Standard Bars & Weight Plates
While you may think that a set of weight plates is the domain of serious weight lifters and hardcore body builders, a weight plate set is actually an impressively diverse piece of equipment, and has high adaptability to different training modalities and fitness goals. Weight plates have tremendous benefits for both advanced trainers and those just starting out, so don’t be frightened away by their intimidating appearance and variety. Almost everyone can benefit from a weighted plate in their fitness arsenal. Our CORTEX range of standard weight plates include choices for almost every type of user, including cheap weight plates, and different materials such as cast-iron weight plates, steel weight plates, as well as the choice of an Endurashell PVC coating for extra durability. All of our standard plates have standardised sizes to suit 25mm bars. On top of a solid selection of plates to choose from, Lifespan Fitness also has many options for weight plate storage such as a weight plate rack to keep your weights in good condition, making weight changes easier and keeping your workout space safe.
CORTEX’s range of cast-iron weight plates come in a variety of weights to suit your own fitness level and exercise regime. In the lower range you can find weights as low as 1.25kg and 2.5kg, and going up through the range there are 10kg weight plates, 15 kilo iron weight plates, up to 20kg weight plates. It’s possible to purchase these individually, or in handy weight plate sets to make sure you’ve got the full range of weight for an optimal workout. We also offer packages inclusive of weight plate racks, as well as different types of bars and accessories.
There are a few things to look for when evaluating material for your weight plates. Choosing high quality materials in your weight plates will allow you to focus on your workout, and mean you can rely on your equipment for a longer period of time. Certain metals such as steel are susceptible to rust if not built with adequate protection, or if not cared for properly. Most CORTEX standard weight plates are made with heavy-duty cast iron, which are designed to be rust and chip free, and provide greater durability. CORTEX’s EnduraShell coating encases a PVC layer around a cement filling, protecting weight plates from damage and creating a longer lasting product. In terms of design, many of CORTEX’s plates will come with a lip (thicker edge) for easier gripping, and are suitable to use by themselves or attached to a bar. Other weight plates will have a Tri-Grip design with convenient handles built into them on the sides. This allows for easy handling when used as free weights, and is generally preferable for individual use.
If you’re planning on attaching your plates to a bar, there are a few options you can choose. You may also need to keep in mind the compatibility of the weight plate with the bar you’re using, as not all of them are the same. Standard weight plates will have a centre hole with a standard 25mm diameter, meaning that only bars with the same size will be able to fit your plates. Olympic bars, on the other hand, have a standardised 50mm diameter, meaning they can’t be used with standard plates, and vice versa for an Olympic weight plate on a standard bar. While it is technically possible to fit an Olympic weight plate onto a standard bar, as the Olympic hole will be bigger than the standard bar’s diameter, it’s not recommended as the weights will not be properly secured, making them unsafe to use. There are a few different types of standard bars you may want to use. There’s the standard 6ft barbell, which comes with a precise knurl grip handle that creates a firm yet non-abrasive hold. The knurling is also centred for greater grip during squats. Weight plates can be secured onto the barbells using star-shaped spiral lock collars, with a standard 25mm diameter to fit standard weight plates. They also have a strong chrome finish for extra durability. You may also be interested in a tricep bar, which is an oval shaped bar with two parallel hand placements that run down the middle. This is a great option for focused strength work on the biceps and triceps. Lastly, there’s the curl bar, which is slightly shorter with a cambered ‘W’ shape. This creates a comfortable ergonomic design that’s easier on the wrists, forearms and elbows. These are also a great option for an upper arm workout focusing on the triceps and biceps. CORTEX’s standard dumbbell handles also feature a chrome finish and spiral lock collars, and are built with a rubber handle for easy and comfortable gripping.
When it comes to weight storage, you might wonder why you can’t simply leave plates stacked on the ground and call it a day. In reality, getting yourself some dedicated weight storage will save you a tonne of space, make weight changes much easier, and will improve the safety of your fitness area. With a proper weight storage setup you won’t have to constantly wind through scattered weights across the floor. This will also prevent damage to your floor, especially if your training space is built with floorboards. You can choose between a weight plate tree, or a toaster rack plate holder. The CORTEX standard weight tree holds up to 200kg of weight and comes with a slot to store up to two standard barbells, while the toaster rack holds up to 500kg of weight and can also fit Olympic weight plates.
Weight plates have the great advantage of being highly adaptable to many different training modalities and provide a great number of benefits outside of just building and maintaining muscle. While you may want to attach your plates to a bar, using the plates as a free weight (without a bar) can also make for a great workout. For these exercises, you may want to use a Tri-Grip handle plate for a more comfortable experience and easier grip. For functional strength, exercise examples include a reverse lung, which will train your glutes and quads as well as working the abdominals and upper body. There’s also plank plate switches, which are a fantastic core exercise that improves stability and back muscles. You could also try a Halo, which involves swinging the plate around your head in a circular motion, which will train your shoulders, biceps, triceps, back and abs. If you’re looking to improve cardiovascular health, you can easily incorporate weight plates into a cardio exercise. Weight plates are often used in High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) exercises, as they are efficient at elevating heart-rate and maximising intensity. For this type of training, you may want to use lighter weights such as 5kg weight plates or 10kg weight plates, while the 15kg to 20kg range can be used for focused movements and compound lifts. Some good exercises to try are overhead lunges or walking lunges.
Standard weight plates are a highly adaptable piece of equipment, and allow you to accelerate most workouts to achieve your fitness goals. It’s important to take into account your own level and what you want to achieve before purchasing a pair yourself, but rest assured there’s almost certainly a weight plate that suits your personal needs.
You can check out our guide on buying weight plates for your home gym here.
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