Plate Weights

    A plate load machine is a weight lighting machine that combines the features of traditional weight machines with the free-range motion of free weights. Plate load machines first became popular in the 1980s. These machines are designed with a large frame. The frame includes a standard barbell where the weights are held. On the plate load machine, the weights are loaded onto a barbell. The load of the weight on the barbell is customized for each person. This is different from a traditional weight machine where weights are stacked together permanently and a pin is used to select weight. The barbells typically are designed to hold a range of weights, allowing for lifters to customize their load from light to heavy.