1. Fitness Gear 300 lb Olympic Weight Set
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Fitness Gear 300 lb Olympic Weight Set
Specifications
- Set size: 300 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included: 45-lb. 7′ Olympic chrome bar
- Grip handles: 3
- Material: Powder-coated iron
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: N/A
Fitness Gear is a highly popular brand name in the fitness industry, offering high-end products and the guarantee that they will last through many hours of intense training. This Olympic set is a reflection of the care they put into manufacturing their products, as it
includes 14 plates made from solid iron and powder coated for better protection. The plates have different sizes and can be added gradually on the included bar, where there will be locked with a set of
spring clips to prevent them from slipping.
300 Pounds Weight Training
This model includes a solid 45-lb. bar, which is made from chrome, thus 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 55 lbs. and up to a peak of 300 lbs. The plates come with handle grips, each having three of them, so 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.
Share It with a Workout Partner
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. Although the plates are not color-coded, their size is written in large, clear numbers on their surface, so you will be able to tell them apart with ease. Note, however, 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
- Advanced users may find the 300 lbs. capacity insufficient, but the good news is that more plates can be added
- Designed for residential use only
Verdict
This robust set is a great starting point for any individual who desires to take weight training to another level. Everything from the bar to the clips that fixate the plates is included, so you will be able to start working up on the spot. It is one of the most hardwearing out there, with iron plates that have been powder coated and a chrome bar and comes with great 2-year service assurance.
If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to help you work out more body muscles and stay fit, we recommend checking out the best kettlebells of the moment. These heavy balls with handles are easier to grab and can be used to perform lots of exercises that can engage not only your arm muscles but your leg, back, and abdominal muscles as well.
2. HulkFit Color Coded Set
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Specifications
- Set size: 260 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 15 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2 x 45 lb.
- Bar included:
- Grip handles:
- Material: High density rubber with stainless steel insert
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 2 years
This set
weighs 260 pounds in total and arrives with 5 types of plates, each with a 17.75-inch diameter and
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), and 2 x 45 pounds (red).
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 not scratch the floors and will softly bounce instead of breaking in case you accidentally drop them. If you need another plate combination, 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
- The plates are color-coded for quick size identification
- Robust rubber construction with steel inserts
- The inner plate diameter is 2” so this set will easily fit any Olympic bar
- Generous warranty time
CONS
- The 10-lb. plate tend to flex when loaded alone on the bar
- The bar needs to be purchased separately
Verdict
The dense rubber construction makes these plates ultra-durable but safe at the same time so they resist breaking even if accidentally dropped multiple times. They come in bright colors that help you organize them and always lift the right weight. Even if there is no bar included, you can fit them on your old Olympic one or quickly find one that suits as the inside plate diameter is the standard 2”.
Engage more body muscles in your training with a lat machine. The stations we’ve picked and reviewed come with high-quality pulleys and let you add or remove weights, so you can start low and upgrade your workouts as you progress.
3. Body-Solid ORST355
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Specifications
- Set size: 255 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included:
- Grip handles: 4
- Material: Iron coated in rubber
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 3 years
These plates are
made 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. They come with
integrated metal sleeves that make them a good fit for all types of Olympic bars. There’s no bar included, but they do have a 2-inch opening to fit your already existing bar. To provide better safety and comfort, they feature a
quad-grip design that allows picking them without fear that they may slip.
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 255 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 two heavier versions, one weighing 355 pounds in total, and the second with a total weight of 455 lbs.
PROS
- Secure grip and handle
- No discoloration over time
- The plates are resistant to rust and chipping
- Standard plate inner diameter makes them adaptable to any Olympic bar
CONS
- Some customers found the rubber smell to be a bit too strong
- They arrive covered in a black sticky residue that needs to be cleaned before first use
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.
A cheap and super convenient way to get more strength in your upper body muscles is to do pull-ups, and we have prepared for you a list with the most wanted doorway pull-up bars on the market. Most of them require basically no installation and are easy to transport, so you will be able to take them with you in case you move a lot.
4. CAP Barbell OS-300#2
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Specifications
- Set size: 300 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included: 45-lb. 7′ Olympic bar
- Grip handles:
- Material: Cast iron
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 30 days
, in addition to 2 chromed springs that will secure your picked 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, so you can acquire this model if you are just discovering weight training but if you already have a bit of experience as well.
