Barbell Plate Loading

Find balanced plate pairs from an available set of denominations.

Your numbers

Plates on each side

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Assumes enough matching pairs of each size. Collars are excluded; include their mass in bar weight if needed.

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Formula

Each side needs S = (T−B)/2. T is target total weight and B is bar weight in the same unit. Choose matching plate pairs to reach S on each side with the fewest plates. Each entered plate size is assumed to have enough matching pairs.

Find balanced plate pairs from an available set of denominations.

Worked example

Target total weight (kg): 100
Bar weight (kg): 20
Available plate sizes (kg), unlimited pairs: 20, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25

Plates on each side: 2 × 20 kg
Plate count per side: 2
Total weight: 100 kg

Scope and limitations

Assumes enough matching pairs of each size. Collars are excluded; include their mass in bar weight if needed.

Inputs are checked for missing values and allowed ranges. A result outside the finite numeric range is not displayed. Rounding affects display, while the calculation uses the model’s numeric precision.

Check your units and assumptions before relying on a result. Changing a label does not convert a currency or physical unit.

Formula version: a7309bd513c9 · Example checked: 2026-10-30

Methodology