Bumper plates allow you to drop loads from overhead without damaging flooring or equipment.  This represents a huge advance in weight training, as it allows competent athletes to train without the aid of a spotter.  Bumper plates are absolutely necessary for training the Olympic Lifts, as the amount of weight that can be lifted overhead using these techniques is often more than can be lowered safely. 

If you plan on pursuing a strength program of any kind, we highly recommend investing in a set of bumper plates.  

Go to Bumper Plates