The plates are produced with smooth edges to impede floor damaging, while the extra rib guarantees more gripping support. The shaft has a thickness of 2′′ and a weight of 45 lbs. and is rated for sustaining up to 500 lbs. It has a black oxide finish to help it last longer. As it is a standard Olympic bar, you can use it with other plate sets if at some point you decide to replace your current one. The warranty is quite short, seeing how the company only covers this product for 30 days, but it is produced by a trustworthy brand, which usually delivers durable products that have passed through a rigorous quality check process.
PROS
- Robust cast iron construction is powder-coated to resist rust
- The bar has a high weight capacity, so you can add supplementary plates
- Standard bar and plates can be combined with other Olympic sets
- Spring collars are included to keep the plates secured
CONS
- The paint on the bar tends to chip in time
- 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 it incorporates different weights. Additionally, the included bar can support up to 500 pounds, so you can add extra plates and push your training to a more advanced level.
5. Troy Olympic Black Weight Set
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Troy Olympic Black Weight Set
Specifications
- Set size: 300 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included: 45-lb. 7′ bar
- Grip handles:
- Material: Cast iron
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 90 days
Crafted from a solid iron cast, it sports a durable and classic layout. This
300-lbs set is a perfect choice for advanced workouts where the total weight can be increased gradually. You will be able to add more plates or remove some of them depending on the exercises you include in your routine, all quick and easy as the collars come off quickly. Moreover, even if there is no color-coding system,
you will be able to identify the plate sizes with ease as their weight is written in large digits.
To keep your floor protected and your gear undamaged, the spring-collars secure the 2″ weights. 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 includes 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, so you won’t have to make any additional investments to achieve a complete workout set. This model is perfect for users who are allergic to rubber or latex as these materials are excluded from the composition.
PROS
- Precision milled plates to guarantee accurate dimensions
- Solid cast iron plates are protection-coated to keep the rust away
- The bar is included in the price
- The size is inscribed on each plate in big digits
CONS
- The plates are oily when they arrive, so your first workout will consist of giving them a good scrub
- The paint on the bar tends to come off in time
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, so you need no additional acquisition to complete the set.
6. XMark Texas Star Olympic Plates
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XMark Texas Star Olympic Plates
Specifications
- Set size: 205 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 4 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included:
- Grip handles: 5
- Material: Rubber
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 1 year
XMark Texas plates are easy to tell apart from any other sets thanks to their
ultra-robust construction with 5 handle grips that make them look more like a set of sophisticated rims. The size of each plate is inscribed on the edges, and even if the digits are smaller, it is still quite easy to tell what size you are about to pick. The materials used in their construction are time-resistant, this model combining the reliability of the
cast iron, which is used for the core, with the protective properties of the
rubber, which encapsulates the iron. Thus, even if it happens to drop them, you can rest assured that they won’t break and that your floor will be protected from scratches as well.
The set has a total weight of 205 pounds, which are divided among two 45-lb. plates, two 25-lb., four 10-lb., four 5-lb., and two 2.5-lb. plates. They come with 2” inserts that slide easily on any bar and are compatible with all Olympic bars. The set doesn’t include a bar of its own, so you will need to supply one. On the other hand, the manufacturer does offer a 1-year service assurance, so you can confidently rely on it to have your product replaced or repaired in case you received a flawed one.
PROS
- Precision milled inserts ensure the plates slide smoothly on any bar
- Cast-iron core and virgin rubber coating make this model extremely durable
- Five handle grips make it easy to handle the plates
- The plates maintain color over the years
CONS
- Temporary rubber smell
- A pretty expensive set considering that the bar isn’t included
Verdict
A great set for improving your routine, it can be employed for several types of exercises, seeing how the plates just slide in and out any bar. The cast iron and virgin rubber in their construction guarantee that they won’t rust or produce unaesthetic scratches on the floor, while the multiple grips make grabbing them an easy job. They also come with a 1-year service contract, which is already a great bonus.
7. Signature Fitness 2″ Deep Dish Olympic Weight Plate Set
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Specifications
- Set size: 245 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 2 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb., 2x 45 lb.
