If you are looking for a way to engage all your muscles in physical exercise, check out our selection of ab roller wheels and include this type of workout in your routine.
1. HulkFit Color Coded Set
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Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x45 lb,
2 x35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 15 lb,
2 x 10 lb.
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: 2 years
This set weighs
370 pounds in total and arrives with
5 types of plates, each with a 17.75-inch diameter. Each is
color-coded, to provide a quick way of telling them apart, enabling you to mix them up according to your training and preferences. There are 2 x 10 pounds plates (yellow), 2 x 15 pounds plates (orange), 2 x 25 pounds plates (green), 2 x 35 pounds (blue), 2 x 45 pounds (red), and 2 x 55 pounds (purple).
The set doesn’t come with a bar, but the solid insert has a ring diameter of 2′′, thus it will fit on any Olympic-type bar. The densely rubberized plates will preserve the floors, along with any bar with which you choose to utilize them. Moreover, they are accessible in different types – there are 2 more sets, with different weights (160 lbs and 210 lbs) – or, if you wish, you can purchase a single plate (not a pair) ranging from 10 up to 55 lbs. It arrives with a limited 2-year warranty from the moment of your investment.
PROS
- Color coded
- No rubber smell
- Solid and time resistant
CONS
- The 10-lb. plate tend to flex when loaded alone on the bar
- The bar needs to be purchased separately
Verdict
Though a bar is not included, the plates will fit any 2-inch or smaller Olympic one. They are manufactured from rubber with steel inserts, so they won’t damage your carpets. Moreover, they are color-coded, so you can quickly tell them apart and mix them up according to your training needs.
2. Fitness Gear 300 lb Olympic Weight Set
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Fitness Gear 300 lb Olympic Weight Set
Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
4 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: N/A
- Warranty: N/A
Our runner-up distinguishes itself through its
solid 45-lb. bar, which is made of chrome, hence incredibly strong and hardwearing. As it comes with plates of different sizes, it can be used for workouts of different intensities, starting from a minimum of 10 lbs. and up to a peak of 300 lbs.
The plates come with handle grips, each having three of them, therefore, they can be easily added or removed from the bar.
The set contains two 45-lb. plates, two 35-lb., two 25-lb. and two 10-lb. It also comprises four 5-lb and two 2.5-lb. Furthermore, among the pieces, you will also find two spring clips for easy handling.
The design makes it fit for a large range of exercises, which can include bench presses or squats. Moreover, as the total weight can be altered, it can be used by multiple users, so you can share it with a training partner. Nonetheless, note that this set is intended for residential use only and may wear out faster if used in a gym.
PROS
- The plates can be easily added or removed, allowing you to adjust the intensity of the training
- The robust bar can hold up to 300 lbs. without bending
- The set is complete with all the required accessories
- Excellent customer service
CONS
- A good match for intermediate users but advanced users may find the 300 lbs. capacity insufficient
- Designed for residential use only
Verdict
It comprises all you need to get started as soon as it arrives. With a top-quality bar and multiple plate sets, it allows you to gradually increase the intensity, being a good match for beginner and intermediate users.
3. Rep Fitness Coated Olympic Plates
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Rep Fitness Coated Olympic Plates
Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
2 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: 1 year
These weights are covered in strong rubber and can slide smoothly on a 2-inch stainless steel bar, thus giving you several options when it comes to what intensity you prefer.
Versatile and Ergonomic
Do not worry about damaging the floors, as the durable and high-grip virgin rubber coat will be sure to keep your equipment intact and your floors safe. They provide a solid grip, without leaving any sticky black residue behind. They provide a tri-grip for more comfortable and more reliable maneuverability and setup. You can practice with them in combination with the barbell or for other exercises, without the worry of them slipping.
