Weight plates

An important component of strength training is weight plates, without them you can’t increase the load or the training effect. They can also be called weight plates or just weights.

What are the different weight plates?

Although it may seem like a simple product, there are many different varieties and models. The main differences between weight plates are: hole diameter, material and function.

The most common diameters are 25 mm and 50 mm. There are also 30 mm and possibly other special solutions, but the first two are by far the most common.

Weights with the smaller diameter of 25 mm are sometimes called ‘school weights’. They are used for dumbbells and smaller and simpler barbells. 50 mm is used on most normal barbells and is also the official dimension for competition barbells.

When it comes to material and function, the two go together quite a bit. A weight plate can be made of cast iron, steel or rubber, for example. Cheaper discs are often made of cast iron only, while the more expensive ones are often rubber-coated. So-called “bumper” weight plates are made mainly of rubber, so that they can be dropped from a height without ruining the floor, wearing out quickly or making too much noise. Perfect for those who do a lot of weightlifting and crossfit.

With a bench, rack, barbell, dumbbells and enough weight plates, you have a complete home gym that will do just about anything!

Best weights to buy?

Of course, which is the best buy depends on what you’re specifically looking for. Many people look for cheap weight plates, and the cast iron ones are usually the best. Rubber-coated weights cost more and high-end versions such as bumpers or competition discs will of course also cost a lot more.

When it comes to weight plates for dumbbells, rubber-coated ones are not so common and are usually pure cast iron weights. However, when it comes to fixed dumbbells, where you can’t change the weight, it is common for them to be rubber-coated.

For home training, pure iron weights are usually the most advantageous as they are the cheapest. But if you want a bit more quality and finish, it may be a good idea to buy rubber-covered weight plates instead.

Thunder Fitness sells affordable 25 mm cast iron weight plates that fit our own dumbbells that can be upgraded to as much as 27.5 kg per dumbbell. Read more and buy them below!