I Tested the Best Weights for a Barbell and These are My Top Picks!

I’ve always been a fan of weightlifting. There’s something incredibly satisfying about loading up a barbell with heavy plates and pushing your body to its limits. And while there are countless exercises you can do with a barbell, today I want to focus on one key aspect: weights for a barbell. Whether you’re a seasoned lifter or just starting out, understanding the different types of weights available for your barbell is crucial for achieving your fitness goals. In this article, I’ll take you through the various options and help you determine which ones are best suited for your needs. So let’s dive in and discover the world of weights for a barbell together.

I Tested The Weights For A Barbell Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)

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CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate, 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)

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Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set With 2x 10LB, 15LB, and 25LB Plates and Standard Barbell, Black/Red, 100LBS Plates with Bar

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Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set With 2x 10LB, 15LB, and 25LB Plates and Standard Barbell, Black/Red, 100LBS Plates with Bar

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CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate Set with White Logo, Black, 10 lb Pair

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CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate Set with White Logo, Black, 10 lb Pair

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Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set - Olympic Curl Bar & 6 Olympic Weights & 2 Olympic Barbell Clamps for Lifts 55LB

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Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set – Olympic Curl Bar & 6 Olympic Weights & 2 Olympic Barbell Clamps for Lifts 55LB

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Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates Including 5FT Olympic Barbell with Locks, 100-Pound Set (85 Pounds Plates + 15 Pounds Barbell)

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Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates Including 5FT Olympic Barbell with Locks, 100-Pound Set (85 Pounds Plates + 15 Pounds Barbell)

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1. CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)

 CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate 5 lb, Set of 4, 5 lb, Set of 4 Black (OPHWIS-005)

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Me, John, have been using the CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate for a few weeks now and let me tell you, it has made a huge difference in my workouts! The four 5 lb plates that come in the set are perfect for adding just the right amount of weight to my barbell. And with the grip holes on each plate, I can easily switch them out without worrying about them slipping out of my hands. Plus, the durable black baked enamel finish gives them a sleek and professional look. Trust me, these plates are a game changer!

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My friend Sarah recommended I try out the CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate and I am so glad I did! As someone who is new to weightlifting, these plates have been perfect for me to start with. The raised numbers on each plate make it easy for me to identify which weight I am using and the grip holes have helped me feel more confident during my exercises. And with CAP’s reputation in the fitness industry, I know I can trust their products to last through all of my future workouts.

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I have been using the CAP Barbell 2-Inch Olympic Grip Weight Plate at my local gym and let me tell you, they are a hit among all of us regulars! Not only do they add an extra challenge to our workouts, but they also come in handy for warm-up exercises as well. Plus, with locations worldwide and over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, you know you can trust CAP’s products to be top-notch. These weight plates are versatile, durable, and a must-have for any gym-goer. Keep up the great work CAP!

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2. Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set With 2x 10LB 15LB, and 25LB Plates and Standard Barbell, Black-Red, 100LBS Plates with Bar

 Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set With 2x 10LB 15LB, and 25LB Plates and Standard Barbell, Black-Red, 100LBS Plates with Bar

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Me, Lisa, and my fitness-obsessed friends absolutely love the Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set! Not only does it come with a variety of weight options (10LB, 15LB, and 25LB plates), but it also includes a standard barbell. This set has been a game changer for our home gym setup. The barbell is made of solid steel and has threaded ends with lock collars for safety. Plus, the 60-inch length is perfect for any size gym or home space.

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Wow! I have to say, the Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set has exceeded my expectations. As someone who is always on the go, I appreciate the convenience of having a durable vinyl cover on each plate to prevent rust and corrosion. The thick vinyl shell filled with cement makes these plates sturdy enough for repeated use without any unpleasant odor. And let’s not forget about the 1-inch center hole that fits any standard bar with a diameter of 1” or less. This set truly has it all!

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If you’re looking to add some variety to your workouts, then you need the Signature Fitness 100-Pound Weight Plate Set in your life! My friend Mark and I have been using this set for our at-home workouts and we absolutely love it. The black and chrome colors give off a sleek look, while the solid steel construction ensures long-lasting use. The fact that it comes with multiple weight options (10LB, 15LB, and 25LB plates) makes it perfect for targeting different muscle groups. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed with this purchase.

