Free tool · runs in your browser
Plate calculator
Type the weight you want on the bar and see exactly which plates go on each side. Works in kilos or pounds, with the bar and plates your gym actually has.
Work out your plates
Each side of the bar
40kg
- 25 kg× 1
- 15 kg× 1
Bar 20 kg plus 40 kg a side makes exactly 100 kg.
How it picks the plates
It takes the bar off your target, halves what is left for each side, then fills each side with the biggest plates that fit, working down. It never goes over your target. If your plates cannot make the exact weight, you get the closest load underneath and how far short it is.
Gyms rarely have every plate. Tap a plate to take it out of the calculation and the answer changes to use what is left.
Common loads at a glance
| On the bar | Each side |
|---|---|
| 60 kg | 20 kg |
| 80 kg | 25 + 5 kg |
| 100 kg | 25 + 15 kg |
| 120 kg | 25 + 25 kg |
| 140 kg | 25 + 25 + 10 kg |
| 180 kg | 25 + 25 + 25 + 5 kg |
| On the bar | Each side |
|---|---|
| 135 lb | 45 lb |
| 185 lb | 45 + 25 lb |
| 225 lb | 45 + 45 lb |
| 275 lb | 45 + 45 + 25 lb |
| 315 lb | 45 + 45 + 45 lb |
| 405 lb | 45 + 45 + 45 + 45 lb |
Need a working weight first? The one-rep max calculator turns a recent set into loads for any number of reps.
Questions
How much does a barbell weigh?
A standard Olympic barbell weighs 20 kg, and the women’s bar weighs 15 kg. In pounds, gyms usually count the standard bar as 45 lb. Technique bars and fixed bars vary, so check the sleeve or ask.
Why can’t I hit my exact target weight?
Every plate goes on both sides, so the smallest change you can make is twice your smallest plate. With 1.25 kg plates that is 2.5 kg. The calculator shows the closest load at or under your target and how far short it is.
Should I put the biggest plates on first?
Yes. Heavy plates go on first, against the inside of the sleeve, with smaller ones outside them. The load sits steadier, and the next change only means swapping the small plates on the outside.