Olympic Weight Plates Vs Standard (Which Should You Buy?)

Olympic Weight Plates Vs Standard: Key Differences For Lifters

Performance & Durability 

When it comes to performance and durability, Olympic bars and plates are far more stable than standard bars when loading and unloading weights. In addition, Olympic bars are thicker, making plate loading far safer and more convenient. 

Olympic bars are also heavier and thicker on the ends, adding to their stability. We've also found that Olympic plates are less disruptive while lifting, allowing you to lift heavier.

And although dropped weights increase can the risk of injury if you aren't careful, Olympic weightlifting plates are explicitly designed to be dropped and absorb impact. 

Related Article - Bumper Vs Iron Weight Plates

Safety For Lifters 

Because Olympic bars are much more stable than standard bars, they are much safer. Tipping over an Olympic Bar is nearly impossible when the bar is appropriately racked.

You can safely load heavy plates, even one side at a time, which is necessary when lifting alone. You can easily add one or even two Olympic Plates without the bar tipping. 

You can't do this with standard plates without tipping over the bar. With standard bars and plates, you need to add one plate per side at a time. 

Read More - How Does A Barbell Stay Level?

For Different Types Of Workouts  

Olympic bars and plates can generally be used for any type of workout. However, standard bars and plates don't allow you to lift as heavy, so you will eventually reach a limit to how much you can lift, which isn't suitable for many workouts. 

For CrossFit and Olympic lifting, you should look into bumper plates. These plates are made of high-density rubber for lifts where the loaded barbell is dropped to the floor. The rubber construction protects the weights, the barbell, and the floor from damage. 

Most powerlifters and anyone looking to add muscle and build strength will eventually need a set of Olympic bars and plates. As we said earlier, you can't lift nearly as heavy with standard plates as you can with Olympic plates. Beginners or lifters who aren't necessarily looking to lift heavy should be just fine with standard plates and bars. 

Read Also - What Are Bumper Plates?

Weight Range 

Standard bars typically start bending at a weight load of over 200 pounds. On the other hand, Olympic bars are twice as thick and can hold between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds. That is a significant difference! 

When your barbell bends, it can create unwanted motion and make heavier lifts more difficult and unsafe. If you ever plan to lift more than 200lbs over the long term, an Olympic bar and plates may be the ideal choice. 

Adaptability   

Unfortunately, standard plates cannot be used on an Olympic bar. So if you decide to start off with a standard bar and plates because they are cheaper, you won't eventually be able to use those plates on an Olympic bar if you upgrade.  

However, Olympic plates can be used on standard bars if you buy the proper adaptors. This is something to consider if you prefer to have a range of weights instead of one strict set.

Also See - Cleaning Weight Plates

Competition 

Admittedly, most people will never enter a weightlifting or CrossFit competition. However, if you plan to enter competitions, it's essential to know what kind of bars and plates they'll use. 

If you plan to weight lift at a competition level, you should definitely opt for Olympic bars and weights. Olympic bars and plates are generally the only ones used in competitions.

To stay competitive, you will want to lift with Olympic plates from the beginning. Competitive lifters almost exclusively train with Olympic equipment and completely ignore standard plates and bars. 

Price Comparisons  

Standard bars and plates are almost always cheaper than Olympic plates. This is expected because standard bars have a much lower maximum weight capacity. They also aren't as safe as Olympic sets, and they aren't used in competitions.

All of these factors lead to their lower price point. However, if you never plan on lifting heavy or competing in a lifting competition, standard bars and plates will suit you just fine.

Related Article - Why Do Weight Plates Cost So Much?

Olympic Weight Plates (Overview + Pros & Cons)  

Olympic weight plates come in various options like rubber or urethane coated, and Olympic Bumper Plates are made with solid rubber to safely be dropped. 

Many Olympic Bars can withstand a maximum weight load of over 1500lbs, which is impressive. And they will always return to a straight position because of the quality of the steel used in the bar. Olympic weight plates are also available in heavier sizes, ranging from 2lbs to over 100lbs. 

Olympic weights are also precision-tested, so the accuracy of weight is very close. In addition, Olympic bars usually have revolving ends to reduce torque on the bar in certain lifts where the bar needs to rotate quickly. This allows for smoother lifts which helps reduce strain and injury. 

Olympic bars and plates are suitable for beginners and the most experienced lifters. They are also ideal for most types of exercises. 

Related Article - Best Olympic Weight Sets For Garage Gyms

Standard Weight Plates (Overview + Pros & Cons)  

If you aren't ready to make a significant investment in your weights, standard weight plates may be the way to go. Standard bars tend to be cheaper, making them good for beginners or someone on a budget. Just keep in mind that standard weights will start flexing badly around 200 pounds, so that's as heavy as you'll be able to lift.  

A standard weight set can be a great option if you're just getting started and aren't planning on pushing really heavy weights soon. Lifting with standard weight plates will give you time to save up until you need the extra heavy weights.

Then, once you're ready to start lifting heavy, you can use your savings to buy your Olympic weight plates and start smashing your new goals. 

Common Weight Plate Related Questions  

Are Olympic plates the same as bumper plates? 

Bumper plates are used to prevent damage to floors and the lifter's safety. They were made for lifts that require you to lift heavy over your head or lift from the floor and drop at the end. Bumper Plates are larger than Olympic plates, and they are all the same size in diameter. 

Why are Olympic weights so big? 

One of the most obvious differences between Olympic and standard plates is the size. Olympic plates have a 2-inch hole, and standard plates only have a 1-inch hole. That's why Olympic plates are larger than standard plates of the same weight. 

What type of weight plates do commercial gyms use? 

The majority of commercial gyms carry both standard and Olympic weight plates to appeal to as many customers as possible. Gyms that appeal to heavy lifters may have Olympic plates exclusively. 

Which type of weight plates look better in home gyms?  

This is a matter of personal preference. Most Olympic and standard plates will come in different styles and colors. While the look of your home gym is important, please don't neglect function for cosmetic appeal. Instead, choose the weight plates that will help you meet your goals.