- Bar included:
- Grip handles:
- Material: Cast iron with E-coating
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 2 years
Whether you are looking at this set to add it to your personal gym or a professional strength training gym, you can expect it to meet the standard for each type of use. The
classical cast-iron construction of the plates that makes it extremely hard wearing is doubled by the
ultra-modern E-coating, a protective layer that was first used in the automotive industry for its excellent resistance against scratches and perfect adherence to the metal. Used on a metal plate, it creates a thinner layer, making the surface smoother and closer to the real feel of the iron, which is preferred to the coarser layer that is created by the powder coat.
The package includes 12 plates with a total weight of 245 lbs. The vintage design with deep dish plates makes this set more functional, being preferred for its low impact on the floors, which leads to lower damage if the plates are accidentally dropped, but it became a trademark for some gyms, which pick these types of plates for their aspect as well. While there’s no bar included, the plates have 2” holes drilled directly through the metal, so they can easily slide on any Olympic bar. The service assurance offered for this model is 2 years.
PROS
- E-coating is ultra-resistant, ensuring that the plates preserve their color for longer
- Vintage design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing
- 2-year service contract
- 2” inner wholes make them compatible with all Olympic bars
CONS
- The deep plate design makes them occupy more space than regular plates
- You will need to supply the bar
Verdict
Bring the functionality of the vintage design to your house and experience the same thrills old-school weightlifters felt with this great set from Signature Fitness. The plates are E-coated and made from cast iron, being among the most durable you could purchase. Plus, the company offers a great 2-year service pledge you can use if your set doesn’t comply with the standards they described.
8. Weider Cast Iron Olympic Hammertone Weight Set
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Weider Cast Iron Olympic Hammertone Weight Set
Specifications
- Set size: 210 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 2.5 lb., 4 x 5 lb., 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 25 lb., 2 x 35 lb.
- Bar included: 45-lb. 7′ Olympic bar
- Grip handles: 3
- Material: Cast iron
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: N/A
For a set that is designed to be used at home, this Weider surely looks professional. The
Hammertone finish is the one that lends it the sleek look, but this protective layer has also the purpose of shielding the cast iron plates from rust. The
total weight you will lift with this set is 210 lbs., which is divided among a
45-lb. Olympic barbell with a length of 7’ and 6 plate sets, each including two items with a weight from 2.5 lbs. to 35 lbs. The bar comes with a
partially knurled grip that increased security, which is doubled by a set of spring collar clips designed to secure the plates on the bar.
Each plate is provided with three grab handles that make it simple for you to load and unload them from the bar. Furthermore, the open handle design allows you to use the plates as kettlebells and include them in more strength-building exercises. They have 2” holes drilled directly into the metal, so you can load them on any Olympic bar, and the bar included in the set can work with any Olympic plate set as well.
PROS
- Hammerton finish makes them resistant to rust
- 7-feet Olympic bar is included
- Excellent quality-price report
- Open design handle plates allow using them as kettlebells
CONS
- The plate size is written in small digits, so it is difficult to read
- Mostly fit for beginner and intermediate users as the total weight is rather low
Verdict
It is simple to use due to large handle grips that allow sliding the plates in and out with ease. It is made from cast iron, just like the more expensive sets, and comes with a Hammertone protection layer that guarantees no rust will eat through the metal. Moreover, the bar is included, and you also get a set of spring clips that will help you keep the plates locked on the bar.
9. OneFitWonder Bumper Plates Set
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OneFitWonder Bumper Plates Set
Specifications
- Set size: 120 pounds
- Plates included: 2 x 10 lb., 2 x 15 lb., 2 x 35 lb.
- Bar included:
- Grip handles:
- Material: 100% virgin rubber
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: 1 year
The set
weighs 120 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, which allows using them sooner. In some cases, you may need to leave them to air out in an open space for a day or two, but at least it isn’t two weeks as other models require.
The set includes a pair of 10-lb., 25-lb. and 45-lb weights, the first size measuring 17.5 inches in diameter and the last two 17.7 inches. Additionally, the 10-pound size has a thickness of 1.05 inches and a durometer reading of 90 sHA, the 25-pound has 1.87 inches in thickness and 85 sHA, while the 45-pound plates measure 2.9 inches in thickness and have 85 sHA when hardness is concerned. The kit comes with a limited 1-year warranty from the moment of the purchase.
