What is a Gympin (Loadpin)? Explanation, Function and Application
What is a Loadpin or Gympin?
A Loadpin (also called a Gympin or Strength Pin) is an accessory for selectorized weight machines and cable machines. It is used to increase the maximum training weight of a selectorized weight stack by adding extra weight plates.
On many machines, the selectorized weight eventually becomes "too light" – or the weight stack is too small because the machine comes with too few selectorized weights. A Loadpin expands the system without the machine having to be modified.
You can also find more general background information here: Gym Pin Explained.
How does a Loadpin work?
A Loadpin is inserted into the pin receiver of the selectorized weight stack – similar to the standard pin used to select the training weight. The Loadpin features a metal pin that extends to the rear and is inserted into the weight stack.
Additional weight plates can then be slid onto the front block body / loading surface (often perceived as a "bar"). This allows you to use additional weight even though the machine itself only has a limited selectorized weight stack.
- ⚙️ Insert into the selectorized weight stack
- 🏋️ Load weight plates
- ✅ More training weight without modification
Construction of a Loadpin
A modern Loadpin usually consists of two main components:
- 🧱 a block body (stainless steel or ABS)
- 🔩 a solid metal pin that is inserted into the pin receiver of the selectorized weight machine
ANVIL offers Loadpins in two designs:
- 🛡️ 100% solid stainless steel (maximum durability)
- 🧩 ABS block with a solid stainless steel core (easy handling with high stability)
The stainless steel core provides the structural support, while the ABS body reduces the overall weight and makes it comfortable to handle.
What do you need a Loadpin for?
A Loadpin is particularly useful when:
- ✅ the machine's selectorized weight stack is too light
- ✅ the machine has too few selectorized weights
- ✅ you want to train progressively beyond the maximum stack limit
- ✅ you need more training load in your home gym with limited equipment
Typical applications include cable stations, lat pulldowns, rows, triceps machines, and many other machines where the selectorized weight is often the limiting factor.
Gympin vs. Loadpin – is there a difference?
In everyday use, the terms Gympin and Loadpin are usually used interchangeably. "Gympin" is a common term within the fitness community, while "Loadpin" is the technical term. They refer to the same thing: a pin system that allows additional weight plates to be used with selectorized weight machines.
Advantages of a Loadpin
- 📈 Increases the maximum training weight of a machine
- 🔧 No modification to the machine required
- 📦 Compact, portable, and ideal for the home gym
- 🏋️ Use existing weight plates
- 🎯 Perfect for progressive overload and strength building
ANVIL Loadpins & Matching Accessories
For a complete setup, you can find the matching categories and additions here:
Tip: The combination of a Loadpin + matching grips is particularly useful for performing cable exercises flexibly and comfortably.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Loadpins / Gympins
How much weight can a Loadpin support?
This depends on the construction (material, core, connection) as well as the machine itself. High-quality Loadpins made of stainless steel or with a stainless steel core are generally designed for high loads.
Do Loadpins fit every selectorized weight machine?
The deciding factors are that the machine has a pin receiver and that the pin diameter is compatible. If you are unsure, check the diameter of your machine's standard pin.
Can I also train on a cable machine with a Loadpin?
Yes – that is exactly what Loadpins are often used for: to load selectorized cable machines beyond the maximum stack weight.
Why is it also called a Gympin?
"Gympin" is a common term in the fitness industry. "Loadpin" is technically correct – but both refer to the same accessory for selectorized weight machines.
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