Why Are Barbells a Standard 45 Pounds and Plates Also 45 Pounds? Why Not an Even Number Like 50?
The standard weight of barbells and weight plates is 45 pounds, not 50 pounds, for several reasons:
- Historical Precedent: The 45-pound standard was established in the late 19th century when barbells were used primarily for strength training. The weight was considered challenging enough for most lifters while still being manageable to load and unload.
- Biomechanics: The 45-pound standard allows for more precise weight increments. With 45-pound plates, lifters can add or remove smaller weights (such as 2.5 or 5 pounds) to fine-tune their resistance, which is important for progressive overload.
- Convenience: Barbells and plates are typically designed to be compatible with each other. A standard 45-pound barbell fits comfortably in most weightlifting racks and can accommodate multiple plates. If the standard weight were 50 pounds, it would require larger bars and racks, making them more cumbersome to use.
FAQ:
- Why not use an even number like 50 pounds? - An even weight would not provide as much flexibility for adding or removing weight increments.
- Are there any other standard weights for barbells and plates? - Some specialty bars, such as hex bars, may come in non-standard weights.
- Can I use non-standard weight plates on a standard barbell? - Yes, as long as the plates have the correct diameter and hole size to fit on the barbell.
- Is there a specific weight for Olympic barbells? - Yes, Olympic barbells are typically 20 kilograms (44.09 pounds).
- Why are weightlifting belts often rated for a maximum of 45 pounds? - This is because 45 pounds is a common weight for Olympic lifts, which put a lot of stress on the lower back.
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