Weight Plates & Weights

Weight plates & weights for your optimal strength training

Discover a large selection of weight plates and weights at Shark Fitness, perfectly tailored to your strength training - whether for the home gym, studio or functional training.

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History & Significance of Weight Plates

History & Significance of Weight Plates

Weight plates and weight plates have been an integral part of strength training for decades. They have already been used in classic strength training studios to specifically increase muscle strength. Over the years, technically sophisticated training devices have been developed from simple metal plates, which have been significantly improved in their precision, durability and handling. Today they are ubiquitous not only in high-performance centers, but also in home gyms - thanks to robust materials such as cast iron, rubber or urethane and a wide variety of weight sizes.

With the increasing popularity of strength training, functional fitness and Olympic weightlifting, the importance of weight plates has continued to increase. They enable individual and progressive training that adapts precisely to every performance level. At Shark Fitness we offer you exactly this variety: high-quality weight plates for every goal, every form of training and every environment, so that you can optimally and long-term align your workout.

Why Use Weight Plates & Weights?

Why Use Weight Plates & Weights?

Weight plates and weights are an essential component for effective strength training. They allow you to:

  • Targeted strength-building training:
    By adding or reducing plates, you can adjust the training weight precisely to your needs.
  • Maximum flexibility:
    Whether individual plates, sets or specialized weights - you can put together your setup according to your goals.
  • Long-term Investment:
    With stable weight plates you are equipped for the long term - for every exercise, every workout and every level.
  • Compatibility:
    Our weights fit standard and Olympic weight bars, so you can combine different devices.
  • Safety:
    High-quality materials offer reliable resilience, a safe training environment and a long service life.
Why Use Weight Plates and Weights?
What are weight plates?
What are weight plates?

What are weight plates?

Weight plates are round plates available in various weight increments (e.g. 1.25 kg, 2.5 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, 20 kg). They allow you to increase or decrease the training weight as needed, enabling progressive strength training. A precisely manufactured hole in the centre allows the plate to be slid onto a barbell and secured with collars. Their sturdy construction ensures the weights stay securely in place, even during intense exercises.

Weight plates are indispensable for everyday training, as they are suitable for a wide range of exercises—from classic barbell training to functional workouts. They are available in various materials, such as cast iron, rubber or urethane, so you can choose the option that best suits your needs and training environment.

There are two standard sizes:

  • Standard weight plates
    (hole diameter approx. 25–30 mm)
  • Olympic weight plates
    (hole diameter 50 mm)
Benefits of Training with Weight Plates and Weights

Benefits of Training with Weight Plates and Weights

1. Versatile training for the whole body
With weight plates and weights you can train every important muscle group - legs, back, chest, shoulders, arms and core. The variety of exercises makes it one of the most flexible training devices ever.

2. Progressive strength building
The training load can be precisely adjusted by simply adding or removing weight. In this way you can achieve continuous progress and systematically increase your strength.

3. Improving stability & coordination
Free weights also challenge the stabilizing muscles. This not only improves strength, but also body control, balance and coordination.

4. Effective functional training
Exercises with weight plates often correspond to natural movements in everyday life. This makes the training particularly functional and has a positive effect on mobility and everyday strength.

5. Suitable for every training level
Whether you are a beginner or a professional: thanks to the different weight classes, weight plates can be used optimally for every fitness level.

6. Space-saving & durable
In contrast to large weight machines, weight plates require little space and last - especially models made of cast iron or with rubber coating - for many years.

7. Ideal for home gyms & studios
They offer maximum flexibility: at home, in the studio or in the functional area - weight plates can be used anywhere.

8. High calorie consumption
Strength training with free weights uses many muscle groups at the same time, which increases energy consumption and helps you lose weight.

Benefits of training with weight plates and weights

What types of weight plates can you find with us?

Cast iron weight plates

Cast iron weight plates

Classic solid cast iron weight plates – robust, durable, and compact. They are especially space-saving, precision-made, and ideal for intense strength training, both in a home gym and in a professional studio.

Rubberized weight plates

Rubberized weight plates

These weight plates feature a durable rubber coating that protects the floor and reduces noise when set down. Rubber-coated weight plates are perfect for anyone who wants to train safely and comfortably—ideal for living spaces or workout rooms with delicate flooring.

