Staring at a stack of plates and wondering which ones to put on? You're not alone. Barbell math trips up lifters of all levels — especially when you're trying to get to an odd number like 185 or 275.
This guide teaches you the simple arithmetic of loading a barbell, plus a few tricks that make it second nature. And if you want to skip the mental math, use our free plate loading calculator — it tells you exactly which plates to put on each side.
Enter your target weight and our free calculator tells you exactly which plates to load on each side. Works for both lb and kg.
Use Plate Loading CalculatorBarbell loading follows a simple formula:
You subtract the bar, then split the remaining weight equally on both sides. Let's walk through examples.
Stop doing the math in your head. Use our plate loading calculator for any weight.
Open CalculatorMost gyms have the following plates. Pairs are assumed for each size:
With these plate sets, you can make any weight that is divisible by 5 lb (or 2.5 kg) — which covers virtually all barbell exercises.
Always check your bar's actual weight. Some gym bars are lighter or heavier than standard.
Loading the wrong weight wastes sets and can throw off your program. If you're using percentages of 1RM for specific training zones (like 75% for hypertrophy work), being even 10 lb off means you're training the wrong intensity. Getting the math right makes your program more effective.
Load your barbell with confidence. Our calculator handles lb, kg, and any bar weight.
Use Plate Loading CalculatorHow do I calculate what plates to put on a barbell?
Subtract bar weight from target, divide by 2, then choose plates that sum to that number per side.
How much does a barbell weigh?
Olympic bar: 45 lb (20 kg). Women's: 35 lb (15 kg). Standard: 15-25 lb.
What is the most common plate set?
45, 25, 10, 5, 2.5 lb (or kg equivalents). Available in pairs.
How many plates is 225 lb on each side?
225 minus bar (45) = 180. Divided by 2 = 90 per side. That's 45 + 25 + 10 on each side.