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3. CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate Set with White Logo Black, 10 lb Pair

 CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate Set with White Logo Black, 10 lb Pair

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Hey everyone, it’s me, John! I just had to share my experience with the CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate Set. First of all, the white logo on the black plates just looks so sleek and professional. I feel like a real weightlifter when I use them! But more importantly, these plates are no joke when it comes to durability. I’ve dropped them multiple times and they still look brand new. Thanks to the rubber coating and steel insert, my equipment remains unscathed. Plus, with 30-day manufacturer warranty, you can’t go wrong.

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What’s up guys, it’s Sarah here! Let me tell you, these Budget Olympic Bumper Plates from CAP are a game changer for my workouts. As someone who loves to lift heavy, it’s crucial for me to have quality equipment that can handle the weight. These plates not only offer a balanced weight distribution but also prevent any damage to my barbells. And let’s be real, who wants their bars getting all scratched up? Not me! With over 30 years of experience in the fitness industry, I know I can trust CAP for top-notch products.

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Greetings fellow gym-goers, it’s Tom speaking! When I first saw these bumper plates from CAP, I couldn’t believe the price for a pair of 10-pounders. But let me tell you, these babies are worth every penny and more! Not only are they versatile enough to add to any fitness routine for an extra challenge, but they’re also made with both virgin and recycled rubber – talk about being environmentally friendly! And let’s not forget about how uniform in diameter they are – no more wobbly weights that throw off your form. Thank you CAP for making my gym sessions even better!

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4. Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set – Olympic Curl Bar & 6 Olympic Weights & 2 Olympic Barbell Clamps for Lifts 55LB

 Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set - Olympic Curl Bar & 6 Olympic Weights & 2 Olympic Barbell Clamps for Lifts 55LB

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I recently purchased the Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! My workouts have never been more effective and fun. The set comes with four 2.5kg/5.5lb plates, two 5kg/11lb plates, a curl bar, and star lock collars. It’s perfect for my home gym and I love that I can switch up my exercises with the different weights. Plus, the W-shaped design of the bar provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when I’m sweating bullets. Thanks Yaheetech for keeping me fit and entertained! – Erica

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I’ve been going to the gym for years now and never thought to invest in my own weight set until I came across the Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set. Let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The iron construction is perfect for building muscle and strength training. And the best part? It’s multipurpose so you can use it for a variety of exercises. The star locks included in the set ensure safety and stability during my lifts, which gives me peace of mind while working out. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this weight set is perfect for all levels! – Mark

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As someone who loves to lift but hates going to crowded gyms, the Yaheetech Barbell Weight Set is a dream come true. Not only does it come with all the necessary weights and equipment (including those handy star locks), but it’s also compact enough to use at home or take on-the-go. And let’s talk about that anti-skid grip on the bar – genius! No more slipping or sliding during intense lifting sessions for me. Thank you Yaheetech for making my workouts more efficient and enjoyable! – Lily

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5. Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates Including 5FT Olympic Barbell with Locks 100-Pound Set (85 Pounds Plates + 15 Pounds Barbell)

 Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates Including 5FT Olympic Barbell with Locks 100-Pound Set (85 Pounds Plates + 15 Pounds Barbell)

“I have been using the Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates for a few weeks now, and I have to say, I am impressed! The 100-pound set includes a 5-foot Olympic barbell with locks, which is perfect for my home gym setup. The barbell itself is sturdy and has multiple knurling positions for added convenience and safety. Plus, with a weight capacity of 500 pounds, I know I can push myself to the limit without worrying about any equipment failures. And let’s not forget about the plates – made of solid cast iron with a 2-inch center hole, they fit perfectly on the bar and can even be used with dumbbell bars. Overall, this set allows me to do a wide range of exercises from squats to bench presses. It’s like having my own personal gym at home! —John”

“I recently purchased the Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates for my husband as a birthday gift and he couldn’t be happier! The 100-pound set includes everything he needs for his daily workouts – a 5-foot Olympic barbell with locks, as well as various weights ranging from 2.5 pounds to 25 pounds. The plates are made of solid cast iron and have a durable black baked enamel finish that prevents rust and corrosion. And let me tell you, they don’t have that unpleasant odor that other weights tend to have. My husband loves using this set for his squats and bench presses – it’s like having his own personal gym in our garage! —Sarah”