Design
The set incorporates 6 types of weights to allow you to complete extended exercise routines, which can include situps, low back, or triceps. Thus, the set includes the following pieces: two 2.5lb – 1′′/6.25′′, four 5lb – 1.25′′/7.5′′, two 10lb – 1.75′′/9.5′′, two 25lb – 2.5′′/11.75′′, two 35lb – 2.25′′/14.5′′, four 45lb – 2.25′′/17.0′′. Additionally, each plate has a standard 2-inch diameter hole to fit Olympic barbells.
PROS
- Easy to handle
- No black residue
- Ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip
CONS
- Some complained about the bad smell
- There were some complaints about its overall time resistance
Verdict
Effortless to use and control, they are excellent for diversifying your exercise routine. Offering a tight grip, it can be used for weightlifting or other exercises. Nonetheless, make sure to use them in an open or large room, as they tend to have a strong odor.
4. XMark Fitness Lumberjack Set
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XMark Fitness Lumberjack Set
Specifications
- Strong scent: Temporary
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
2 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: 1 year
Built for performance from enhanced alloy bushings, this set gives smooth chrome sheaths for hassle-free plate loading, whereas the bar it comes with is built to last. With its recessed 5- grip, it offers plenty of space to clasp, as it fits snugly. The plates are rust-resistant, while
the Olympic bar can support up to 700 pounds. It has a
28mm black manganese-phosphate handle and semi-competitive grooving with dual-marks for more permissive use. The full set weighs 185 pounds. It comes with 5 plates of different sizes to fit your routine: 2 plates of 45 lbs, 2 of 25 lbs, 2 of 10 lbs, 4 of 5 lbs, and 2 of 2.5 lbs. Simple to use and store, its only downside is the temporary rubbery odor that will, however, dissipate with time.
PROS
- Hassle-free use, store, and handle
- Perfect balance
- Excellent construction
CONS
- Temporary rubber smell
- Advanced users may find the knurling less forceful than expected
Verdict
A great set for improving your routine, it can be employed for several types of exercises, giving you easy storage, in addition to a secure and sturdy design completed by a safe grip. The set incorporates a bar, which was crafted to sustain up to 700 lbs, enabling several exercises and combinations for your workout.
5. Body-Solid ORST355
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Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
4 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: 3 years
They are manufactured from iron, with a
rubberized coating to prevent any type of equipment or floor damage, so you can simply use them at home in your personal gym. Additionally, they come with integrated metal sleeves, thus presenting you with a secure fit on almost all types of Olympic bars. They don’t come with a bar, but
they do have a 2-inch opening to fit your already existing bar. To increase their safety even more, they feature a quad-grip, thus, you can pick them up hassle-free, without any worry of them slipping away.
They are rust, chipping, and flaking resistant, thus you can use them for plenty of time, and they won’t lose their color. The whole set weighs 355 pounds and includes 6 types of weights to permit you to customize your training routine: 2 of 45 pounds, 2 of 35 pounds, 2 of 25 pounds, 2 of 10 pounds, 4 of 5 pounds, and 2 of 2.5 pounds. It also has a lighter version, which weighs 255 pounds in total, as well as a heavier version with a total weight of 455 lbs.
PROS
- Secure grip and handle
- Durable and facile use
- No discoloration over time
CONS
- There were some complaints about the smell
- Some complained about them wobbling
Verdict
The set provides you with 6 different types of weights to allow you to change your training routine accordingly. As they are easy to grip, you won’t have to worry about them slipping from your hands, thanks to their quad-grip design. Additionally, while they do have a strong odor, it will go away in time, but they will retain their color and encasement, so there will be no damage done to your floor or clothes.
6. Troy Olympic Black Weight Set
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Troy Olympic Black Weight Set
Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
4 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Satin Enamel
- Warranty: 1 year
Crafted from a solid iron cast, it sports a durable and classic layout.
The 300-lbs set is a perfect choice when paired with spring collars as it gives you several choices when it comes to how to combine the plates. Keeping your floor protected and your gear undamaged, the spring-collars secure the 2′′ weighs. Circular in shape,
coated with a satin-enameled finish, they are safe from rust or corrosion. Moreover, there are several plate-combinations available, as the set sports 2 of 45 lbs, 2 of 35 lbs, 2 of 25 lbs, 2 of 10 lbs, 4 of 5 lbs, and 2 of 2.5 lbs. It also
includes an Olympic barbell, therefore, you won’t have to make any additional investments to achieve a complete workout-set. Rust-resistant, they won’t cause you allergies as they do not have rubber or latex in their composition. However, you have to oil the set before its first use.
