To load a barbell, start with the total weight you want to lift. Subtract the bar weight first. Then divide the remaining weight by two because each side of the bar needs the same amount.
Step by Step Barbell Loading
- Choose the total weight you want on the bar.
- Subtract the weight of the bar.
- Subtract collar weight if you are counting collars.
- Divide the remaining weight by two.
- Load that amount of plates on each side.
The Basic Math
If the target weight is 225 pounds and the bar weighs 45 pounds, the plates need to total 180 pounds. Split that across both sides and you need 90 pounds per side.
That means each side could use one 45 pound plate and one 25 pound plate and one 10 pound plate and one 5 pound plate. The exact plate choice depends on what plates are available.
Do Collars Count?
Collars are the clips that hold plates on the bar. Many gym workouts ignore collar weight because it is small. Some lifters count collars when precision matters, especially in competition style loading.
Common Loading Mistakes
- Forgetting to include the bar weight.
- Loading the total plate weight on one side instead of splitting it.
- Using different plates on each side of the bar.
- Counting collars sometimes but not consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I count the bar weight when loading a barbell?
Yes. The total lift includes the bar weight plus the plates and any collars you decide to count.
How do I know what plates go on each side?
Subtract the bar weight from the target, subtract collars if counting them, then divide the remaining weight by two.
Should collars be included in the total weight?
For normal gym training, many people ignore collar weight. For precise loading, count collars consistently.
Use the Plate Calculator
Enter the target weight, bar weight, collars, and available plates to see what goes on each side.
Open plate calculator