Weight plates and bars will come in two main categories: ‘Standard’ and ‘Olympic’. These two will be sized differently, so it’s important to know which weight plate you’re working before you attach it to a bar. Standard equipment will have a 25mm diameter hole, while Olympic plates and bars will be 50mm. This means that a Standard plate will require a Standard bar, and same for Olympic plates and bars.

Click here for a more comprehensive breakdown of the difference between Standard and Olympic Weight plates.

This will depend greatly on your individual goals and fitness level, as well as the types of exercises you wish to complete. There are a few factors to take into account here. Most users will benefit from having a wider selection of weight plates, as it allows you to progress naturally throughout the levels without being limited to specific weight amounts. Having that wide range of weights gives you the ability to more accurately track your progress, as well as being able to choose a specific weight that’s appropriate to your level. It also allows for a greater variety of exercises. However, if may want to maintain a consistent strength workout with the same size weight plates. So, if you already know what weight amount you need, it may be better to pick a select few sizes and stick to those. High intensity cardio work will most likely require lighter weights, while more focused muscle building will call for a much heavier weight. Consider whether you want to focus on a specific type of training, or whether you want a more variable workout regime that works different areas of fitness.

This will depend greatly on your individual goals and fitness level, as well as the types of exercises you wish to complete. There are a few factors to take into account here. Most users will benefit from having a wider selection of weight plates, as it allows you to progress naturally throughout the levels without being limited

We often don’t take into account the actual weight of the bar when looking at weightlifting, but it can have a considerable impact on your workout. The weight bar weight will actually vary considerably, and will also depend on whether you’re buying Standard or Olympic grade equipment. A Standard barbell will typically be around 7kg, while Olympic bars will weigh between 15kg and 20kg.

Check out our Olympic barbell comparison guide for a more in-depth breakdown.

You can find quite a variety of weight options among our selection of plates. On the lower end you can find 1.25kg and 2.5kg weight plates in our Standard range, while Olympic plates include fractional weight options as low as 0.25kg and 0.5kg. From there you’ll find 10kg and 15 kg weight plates, up to 20kg, with our Bumper plate series going as high as 25kg.