Strength
As of 2026-04-24
How Plate Loading Calculator works
Methodology for the Plate Loading Calculator: formulas, coefficients, data sources, assumptions, and known limitations.
Scope
Calculates which plates to load on each side of a barbell for a target weight in kg or lbs.
Formula
per_side = (target - bar) / 2. Then greedy-assign plates largest-first from the selected plate set.
Coefficients
| Parameter | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Standard kg bar | 20 kg | |
| Standard lb bar | 45 lb | |
| Women's kg bar | 15 kg | |
| Typical kg plates | 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25, 0.5, 0.25 | |
| Typical lb plates | 45, 35, 25, 10, 5, 2.5 |
Data sources
- IPF Technical Rules Book — barbell and plate specifications. — Federation rulebook section on equipment: bar weights (20 kg men's, 15 kg women's, 10 kg deadlift) and plate weights/colors.
- USA Powerlifting (USAPL) — Lifter Handbook and Equipment Standards. — U.S. federation rules for plate denominations and competition bar specifications.
Assumptions
- Plates available are correctly selected in the UI.
Approximation range
Exact arithmetic. Resolution is limited to smallest available plate (usually 0.25 kg / 0.5 lb).
Limitations
- Does not account for collar weight (typical competition collars add 5 kg total).
Reproducibility
Target 140 kg, 20 kg bar. Per side = 60 kg. Greedy = 25 + 25 + 10.
Change log
- 2026-04-24: methodology page first published.
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