PROS
- Well-balanced
- No latex or rubber
- Durable and rust-resistant
CONS
- Some complained about the surface being oily
- There were some complaints about its overall time resistance
Verdict
It is novice-friendly, and it is especially useful to those who have allergies to rubber and latex, as its coating is produced from enamel. There are several sizes and weights to choose from, allowing you to train to your heart’s content. The bar is included, therefore you’ll need no additional acquisition to complete the set.
7. CAP Barbell OS-300#2
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Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 35 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10 lb,
4 x 5 lb,
2 x 2.5 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Solid cast iron
- Warranty: 30 days
The
iron-crafted set incorporates a 7 ft Olympic barbell, in addition to 2 chromed springs that will secure your desired plates as you train. The weights are of different sizes to help diversify your routine, as they vary from 5 to 45 in pairs and incorporate two pairs of 2.5 lbs.
The total weight reaches up to 300 pounds altogether. The plates are produced with smooth edges to impede floor damaging, while the extra rib guarantees more gripping support. It can be utilized both by beginners and by advanced users alike. The shaft has a thickness of 2′′ and a weight of 45 lbs and is qualified for sustaining up to 500 lbs. It has a
black oxide finish to help it last longer. However, it does require careful maintenance if you want to prolong its time.
PROS
- Versatile utilization
- Beginner friendly
- The bar is included
CONS
- Might scratch easily
- The knurling isn’t as accentuated as expected
Verdict
A great set for your personal gym, it will allow you to broaden your exercise system. The set can be employed by novices and experienced users alike, as the set incorporates different weights. Additionally, the included bar can support up to 500 pounds.
8. Yaheetech 55lb Set
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Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 4 x 5.5 lb,
2 x 11 lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: N/A
It comes with a unique design meant to help your training progress smoothly and without complications. It has
4 plates of 5.5 pounds and 2 plates of 11 pounds, all coated with rubber for more ergonomic design, the plate set measures 8.2×1.6 inches in diameter and thickness and 10.2×2.2 inches respectively. It has a unique detachable iron bar, made in a threaded, “W” shape to ensure better gripping and a more comfortable and steady hold when you’re exercising to prevent any type of injuries. By having this
unique ‘W’ shape, the handle prevents your hands from skidding while you lift the weights. Additionally, it has 2 spinlocks to hold the plates securely in place while you use them and an
adjustable barbell, as it ranges from 11 pounds to 44 pounds. Fitting for strength activities for you to improve your back strength and arms, this set is a great addition to your home gym.
PROS
- Quality materials
- Tight and firm grip thanks to its unique ‘W’ shape
- Several accessories
CONS
- Some complained about the weights becoming lose when using them
- There were some complaints about its overall time resistance
Verdict
The set comes with a unique shaped bar to provide you with an easy way to exercise. It comes with several plates of various weights and sizes, so you’ll have diversity when you work out, and it comes with 2 spinlocks to keep the plates in place for increased safety.
9. OneFitWonder Bumper Plates Set
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OneFitWonder Bumper Plates Set
Specifications
- Strong scent:
- Type: 2 x 45 lb,
2 x 25 lb,
2 x 10lb
- Bar included:
- Coat: Rubber
- Warranty: 1 year
The set weighs 160 pounds in total, and it is made from dense and solid rubber, with steel inserts for increased durability. All plates have a 2-inch center placed hole, which allows you to use them with any type of Olympic bar, so you won’t have to worry about the set not matching your already existing bar. They come with no or very low odor, so you won’t have to worry about any kind of rubber smell.
