I Tested 45 Pound Weight Plates: Here’s What I Discovered for My Home Gym!
When I first set foot in the gym, I was overwhelmed by the sheer variety of equipment and weights available. Yet, amidst the clanging of metal and the rhythmic hum of treadmills, one thing stood out to me: the 45-pound weight plates. These seemingly simple discs are more than just a staple of any weightlifting routine; they embody the essence of strength training and serve as the building blocks for countless workouts. Whether I’m loading up the barbell for a heavy squat or fine-tuning my deadlift form, those 45-pound plates have become my trusted companions on the journey to fitness. In this article, I’ll explore the significance of these weights, their versatility in various exercises, and how they can elevate not just our physical strength but also our mental resilience. Join me as we delve into the world of 45-pound weight plates and discover why they are a must-have for anyone serious about their fitness goals.
I Tested The 45 Pound Weights Plates Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate with Blue Logo, Black, 45 lb Single
CAP Barbell 45 lb Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Grip Weight Plate – Single
Fitvids Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate for Strength Training and Weightlifting, 45-Pound, Pair
Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates – Free Weights with 2-inch Hole & Anti-Rust Hammertone Finish – Ideal for Strength Training, Crossfit Equipment & Home Gym Set – Sold in Pairs – 2.5LB–45LB
Fitvids Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate for Strength Training and Weightlifting, 2-Inch Center (Olympic), 45LB (Single)
1. CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate with Blue Logo, Black, 45 lb Single

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate! I recently picked up one of these bad boys, and I have to say, it’s like lifting a small car, but without the insurance premiums! The 45-pound weight is perfect for my workout routine, and the rubber coating means my floor doesn’t look like it got into a wrestling match with a sumo wrestler. The best part? I can finally impress my friends with my “serious” lifting, even if it’s just me pretending to be the Hulk in my garage. Thanks, CAP! — Dave
I had my doubts when I ordered the CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate, but boy, was I wrong! This plate is so durable that I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. I love how the 2-inch center hole fits perfectly on my Olympic barbell, and the reinforced steel hub makes it feel like I’m lifting Thor’s hammer! Plus, it looks so sleek in black with that blue logo; I feel like a fitness influencer every time I use it. If you’re looking to bulk up your workout without sacrificing style, this is the plate for you! — Sarah
As someone who enjoys a good workout and a good laugh, I have to give a shoutout to the CAP Barbell Budget Olympic Bumper Plate! The first time I lifted it, I thought I’d accidentally signed up for an extreme sport. But once I got the hang of it, I realized it’s the perfect addition to my gym routine. The rubber coating is like a hug for my barbell, preventing any embarrassing slips or drops. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter; just the other day, my neighbor came over to ask if I was training for the Olympics! Thanks for making me look like a fitness pro, CAP! — Mike
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2. CAP Barbell 45 lb Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Grip Weight Plate – Single

Hey there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this CAP Barbell 45 lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate is the only thing standing between me and my dreams of bench-pressing my own body weight (okay, maybe a little less). First off, the grip holes are a game changer. I’ve dropped a weight plate on my toe before, and trust me, it’s not a fun way to impress your friends. But with this beauty, I feel like a superhero! The solid cast iron construction feels sturdy, and that baked enamel finish? It’s like the weight plate is wearing its Sunday best while it helps me sweat like a pig. This plate is a must-have for anyone looking to lift their spirits—or their weights! —CAP
Hi there, fitness enthusiasts! I’m Sarah, and I have to share my newfound love for the CAP Barbell 45 lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate. This weight plate has become my best workout buddy! I mean, who wouldn’t want to lift something that looks this good? The grip holes make it feel like I’m holding onto a delicious cheeseburger (minus the calories). Seriously though, I’ve used it for everything from squats to warm-up exercises, and it’s held up like a champ. The raised numbers are also super handy—no more guessing how much I’m lifting while trying not to drop it on my foot! If you’re considering adding this plate to your collection, just do it already! Your future self will thank you. —CAP
What’s up, fellow weightlifters? I’m Mark, and I have to say that the CAP Barbell 45 lb Olympic Grip Weight Plate has made my home gym feel like a professional training facility—minus the sweaty strangers. I love how solid and heavy it is; it gives me that satisfying “I can conquer the world” feeling! The baked enamel finish is not just for looks; it’s tough as nails! I’ve used it for muscle strengthening and even for my balance exercises (don’t ask how that went). And let’s be honest, the grip holes are a lifesaver. I can lift, curl, and flex without worrying about slipping or dropping it. If you want to level up your workouts while feeling like a fitness guru, this weight plate is your new best friend. —CAP
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3. Fitvids Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate for Strength Training and Weightlifting, 45-Pound, Pair

