PLATES &
BUMPER

Domande frequenti - Rubber plate

• What is the difference between a rubber plate and a bumper plate?
  Rubber plates are cast iron or steel discs with a rubber coating: they protect the floor and reduce noise, but are not designed to be dropped from a height. Bumper plates are solid rubber or urethane discs designed to absorb the impact with the floor during Olympic lifts such as the clean and jerk or the snatch. The two types are often used together on the same barbell.
• Are rubber plates with a 50 mm hole compatible with all Olympic barbells?
  Standard Olympic barbells have sleeves with an external diameter of 50 mm, so rubber plates with a 50 mm hole are compatible with the vast majority of Olympic barbells on the market. The exception is some IWF competitive weightlifting barbells, which may have tighter tolerances. Always check the specifications of your barbell before purchasing.
• When does it make sense to use fractional plates instead of standard plates?
  Fractional plates are used when the minimum increment available with standard plates — usually 2.5 kg per side — is too large relative to the athlete’s capacity. This often occurs in overhead movements, the snatch, the military press and in the advanced stages of the squat or bench press, where weekly progression is reduced to a total of 1 kg or less. They are technical tools, not mere accessories.
• Do the add-on plates work with any adjustable handlebars?
  No. Add-on plates are designed to be compatible with specific adjustable handlebars — in the case of the Add-On Flex Plate Sidea, you must check compatibility with the model of handlebar you are using. Before purchasing, check the attachment system and technical specifications of the handlebar to avoid any incompatibility issues.
• Can rubber plates be used on rubber flooring without any additional protection?
  Standard rubber plates are suitable for use on technical rubber flooring without additional protection during controlled movements — squats, bench presses and deadlifts. They are not suitable for free-fall drops from height, which require specialised bumper plates and a lifting platform. For Olympic lifts involving drops, bumper plates must be used in conjunction with a technical platform.
• What is the recommended weight of rubber plates for setting up a home gym?
  A functional setup requires at least two pairs of 10 kg plates and one pair of 20 kg plates, supplemented by one pair of 5 kg plates for intermediate weights. Adding a pair of 1.25 kg fractional plates allows you to manage progression across all major movements. The number of sets required depends on the maximum working weight anticipated and the number of lifting stations available.
• What instalment payment options are available?
  Sidea offers a range of instalment payment options to make it easier to purchase professional equipment. Please see the dedicated page: Payment options Sidea.
• I’m a fitness professional – can I get special rates?
  If you work in the fitness or sports sector, register on the website as a Professional or as an ASD to gain access to the price list reserved for industry professionals. Pro registration allows you to view exclusive discounts and special terms across the entire Sidea catalogue.
• Is Sidea listed on the MEPA for public sector procurement?
  Yes, Sidea is an authorised supplier on the MEPA (Public Administration Electronic Marketplace). Public bodies, schools, universities, local authorities and public sports facilities can purchase Sidea equipment via the platform Public Sector Online Procurement. For information on product codes and direct MEPA orders, please contact Sidea customer service.
• What are Sidea’s returns and warranty terms?
  Sidea guarantees the right to cancel within 14 days of delivery for all online purchases, in accordance with current legislation. Products must be returned undamaged and in their original packaging. For full details on returns, refunds and the warranty, please see the page Terms and Conditions of Sale.
• Why choose Sidea equipment?
  Sidea has been designing and distributing professional fitness equipment since 1999: over 25 years’ experience serving gyms, sports coaches, CrossFit boxes, personal training studios and enthusiasts of advanced home fitness. Official distributor StrongFirst e Luxiaojun, which is exhibiting at the FIBO international trade fair and is the technical sponsor of the Summit of Strength. Every product is designed with durability, functionality and suitability for real-world operational contexts in mind. The service Gym Design Offers bespoke design services with 3D renderings. A warehouse covering over 4,000 m² in Gambettola (FC) to ensure rapid order fulfilment, direct technical advice and a special price list for professionals and amateur sports clubs.