PROS
- Made from virgin rubber that doesn’t leave marks on the floor
- High durometer readings stand as a guarantee for the toughness of the composition
- 1-year manufacturer coverage against defects
- Spring clips included for extra protection
CONS
- Like most rubber plates, they release a chemical smell, which will disappear in a few days
- Some purchasers complained that the plates don’t slide smoothly on their standard Olympic barbells
Verdict
The set comes with 3 assorted weights to provide great versatility in training. While neither type of plate comes with a grip handle, they do have a 2-inch diameter center-placed whole, which makes them compatible with most Olympic bars. Moreover, they are made from solid rubber, thus you won’t have to worry about them damaging your gym floor.
10. Yaheetech 55lb Set
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Specifications
- Set size: 55 pounds
- Plates included: 4 x 5.5 lb., 2x 11 lb.
- Bar included: 11-lb. 4′ bar
- Grip handles:
- Material: Iron and plastic
- Plate diameter: 2”
- Warranty: N/A
This kit comes with a unique design meant to help your training progress smoothly and efficiently. It has
4 plates of 5.5 pounds and 2 plates of 11 pounds, all coated with rubber for a more ergonomic design as well as to offer protection for the floors. The
5.5-lb. plate measures 8.2” in diameter ×1.6” in thickness, while the 11-lb. plate measures 10.2” in diameter × 2.2” in thickness.
The kit includes 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. This type of design 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. The barbell has a diamond texture that prevents slipping, especially when you decide to push your limits. Fitting for strength activities for you to improve your back strength and arms, this set is a great addition to your home gym.
PROS
- High-quality construction
- Tight and firm grip thanks to its unique ‘W’ shape
- Diamond patterned bar prevent slipping
- Star lock collars lock the plates in place, ensuring your protection
CONS
- Insulated complaints about the weights becoming lose when using them
- The clips included in the package are rather cheap and will need to be replaced in time
Verdict
The set comes with a unique shaped bar to provide you with an easy way to exercise. It comprises several plates of various weights and sizes, so you’ll have diversity when you work. One thing we truly appreciated about its design is that the bar has a diamond pattern that offers great grip and prevents accidents caused by sweaty hands.
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, get rid of your worries, and will 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 freedom of movement.
- Lower diabetes risk and increase heart health. Recent studies show that people who lift 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.
- Burn 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, 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!
- 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 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 are 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 will be able to get the body shape you like, and it will boost your self-esteem. Moreover, training will help enhance your memory and brain health, as when you work out, more oxygen is pumped into your blood, which reaches your brain.
Weightlifting Basics
If you are a novice at 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 learn how to use them properly.
- 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 shape.
- 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 keep going in the future.
- 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. You will also get too bored of it, and that increases the chances of you giving up.
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 want 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, 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 will be ready for the next step.
Lubricate the Barbell
Once the bar is clean of chalk, you will 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 ‘oil cloth’ 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 type allows you to use weights that have a maximum of 1” in diameter. Additionally, it will have a lower 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 heavyweights. Therefore, you should focus your training on strengthening 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 play an important role in how much you can lift. For example, if your 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
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 engage, the more calories you burn. For example squats, lunges, deadlifts, pull-ups, and push-ups are great ways 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 weight may vary 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.
How much weight can a 45 lb. bar hold?
This type of barbell is designed for intense training and can hold up to 1,500 lbs. This is the standard weight for a professional bar.
Conclusion
Using weights in your training program will help you strengthen different muscle groups, tone up, and increase your energy levels. The Olympic sets, especially, provide you with increased versatility and sturdiness, as the weights are made from more durable materials, and the Olympic bars can hold a lot more weight than normal ones. Regardless of which of the above-mentioned sets you decide to try, all of them will provide you with great training versatility and safety, but we recommend taking a second look at some of our best picks:
Best Olympic Weight Set for Sale: 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.
Editor’s Choice: 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 260 lbs., distributed among multiple weight sets. Moreover, each piece is carefully crafted and built only of dependable materials.
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, thus 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 Texas Star Olympic Plates
The set comes with several weights included, offering you versatile training exercises. It also includes a 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-handle grips will offer a strong and secure clasp when moving them around. 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: CAP Barbell OS-300#2s
Reliable, easy to use, and handle, CAP Barbell OS-300#2 might be exactly what you’ve been searching for. It has 6 pairs of different weights, so you can easily switch between them, while thanks to the spring clips the set comes with, you won’t have to worry about the plates slipping from the bar when you lift it. The set is made from cast iron, so it doesn’t have a strong smell.
Best for Home Use 
