If you want to start weight training, there are many options for equipment that you can use. There are dumbbells , weight machines, barbells, or bumper plates that you can use to train strength and increase muscle mass.
Bumper plates are a type of lifting equipment designed to be dropped or slammed onto the floor without damage. These plates are usually made of steel coated with rubber.
You need to use the right equipment to get the results you want. Bumper plates can be one of the best options to help you achieve a fit body with increased muscle mass.
These plates are commonly used for Olympic weightlifting, general weightlifting, and CrossFit training.
Also read: 6 Dumbbell Exercises for Stronger Muscles
These plates come in a variety of sizes, colors, and even designs. Smaller plates are typically used for women's competitions, while larger plates are typically used for men's competitions and training.
Benefits of using bumper plates
There are many benefits to using bumper plates, including:
- Made of durable material so it remains safe even if thrown repeatedly.
- It has low reflectivity, making it safer.
- Because it uses a rubber layer, it keeps the floor and plates safe from damage even if they are slammed repeatedly.
- The rubber layer is also able to dampen sound, so it can minimize noise when the plates are slammed on the floor.
These bumper plates are the best choice of exercise equipment if you want to take your weight training to the next level. However, do you know how to choose the right bumper plates?
There are many factors to consider when choosing plates, especially to complete your home gym equipment. You need to consider the type of material the plates are made from, the thickness of the plates, the weight capacity, and whether you want Olympic or standard sized plates.
To make it easier for you, here are some things you need to pay attention to when choosing bumper plates:
Durability
You should choose plates that are not easily cracked or broken. Look for plates that are made of solid and durable rubber. Be sure to check product reviews before you buy them, so you can get plates that are truly quality.
If you are planning to buy Olympic Bumper Plates , then make sure the plates you are going to buy have met the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) standards. Quality plates will last for years of use, so make sure you only buy the best.
According to IWF standards
Make sure you buy Olympic Bumper Plates that meet IWF standards, especially if you are going to use them for competition.
Low reflectivity
Choose plates with low bounce. Plates that bounce too far can damage your floor and equipment. Look for plates made of soft, dense rubber, which will absorb the impact when dropped or slammed on the floor.
Avoid plates that bend easily
Look for plates that are made of high-quality, solid rubber. This will ensure that the plates won't bend or even break easily when dropped.
Some plates are even reinforced with steel inserts, which can add strength to the plates and prevent the plates from bending or warping when slammed onto the floor.
Why Should You Use Bumper Plates?
Many still mistakenly think that these plates are only intended for Olympic weightlifters. Of course this is not true, these plates can still be used for everyday weightlifting training, even for those of you who are not athletes.
Whether it's a large gym, a small gym, or even just a home gym, you can equip your weight lifting equipment with these plates.
Here are some reasons why you need to have or use bumper plates for weightlifting training:
Best durability
These plates have been designed as well as possible to be not easily damaged. This is because these plates are made of steel coated with rubber, so they are safer to use especially for long-term use.
Meanwhile, standard plates are usually made of cast iron which is more susceptible to damage.
Read more: 5 Sports You Can Do With Just Bumper Plates
Easier to grip
If you only train with standard barbells, you will find that these plates are harder to grip. This is because the smoother surface of the plates can make it difficult to get a firm grip, especially when your hands are sweaty.
If you are not careful, the plates can slip from your hands and fall. This can be dangerous for your feet and increase the risk of injury.
Meanwhile, bumper plates have plate edges that help increase grip and make it easier for you to hold the plates.
Safer for floors
These plates are definitely safer for floors compared to standard plates. The soft rubber surface can protect the plates and floors from damage.
If you have ever dropped a standard plate on the floor, then you know that it makes a loud noise and can even dent. For this reason, bumper plates can be the right and safe choice for you.
Reduce noise
These plates are designed to minimize noise, so they won't interrupt your training session with loud sounds, and keep you focused.
The soft rubber surface helps absorb the impact when the plates are dropped on the floor, reducing noise. This is especially useful for home gyms or small gyms with limited space, where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.
Can be used for various exercises
Bumper plates can be used for a variety of exercises, they are not only useful for Olympic weightlifting. You can even use these plates for squats or bench presses. These types of plates can also be used for CrossFit training.
Multifunctional bumper plates are the right choice for those of you who want to complete your home gym equipment.
