THE FORMULA
Weight per side = (target total − bar weight) ÷ 2.
- Confirm the target total, including the bar.
- Confirm the actual bar weight.
- Subtract the bar weight from the target total.
- Divide the remaining weight by two.
- Select available plates that add up to that amount on each side.
- Load the same combination on both sides and verify the total.
100 KG EXAMPLE
Target total: 100 kg. Bar: 20 kg. The plates must contribute 80 kg, so each side needs 40 kg. One possible combination per side is 20 kg + 20 kg. With two equal sides and the 20 kg bar, the total is 100 kg.
225 LB EXAMPLE
Target total: 225 lb. Bar: 45 lb. The plates must contribute 180 lb, so each side needs 90 lb. One possible combination per side is 45 lb + 45 lb.
CHECK THE BAR AND AVAILABLE PLATES
Not every bar is 20 kg or 45 lb, and not every gym has the same increments. Training bars, fixed-weight bars and specialty bars can differ. The mathematically ideal target may also be impossible with the plates available, in which case choose an achievable total that fits your programme.
COMMON CALCULATION MISTAKES
- Forgetting that the target total already includes the bar.
- Dividing the full target by two before subtracting the bar.
- Calculating one side correctly but loading unequal combinations.
- Assuming the bar weight instead of checking it.
- Mixing kilograms and pounds in the same calculation.
USE THE CALCULATOR INSIDE YOUR WORKOUT
Gymerium's built-in plate calculator accounts for the selected bar and shows the plates to load on each side. Because it sits alongside workout logging, you can update the target without leaving your session.
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