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Calculation Machine

Plate Loading Calculator

Exactly which plates go on each side of the bar for any target weight.

Reviewed by James Whitfield · How we check our maths

Your values

ⓘ Live results

Results
Plates per side
2 x 25, 1 x 10, 1 x 1.25
Actual bar weight
142.5
Difference from target
0
Load per side
61.25
Total plates on the bar
8

Working

  1. 1(142.5 - 20) / 2 = 61.25 per side

Quick answer

Plate loading subtracts the bar weight, halves the remainder and greedily fills each side from the heaviest plate down.

The formula

per side = (target - bar) / 2

Worked example

Worked example

Using the values the calculator loads with.

Inputs

  • Target weight142.5 kg
  • Bar weight20 kg Olympic
  • Plate setkg: 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25

Result

  • Plates per side2 x 25, 1 x 10, 1 x 1.25
  • Actual bar weight142.5
  • Difference from target0
  • Load per side61.25
  • Total plates on the bar8

How to use the Plate Loading Calculator

  1. 1Enter the weight you want on the bar in total, including the bar itself.
  2. 2Pick the bar you are using and the plate set available in your gym.
  3. 3Load the listed plates on each side, heaviest against the collar first.

Frequently asked questions

Why is the actual weight different from my target?

Your plate set cannot make every number. The calculator loads the closest achievable weight at or below the target and shows the gap.

Do collars count?

Competition collars add 2.5 kg each. If you use them, add 5 kg to the bar weight before calculating.

About this calculator