Why Use a Plate Carrier for Working Out?
Plate carriers have gained popularity as a challenging alternative to standard weighted vests. Designed to hold weight plates securely to your upper body, they are staples for military and tactical training—but they’re great for fitness enthusiasts too. Plate carriers for working out allow custom weight adjustments for walking, running, calisthenics, and functional workouts, making your training outdoors or at home far more demanding and rewarding.
Benefits of Plate Carriers in Fitness
- Snug, secure fit keeps the load close to your center of mass for stability during dynamic movement.
- Customizable weight options by swapping plate sizes—train progressively, just like with barbells.
- Durable materials stand up to hard workouts and outdoor use.
- Ventilated designs support airflow and help manage sweat.
How to Pick the Best Plate Carrier for Training
When selecting a plate carrier for working out, invest in comfort, fit, and adjustability. Look for:
- Wide, padded shoulder straps to reduce pressure points
- Quick-release buckles for safety and easy on/off
- High-strength fabric and reinforced stitching
- Compatibility with a range of plate sizes (ideally 5–20 lb per plate)
Top Plate Carrier Choices
GORUCK Ruck Plate Carrier 3.0 is a favorite for functional workouts and rucking. It’s low-profile, durable, and holds the weight snugly:
The Wolf Tactical Adjustable Weighted Vest offers a versatile budget option. Its padded shoulder straps and reinforced pockets hold plates firmly in place, making it perfect for dynamic training and long walks.
How Many Calories Will You Burn Using a Plate Carrier?
The extra load from a plate carrier makes every movement more metabolically demanding, especially during walking, running, and circuits. Want to calculate your calorie burn while using a plate carrier? Try our rucking calorie calculator below—simply input your weight, speed, and load to get customized data for your workouts.
Try the rucking calorie calculator—it works for plate carriers, weighted vests, and rucking backpacks.
Getting Started
- Start with lighter plates if you’re new—10–20 lbs total is plenty for most beginners.
- Focus on perfect form, especially during push-ups, squats, or running.
- Wear a breathable shirt under your plate carrier to prevent chafing.
Looking for a comprehensive calorie calculator just for weighted vests? Check out our dedicated weighted vest calorie calculator here.