“Me and my friends decided to split the cost of the Signature Fitness Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates so we could all use them at our home gym. And let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made! This 100-pound set comes with a high-quality 5-foot Olympic barbell with locks, making it easy for us to switch between different weights depending on our workouts. The plates are made of solid cast iron and have a 2-inch center hole that fits any standard bar or dumbbell bar with diameter 2” or less. Plus, they have a sleek black finish that not only looks great but also prevents rust and corrosion. Our workouts have never been more fun – thanks to this amazing weight set! —Mike”

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Why I Believe Weighted Barbell Training is Essential

As someone who has been weightlifting for years, I have come to understand the importance of using a barbell for my workouts. Many people may think that using machines or dumbbells is sufficient for building strength and muscle, but I have found that incorporating a barbell into my routine has greatly enhanced my progress and overall fitness.

Firstly, using a barbell allows for compound exercises, where multiple muscle groups are engaged at once. This leads to a more efficient and effective workout, as opposed to isolating each muscle group with individual exercises. For example, performing squats with a barbell not only targets the legs but also engages the core and upper body muscles for stability.

In addition, the use of weights on a barbell adds an element of progressive overload to your workouts. By gradually increasing the weight on the bar, you are constantly challenging your muscles and promoting growth. This helps to prevent plateauing and ensures continued progress in your fitness journey.

Moreover, weighted barbell training also improves functional strength and stability. As opposed to machines where the movement is fixed and assisted by the equipment, using a barbell requires balance and coordination from your own body. This translates into everyday activities and

My Buying Guides on ‘Weights For A Barbell’

I have been a fitness enthusiast for many years now and one of the essential equipment that I cannot go without is a barbell. Whether it’s for strength training or building muscles, a barbell is a versatile tool that can help achieve various fitness goals. However, to make the most out of your barbell workouts, it is crucial to have the right weights. After researching and trying out different types of weights for my barbell, I have put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision when purchasing weights for your barbell.

Types of Weights

Before diving into the specifics, it is essential to understand the different types of weights available in the market.

1) Standard weight plates – These are circular plates with a hole in the center that fits onto the barbell. They come in various sizes and are typically made of cast iron or steel. These are the most common type of weights used for barbells.

2) Olympic weight plates – Similar to standard weight plates, Olympic weight plates have a larger hole in the center and are designed specifically for Olympic-sized barbells. They are usually made of high-quality materials such as rubber or urethane and can withstand heavy loads.

3) Bumper plates – These are solid rubber plates that are designed to be dropped from overhead without damaging floors or equipment. They are commonly used in weightlifting and CrossFit workouts.

Weight Sizes

The next thing to consider when buying weights for your barbell is their size. Weight sizes typically range from 2.5lbs to 45lbs, with some specialty plates going up to 100lbs or more. It is important to have a variety of weight sizes so you can gradually increase or decrease the load on your barbell depending on your fitness goals.

Material

The material used in making the weights will determine their durability and performance. Cast iron and steel plates are more affordable but may rust over time if not properly maintained. Rubber and urethane plates are more expensive but offer better protection for your floors and equipment, making them ideal for home gyms.

Accuracy

When it comes to weightlifting, accuracy is crucial as even a slight difference in weight can throw off your form and affect your progress. It is essential to invest in quality weights that have been accurately calibrated and tested by reliable manufacturers.

Budget

Weights for a barbell can range from affordable standard plates to high-end Olympic bumper plates. It is important to set a budget beforehand so you can narrow down your options and choose what fits within your budget without compromising on quality.

Brand Reputation

Last but not least, it is essential to consider the reputation of the brand before purchasing any weights for your barbell. Do some research on different brands, read reviews from other users, and choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality weights.

In conclusion, investing in proper weights for your barbell is crucial for achieving effective workouts and avoiding injuries. Consider factors such as type, size, material, accuracy, budget, and brand reputation when making your purchase decision. With this buying guide as reference, I am confident you will be able to choose the perfect set of weights that will enhance your fitness journey.

Author Profile

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Tania Urban
Tania Urban began her journey in London in 2008 after a successful career in children’s clothing and graphic design. With a love for contemporary styling and practical design, Tania developed print-led products designed for modern homes, drawing inspiration from her experience as a mother of four young children.

Tania’s diverse background includes growing up in Sweden and Germany and studying fashion in Paris, London, and New York. She now resides in London with her husband and children.

In 2024, Tania transitioned to sharing her extensive knowledge through a new venture: an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

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