Confused about the Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight when tracking your lifts? Many gym members wonder about this important detail. Let’s clear up the confusion with accurate information.
Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight is typically 15 to 20 pounds. This is much lighter than a standard 45 pound Olympic barbell because of the counterbalance system built into the machine.
This guide will help you calculate your total lifting weight correctly. You’ll learn why the bar weighs less and how to track your progress accurately. Let’s get started with everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
- What is Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight?
- Why Smith Machine Bars Weigh Less Than Free Weight Bars?
- How to Accurately Calculate Your Total Weight at Planet Fitness
- FAQ’s
- Conclusion
What is Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar Weight?
The Smith machine bar weight at Planet Fitness is between 15 and 20 pounds. This is the starting weight before you add any plates to the bar.
Most Planet Fitness locations use the same type of Smith machine. The bar feels lighter because it runs on a track with a counterbalance system.
This is very different from a regular barbell. A standard Olympic bar weighs 45 pounds. The Planet Fitness bar weight is much lighter to help beginners start their fitness journey safely.
Always remember to count this 15 to 20 pounds when you calculate your total lifting weight.
Why Smith Machine Bars Weigh Less Than Free Weight Bars?
This is why smith machine bars weight less than free weight bars:
The Counterbalance System
Smith machines have a special counterbalance system inside. This system uses weights or springs to make the bar lighter. Think of it like an elevator that helps lift heavy things. The counterbalance does some of the work for you.
This is why the bar feels much easier to lift compared to a free weight barbell.
The Rail and Pulley System
The Smith machine bar moves up and down on fixed rails. These rails have pulleys attached to them. The pulleys reduce how much weight you actually feel when lifting.
A free weight barbell has no support system. You lift the full weight with no help.
Weight Comparison: Smith Machine vs Free Weights
Here’s how different bars compare:
Standard Olympic Barbell
- Weight: 45 pounds
- No support system
- Free movement in all directions
Planet Fitness Smith Machine Bar
- Weight: 15 to 20 pounds
- Has counterbalance support
- Moves only up and down
Planet Fitness chose this equipment to match their beginner friendly approach. Everyone can start at a comfortable weight level.
How to Accurately Calculate Your Total Weight at Planet Fitness
Here is the simple calculation formula to calculate total weight at planet fitness:
Simple Calculation Formula
Calculating your total weight is easy once you know the smith machine bar weight planet fitness uses. Just follow this simple formula:
Total Weight = Bar Weight + Plates on Left Side + Plates on Right Side
Always start with the bar weight of 15 to 20 pounds. Then add all the plates you put on both sides.
Step by Step Guide
Follow these steps to calculate correctly:
Step 1: Start with the Bar
The weight of smith machine bar planet fitness is your starting point. Use 15 to 20 pounds as your base number.
Step 2: Count One Side
Add up all the weight plates on one side of the bar. For example, if you have a 25 pound plate and a 10 pound plate, that’s 35 pounds.
Step 3: Double the Plate Weight
Multiply your one side total by two. This gives you the weight for both sides. In our example, 35 pounds times 2 equals 70 pounds.
Step 4: Add Everything Together
Add the bar weight to your total plate weight. This gives you the complete lifting weight.
Practical Examples
Here are the practical examples:
Example 1: Light Weight Workout
- Planet fitness bar weight: 20 pounds
- One 10 pound plate on each side: 20 pounds
- Total weight: 40 pounds
Example 2: Medium Weight Workout
- Bar weight: 20 pounds
- One 25 pound plate on each side: 50 pounds
- Total weight: 70 pounds
Example 3: Heavy Weight Workout
- Bar weight: 20 pounds
- One 45 pound plate on each side: 90 pounds
- Total weight: 110 pounds
Example 4: Multiple Plates
- Bar weight: 20 pounds
- One 45 pound plate + one 25 pound plate on each side: 140 pounds
- Total weight: 160 pounds
FAQ’s
Most Planet Fitness locations have bars weighing 15 to 20 pounds. However, some gyms may have different equipment models. Always ask your local staff to confirm the exact weight.
Ask the front desk staff at your Planet Fitness location. They can tell you the exact bar weight. You can also check for labels on the Smith machine itself.
Yes, always count the bar weight when tracking your lifts. This gives you accurate numbers for measuring progress. Include the 15 to 20 pound bar in your total weight calculations.
Planet Fitness uses counterbalance systems that make the bar lighter. This design helps beginners start safely. The fixed rails and pulleys reduce the effective weight you lift.
Yes, you can definitely build muscle with any weight. The lighter bar lets you focus on form first. You can always add more weight plates as you get stronger.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the planet fitness smith machine bar weight is typically 15 to 20 pounds. This is much lighter than standard barbells because of the counterbalance system.
Knowing how much does the bar weigh at planet fitness helps you track your workouts correctly. Always add the bar weight to your plate calculations for accurate numbers.
The weight of smith machine bar planet fitness uses is perfect for all fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced lifter, this equipment helps you reach your goals safely.
Visit your local Planet Fitness and ask the staff to confirm the exact bar weight. Start your fitness journey with confidence today.
Ajay Rathod is a fitness enthusiast with several years of hands-on experience in home workouts, strength training, and beginner fitness programs. He researches evidence-based fitness practices and simplifies them for everyday people.