Weight plates are one of the most important pieces of functional weight training equipment to have in your gym. Available in a variety of shapes and finishes, weight plates often form the basis of any free-weight training program for both beginners and elite athletes.
There are two main types of weight plates available, standard plates or Olympic plates which are differentiated by the diameter of the hole in the centre of the plates. Standard weight plates have a diameter of 29mm, while Olympic weight plates (and bumper plates) have a diameter of 51mm.
So, whether you’re searching for standard, Olympic or bumper weight plates in Australia, we have everything you need to push the limits during your workouts. All our weight plates are made from the highest quality materials, designed to be tough and durable.
If you’re looking to improve your home or commercial gym setup we also have a range of weight stands available. Not only will you have the weight plates you need, but an easy and convenient way to store them so you can change the layout of your workout space to suit your needs.
Find everything you need in our extensive range of weight plates (including weight plate storage options), featuring standard weight plates perfect for bodywork all the way up to Olympic weight plates for serious lifters. No matter how you choose to work out and challenge yourself, we have the weights to help you reach your fitness goals.
Incorporating Dumbbells & Racks Into Your Workout
Dumbbells are essential for any home gym, offering a versatile range of exercises like bicep curls, lunges, and squat presses. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, incorporating dumbbells into your workouts provides a flexible way to improve fitness and muscle strength.
Weight racks are a great addition to keep your gym organised and safe, storing your weight plates and bars securely to prevent tripping hazards. They also give you the space needed to perform exercises correctly and confidently lift heavier. Racks make your fitness area more functional for a more progressive training experience at home.
Standard or Olympic Weight Plates - Which ones to choose?
Choosing the right weight plates depends on your fitness goals and the type of barbell you'll be using them with.
- Standard Plates: A standard plate is designed for standard barbells with a 1-inch diameter. These are often more affordable and suitable for beginners and general strength training. If you're focusing on lighter weights and exercises like curls or lateral raises, standard plates might be all you need.
- Olympic Plates: Olympic plates are made for Olympic barbells, which have a 2-inch diameter. They often allow for heavier lifting and are ideal if you're looking to progress to more advanced lifts like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. Olympic plates also tend to be more durable for serious training.
- Bumper Plates: Made from rubber, bumper plates are perfect for Olympic lifting as they can be dropped from overhead without damaging your floor or the plates. Available in various weights and colours, they are designed to withstand repeated impact for high-intensity training.
- Fractional Plates: These smaller weight plates allow for incremental weight increases, making them perfect for those aiming to gradually improve their strength. Available in weights as low as 0.25 kg, fractional plates can be used with both standard and Olympic bars.
- Technique Plates: Designed to help beginners master proper lifting form, these lighter weight plates often have a larger diameter to mimic the feel of lifting heavier weights without the added load.
- Grip Plates: Featuring built-in grips or handles, these weight plates are easy to pick up and move around for a user-friendly fitness experience. Available in both standard and Olympic sizes, grip plates are versatile and convenient for any workout setting.
Need some help choosing the right plates for you? Click here to check out our Weight Plate Buyer's Bible or, if you have questions and want more information, feel free to contact us.
FAQs
The main difference between these two types of weight plate lie in their specifications, design, intended use, and cost.
- Specifications: Competition bumper plates are built to meet strict international standards for competitive events, ensuring precise weight tolerances and uniform dimensions. Training bumper plates are more suitable for everyday use in gyms or home setups, and while still high quality, feature slightly looser weight tolerances.
- Design and Construction: Competition weight plates have a thinner profile, allowing for more weight to be loaded onto the barbell, and often include a reinforced steel or stainless steel inner ring for added durability during high-impact drops. Training plates tend to have a thicker profile with a broader colour range for easy weight identification and are designed to withstand regular use in training environments.
- Intended Use and Price: Competition plates are specifically designed for official weightlifting events, where precision is crucial, making them more expensive and less commonly used outside of competitions. Training bumper weight plates are versatile, durable, and more affordable, ideal for general strength training, Olympic lifts, and everyday use by fitness enthusiasts of all levels.
Bumper plates are designed for Olympic barbells with 50mm sleeves. They won’t fit standard barbells with smaller 1-inch sleeves, so always check your barbell’s compatibility before use.
Yes, bumper weight plates are built for safe dropping during exercises. Made from durable rubber, they absorb impact to ensure weight plates and gym floor remain protected. Always drop on a proper lifting platform or protective surface for best results.