Using a Plate Carrier: On-Duty vs At the Gym

How to Use Plate Carriers Effectively In Different Situations

Many law enforcement and military officials wear plate carriers to provide protection in dangerous environments. But did you know that these heavy vests can also be used as an extremely helpful piece of exercise gear? Plate carriers come in many varieties – some are better for personal protection, while others are more useful in the gym. It’s important to know how to use a plate carrier for each context, and how these vests can make or break your next workout.

What is a Plate Carrier?

A plate carrier is a protective piece of tactical equipment worn around the torso. It is heavier than a tactical vest, and should contain armour plates inside and outside of its compartments, ultimately, making it bulletproof. Plate carriers are used by law enforcement for their protective features, and ability to carry weapons and equipment. Plate carriers are popular among fitness advocates as well. They are often used in intense routines, like CrossFit, due to their heavy size. There are many plate carriers on the market – these vary in weight, protection, and additional features. You should select a plate carrier that has features that are related to your use.

The Different Ways to Use a Plate Carrier

Personal Protection

If you work in law enforcement, or another field that requires you to wear protective gear, plate carriers are a must. Before starting to look for a plate carrier, check with your organization and see if there are regulations pertaining to what kinds of protective gear you can or cannot wear.

For personal protection, there are two factors you should prioritize: weight and protection. Plate carriers are heavy, and you’ll want to select one that is effective without slowing you down or causing excessive discomfort. Protection should also be considered. When combined with armour plates, plate carriers should be reliable enough to save your life. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that your plate carrier fits your body comfortably. Discomfort can slow you down and distract you, which can sabotage your success.

Incorporating a Plate Carrier Into Your Workout

Plate carriers are not only used for tactical missions. When worn correctly, a plate carrier can increase the intensity of a workout by adding fixed weight to your body. In this case, you’ll be more concerned with weight and comfort than protection. Many traditional body-weight exercises can be completed with a plate carrier on, including pushups, pull-ups, sit-ups, squats, lunges, burpees, and plenty more. Since the extra weight will increase the difficulty of the exercise, take caution – plate carriers are not recommended for beginner or novice exercisers.

Using a Plate Carrier in the Gym

Plate Carrier vs Weighted Vest

When choosing a piece of tactical gear to equip during a workout, you may consider a plate carrier or a weighted vest. These look similar at both glance, but each one offers differences that will affect your experience. With a weighted vest, you can usually add weight in small increments, but many only allow you to add weights specifically designed to fit the vest. The weight of your plate carrier will be determined by its plates. From there, you can usually add or distribute weight wherever you choose.

Features to Look For in a Workout Plate Carrier

Some plate carriers will improve your workout, while others will hinder your success. Make sure your plate carrier fits your body properly, as a loose piece of equipment can lead to discomfort or injury. For an exercise-friendly plate carrier, look for these features:

Adjustable waist and tensional bands
Hook-and-loop fasteners (these are used to maintain plate placement)
Elastic to secure straps
Even weight distribution

How to Exercise With a Plate Carrier

Working out with a plate carrier is simple. This piece of gear should not change your form or actions while completing body weight exercises. Instead, it adds extra weight, giving your body an extra challenge.

Before beginning your workout, learn how to properly wear a plate carrier, and how to properly install plates. Try completing simple activities while wearing it, so you can get used to how it feels. Add weight slowly.

You should use a plate carrier only for exercises that you can complete without the additional gear.

Mistakes to Avoid

It is dangerous to incorporate a new piece of equipment into your workout without extreme caution and preparedness. There are many things you need to take caution towards when using a plate carrier for exercise. Learn how to complete an exercise properly before completing it while equipped with a plate carrier. It is extremely unsafe to rely on a plate carrier for good posture – make sure you can safely complete an exercise while maintaining proper form throughout before trying it with a plate carrier. Your plate carrier must be fitted and worn properly. If it is too tight, it will restrict your breathing, and if it is too loose, it will compromise your balance.

The Takeaway

By understanding how to use a plate carrier appropriately, your next tactical mission or workout will see many improvements. Always double-check your gear to make sure it is functional and fitted properly.