LiftPal · Training tool
Barbell plate calculator: what goes on each side?
Enter your target weight and bar. Adjust the available plates if needed. The result shows the load on each side and the total you can make.
Your loading
Plates per side
Exact target possible
100 kg total
40 kg per side
- 2 × 20 kg
20 kg bar + 2 × (2 × 20 kg) = 100 kg
Load larger plates closest to the bar. Check the actual bar weight at your gym.
Take this weight to the 1RM calculator and enter your reps.
How to read the result
Does the bar count toward the target?
Yes. With a 100 kg target and a 20 kg bar, 80 kg remains for plates: 40 kg on each side.
Why is the result sometimes below the target?
The calculator uses only the plate pairs you selected. When your target cannot be made, it shows the highest achievable weight below it and the remaining gap.
How do I use my available plates?
Open “Adjust available plates” and enter the pairs you can use. Small plates often determine whether you can make your exact target.