A lifting platform is an essential piece of equipment for any serious home gym. Not only does it protect your floor and equipment, but it also provides a stable and safe surface for heavy lifts.
However, before you start building, it's crucial to determine whether you need a deadlifting platform or an Olympic lifting platform because this choice will significantly impact the materials, design, and construction process.
A deadlifting platform is built primarily to absorb the impact of dropping heavy deadlifts and prevent floor damage.
Meanwhile, an Olympic lifting platform is designed for dynamic movements like the snatch and clean and jerk, requiring extra shock absorption and a non-slip center for safe footwork.
Once you've decided, follow the steps below to build the lifting platform that best suits your training style.
How to Build a Deadlifting Platform
A deadlifting platform is simpler to build since it mainly needs to protect your floor and provide a solid grip underfoot.
Materials Needed:
- (2-4) sheets of ¾” plywood (4’ x 8’)
- (1) sheet of ¾” rubber matting (stall mat or rubber flooring)
- Screws and wood glue
- (Optional) Metal brackets for reinforcement
Instructions:
1. Lay the Base:
- Place two sheets of plywood on the floor, stacked on each other.
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Secure them together using wood glue and screws. This creates a strong base that absorbs force.
2. Add the Top Layer:
- Place another sheet of plywood on the base to serve as the center lifting surface.
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Cut the rubber mat into two strips (each 2’ wide) and place them on either side of the central plywood. This helps absorb dropped weights while keeping a stable center for foot positioning.
3. Secure the Layers:
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Use screws to attach the rubber mats and top plywood sheet to the base layers. Ensure they are flush to avoid tripping hazards.
4. Finishing Touches:
- Sand down rough edges and consider sealing the plywood with polyurethane for a polished look.
- Optionally, attach metal brackets around the edges for additional durability.
This simple yet effective platform will keep your floors safe and provide a sturdy deadlift surface.
How to Build an Olympic Lifting Platform
Olympic lifting platforms require more shock absorption and stability to handle the dynamic movements of the snatch and clean and jerk.
Materials Needed:
- (4-6) sheets of ¾” plywood (4’ x 8’)
- (1) sheet of ¾” hardwood plywood (oak, maple, or birch) for the center
- (2) sheets of ¾” rubber matting (stall mat or rubber flooring)
- Screws and wood glue
- (Optional) Frame made of 2x4s for added stability
Instructions:
1. Construct the Base Layers:
- Stack three sheets of plywood on top of each other and secure them with wood glue and screws.
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If you want extra stability, arrange the layers so the seams overlap, creating a more solid base.
2. Install the Lifting Surface:
- Place the hardwood plywood sheet in the center. This provides a smooth, grippy surface for footwork during lifts.
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Cut the rubber mats into two 2’ wide strips and place them on both hardwood sides. These absorb the impact of dropped weights.
3. Secure Everything Together:
- Screw the hardwood and rubber mats securely into the base layers.
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Ensure everything is flush and level to prevent tripping.
4. Optional: Add a Frame:
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To give the platform a finished look and prevent movement, build a frame using 2x4s around the edges. Secure it with screws.
5. Finishing Touches:
- Sand the hardwood plywood and apply polyurethane for a smooth finish.
- If desired, paint or stencil your logo onto the platform for a personal touch.
This Olympic lifting platform will provide the stability and impact absorption needed for explosive barbell lifts.
Final Thoughts
Before choosing between a deadlifting or Olympic lifting platform, consider:
- Your primary lifts: Deadlifts? Go with the deadlifting platform. Olympic lifts? Choose the Olympic lifting platform.
- Space availability: Olympic lifting platforms are larger, while deadlifting platforms are more compact.
- Floor protection needs: A thicker platform is ideal if you’re lifting in an area with delicate flooring.
These steps will create a high-quality lifting platform that enhances your training while protecting your floors and equipment!
