Along with this modern equipment are weightlifting platforms for the weight rooms or lifting areas. People have been lifting weights even before the invention of these platforms, and the fundamental question coaches, athletic directors and gym owners might ask is whether weightlifting platforms are necessary. Ultimately, you should understand how these platforms work and their benefits to make this decision.
A weightlifting platform is made from a combination of rubber and wood. The area where the athletes stand is typically made of wood, and the rest is made from rubber, although some platforms are made of all wood or all rubber. When weight is dropped on the lifting platform, the platform absorbs the shock, preventing the weight from damaging the floor.
There are two main types of platforms:
You want the best for your athletes as a strength coach or sports director. When the next sporting season, tournament, or match starts, your athletes' fitness level should never be doubted. One way to help them achieve their best fitness levels is to provide them with every piece of equipment needed to maximize their gains while staying safe.
A weightlifting platform is often necessary for your team to perform at the pro-athlete level. Let's explore some of the benefits of lifting platforms.
Enhances Performance and Safety
One of the fundamentals in weightlifting is form. A flat weightlifting platform creates the level surface needed for athletes to achieve the right stance and lift weights in the correct form. Proper form allows athletes to lift heavier weights and perform their exercises with more efficiency and power.
According to WorldMetrics Report 2024, nearly 63.3% of gym injuries involve weights. Dropping weights can also contribute to injuries. Using a weightlifting platform can prevent these gym accidents and injuries.
To use lifting platforms, you'll have to designate specific areas as weightlifting rooms or weightlifting areas to be avoided by other gym users. Athletes can perform their exercises free from distractions and, more importantly, minimize contact and chances of accidents with other gym users. In addition, platforms have slip-resistant and shock-absorbent surfaces that minimize falls and slips.
The surface also absorbs the impact of the weight, helping reduce discomfort and injuries. Gym users can confidently perform the exercises knowing the platform will take care of the impact.
Reduces Noise
Whether your athletes are performing deadlifts or Olympic weightlifting exercises, they may have to drop the weights upon reaching maximum reps when they have no energy to place the weights slowly on the floor. Whether training or participating in a weightlifting competition, every bit of energy counts, and the athletes save energy for the next set by simply dropping the weights off. Sometimes, heavily weighted bars may have to be dropped from a height, which can cause noise.
A weightlifting platform contains much of the impact and noise caused by dropped weights. Because the platforms necessitate the allocation of separate areas for weight training, the noise is prevented from reverberating to other areas of the gym. Dampening the sound of dropped weights is especially helpful when the gym is adjacent to areas where noise can inconvenience other people.
Protects Equipment and Floor
Gym equipment like barbells, weight plates and bumpers can be damaged by repetitive impact when dropped on the floor. The gym floor, whether made of concrete or wood, can easily get damaged by the weights. A weightlifting platform adds an extra layer of protection from the high impact, preventing damage to equipment and the floor.
Although most weights are made of steel or iron encased in protective rubber, this is not enough to protect them from wear and tear caused by frequent use. As the weights are frequently slammed on the floor, they sustain damage over time. A damaged floor can also compromise the foundation of the building housing the gym.
Secures the Squat Rack
Although the types of platforms we've mentioned are deadlifting and Olympic lifting platforms, they can be used for other exercises. These platforms can also provide a safe area for performing squats.
The squat rack must be stable and secure when performing the exercise, so it needs to be bolted to the floor. However, if you don't wish to drill holes and screw the squat rack to the floor, you can use a lifting platform to set up the rack by permanently securing it onto the base of the platform for support.
Provides a Durable, Low-Maintenance Solution
A weightlifting platform is a tough piece of equipment made of heavy-duty steel, timber, and rubber. It lasts for years and is easy to clean and maintain.
Adds Style to the Gym
A weightlifting platform adds character and aesthetic appeal to the gym. Although the aesthetics are not a functional benefit, platforms make the gym look professional. You can also have customized platforms with your facility's colors or brand on them.
The average weightlifter who is not involved in any sports or competitions may not need a weightlifting platform. But if you're running or managing athletes who need to perform at the highest levels possible, you have a duty to ensure they have all the necessary equipment at the gym, including a platform.
When deciding whether to invest in this equipment, ask yourself the following questions:
If you answer yes to these questions, a weightlifting platform is a necessary piece of gym equipment.
A weightlifting platform could be the solution to motivate your athletes to lift heavier and gain more power. The platform provides athletes with a level surface that makes lifting weights in the right form easier. It also creates a safe zone for weightlifters in the gym and dampens the noise from dropped weights.
These platforms are available from MONDO, which has over 75 years of experience producing high-quality and durable sports flooring. Want to see and feel how our products work? Request a sample today!