Buzz
Returning home for the holidays and dropping by a local gym to stay active might have made you realize that not all gyms are the same. Some are inherently subpar, stocked with outdated, rusty equipment and uneven surfaces. However, even in a brand-new, well-maintained gym, certain things can feel off, making your workout unexpectedly challenging. The barbell might not feel right, the benches could seem awkward, and even the treadmill model might differ from what you’re used to, making your run feel unusual.
To make matters worse, this particular gym uses hex plates—the ultimate deadlift disruptors. Here’s why hex plates, as opposed to traditional round plates, are problematic. Hex plates feature flat edges, unlike round plates, which are completely circular. When deadlifting with round plates, they stay firmly in place upon hitting the ground, as expected. However, with hex plates, the experience is far from smooth.
The main issue with hex plates is their tendency to roll when the barbell is set down. “They often shift, either rolling toward you and potentially causing scratches or rolling away, creating a tripping hazard,” explained Luis Cornier, a personal trainer and master coach at Precor, via email. This video illustrates the problem clearly. As a result, you’re forced to constantly readjust the barbell to maintain proper alignment, risking injury to yourself or others. (Check out this video to see the stark contrast between lifting with hex and round plates.)
Last week, I visited a gym equipped exclusively with hex plates, and deadlifting—my absolute favorite exercise—turned into a frustrating ordeal. Even after fully resetting between reps, the barbell would often shift unpredictably as I gripped it on the ground, no matter how carefully I tried to balance both sides.
So why do gyms choose the infamous hex plates? Some online sources suggest that commercial gyms might use them to discourage heavy deadlifting (reducing noise and barbell usage). Whatever the reason, if you’re stuck in this situation, my condolences. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do. Adding small weights to the sides of the plates might reduce rolling, but it’s only a partial fix, as the plates can still bounce or roll over the weights.
If you’re open to spending a bit extra, there’s a product called the “HexBumper” that converts hex plates into round ones. However, it might be simpler to just find a new gym altogether. Here’s a guide to help you get started.