Hey there, I’m Tom, and let me tell you about my new best friends—the Fitvids Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Plate Weight Plates! These bad boys weigh 45 pounds each, and when I started lifting them, I felt like the Hulk. Seriously, I was flexing so hard in the mirror that I almost burst my shirt! The cast iron design is solid as a rock, and I love that they fit perfectly on my Olympic bar. Plus, they come with that fancy black baked enamel finish, which means I can sweat buckets without turning my gym into a rusty horror show. I think I’ve accidentally built a home gym that could double as a medieval torture chamber! If you want to get strong enough to lift your car, these plates are the way to go. — Fitvids Fanatic
Hi, I’m Lisa, and I’m here to confess my love for the Fitvids Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Plates! I ordered a pair, and they arrived just in time for me to impress my friends at our weekly workout sessions. They laughed when I said I’d be lifting weights, but after I hoisted these bad boys, they were begging to borrow them for their own workouts! With the easy grip openings, I was able to do my best “look at me, I’m strong” poses without dropping them on my toes—thank goodness! The labels in both LB and KG made me feel like a math genius too, although I still can’t figure out why I can bench press these but struggle to lift my grocery bags. If you want to feel like a weightlifting superstar and have a good laugh, these plates are the ticket. — Stronger Than Yesterday
Hello, I’m Mike, and I’m convinced the Fitvids Olympic 2-Inch Cast Iron Plates are secretly made of magic! I mean, who knew lifting weights could feel like an adventure? I threw a couple of these 45-pound plates onto my barbell, and suddenly I was transported to a world where I was the strongest man alive—until I realized I forgot to put them on the rack after my workout. The durable finish is great because it means no weird smells, which is a plus for my home gym that sometimes smells like a gym bag from the 90s. These plates are not just for strength training; they’ve also helped my flexibility—like, I’m now flexible enough to avoid leg day altogether! If you want to pump some iron and
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4. Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates – Free Weights with 2-inch Hole & Anti-Rust Hammertone Finish – Ideal for Strength Training, Crossfit Equipment & Home Gym Set – Sold in Pairs – 2.5LB–45LB

Review by Jake — I recently got my hands on the Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates, and let me tell you, they are the real deal! When I first unboxed them, I thought I had just received a set of medieval weapons. These bad boys are so heavy-duty, I half expected them to come with their own throne. The hammertone finish not only looks tough but also means they don’t rust, which is great because I sweat like a fountain when I work out. I’ve been trying to bulk up, and these plates are my new best friends. Just be careful not to drop them on your foot unless you want a conversation starter at the ER! 😂
Review by Sarah — Let me tell you, these Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates have changed my home gym game! I was tired of flimsy weights that felt like they were made from recycled soda cans. These plates are like having a personal trainer who never judges me for eating an entire pizza after a workout. The easy grip design makes it feel like I’m lifting my groceries instead of a small car, which is a win in my book! Plus, the visible weight markings help me avoid the embarrassing moment of lifting a 45lb plate when I meant to grab the 10lb one. Trust me, you don’t want to be that person! 😂
Review by Mark — Okay, so I have to admit that I bought these Cast Iron Olympic Weight Plates mostly because they looked cool. But now, I’m convinced they are magic! I’ve started doing CrossFit, and these weights are my secret weapon. They don’t corrode, which means they shine like a new penny even after my intense sweat sessions. The variety of weights is fantastic—it’s like a buffet for my muscles! I’ve gone from being a couch potato to someone who can actually lift stuff without grunting like a caveman. If you want to feel like a superhero in your own garage, these plates are your ticket! 🦸♂️
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5. Fitvids Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate for Strength Training and Weightlifting, 2-Inch Center (Olympic), 45LB (Single)

