs.
25 lb plates – Ideal for major compound lifts
Serious strength comes from moving serious weight. And when it comes to loading up the bar for big lifts, 25 lb plates really shine.
With significant heft in a compact design, 25s allow you to train heavy on exercises like squats, deadlifts, and presses. Here’s a closer look at how 25s can bring your main lifts to the next level.
Substantial Weight Jumps
25 lb plates let you ramp up the load substantially by 50 lbs or more per lift compared to smaller 10 lb or 5 lb plates. These big jumps efficiently overload major muscle groups.
Adding a 25 to each end of the bar bumps up weight by a challenging yet sustainable 50 lbs. Great for driving progressive overload.
Dense and Compact
What’s impressive about 25s is how much weight they provide in a relatively compact plate. At around 9″ diameter, 25 plates are barely larger than 10s.
The small footprint lets you load up hundreds of dense pounds on the bar without taking up excessive space. More weight in a smaller package.
Ideal for Squats
Heavy barbell back squats are one of the best exercises for building full body strength. 25s really help load up the bar for extra leg work.
Four 25s plus two 45s per side gets you 245 lbs to sink deep into some challenging ATG squats. Great for pushing your limits.
Deadlifting Dimes
Nothing tests raw strength like heavy deadlifts. And 25s help take your pulls to the next level by allowing big weight jumps.
Each 25 added contributes significant resistance to challenge your grip, back, hips and legs. Pull more, get stronger.
Pressing Power
Overhead, bench, and incline presses all respond well to incremental loading with 25 lb plates. The extra resistance trains pushing and stabilization.
Adding 25s challenges both prime movers and smaller stabilizers for more complete strength development compared to smaller jumps.
Olympic Lifting
For Olympic lifts like cleans, snatches and jerks, 25s make it easy to increase weight progressively in substantial but manageable increments.
The dense steel construction can withstand repeated drops during high rep work too. Durable and versatile.
Train Major Lifts
No matter your program or rep range, 25 lb plates should be a staple for training the major compound barbell lifts that form strength training’s foundation.
The combination of substantial weight jumps and space efficiency makes 25s one of the most useful plates in any home gym.
Care and maintenance – Keeping plates in good shape
Quality weight plates will provide years of reliable performance with proper care. Here are some tips for keeping your iron and bumper plates in great working condition for max gains.
Storage
Properly storing plates when not in use preserves their condition and appearance. Vertical storage racks and trees prevent damage from plates leaning on each other.
If storing on the floor, use a pallet or piece of wood to raise plates up and allow air circulation underneath to prevent moisture buildup.
Coatings
The factory coating on most plates protects from corrosion and oxidation. Avoid aggressive solvents or cleaners that could damage the coating.
Use mild dish soap and water for cleaning, and apply chalk before use for grip. This maintains the coating integrity.
Prevent Rust
Bare steel or iron plates may develop surface rust over time, especially if stored in humid, damp environments. Keep bare metal plates lightly oiled to prevent rusting.
Wipe off any moisture after use. If surface rust does appear, rub it off gently with steel wool or fine sandpaper and re-oil.
Avoid Floor Contact
Repeated contact with garage floors, concrete, or tile can damage barbell sleeves and plate coatings.
Use bumper plates or set plates down gently. For deadlifts, stand plates on mats or plywood to avoid floor damage.
Drop Pads
Limits drops of iron plates to protect floors and equipment. Bumper plates better absorb impact from overhead drops.
DIY foam pads or purchased deadlift platforms cushion impact and noise if you must drop iron plates.
Chalk and Grip
Chalk helps provide grip and protect coating integrity by minimizing slippage. Always chalk up before heavy sets.
Avoid abrasive grips that could scratch the coating. Use lifting straps if grip becomes an issue on heavier lifts.
Equal Distribution
Distribute use evenly across your collection of plates rather than always using the same subset. This prevents uneven wear patterns or damage.
Rotate which plates you use during training to extend overall longevity.
Prompt Replacement
Inspect plates periodically for cracks, bends, or damage. Promptly replace damaged plates before further use.
Quality cast iron and bumper plates provide decades of use if properly maintained and stored. Protect your investment.
Stay strong at home – Summary of benefits of owning plates
Nothing beats pumping iron in the comfort of your own home gym. Owning a quality set of weight plates provides a wide range of benefits compared to relying on crowded commercial gyms.
Here’s a recap of the key advantages of outfitting your garage or basement with your own plates.
Progressive Overload
Individual plates ranging from light fractional plates up to 45s and beyond allow for incremental loading as you get stronger. This drives maximal strength and muscle gains over time.
Commercial gyms often have limited plate options that hinder smaller weight jumps.
Convenience
Skip the commute and crowds. With a home setup you can train whenever you want – early morning, late at night, midday breaks, anytime.
No excuses about missing sessions due to family or work conflicts. Your gym is always open.
Cost Savings
Despite higher startup costs, owning plates saves substantially over expensive gym memberships that never end. And you can always resell quality plates when upgrading.
Commercial gym pricing and supplements are inflated. Go significantly cheaper buying your own gear.
Customization
You can customize your home gym to match your goals, space constraints, and budget. Add speciality bars, racks, platforms and more tailored to your needs.
Commercial gyms offer generic equipment. You choose what works best for you at home.
Safety
Avoid crowded gyms with possible equipment shortages, long wait times, and potential to get sick. Your home gym provides a controlled environment.
No worrying about whether equipment is sanitized or if others are training while ill.
Privacy
Some may feel self-conscious working out around strangers. At home you control who accesses your training space for total comfort.
Tune out distractions and focus completely on your workout without worrying about being judged.
Motivation
Seeing your own plates and equipment everyday can help motivate you to stick to your regimen. Your gym is a constant reminder.
It’s tougher to skip planned lifting sessions when your gear is staring you in the face!
Outfitting your home with quality plates provides flexibility, savings, and customization for reaching your strength goals. The iron won’t lift itself – so get pumping!