The set includes a pair of 10, 25, and 45 pounds, which measures 17.5 inches and 17.7 inches, respectively in diameter. Additionally, the 10 pounds ones come with a thickness of 1.05 inches and a durometer of 90 sHA, the 25 pounds ones have 1.87 inches in thickness and have 85 sHA, while the 45 pounds plates measure 2.9 inches in thickness and have 85 sHA when hardness is concerned. It comes with a limited 1-year warranty from the moment of your purchase.
PROS
- Strong and durable
- Won’t damage your gym
- Versatile in use
CONS
- Some complained about the smell
- There were some complaints about them being slippery
Verdict
The set comes with 3 assorted weights to allow you versatility in training. While neither type of plate comes with a grip, they do have a 2-inch diameter center-placed whole, which makes it compatible with any Olympic bar. Moreover, they are made from solid rubber, thus you won’t have to worry about them damaging your gym floor.
Benefits of Weight Training
Using weights in your training will do more for you than simply help build up your muscles. Weight training comes with several benefits you might not be aware of:
- Get rid of fat. By working your muscles, they will not only become strong, but the fat mass will be gone in no time, muscles taking over the fat parts in your body.
- Reduce depression symptoms. Operating weights will help you relax, help you get rid of your worries, and will help you enhance your mental state. Moreover, working out can assist in reducing the depression symptoms you might confront because of everyday stress or overwork.
- Fight against osteoporosis. It helps develop bone density, strengthening their core, and making them more resistant with time. Therefore, you will profit from enhanced life quality, as well as movement freedom.
- Lower diabetes risk and increase heart health. Recent studies show that people who lifted weights regularly, maintaining their training routine each week, lower the risk of suffering from diabetes in the future by 34%. When you work out, the sugar level in your body lessens, as it is transformed into energy, while the insulin level rises.
- Prevent back pains. By lifting weights, your muscles will become accustomed to working out and sustaining a certain weight. While the weight might, or might not, be equal to your own weight, your muscles will become more flexible and less stiff. They will have no problem supporting your bone structure, so they will not ache, nor will they stiffen in an uncomfortable position when you’re not training.
- Improve balance. Not only your muscles will be strengthened, but so will your connective tendons. They will help keep your muscles together, improving your overall balance. Training will improve your posture.
- Mental strength. By working out, you’ll be capable to attain the body shape you like, and it will boost your self-esteem. Moreover, training will help enhance your memory and brain health, because when you work, more oxygen is pumped into your blood, which reaches your brain.
If you are a novice to working with weights, there are several steps you should follow to use them correctly, without causing injuries. You can always make an appointment with a professional coach, fitness trainer or specialist, in the beginning, just to make sure you have the right set of weights, and to learn how to use them properly.
Basics
- Start slowly and warm your muscles. To avoid injuries or soreness, prepare your body beforehand. Take a walk, do a warm-up routine, or stretch a bit, to ensure you are ready to train.
- Single sets. At first, it is best to start with smaller weights, upgrading them as you progress and see the results. Use a single set first, and, if your body can handle more, switch to multiple sets.
- Correct weight. Do not start with heavy weights just to look good, or cool. Heavyweights increase the chances of injuries, and while those might not be seen at first, you will feel their results later. However, you also have to keep in mind to challenge your muscles with the right amount of weights, because using too light weights might not help you at all. To figure out the right weight be sure you can lift them repetitively without feeling you are compromising your form.
- Rest and rehabilitation. Rest is important, especially when physical tasks are involved. Give your body the time to recover its energy. Do not worry, a day or two of taking a small break will not affect your body shape. On the contrary, it might be exactly what it needs to be capable of continuing going in the future.
Calories
Usually, the body works to keep the fat away and the muscles in top shape. Strength-exercises will improve your muscles, aid in burning more calories, in addition to boosting your metabolism. But that does not mean you can indulge in an unhealthy diet. What you eat matters! So plan ahead, make a diet plan, and fight together with your body. Healthy, fresh food is exactly what it needs to keep going. So, the next time you choose a snack, choose a healthy one!
