How to Calculate How Much I'm Lifting

In most gyms, there will be three types of weights: barbells, dumbbells and kettlebells. For dumbbells, finding out the weight is simple as most dumbbells have their weight listed on them. Kettlebells are barbells aren't as easy. Barbells usually require you to add weight and some versions of kettlebells list their weight in kilograms rather than pounds. With a few simple calculations you can find the weight you are performing each repetition or the total amount of weight you lifted.

How to calculate the weight of kettlebells and barbells

Find the weight on the kettlebell. Some models tell whether or not the weight is pounds or kilograms but if that fact isn't listed then you can ask a trainer at the gym.

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Enter the weight of kettlebell into a calculator if it is in kilograms. Press the 'multiply' button on the calculator and enter 2.2. 2.2 is the number of pounds for every kilogram For example, if a kettlebell is 10 kilograms you multiply 10 by 2.2 to get 22 pounds.

Consider the weight of the bar without any plates added. Most Olympic-style bars are 45 pounds while the bars connected to Smith Machines usually only weigh 15 pounds. There are some barbells that are fixed like dumbbells. Those barbells usually have the weight listed on them.

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Add the plates onto the bar. Many times the plates will begin at 2 and 1/2 pounds, followed by 5, 10, 25, 35 and 45 pound plates. Add the weight of the plates to the barbell to find your total.

How to calculate how much you listed for an entire workout

Record the weight, repetitions and sets during your workout. Label the exercise that was performed as well.

Enter the amount of weight lifted and multiply it by the number of repetitions. If you performed that exercise and weight for multiple sets then you can multiply this total by the number of sets. Example: Barbell bicep curls: 2 sets, 55 pounds 12 repetitions. You multiply 2 x 55 x 12 and get 1320 as your total weight for this exercise.

Add all the exercise totals together to get the total weight that you lifted for the entire workout.

Warnings

When reviewing the weight on a barbell, make sure that the weight on both sides is even. This way you ensure that your calculations will be right and that when you lift, you will avoid the danger of lifting an uneven load.