Why does it say LB and not KG on weight plates?
If you regularly train at a gym or work with weights, you’re
probably familiar with the weight plates used to increase the load. A common question is why many weight plates are labeled "LB" (pounds) instead of "KG" (kilograms). In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at this question and explore the reasons behind using the pounds system on weight plates.
Historical Origins:
The use of the pounds system
on weight plates originated in the United States, where the imperial
measurement system is used. The pounds system has historically been
widespread in American society, and its use on weight plates is a continuation of this tradition.
International Variation:
While the pounds system is mainly used in the United States,
the metric system, which uses kilograms, is used in many other parts
of the world. The use of "LB" on weight plates is therefore mainly
due to regional differences and the dominance of the imperial measurement system in the United States.
Industry Standards:
The
fitness industry is closely tied to the American market and its standards. Many of
the weight plates used around the world are manufactured by
American companies or according to American industry standards. This explains
why the pounds system is still widely used on weight plates, even
outside the United States.
Costs and Logistics:
Changing weight plates and related equipment from pounds
to kilograms would entail considerable costs for gyms, fitness centers, and manufacturers. It would not only require replacing the plates,
but also adjusting other equipment, such as dumbbells and machines.
For practical and economic reasons, many companies continue to use the pounds system.
The use of the pounds system on weight plates instead of
kilograms can be explained by historical, regional, and economic
factors. It is important to note that although the pounds system is used on
weight plates, most plates often also show the equivalent in kilograms, so
users can understand both units of measurement.