Bumper Plates

Bumper Plates

Bumper plates are made of solid rubber and were specially developed for weightlifting, cross-training, and functional training. They can easily be dropped from greater heights without damaging the floor or the barbell. Perfect for deadlifts, Olympic lifts, and dynamic workouts.

Urethane dumbbell plates

Urethane dumbbell plates

Urethane weights offer the highest quality and extreme durability. The material is particularly resistant, odorless, and colorfast. These plates are frequently used in premium gyms because they combine excellent shock absorption, an elegant appearance, and a long service life.

Exercises & Workout Ideas with Weight Plates

With weight plates you can perform a variety of exercises, e.g. B.:

  • Squats:
    Deep and strong squats can be performed with additional weight.
  • Bench press:
    Plates help with progressive strength building.
  • Deadlifts:
    Ideal for building back and Leg muscles.
  • Overhead Press:
    Shoulders and core are heavily challenged.
  • Core Training / Russian Twists:
    A single plate makes your core workout more intense.
What should you pay attention to when buying?

What should you pay attention to when buying?

  • Weight selection:
    Consider your current performance level, your training goals (hypertrophy, strength, endurance) and how much weight you need in the long term
  • Plate diameter & hole size:
    Make sure the plate fits your bar (e.g. standard vs. Olympic).
  • Material:
    Cast iron can withstand a lot, rubberized weights are quieter and protect the floor. Urethane are of the highest quality
  • Set or individual plates:
    A set may be suitable to start with, but later you can upgrade with individual plates.
  • Storage:
    Plan space for a rack or a dumbbell rack so that your weights are stored safely and orderly.
What should you pay attention to when buying?

Discover weight plates and weights now

Browse our Weight Plates & Weights category at Shark Fitness now and find the perfect plates for your training. We offer fast delivery in Switzerland, high-quality brands and a large selection - so you can get started now!

FAQ

❓ Which weight plates are suitable for beginners?

For beginners, lighter weight plates (1.25-5kg) are ideal for learning technique and avoiding injuries. Start with moderate weights and increase gradually.

❓ What is the difference between standard and Olympic weight plates?

Standard weight plates have a hole diameter of approx. 25-30mm, Olympic plates 50mm. The choice depends on your bar: standard for classic bars, Olympic for professional training bars.

❓ What materials are weight plates made from, and what should I look out for?

Weight plates are available in cast iron, rubber-coated rubber, or urethane. Cast iron is durable, rubber-coated plates protect the floor, and urethane is especially long-lasting and odorless.

❓ How do I store weight plates safely?

Ideally on a dumbbell rack, in a power rack, or on shelves to prevent accidents and keep the weights organized. This will help keep them in good condition for longer.

❓ Can I use weight plates for both my home gym and commercial gym?

Yes. Rubber-coated or urethane plates are particularly well suited for a home gym because they’re quiet and protect the floor. Cast-iron plates are ideal for studio use.

❓ How do I choose the right weight for my workout?

Consider your training goal, experience, and exercise type. Choose heavier plates to build strength and lighter weights for technique and endurance. A set with a variety of plates offers maximum flexibility.

❓ Do all weight plates fit every barbell?

No. Always check the hole diameter of the disc and the diameter of the bar (standard vs. Olympic). This will ensure that the weights are seated correctly and secure.

Shark Fitness – Your Fitness Experts

Shark Fitness – Your Fitness Experts

Why buy weight plates & weights from Shark Fitness?

Large selection of high-quality brands. Variants for every training - from cast weight plates to bumper plates

Competent advice and fast Swiss delivery network

Over 30 years of experience in the fitness sector

No matter whether you train at home, in the studio or professionally - with us you will find the right weight plates and weights for your strength training.

Have you seen a product online and are still undecided?

Stop by, call us or send us an email – our local fitness experts will be happy to help. Together, we’ll assess your requirements and let you know whether the weight plates or weights you’re interested in are on display at one of our stores. There may even be an alternative that’s an even better fit for your training. After receiving expert advice in person at the Shark Fitness Shop in Wil (SG) or Wettingen (AG), you’ll have all the information you need to make the best choice for you.