Boredom away
You do not have to make your training routine boring. Switch it up, be innovative, creative, and find new ways you can train while having fun. Do not stick with only one type of routine as your body will get used to it and will not give you the wished results. Moreover, you will also get too bored of it and that increases the chances of you giving up.
To sum up, there are several benefits weights can bring into your daily routine, so take advantage of them, help your muscles become strong while your health and overall shape improve.
How to Maintain Your Set
Keeping your training equipment in top shape will not only help you save money in the long run, but it will keep you safe as well. If you’d like to increase your equipment’s life, then you should do a maintenance check now and then. Depending on the environment you’re using your barbell in, for example, commercially or at home, you will have to increase the cleaning schedule. If you’re using it for commercial purposes, you should check it every week, and if you’re using it at home, you should check it at least every two months.
Cleaning
No matter the environment, you should clean your barbell and plates after every training session. The chalk, if left on the knurling, can lead to rust in the long run, regardless of what finish the bar has. So, to clean it out you will need:
- A stiff brush
- Oil, preferably 3-in-1
- 3 cloths, or rags
Take the brush and use it on the knurling, taking out as much chalk as possible. If there are stubborn areas that won’t budge, place a tiny amount of oil on them and brush again until they are gone. Once there’s no more chalk on the knurling, wipe the brush clean, so it’ll be ready for the next step.
Lubricate the Barbell
Once the bar is clean of chalk, you’ll have to use the oil on its entire surface. In this way, the bar will be protected from rust and corrosion. Take one of the clothes and put some oil on it. Wipe the bar with the cloth on its entire length. Insist on the knurling to make sure the oil reached all areas. Let the bar sit for a few minutes – depending on the type of oil you’ve used, the drying time might be different. Once the oil has dried up, use the clean cloth and wipe any excess left.
Bushings and Plates
Don’t forget about the bushings and bearings. While many types of bars already have oil-impregnated bushings, it is best to clean them up and re-oil them. Put a few drops of oil onto the ‘oilcloth’ and wipe them up again. Use the clean cloth to get rid of any excess left.
Additionally, check the plates as well. Wipe them down with warm water and a clean cloth, and remove any type of particles stuck on them. Make sure to let them air dry completely before you stack them up, or, if you’re in a hurry, wipe them dry. Check them for rust, corrosion, or cracking, and, if any show signs of deterioration, change them.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does an Olympic set differentiate from a regular set?
When you put an Olympic bar and a regular bar side by side, you’ll notice that the first has thicker ends, made to accommodate Olympic weights. The standard types measure 1” in diameter, allowing you to use weights that have a maximum of 1” in diameter. Additionally, it will have a weight limit. An Olympic bar, on the other hand, measures 1.31” in diameter at the end and can support weights with a 2” hole diameter. Olympic bars are also heavier than normal bars.
Do all bars weight the same?
No, the Olympic ones are usually heavier than regular ones. Also, the regular ones have a lower weight limit.
How much should I lift (for my size)?
It depends on what your end goal is. If you plan on training for strength, you should be able to lift heavy weights, therefore you should focus your training on enhancing your joints. If you’d rather go for muscle size training, then you should try to use the 8-12 reps method. If you can do the 13th rep, the weight is too light, but if you’re not able to reach the 8th rep, the weight is too heavy. The endurance training bases itself on intensity, providing a more aerobically effect, without enlarging the muscle. This requires a light weight, which can be used in reps of 15-20. Even more, the weight bench and how much it can handle also plays an important role in how much you can lift. For example, if you’re bench can handle 225 pounds, you should start from 145 pounds of 12 reps, and add 10 pounds more while reducing 1 rep until you reach 225 pounds.
How do I warm up correctly?
Depending on what type of weights you’re going to lift, the warm-up can differ. However, there are a set of exercises that shouldn’t miss from your routine:
- Light total body workout – bike, row, jog, etc, for 3 to 5 minutes
- Static stretching or foam roll – 3 to 5 minutes
- Dynamic warm-up – 5 minutes
- Exercises (specific per session) – 3 to 5 minutes
Should the workout provoke muscle soreness?