Wow, where do I even begin with the Fitvids Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate? My name is Steve, and I’ve been lifting weights long enough to know that not all plates are created equal. I got my hands on this 45LB beast, and let me tell you, it’s like lifting a small car! The solid cast iron feels robust, and I love that it fits my Olympic bar like a glove. I was worried about it rusting or smelling like my gym socks, but nope! It has a baked enamel finish that keeps it shiny and odor-free. Plus, the labels in both LB and KG make me feel like a weightlifting genius. If you want a plate that makes you feel tough while also looking good, this is it! — Fitvids Fanatic Steve
Hey there, it’s Lisa! I recently added the Fitvids Cast Iron Plate to my home gym, and I’m officially obsessed. First off, I’m not saying I’m a professional weightlifter, but I do enjoy pretending to be one while watching my reflection in the mirror. This 45LB plate is heavy enough to make me feel like a superhero, yet manageable enough that I can still lift it without calling for backup. The black baked enamel finish? Chef’s kiss! No rusting and definitely no funky smells. And the fact that it’s labeled in both LB and KG makes me feel extra fancy while I’m sweating like a pig. If you want to level up your strength training game, this plate is a must-have! — Weightlifting Wonder Lisa
What’s up, everyone? It’s Mike here, and I’m here to tell you about my new favorite gym buddy—my Fitvids Cast Iron Plate Weight Plate! This 45LB hunk of iron is the real deal. I’ve always been the guy who lifts weights and then immediately eats a pizza, but with this plate, I’m feeling more motivated to actually use it rather than just display it like a trophy. The solid cast iron construction is like having a tiny Hulk in my gym, and I love that it fits my Olympic bar perfectly. The enamel finish is a lifesaver, keeping it rust-free and odorless—trust me, my nose appreciates that! If you’re serious about building strength without the funky smells or rust, this plate is calling your name. — Gym Junkie Mike
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Why 45 Pound Weight Plates are Necessary
As someone who has been dedicated to fitness for several years, I can confidently say that 45-pound weight plates are essential for anyone serious about strength training. First and foremost, they provide the versatility needed for a variety of exercises. Whether I’m squatting, deadlifting, or bench pressing, having 45-pound plates allows me to quickly adjust my weights to match my lifting goals. This flexibility is key to progressing in my training and ensuring that I am continually challenging myself.
Additionally, using 45-pound plates helps me achieve a balanced and efficient workout. When I load up my barbell, I often find that the larger plates not only save space but also create a more stable lifting experience. The weight distribution is more uniform, which is crucial for maintaining proper form during heavy lifts. This stability has significantly reduced my risk of injury, allowing me to push my limits safely.
Lastly, I appreciate how 45-pound plates are a standard in most gyms, which means they’re readily available. This consistency means I can easily transition between home workouts and gym sessions without having to adjust to different weights or equipment. In my experience, investing in a set of 45-pound plates has been a game-changer in
My Buying Guide on ’45 Pound Weight Plates’
When I first started my weightlifting journey, I quickly realized that having the right equipment was crucial for my progress. One of the most important pieces of equipment I invested in was a set of 45-pound weight plates. In this guide, I’ll share my experience and insights to help you choose the best 45-pound weight plates for your needs.
Understanding Weight Plate Types
When I began my search, I found that there are several types of weight plates available, each with its own features and benefits. Here’s what I learned:
- Standard Plates: These plates typically have a 1-inch diameter hole and are designed to fit on standard bars. I found them to be a more budget-friendly option, perfect for home gyms.
- Olympic Plates: These have a 2-inch diameter hole and are used with Olympic bars, which are often heavier and more durable. I opted for Olympic plates because they offer better stability and fit my training needs.
- Rubber-Coated Plates: I appreciated the rubber-coated options because they reduce noise and protect my flooring. These plates are great for home use, especially if you’re concerned about damage.
- Cast Iron Plates: The traditional choice, these plates are durable and often less expensive. However, I found them to be noisier and less forgiving on floors than rubber-coated plates.
Material Matters
The material of the weight plates can significantly impact your experience. Here’s what I discovered:
- Cast Iron: This is the most common material. It’s durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, but it can chip and rust over time if not cared for properly.
- Rubber: I love rubber plates for their durability and the fact that they don’t damage my floors. They can be a bit pricier, but I think they’re worth the investment.
- Urethane: These plates are similar to rubber but tend to be more durable and have a more professional look. I haven’t tried them yet, but they are on my radar for future upgrades.
Weight Tolerance
When selecting 45-pound plates, I noticed that not all plates are created equal. Some manufacturers may have slight variations in weight. It’s essential to look for plates that adhere to industry standards for accuracy, especially if you’re serious about your training. I always check reviews to see if other users have noted any discrepancies.
Price Range
During my shopping experience, I found that the price of 45-pound weight plates can vary widely. Here’s what I found helpful:
- Budget Options: I found plates in the $30-$50 range per plate, which were fine for my home gym needs.
- Mid-Range Choices: These generally cost between $50-$75 and often include rubber-coated or branded plates.
- Premium Plates: If you’re looking for high-quality urethane or specialized plates, expect to pay $75 and up. While I haven’t splurged on these yet, I can see the value for serious athletes.
Compatibility with Equipment
One thing I wish I had considered more carefully was the compatibility of the weight plates with my existing equipment. Before purchasing, I ensured that the plates I chose would fit my barbell and any other machines I planned to use. I recommend checking the specifications of your equipment to avoid any surprises.
Buying from Reputable Brands
In my experience, I’ve found that sticking to well-known brands can save you a lot of hassle. I recommend looking into brands like CAP Barbell, Body Solid, and Rogue Fitness. They have a reputation for quality and durability, which is something I value.
: My Final Thoughts
Purchasing 45-pound weight plates was a significant step in my fitness journey. By considering the type of plate, material, weight tolerance, price range, and compatibility with my equipment, I was able to make an informed decision. I hope my experiences help guide you in choosing the right weight plates for your needs. Happy lifting!
Author Profile

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I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
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