Product Reviews

Platemates

Summary: Platemates are an indispensible tool for any health club or home gym, facilitating optimal resistance loading.

Suggested list price at time of testing: Varies according to style and weight

Rating: 10 (out of 10)

Reviewed by: Brad Schoenfeld, CSCS

Barbells and dumbbells come in preset sizes, usually separated by a minimum of 2.5 pounds. This creates a dilemma: What do you if the weight for a given exercise is too heavy to achieve your target rep range on the high end but too light to challenge your muscles on the low end? The answer: Platemates.

Simply stated, Platemates are small weighted implements that attach to the ends of barbells and dumbbells via magnets. The magnets form an extremely strong bond with most barbells and dumbbells; during extensive use at my facility, they have never dislodged in any lift. It should be noted, however, that since the bond is via a magnet, Platemates only work on metal; they won't adhere to plastic- or rubber-coated dumbells and barbells.

Platemates employ the concept of "microloading," which allows for adding just enough additional weight to optimize target training load. The choice of loads ranges from 5/8 lbs. up to 5 lbs, providing enough options for every lifter. They come in three different styles: hex, ring, and brick. The different styles allow you to match the shape of the Platemate to your needs.

In sum, Platemates are a great addition for any health club or home gym. Whether you're looking to maximize strength gains or rehab from a musculoskeletal injury, the versatility of microloads is something no lifter should be without.

Highly recommended.

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