Olympic Bumper Plates

FAQ

What is Olympic Bumper Plates?

Olympic bumper plates are a type of weight plate that are commonly used in Olympic weightlifting and other strength training exercises. Bumper plates are typically made of dense rubber, which is durable and shock-absorbent. They are designed to be dropped from overhead without damaging the floor, barbell, or the plates themselves.

Bumper plates are available in a variety of sizes, with the larger sizes being thicker to allow for heavier weights. The standard size for bumper plates is 450mm (17.7 inches) in diameter, which is the same as standard Olympic weight plates. Bumper plates also come in a variety of weights, ranging from 5 kg to 25 kg. 

The primary advantage of bumper plates is their ability to be dropped without causing damage to the floor, barbell, or the plates themselves. This makes them ideal for Olympic weightlifting exercises such as the clean and jerk and the snatch, which require dropping the barbell from overhead. Additionally, the thick rubber material of the plates makes them less likely to crack or break over time compared to metal plates.

When using bumper plates, it's important to use proper form and to gradually increase weight as you build strength. It's also important to use collars to secure the plates to the barbell and to always lift with a spotter for heavy lifts to prevent injury. Bumper plates can be a valuable addition to a home gym or commercial gym and can help to improve strength and conditioning for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Black Bumper Plates vs Colour Bumper Plates? 

Black bumper plates and Colour bumper plates. The main difference between these two types of plates is their appearance, but there are a few other factors that may influence your decision when choosing between them.

Black bumper plates are typically all black and have white lettering to indicate their weight. They are often considered the classic style of bumper plate and are commonly used in commercial gyms and weightlifting competitions. Black bumper plates are often made from a mix of recycled and new rubber, making them a more affordable option.

Coloured bumper plates, on the other hand, are typically brightly coloured, with each colour representing a different weight. For example, green represent 10kg, yellow represent 15kg, and so on. Coloured bumper plates are often made from virgin rubber, which is more expensive than recycled rubber, and can be a more premium option.

One advantage of colored bumper plates is that they are easier to identify by weight, making it quicker and easier to load the bar. This can be particularly useful in a busy gym or in a competition setting where you need to make quick weight changes. Colored bumper plates are also a great way to add some color to your gym and make it a more visually appealing space.

Another consideration when choosing between black and colored bumper plates is the cost. Colored bumper plates are typically more expensive than black bumper plates due to the higher cost of the virgin rubber material used in their production. However, the durability and quality of colored bumper plates may be worth the extra cost in the long run.

Ultimately, the choice between black and colored bumper plates comes down to personal preference, budget, and intended use. Both types of bumper plates are durable and effective for weightlifting and functional fitness exercises, so it's important to choose the type that best suits your needs and preferences.