How to Load 185 lb
Common intermediate bench press goal
What You Need
Bar Weight
45lb
Per Side
1× 45lb + 1× 25lb
Total Plates
2× 45lb + 2× 25lb plates
= 45lb bar + 1× 45lb + 1× 25lb × 2
Exercise Benchmarks
What this weight typically represents:
| Exercise | Level |
|---|---|
| Bench Press | Intermediate |
| Barbell Row | Intermediate |
| Squat | Beginner-Intermediate |
Loading Tips
- A solid benchmark for upper body pressing strength
- Consider using micro plates for progression from 135 to 185
- Ensure your spotter is ready for heavier attempts
Try the Calculator
Use our interactive plate calculator for any weight:
Calculate Your Plates
Total Plates Needed
Standard Olympic Plates
Metric (kg): 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 2.5, 1.25
Imperial (lb): 45, 35, 25, 10, 5, 2.5
Note: Standard Olympic barbells weigh 20kg (45lb) for men and 15kg (35lb) for women. The calculator shows plates needed per side of the barbell.
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FAQ
What plates do I need for 185lb?
To load 185lb on an Olympic barbell (45lb), you need 1× 45lb + 1× 25lb per side, for a total of 2× 45lb + 2× 25lb plates.
Is 185lb a good weight?
Common intermediate bench press goal
Can I use different plate combinations?
Yes, there are often multiple ways to achieve the same weight. However, the configuration shown uses the minimum number of plates possible, which is generally preferred for stability and ease of loading.
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