Plate

In the context of a workout, a “plate” refers to a weight plate, which is a flat, typically round object that is used to add resistance to exercises. Weight plates are commonly made of metal, rubber, or other durable materials and come in various sizes and weights. They are most often used with barbells, dumbbells, and plate-loaded machines.

Types of Plates:

1. Standard Plates: These plates have a 1-inch diameter hole in the center and are typically used with standard barbells or dumbbells.
2. Olympic Plates: These plates have a 2-inch diameter hole in the center and are designed for use with Olympic-sized barbells.
3. Bumper Plates: Made of thick rubber, these plates are designed for Olympic weightlifting and CrossFit-style workouts where the barbell may be dropped from overhead without damaging the floor or the plates.

Common Plate Weights:

• 1.25 kg (2.5 lbs)
• 2.5 kg (5 lbs)
• 5 kg (10 lbs)
• 10 kg (25 lbs)
• 15 kg (35 lbs)
• 20 kg (45 lbs)
• 25 kg (55 lbs)

Uses in Workouts:

• Barbell Exercises: Plates are loaded onto barbells for exercises like squats, deadlifts, or bench presses.
• Dumbbell Exercises: Some adjustable dumbbells allow for plates to be added to increase resistance.
• Plate-Loaded Machines: Certain gym equipment uses plates to adjust resistance instead of a weight stack.
• Plate Exercises: Plates can also be used on their own for exercises like plate raises, Russian twists, or weighted lunges.

Weight plates are an essential part of strength training and allow you to progressively increase resistance as you get stronger.