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Mental math between sets is how 235 turns into 245. Enter your target weight and the plates you own, and the calculator shows exactly what goes on each side of the bar — and the nearest weight you can make if your plates can’t hit the target exactly.
How it works
Per side = (target − bar − collars) ÷ 2. The calculator then fills each side with the heaviest plates first, which is also how you should load: largest plates closest to the collar.
Standard bar weights
| Bar | Weight | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Men’s Olympic bar | 45 lb / 20 kg | Standard for squat, bench, deadlift |
| Women’s Olympic bar | 35 lb / 15 kg | Thinner 25 mm grip |
| Technique bar | 15 lb / 10 kg | Learning lifts |
| Competition collars (pair) | 2.5 kg each / 5 kg pair | Spring clips weigh almost nothing |
Common loads (45 lb bar)
| Total | Each side |
|---|---|
| 95 lb | 25 |
| 135 lb | 45 |
| 185 lb | 45 + 25 |
| 225 lb | 45 + 45 |
| 275 lb | 45 + 45 + 25 |
| 315 lb | 45 + 45 + 45 |
| 405 lb | 45 × 4 |
FAQ
Are bumper plates the same weight as iron plates?
Yes, a 45 lb bumper weighs 45 lb — it’s just thicker. That means fewer fit on the sleeve, which matters for heavy deadlifts.
How accurate are home gym plates?
Budget iron plates can be several percent off their stamped weight. Calibrated plates are accurate to within about 10 g. Weigh a few of yours on a bathroom scale if you’re curious.
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