Muscle soreness means that that particular muscle group has been worked to exhaustion, and it needs time to recuperate. You can easily workout without sore muscles and still see results, so making your muscles ache shouldn’t be a training goal.
How many calories are burnt during a workout?
A muscle pound requires 6 to 10 calories burnt to maintain its shape. Therefore, the more muscles you work, the more calories you burn. For example squats, lunges, deadlifts, pull-ups, and push-ups are a great way to start. You can do them with just your body weight, and add other weights as you progress.
How accurate are weight plates?
Most of the manufacturers declare that the weights are situated between the +/-2% margin of error. For example for a 45-pound plate, the margin of error is between 44.1 and 45.9 pounds.
What are the different types of weight plates?
The standard models are rubber plates, which are in fact iron plates covered in rubber. Another variant of these models is represented by more durable urethane plates. In the past years, bumper plates have become increasingly more popular, as they are made of dense rubber and can be dropped from a considerable height without getting damaged.
How much do Olympic bars cost?
The prices are variable, depending on the materials used for the bar as well as the peak weight it can sustain. They usually start at $80, but most will range between $150 and $350. Nonetheless, the bars used in official competitions will cost around $1,000.
Is it OK to leave weights on the bar?
It is recommended to remove the weights once the training is over, as they put pressure on the bar and, in time, this will make the bar bend.
Verdict
Using weights in your training program will help you develop different muscle groups, thus enhancing your training routine. The Olympic sets, especially provide you with increased versatility and sturdiness, as the Olympic bars can hold a lot more weight than normal ones, as the weights are made from more durable materials. Regardless of which above-mentioned sets you decide you want to try out, all of them will provide you with resistance and training versatility. However, some differentiate from others through some elements:
Best Overall:
HulkFit Color Coded Set
An appreciated brand among the weightlifters, HulkFit offers a top-quality set with bright color-coded plates that will allow you to easily find the desired weight. Although it doesn’t comprise a bar, this set presents a total weight of 370 lbs., distributed among multiple weight sets. Moreover, each piece is carefully crafted and built only of dependable materials.
Our Choice:
Fitness Gear 300 lb Olympic Weight Set
A nice fit for beginner and intermediate users who want to train at home, this set includes the bar, the weight plates, and accessories, so it is ready for the job as soon as you get it out of the box. Furthermore, even at first sight, it may seem expensive, the fine crafting that has been put in building each piece, along with the top-quality materials in its structure, will soon prove its utility.
Best Olympic Weight Set For Home Use:
Yaheetech 55lb Set
It is budget-friendly, so you won’t have to compromise weightlifting training. This set comes with a uniquely shaped bar, in the form of a ‘W’ for increased support, therefore reducing and redistributing the weight and pressure equally along the bar. With anti-skid handles, it won’t slip through your hands, while the plates come with a rubber coating to prevent any type of floor damage. Besides, as it is more compact than other models, it can easily fit in a home gym.
Best Starter Olympic Weight Set:
XMark Fitness Lumberjack Set
The set comes with several weights included, offering you versatile training exercises. Even more, it comes with its own bar, so you’ll be able to use it as soon as you take it out of the box. The plates are rubber coated, so they won’t damage the floor, while the recess 5-grip will offer a strong and secure grip when moving them around. Plus, as it allows you to adjust training intensity, it can follow you from your first exercises until you become a pro.
Best Olympic Weight Set for the Money:
Rep Fitness Coated Olympic Plates
Reliable, easy to use and handle, Rep Fitness’ Coated Olympic Plates might be exactly what you’ve been searching for. It has 6 pairs of different weights, so you can easily switch up between them, while thanks to the tri-grip the plates come with, you won’t have to worry about them slipping off from your hands when you use them. The set doesn’t have a strong smell, so it won’t bother you as you work. Even more, it comes with the bar included, so you won’t have to worry about buying a new one.