Smart Plates: Effortless weight calculation for lifters

When it comes to strength training, efficiency and precision are key. Weightlifting often involves calculating the total weight for each set, especially when using a mix of plates. This process can be tedious, prone to errors, and takes your focus away from the lift itself. Setgraph's Smart Plates feature aims to solve this problem.

Instead of manually adding up plate weights before each lift, Smart Plates does the calculation for you. By selecting plates as you load them, the app keeps an instant, accurate count of the total weight, saving you time and eliminating distractions.

What Are Smart Plates?

Smart Plates is a feature designed to bring simplicity and accuracy to your weightlifting sessions. Imagine being able to add each plate in the app as you load it onto your barbell—and instantly knowing your exact total. No more second-guessing, no more mistakes, just the confidence that you’re lifting exactly what you need.

For lifters aiming to implement progressive overload effectively, or for those trying to make small, controlled increases in weight, Smart Plates becomes an invaluable companion.

How to Use Smart Plates in Setgraph

Setgraph offers a default preset configuration that includes 2.5, 5, 10, 25, 35, and 45 lb plates to reflect the most common plates found in gyms.

Open the Setgraph app on your device. Navigate to the settings of the app and find the Smart Plates configuration option. You can use the default option or create a new setup that matches the plates available at your gym. Creating a custom setup is optional and many users find the default setup sufficient.

To create a new Smart Plates setup, give it a name and input the weight of each plate along with the number of plates available at your gym. For example, if there are 5 plates of 25 lbs, input "25" under the weight field and "5" under the "Number of plates available" field. Repeat this for every plate type needed. Once completed, save the setup so that you can use it whenever you track your workouts.

Using Smart Plates to Log a Set

Smart Plates' calculations include the barbell weight by default set at 45lb. This can also be adjusted in the settings to match your equipment.

Once you have your Smart Plates setup configured, you are ready to use it during your workout sessions. When logging a set, you will see the Smart Plates feature displayed on the input screen. This screen shows all the plates available based on your selected configuration. To add weight to your barbell, simply tap the plus button next to the corresponding plate, just as you would add the physical plate to your barbell. To remove a plate, tap the minus symbol. The total weight will automatically update live as you add and subtract plates. Once you have finished inputting the total weight, you can also add the number of reps you completed to log the set fully. 

Setgraph adapts to your individual preferences, making it easy to switch between Smart Plates and manual input depending on what best suits your training.

From this same screen, it is also possible to turn off Smart Plates and use a number pad instead for manual weight input. To do this, tap on the name of your current Smart Plates setup (which will have a '>' button indicating settings can be accessed). This will open the options where you can either switch to a different Smart Plates setup or turn off the feature entirely by selecting "None." Once you select "None," the app will switch to a number pad for manual weight entry.

Adjusting Weight Between Sets

If you need to change weight for the next set: Simply tap on any additional plates you’re adding or tap again to remove any plates you’re taking off. Smart Plates will update the total weight instantly, letting you see your exact weight load for every set without recalculating.

Benefits of Smart Plates for Strength Training

Reduces Mental Calculations: By tapping on the plates as you add them to your barbell, Smart Plates eliminates the need for mental math, allowing you to focus entirely on your form and lifting goals.

Supports Accurate Weight Tracking: Ensuring that you’re lifting the exact weight you intend is crucial for strength training, particularly if you’re following a progressive overload strategy. Smart Plates ensure you always know the total weight, keeping your training precise and consistent.

Efficient Adjustments Between Sets: Changing weight between sets becomes simpler with Smart Plates. Instead of recalculating, you can quickly tap the plates you add or remove, instantly updating the total weight displayed.

Aids in Progressive Overload: For those focusing on progressive overload, Smart Plates makes it easy to add incremental weight to your lifts. You can see exactly how much weight you’re lifting as you add plates, allowing you to push your limits confidently and accurately.

Ideal for Any Plate Setup: Smart Plates can be customized to reflect the specific plates available at your gym, making it a flexible tool that adapts to your unique lifting environment.

Conclusion

Smart Plates is a powerful tool for lifters who want to minimize distractions and maximize efficiency. By providing quick, accurate weight totals, it allows users to maintain focus, making every rep and set count. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced lifter, Smart Plates simplifies weight calculations and ensures precision, helping you stay focused on building strength and making consistent progress.