Creating your own weights with concrete is a fun and cost-effective way to enhance your home gym. Not only does it allow you to customize the weight to your preference, but it also adds a personal touch to your workout equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make your own concrete weights.

Materials Needed:

• Concrete mix: Available at any home improvement store.
• Water: To mix with the concrete.
• Moulds: You can use plastic containers, buckets, or even old tires.
• PVC pipe: For the weight to be able to be used with a Barbell. 32mm diameter if you are using 26.9mm metal pipes for Barbells.
• Sandpaper: To smooth out the edges (Optional).
• Cooking spray or oil: To coat the moulds for easy removal (Optional).
• Duct tape: To secure the PVC pipe in place.
• Metal Hangers/Metal rods: For reinforcement (Optional).

Tools Needed (Check some of my tools here)

• Bucket: For mixing the concrete.
• Trowel or spatula: For smoothing the concrete.
• Measuring tape: To ensure consistent sizes.
• Scale: For precise weights (Please consider the drying process).
• Protective gear: Gloves and a mask to protect from concrete dust.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mould

   • Choose a mould that matches the shape and size you want for your weights. Common options include plastic containers, old tires, or custom-built wooden moulds.
   • Coat the inside of the mould with cooking spray or oil. This will help you remove the concrete weights once they are set.

2. Cut the PVC Pipe

   • Measure and cut the PVC pipe to the desired length for your weight handles. Ensure they are long enough to provide a good grip and fit snugly into your mould.

3. Mix the Concrete

   • In a bucket, mix the concrete according to the instructions on the package. Typically, you will need to add water to the concrete mix and stir until it reaches a thick, workable consistency.
   • Be sure to wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself from the dust.

4. Fill the Mould

   • Insert the PVC pipe into the centre. Pour the mixed concrete into the prepared mould. Ensure the pipe is centred and upright.
   • Use duct tape to secure the PVC pipe in place, ensuring it doesn’t shift while the concrete sets.
   • Add parts of metal hangers or other small bars to reinforce the concrete (Optional).
   • Continue filling the mould with concrete until it is full (add a bit extra to allow drying). Tap the sides of the mould to remove any air bubbles and smooth the top with a trowel or spatula.

5. Let the Concrete Set

   • Allow the concrete to set for at least 24-48 hours. The setting time may vary depending on the size of the weights and the type of concrete used. Make sure the weights are in a dry, well-ventilated area during this time.
   • While it is still wet, you can smooth it or correct some imperfections.

6. Remove the Weights from the Mould

   • Once the concrete is fully set and hardened, carefully remove the weights from the mould. If you used cooking spray or oil, they should come out easily.
   • Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges or imperfections on the weights (Optional).

7. Finishing Touches

   • Inspect the weights to ensure they are balanced and the PVC handles are secure. If needed, add additional layers of concrete to balance the weight.
   • You can paint the weights or add a sealant for a polished look and to protect them from moisture.

Tips and Tricks:

• Customize Your Weights: Add some personal flair by embedding small items or adding designs to the mould before pouring the concrete. Paint them and add the weight in a different colour.
• Weight Variation: Adjust the amount of concrete and the size of the mould to create different weights. Smaller moulds for lighter weights and larger moulds for heavier weights.
• Safety First: Always wear protective gear when handling concrete to avoid skin irritation and inhalation of dust.

Creating your own concrete weights is a rewarding project that not only saves money but also allows for customization to suit your fitness needs. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of lifting weights you made yourself!

Happy lifting! If you have any questions or want to share your DIY weights, send me a message and if I get a lot of requests, will add a video explaining the whole process.

Check here on how to do a rack for the weights.